Systems and methods for multiple mode voice and data communications using intelligenty bridged TDM and packet buses and methods for performing telephony and data functions using the same

In a system for managing voice and data communications for a plurality of users, wherein the system is coupled to at least one wide area telecommunications network, wherein the system includes at least a processor and data storage resources, a method comprising the steps of:

• coupling video and audio data between the system and a first computer of a plurality of computers coupled to the system over one or more packet buses, wherein at least the first computer has coupled thereto a camera and a microphone providing the video and audio data coupled between the system and the first computer;
• selectively coupling the video and audio data to a TDM bus in the system under control of the processor, wherein the video and audio data are bridged between the one or more packet buses and the TDM bus under control of the processor;
• coupling the video and audio data from the TDM bus to the telecommunications network under control of the processor;
• coupling voice data between the system and a telephone and coupling computer data between the system and a second computer;
• coupling the voice data and/or the computer data to the TDM bus under control of the processor, wherein the computer data are bridged between the one or more packet buses and the TDM bus under control of the processor;
• and
• coupling the voice data and/or the computer data from the TDM bus to the telecommunications network under control of the processor;
• wherein a video conference participant participates in a video conference with the first computer over the telecommunications network, while concurrently a telephone user participates in a telephone call with the telephone over the telecommunications network, wherein voice communications of the telephone call that stay in a circuit-switched form are provided via the TDM bus.