[Ham-Computers] RE: skype

[Hsu, Aaron (NBC Universal)]

A few years ago, I thought of designing a circuit that would act as "front
end" screener just like your friend's service.  It would intercept all calls
and play back a quick recording...something like "Press 1 to continue".  The
automated systems dial your number and detect the pick-up, but by the time
the dialer transfers the call to the next available "human" on their end,
the message is over and the "human" thinks there's no one on your side.
Simple and hopefully effective.

I never got around to designing it and it's always remained a back-burner
project.  The "do not call" list has worked for me so far...if calls start
comming in again, I may move the project up a couple notches <g>.  I had
always hoped that phone manufacturers would add such a feature to their
answering machines, but I've not found one yet.  It's possible that someone
already holds a patent on the idea and that's why your friend's telco pulled
the service.

BTW, even if you're on the "do not call" list, there are loop-holes that
allow you to be put back on the "sure, call me" list.  Make sure you don't
put any phone numbers on rebate forms (or put your work number), contest
entries, or other "frivolous" forms, esp without reading the privacy
notices.  Once you do put your number down, it can be considered an
"override" to the "do not call" list and you'll once more start receiving
cold calls.

If you do get a call, don't just say "no thank you" and hang up.  Tell the
person on the other end that you want your name taken off their list and to
not call again.  Get the person's name and the time/date of the call.  If
you get another call from the same company, file a complaint with the FCC
(donotcall at fcc.gov or 1-888-CALL-FCC).  You can get more info on the FCC's
Do Not Call website:  http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/donotcall

73,

  - Aaron, NN6O




-----Original Message-----
Sent: Tuesday, October 11, 2005 1:13 PM
Subject: Re: [Ham-Computers] RE: skype

*** snip ***

speaking of which, a local friend had this really interesting service that I
can only describe as a `front end' or secretary.  You called her number and
got a recording.  If you knew a certain code, you could ring though -
otherwise you had to leave a message.

*** snip ***