a communications terminal operates in multiple modes including a wired phone mode , an internet phone mode , and a combined mode . the terminal includes a wired phone unit and an ip phone unit which separately processes calls to / from pstn - and internet - communications networks . the terminal also includes a processor which processes a call through a voice path which connects the wired phone unit and the ip phone unit in a third mode of operation which is referred to as an external connection mode . by processing a call along this path , the cost of performing long - distance and / or international calling may be substantially reduced and transmission efficiency may simultaneously be improved .