WO2001015131A1

WO2001015131A1 - Information retrieval and communication system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2001015131A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/023516
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lee A. Henderson; Joshua P. Lane; Larry G. Linde
Original assignee: Universal Talkware Corporation
Priority date: 1999-08-26
Filing date: 2000-08-25
Publication date: 2001-03-01
Also published as: EP1221157A1; AU7333700A

Abstract

The invention provides an information retrieval and communication system (100) comprising a video display (110), first keypad (121), second key pad (122) coupled to a processor. This system employs an integrated software and hardware machine that is pre-programmed and modularly configured to provide access to e-mail, local news and information, e-commerce opportunities, as well as accessing and browsing the internet. A typical configuration of the system requires only a phone jack and an electrical outlet and can be used as an ordinary phone when not connected to the internet. A simplified user interface simplifies the information and retrieval process. Other features include novel techniques for retrieving and displaying data.

Description

INFORMATION RETRIEVAL AND COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to information retrieval and communication, and more particularly, to a system and method for retrieving and communicating information via the internet or other networks.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

World Wide Web ("WWW" or "web") gateways, or portals, are well known. A web portal generally refers to a web site that is or proposes to be a starting site for users when they get connected to the web or that users tend to visit as an anchor site. Examples of web portals include Yahoo, Excite, Lycos, America Online (AOL), etc. Typical services offered by web portal sites may include a directory of web sites, search utilities for other sites, news, weather information, e-mail, stock quotes, phone and map information, etc.

Conventional personal computers (PC) are typically used for accessing existing web portals. Once the portal is accessed, the user must navigate a series of menus and screens to retrieve information using the standard PC input devices - the keyboard and mouse. For many users, this approach is cumbersome at best, and for others, it is simply unacceptable. Some existing devices have attempted to simplify the user's interface with the internet. However, these devices still require a several-step process to find and access information using standard web browsers.

Moreover, local content applications of many existing portal or other internet sites have been largely unsatisfactory. This may be due to the fact that the existing portal sites do not have access to local content without buying it or developing a major new news source, and they have no relationship with local advertisers.

Thus, a need exists for an information retrieval and communication system that addresses shortcomings associated with the prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In various aspects of the present invention, information retrieval and communication systems and methods are provided. The system includes a video display device having a display screen, a processor operatively coupled to the video display device, and at least one array of push-button keys operatively coupled to the processor. The processor is programmed such that at least one of the keys executes a predefined function upon actuation.

The array of push-button keys includes a first array of push-button keys operatively coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is programmed such that at least one key of the first array executes a predefined function upon actuation. Additionally, a second array of push-button keys is operatively coupled to the processor, with the processor being programmed such that a plurality of predefined functions are associated with the keys of the second array. The second array keys execute one of the predefined functions upon actuation. The particular function executed is determined in response to the actuation of the associated key of the first array.

Among other things, the system of the present invention provides a communications center suitable for homes, hotels, businesses, etc. It employs an integrated software and hardware machine that is pre-programmed and modularly configured to provide easy access to e-mail, local news and information, e-commerce opportunities, as well as accessing and browsing the internet. A typical configuration of the system requires only a phone jack and an electrical outlet and can be used as an ordinary phone when not connected to the internet.

In accordance with further aspects of the invention, a dedicated keypad having pre-programmed keys allows a user to access predeteπriined content sites on the internet via one-touch key manipulation. In another aspect, the content from the individual internet sites may be downloaded at pre-selected times during the day or night and remain resident in system memory such that the user may access the content in a quick and convenient fashion without wasting time associated with logging onto the internet and/or downloading during on-line browsing. Still further, the system may include a paging system to provide bi-directional communication with a server. In this fashion, the server can be directed to log a call to the paging system to initiate a call out to the server, establish a communication link, and receive download information such as content from an internet WWW site. This may be particularly useful in transferring "hot off the press" news and information to the user. The pager may also be used for transferring data and other information from a server to the system.

Other key functions include voice-mail, email, and e-commerce sites (e.g., banking, trading, local newspapers, merchants, etc.). The e-commerce sites may also include a coupon site which allows a user to view, select, and print coupons that can be redeemed in local businesses. This eliminates the need for the user to obtain the coupon through the mail or newspaper and allows the user to create coupons on demand.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings in which:

Figures 1A and IB are a block diagrams illustrating systems in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 2 schematically illustrates aspects of a system in accordance with the present invention; Figure 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a method in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 4 illustrates further aspects of a system in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 5 is a flow diagram illustrating another method in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 6 illustrates an example of a push-button key array suitable for use in embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 7 conceptually illustrates a "news" display function of a system in accordance with the present invention; Figure 8 is a perspective view of a system in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 9 schematically illustrates additional features in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 10 is a block diagram illustrating an implementation of an information retrieval and communication system in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

Figure 11 conceptually illustrates aspects of a "weather" display function of a system in accordance with the present invention; and

Figure 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for receiving telephone calls in accordance with the present invention.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Illustrative embodiments of the invention are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Figure 1A is a block diagram illustrating an information retrieval and communication system in accordance with aspects of the present invention. In general, the system 100 includes a video display including a display screen 110, at least one keypad 112, and a processor 114 connected to the video display 110 and the keypad 112. The processor 114 may be any conventional general purpose single- or multi-chip microprocessor; for example, a Pentium® processor, a Pentium® Pro processor, a 8051 processor, a MIPS® processor, a Power PC® processor, an ALPHA® processor, etc. Similarly, the video screen 110 may be a component of any conventional video display device, including a cathode ray tube (CRT) or a flat screen display such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). Figure IB illustrates additional components that are included in various embodiments of the present invention. These additional components may include a printer 117, a computer readable memory or data storage device 118, a modem 119 and a pager 120.

Figure 2 conceptually illustrates further aspects of the present invention. The system 110, which may be contained in a suitable enclosure 116, includes first and second keypads 121, 122, wherein each of the keypads comprise an array of push-button keys, referred to herein as "keys" or "buttons." Figure 3 is a flow diagram, illustrating a method in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The processor 114 is programmed, among other things, to execute the method illustrated in Figure 3. Composing the specific program instruction code to enable the processor 114 to implement the methods disclosed and illustrated herein would clearly be a routine undertaking for one having ordinary skill in the art and the benefit of this disclosure.

Referring to Figures 2 and 3, in block 210, the processor receives an indication of the actuation of a key of the first array 121 ("the first key"). The processor is programmed such that each key of the first array executes a predetermined function upon its actuation by a user. In block 212, the predetermined function associated with the first key is executed. For example, specific information may be displayed on the video display 112 in response to actuation of the first key. At least one key of the second array 122 is associated with a plurality of predefined functions. The specific predefined functions to be executed by the second array 122 keys are based on the prior actuation of the first key. Thus, in block 214, the particular function to be executed by the actuation of a given key of the second array 122 ("the second key") is determined based on the actuation of the first key in block 212. In block 216, an indication of the actuation of the second key is received by the processor 114. In block 218, the deterrnined function is executed. The illustrated method is exemplary only, as the specific sequence of steps may be varied in specific implementations. For example, the particular function of the second key could be determined upon actuation thereof, or prior to executing the first key's function.

Still further, as shown in Figure 4, the keys of the second array 122 may be situated proximate to the video display 112. In the exemplary device shown in Figure 4, the second array 122 includes five push-button keys 131-135. The area of the display screen 110 just above the keys 131-135 comprises a plurality of label areas 141-145 corresponding to the keys 131-135, with each label area 141-145 associated with one of the second array keys 131-135. In response to actuation of a particular key of the first array 121, the functions of the second array keys 131-135 are identified in the labels 141- 145, thus providing adaptive, or "soft," labels for the second array 122. In some embodiments, each key 131-135 of the second array 122 may not have a function associated therewith for each key of the first array 121, in which case the particular label area 141-145 would be left blank, or identified as unused. Figure 5 is a flow diagram showing a method similar to that illustrated in Figure 3. further including block 220, in which the function labels are displayed in response to actuation of the first key. The keys of the first array 121 typically would have labels positioned thereon identifying the predefined task associated with each key. Such labels and functions are addressed further herein below.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, the keys of the keyboard arrays 121, 122 are assigned so as to improve the manner in which information may be displayed and communicated. More particularly, the system 100 may be configured to function as a hardware portal to an information network such as the internet's world-wide web. Known portals, which are "located" within the internet, require a computer system to access the portal. Once the portal is accessed, the user must navigate a series of menus and/or screens to retrieve and display information. This can be a daunting task for many users. The system and method of the present invention, however, can greatly simplify this task. In accordance with exemplary embodiments of the invention, the predetermined functions of the first and/or second key arrays 121, 122 may include connecting to predefined web addresses, or uniform resource locators (URLs), and displaying the associated information on the display screen 110. Figure 6 illustrates an example of a keypad 112, which may function as the first array 121, and may include labels (not shown) representing several predefined categories, such as "news," "entertainment," "sports," etc. Further, the keys may be brightly colored and programmed so as to allow a user to press a key and be taken to a specific site on the WWW. The various keys have labels identifying the content associated therewith. Hence, the dedicated keys are preprogrammed to display desired content on the display screen, rather than merely taking the user to a WWW page, then requiring the user to navigate the page to retrieve the desired content.

For example, in given embodiments, the processor 114 is programmed such that, upon activation of the "news" button, the processor 114 connects the system to a predefined news-related web site, such as may be provided by a newspaper publisher, and displays the associated content on the display screen 110. The keypad 112 shown in Figure 6 functions as a dedicated keypad, rather than a standard PC QWERTY keyboard, though some systems may include QWERTY keyboards in addition to the dedicated keypad(s). The keys illustrated in Figure 6 are arranged generally in a "bulls-eye" pattern, with the keys radiating outwards from the center of the array.

Figure 7 illustrates aspects of a system 501 employing the first and second keypad arrays 121 , 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the first key array 121 comprises a dedicated keypad such as the keypad 112 illustrated in Figure 6. The various keys have labels identifying the function or content associated therewith (only the "news" key 130 is shown in Figure 7). Upon activation of the news key 130, the system 501 is connected to a predefined URL associated with a news web site, and the content is displayed on the display screen 110.

Further, in accordance with the exemplary method illustrated in Figure 5, the functions of the second array keys 131-135 are determined and the associated labels are displayed in the label areas 141-145 of the display screen 110. In the system 501 illustrated in Figure 7, the predefined functions of the second array keys 131-135 include connecting the system to predefined URLs and displaying the content on the display screen 110. As shown in Figure 7 and in accordance with Figure 5, actuating key 131, labeled "Local" in label area 141, would connect the system to a local news web site and display the content on the display screen 110. Actuating a key in the first array 121 other than the news key 130 would likely result in different functions (URLs) being assigned to the second array keys 131-135, and hence, different labels being displayed in the associated label areas 141-145.

In particular implementations, the predefined functions may be specific to the user's geographic area. For example, the news button 130 may connect to a local newspaper's news WWW page, then actuating button 132 ("National") of the second array 122 takes the user to the local newspaper's national news WWW page. Similarly, a

"weather" button would connect the system to the local newspaper's weather page.

However, the predefined functions of the first and second key arrays 121, 122 are not limited to connecting to web pages. For example, one embodiment includes a

"Telephone directory" or "Rolodex" button that causes the processor to access an internal memory location or a predefined URL and display a "directory" screen. In response to activation of the Telephone directory button in the first array 122, a second array key

131-135 is appropriately labeled, and connects the system to a URL associated with the local telephone company's telephone directory or other address search WWW site.

Another second array key 131-135 is appropriately labeled and causes the processor to access and display contents of a personal telephone number directory compiled by the user and stored in the system memory 118. Still further, the system 501 may be configured to automatically add information accessed on a web directory to the user's personal directory.

Other applications include a calendar that allows the user to take information off of a WWW site and insert it into his or her calendar stored in the system memory 118, and also allows one user to share his or her calendar with another user. Figure 8 shows a system 502 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The system 502 includes a telephone 510, and is configured such that the system 502 can be used as an ordinary telephone when not in use with a network. In such an embodiment, the predefined function of selected keys may include functions related to making telephone calls, such as "speed dialing." The exemplary system 502 also includes a standard QWERTY keyboard (not shown) and pointing device 514 mounted in a drawer 512 to permit stowage of the keyboard and pointing device 514. The dedicated keypad(s) 112 may include a "Browse" key or function, allowing the user to browse the internet in a more traditional manner, if desired. Among other reasons, the standard keyboard and pointing device are provided for such use.

Further, as discussed in conjunction with Figure 2, the video display 110 may comprise any suitable video display device, such as a CRT or LCD. In some embodiments, the video display 110 comprises a flat-screen device, such as an LCD, that is contained in the enclosure 116 as illustrated in Figure 8. Such an embodiment is conceptually illustrated in Figure 9. The system 503 shown in Figure 9 includes the keypad 112, the enclosure 116, and processor, which would typically be located on a motherboard 522 along with other components. The video display screen 110 comprises a flat screen display 520. This gives the appearance of a standard CRT-based display device, but, since the flat screen device requires considerably less space than a CRT, additional component storage or lay-out space is obtained in the area of the enclosure 116 behind the flat-screen display device, indicated generally by reference 524. Additional components, such as a printer, may be situated in the space otherwise occupied by portions of a CRT.

As mentioned above, some exemplary systems include a printer. The printer may be situated within the enclosure 116, as described above, or in another portion of the enclosure 116, or even external to the enclosure 116. In particular embodiments, the printer comprises a thermal transfer printer that prints on a continuous roll of thermal paper that may be encased in a disposable cartridge. One embodiment employs a thermal printer that prints images on thermal paper having a width from about 4 to 6 inches. This size is adequate for a variety of needs, providing sufficient space for printing e-mail messages and coupons (discussed further below), while not requiring as much space as standard full-sized paper. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, the printer 117 is located in the enclosure 116 behind the telephone 510. The printer 117 includes a paper discharge port 515 where the printed paper is discharged.

When connecting to the internet or other network, the system may employ the modem 119 to connect via telephone lines, or other communications device operatively coupled to the processor 114. Alternative connection methods include digital subscriber line (DSL), direct high fiber speed connections from providers over private networks, cable, point to multi point connections, or satellite. Implementation of various communications means suitable for the system of the present invention would be a routine undertaking for one skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

Figure 10 illustrates an exemplary implementation of an information retrieval and communication system in accordance with aspects of the invention. The modem 119 of the system 100 configured to connected the system 100 to an internet service provider (ISP) 610 via a public switch telephone network (PSTN) 600 in a generally well known manner. As noted above, any of a number of connections to the ISP may be used. In a particular employment of the system 100, the ISP 610 functions as a specialized "communications service provider," providing customized and specialized services to subscribers via the system 100.

In certain embodiments of the invention, a user's activation of the keypad 1 12 may not directly initiate a network connection, such as to a URL via the ISP 610, and the display of information associated with the URL. Rather, a copy, or mirrored, version of predefined URLs may be stored in the system memory 118. Displaying mirrored web pages, at least initially, reduces the number of network connections and connection time required. This speeds up system operation, and requires fewer communications resources, keeping the line to the telephone 510 open as many home users typically have only a single telephone line. The mirrored displays are updated periodically, either at predetermined intervals, or as requested by a user. In certain implementations, information is updated at "off' times, such as in the very early morning hours or at night. In still further implementations, when a first button is actuated, such as the news button 130 of the first array 121 shown in Figure 7, information obtained from system memory 118 is displayed, and a network connection is made in the background. Thus, by the time the user finishes an initial screen, the system is connected to the network.

In yet another aspect, the system 100 of the present invention may include the paging system 120 to provide bi-directional communication with the ISP 610. Typically, the paging system 120 would be located on the system motherboard. In this fashion, a central control operator or automated device at the ISP 610 can direct the server to log a call to the paging system of the system 100 such that the system 100 will call out to the server via the modem 119, establish a communication link, and download information such as content from a web site or new e-mail. This may be particularly useful in transferring "hot off the press" news and information to the user. In contrast, most known modem systems are one directional - the modem must be directed to dial out to a specific location. Some software programs have the capability of directing the modem to dial out at certain established times. With the system 100 of the present invention, however, the ability of the ISP server to page the system 100 and direct it to dial in to the ISP without the user even realizing that it is happening creates the illusion of a dedicated connection that is always on, when in fact it is not.

The pager 120 may further function as an RF modem, providing the transfer of limited data to the system 100. For example, referring now to Figure 11, a base

"weather" page 602, which may be displayed on the video display 110 upon activation of a "weather" button 612 on the first keypad array 121, contains a display of the current temperature 614, as well as a weather forecast 616 for the local area. The forecast 616 typically would not change frequently; however, in the event that the forecast were changed, the ISP could activate the pager 120, and in response thereto, the system 100 would connect and download an entire updated weather display 602 web page using the appropriate URL. However, the current temperature could frequently change, requiring repeatedly updating the temperature display 614. Rather than connecting to the ISP 610 each time the temperature changes, tying up system resources, the current temperature data is transferred to the system 100 via the pager 120, and the temperature display 614 is accordingly updated. Of course, there are a host of other data types suitable for transmission via the pager 120.

Still further embodiments of the invention provide for novel telephone communications using the system 100. Figure 12 illustrates such a communication method. Internet use is often problematic for homes with a single analog telephone line. If an incoming call 700 is received and the line is open as determined in decision block 702, the call is naturally put through and the telephone 510 rings in block 704. If the system 100 is connected to the ISP 610, an incoming caller would normally receive a busy signal. In accordance with aspects of the present invention, if an incoming call 700 receives a busy signal, rather than the caller receiving the busy signal, the call is rerouted to the ISP 610 in block 706. At the ISP, a determination is made as to whether the system 100 is on-line (block 708).

If the system 100 is connected to the ISP 610, the call is digitized using the voice over internet protocol (VOIP) and routed from the ISP 610 to the telephone 510 via the system's 100 connection to the ISP in block 710. VOIP is well known and converting the call 700 using VOIP would be a routine undertaking for one skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. If the system 100 is not connected to the ISP 610 via the modem 119, the call 700 may be routed to a voice mail system, wherein a voice message is recorded (block 720). The voice message may be processed in any of a number of ways. For example, the ISP 610 may contain the voice messaging system and the voice message itself may be transferred to the system 100. The ISP could signal the pager 120, directing the system 100 to connect to the ISP and download the message. The ISP could also signal the system 100 via the pager 120, activating a "message" indicator, prompting the user to listen to the received voice message. Alternatively, a third-party voice messaging system could be utilized, and the ISP could activate the message indicator, prompting the user to call in to the voice messaging system to retrieve the message.

The pager 120 may be similarly used to alert the user of received e-mail messages, or other instant alerts as may be predefined by the user. Some versions of the disclosed system allow the user to print coupons that can be redeemed in local businesses. A "coupon" button is provided in the keypad 112, which, upon activation by the user, displays a menu of choices by subject or location. Once the coupon has been selected, the coupon may be printed using the printer 117. This eliminates the need for the user to obtain the coupon through the mail or newspaper and allows the user to create coupons on demand.

Other aspects of the invention involve a data gathering system, which provides customization of the information content provided to the user via the system 100. For example, content that is accessed frequently may be associated with certain keys of the first and/or second keypad arrays 121,122. For example, the number of times certain web pages or files contained in the system memory 118 are accessed via the keypads 121,122 may be tracked by the ISP 610, and the keys may be accordingly adjusted. For example, the most accessed information may be assigned to a key in the center of the first keypad array 121, or assigned to the leftmost key of the second keypad array 122. Alternatively, if certain functions are never or only infrequently used, these functions may be removed from the system and replaced by others.

Thus, the systems and methods of the present invention provide several benefits over the prior art. The present invention is designed to enhance the user's ability to communicate in both voice and data. It functions to merge the communications center for the home with the distribution of local content made available, for example, by the dominant newspaper in the user's desired geographic area.

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the invention may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. An information retrieval and communication system, comprising: a video display device including a display screen; a processor operatively coupled to the video display device; a first array of push-button keys operatively coupled to the processor, the processor being programmed such that a first predefined function is executed upon actuation of a first key of the first array; and a second array of push-button keys operatively coupled to the processor, a first key of the second array having a plurality of second predefined functions associated therewith, the processor being programmed such that a first one of the second predefined functions is executed upon actuation of the first key of the second array; the first one of the second predefined functions executed being determined in response to the prior actuation of the first key of the first array.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein a second predefined function is executed upon actuation of a second key of the first array, and wherein a second one of the second predefined functions is executed upon actuation of the first key of the second array, the second one of the second predefined functions executed being determined in response to the prior actuation of the second key of the first array.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein: the second array is positioned proximate to the display screen; the display screen defines a plurality of label areas, each label area being associated with one of the keys of the second array; and wherein the processor is programmed such that the display screen displays a label in at least one of the label areas identifying the predetermined function of the key associated therewith in response to actuation of a key of the first array.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the predetermined functions of the first array include connecting to a predefined URL.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the predetermined functions of the second array include connecting to a predefined URL.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a telephone operatively coupled to the processor.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a printer operatively coupled to the processor.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the printer is a thermal transfer printer.

9. The system of claim 7, further comprising an enclosure, wherein the video display device, the processor and the printer are contained within the enclosure.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the video display device comprises a flat screen display.

11. The system of claim 1 , wherein the video display device includes a CRT.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the video display device includes an LCD.

13. The system of claim 1, further comprising a communication device operatively coupled to the processor for connecting the processor to a network.

14. The system of claim 13, further comprising a paging device operatively coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is programmed to connect the system to the network in response to activation of the pager.

15. The system of claim 1, further comprising a paging device operatively coupled to the processor, wherein the predetermined functions include displaying data received via the pager on the video display screen.

16. The system of claim 7, wherein at least one of the predetermined functions includes printing a coupon.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein printing a coupon includes displaying at least one menu of coupon choices.

18. The system of claim 1, further comprising a data storage device coupled to the processor, wherein at least one of the predefined functions includes accessing the data storage device.

19. The system of claim 1, further comprising a data storage device coupled to the processor, the data storage device containing data mirrored from a predetermined URL, wherein at least one of the predefined functions includes accessing the data storage.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the processor is programmed to update the mirrored data at predefined intervals.

21. The system of claim 19, wherein the processor is programmed to update the mirrored as directed by a user.

22. The system of claim 6, further comprising: a modem operatively coupled to the processor for connecting the processor to an ISP via a PSTN; and a paging device operatively coupled to the processor; wherein if the processor is connected to the ISP via the modem, an incoming telephone call is routed to the ISP, and the call is transfejred to the telephone via VOIP using the modem connection.

23. A method for accessing a network, comprising: providing a plurality of push-button keys having predefined functions assigned thereto; receiving a first indication activation of one of a first one of the push-button keys; 5 in response to the first indication; displaying data on a video display device; and in response to the first indication; displaying at least one label on the video display device describing the predefined function of at least a second one of the pushbutton keys.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising: o receiving a second indication activation of the second one of the push-button keys; and in response to the second indication; displaying data on a video display device.

25. The method of claim 23, wherein displaying data includes connecting to a predefined URL.

s 26. The method of claim 23, wherein displaying data includes connecting to a memory storage device.

27. The method of claim 23, wherein displaying data includes displaying data mirrored from a predefined URL.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising updating the mirrored data at o predefined intervals.

29. The method of claim 27, further comprising updating the mirrored data in response to a user's indication.

30. The method of claim 24, wherein connecting to a predefined URL comprises connecting to the predefined URL in response to activation of a pager.