Circuit and method for automatic memory dialing

A method provide delays during memory dialing by automatically inserting pause characters within the dialing sequence based upon the user's entry of the dialing sequence. The method establishes a time-out period (64) when storing dialing sequences, and adds a pause character (66) to the dialing sequence if the time-out has expired. The method also determines whether any digit keys have been selected (68) to be stored in the sequence. Finally, the method monitors the tip and ring line of a standard telephone line to detect a far end ringing signal (76) and insert a special pause character (78). The special pause character will provide a delay until a far end pickup is detected during automatic dialing. Also, a circuit includes a keypad (20) for selecting digits to be stored; a control circuit (18) for detecting a delay between the selection of digits and generating a first pause signal in response; and a digital signal processor (30) for detecting a far end ringing signal to generate a second pause signal; and a memory device (26) for storing said digits and pause signals.