Telephone line automatic prefix dialer

Abstract From the Canadian patent

A method, and apparatus for practicing the method for eliminating, the necessity for manually dialing a local area code as a prefix to a call within the same area code in telephone systems in which such action is a requirement. An automatic dialer is activated and immediately transmits the local area code onto the caller's telephone line when an off-hook condition is sensed; e.g. when a telephone handset is picked up. Thus the caller can, merely then dial an ordinary seven digit telephone number within the local area code. In order to provide for the selective dialing of long distance when the caller "flashes" his line within a predetermined period (typically a, few seconds) after picking …