Apparatus and method for digitally conveying alert tones between an analog modem and an ISDN terminal adapter

An apparatus and method for facilitating interaction during a communication session between an analog modem and a terminal adapter for conveying digital alert tones and control data therebetween is provided. The embodiments provide for a collateral digital communication path between a microcontroller of an analog modem and a microcontroller of a terminal adapter for selectively relaying digital alert tones and control data therebetween. One embodiment utilizes a cellular interface of an analog modem for tapping and evaluating information for the presence of control data. Upon successful identification of control data, the microcontroller of a terminal adapter is notified and the specific control data detected in identified. By providing a method of apparatus for digitally relaying control data, accuracy of identification of control data by a terminal adapter is enhanced by foregoing needless signal transformation and retransformation.