🚀 go-pugleaf

A previous posting described a device called "FoneAlone" which disconnects
one telephone device when another device on the same line is picked up.
It is especially handy for interrupting an answering machine when you want
to actually *talk* to the person calling.

Well, I wrote for information and later ordered one.  It arrived promptly,
and does exactly what it is supposed to.  I connected it to my answering
machine, which is set to answer on two rings.  When someone calls and gets
the machine, picking up a telephone causes the machine to be disconnected
immediately, and allows the machine to complete its cycle and reset for the
next call.  This is much more convenient than dashing off to the room where
the machine is, turning it off, and then having to remember to turn it back
on and let it cycle through.

The device costs $29.95, and can be ordered from Sparrevohn Engineering,
143 Nieto Ave., Long Beach, CA 90803 (213) 443-7240.  Of course, I have
nothing to do with this firm except as a customer.  It seems to be such
a useful device, I'm really suprised that no one else has marketed one!

Sparrevohn also has a portable autodialer with a built-in clock and
calculator for about $35 or so.  Looked pretty nice if you need something like
that.

-Brian Smithson
ucbvax!calma!smithson