Method and apparatus for directing a wireless communication to a wireline unit

A method of use for a wireless unit so that a subsequent communication directed to a wireless number associated with the wireless unit is routed to a directory number associated with a wireline unit, comprising the steps of:

• A. providing a converter, having a current source connector and a receptacle, that is functionally connected to a communications switching center;
• B. connecting the current source connector of the converter to a current source;
• C. connecting the converter's receptacle to an independent conventional charger associated with the wireless unit;
• D. in response to the connection, detecting a current drawn by the wireless unit and the independent conventional charger;
• and
• E. in response to detecting a current drawn by the wireless unit and the independent conventional charger, when the wireless unit is connected to the independent conventional charger, transmitting a message to the communications switching center, the message including a notification that the subsequent communication directed to the wireless number associated with the wireless unit be routed to the directory number associated with the wireline unit.

A method for notifying a communications switching center so that a subsequent communication directed to a wireless number associated with a wireless unit is routed to a directory number associated with a wireline unit, comprising the steps of:

• A. functionally connecting a converter to a communications switching center;
• B. detecting an actuation of a switch that indicates a connection of the converter to a wireless unit;
• and
• C. in response to detecting an actuation of a switch, transmitting a message to the communications switching center, the message including a notification that a subsequent communication directed to the wireless number associated with the wireless unit be routed to the directory number associated with the wireline unit.

A system for instructing a communications switching center to direct a wireless communication to a directory number associated with a wireline unit, comprising:

• A. a converter functionally connected to the communications switching center, including a current source connector and a receptacle;
• B. a current source coupled to the converter's current source connector;
• C. an independent conventional charger associated with the wireless unit and connected to the converter's receptacle;
• and
• D. the converter further including a detector operative to sense a current draw from the conventional charger and the wireless unit when the wireless unit is connected to the independent conventional charger, and to transmit a message to the communications switching center in response to sensing the current draw, the message including a notification that a subsequent communication directed to a wireless number be routed to the directory number associated with the wireline unit.

A converter, independent of a wireless unit base station, configured to instruct a communications switching center to direct a communication intended for a wireless unit to a directory number associated with a wireline unit, comprising:

• a current source connector for coupling the converter to a current source;
• a receptacle for connecting an electrical device to the converter;
• a detector configured to receive a signal from the electrical device when the electrical device is connected to the receptacle;
• and
• a processor configured to transmit, in response to the signal, a message to the communication switching center to direct a subsequent communication directed to a wireless number associated with the wireless unit to be routed to the directory number associated with the wireline unit.