Busy Lamp Field (BLF)

Generally, busy lamp fields are directly linked to the associated function keys. These keys are assigned to individual lamps and can be used for various functions. A steady light or a blinking light can be used to display the status of a telephone set. Often a steady light indicates an ongoing call and a blinking light an incoming call. Depending on this status, a call can be taken or picked up using the associated function key. If the line is free at the moment, it can be called by pressing the function key. In software-based PC solutions, these actions can be triggered by mouse click.

The busy lamp field is a typical feature in the telephone of a personal assistant. It supports the assistant’s call management and allows transferring calls to the boss, receiving or picking up calls and knowing the current call status in the boss’ office.

Busy lamp fields can be used in mobiles or smart phones where the mobile phones are integrated into fixed mobile convergence environments. In such cases, the busy lamp field shows the status in the office when an employee is telephoning with his/her mobile phone or smartphone, even if the employee is at an entirely different location. The mobile is linked to the busy lamp field almost like a normal extension.