Send DTMF Tones
Enable your AI agent to send DTMF (Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency) tones on command during active phone calls.
On-Demand Tones
Send DTMF tones when instructed during active calls.
Simple Integration
Basic tool that sends tones when explicitly instructed.
Manual Control
Agent decides when to send tones based on conversation context.
Phone-Only Tool
Specifically designed for voice call interactions.
Overview
The Send DTMF tool is a basic utility that allows your AI agent to send dial tones during active phone calls. DTMF tones are the sounds generated when pressing buttons on a telephone keypad. This tool sends tones on command - it does not automatically navigate menus during transfers.
Important: This tool only works during active calls where your agent is connected. It cannot send tones during call transfers or when navigating external IVR systems. Your agent can use this tool to send tones when explicitly instructed, such as entering a conference PIN while on a call with a customer.
How to Use the Send DTMF Tool
Add the Tool to Your Agent
Example Scenario:
When a caller needs you to enter tones during the call:
"If a caller asks you to press numbers or enter a code while on the call with them, use the Send DTMF tool to send those tones."
Navigate to your agent's configuration and add the Send DTMF tool. This tool requires no additional configuration parameters.
Write Clear Instructions
Provide specific instructions about when and which DTMF tones to send:
Caller Request Example:
"If the caller says 'press 1 for me' or asks you to enter any numbers, use the Send DTMF tool to send those tones."Conference Bridge Example:
"If we're on a call together and need to join a conference bridge, I can send the access code when you tell me to."Interactive Session Example:
"During our call, if you need me to press any buttons or enter codes, just tell me what to press and I'll send those tones."Understanding Limitations
It's important to understand what this tool can and cannot do:
- ✓CAN: Send tones during an active call with your agent
- ✓CAN: Respond to caller requests to "press" numbers
- ✗CANNOT: Navigate menus during call transfers
- ✗CANNOT: Interact with external IVR systems automatically
Note: This is a basic tool for sending tones on command. It does not provide automated menu navigation capabilities.
DTMF Characters
Supported DTMF Characters:
Standard Digits:
Special Characters:
Note: Some systems may also support A, B, C, and D tones, but these are rarely used in standard phone systems.
Best Practices
🎯 Clear Instructions
Be clear about when the agent should use this tool.
Good: "If a caller asks you to press numbers, use the Send DTMF tool" Bad: "Handle phone menu navigation"⏱️ Responsive Actions
The agent should send tones only when explicitly requested by the caller.
"When the caller says 'press 1 for me' or 'can you enter 5', send those tones"🔊 Confirm Before Sending
Have the agent confirm what tones to send before sending them.
"When asked to press numbers, confirm with the caller: 'I'll press [numbers] for you now'"🧪 Test Thoroughly
Test your DTMF sequences with the actual phone systems your agent will interact with. Different systems may have varying response times and requirements.
Common Use Cases
📞 Interactive Phone Sessions
When callers need you to press buttons during the call.
"If a caller says 'Can you press 1 for me?' or 'Enter 5 to confirm', I'll use the Send DTMF tool to send those tones."
🔐 Three-Way Conference Calls
Entering codes while on a call with the customer.
"If we're both on a conference call and you need me to enter the access code, just tell me the numbers and I'll send them."
🏢 Customer Assistance
Helping customers who can't press buttons themselves.
"If a customer is having trouble entering numbers or needs assistance with their phone keypad, I can send the tones for them."
💳 Verification Codes
Entering verification or confirmation codes during calls.
"If you receive a verification code and need me to enter it while we're on the call, just read me the numbers."
Technical Details
Supported Adapters
The Send DTMF tool is exclusively available for:
This tool is not available for chat or widget interactions as DTMF tones are specific to voice telephony.
How DTMF Works
DTMF tones are audio signals sent over phone lines. Each button press generates two simultaneous tones at specific frequencies:
- •The tones are recognized by phone systems to trigger actions
- •Standard duration is typically 100-200ms per tone
- •Inter-digit pause is usually 100ms minimum
Single Instance Tool
This tool is configured as a single instance tool, meaning you only need to add it once to your agent. The agent will use it whenever a caller requests DTMF tones to be sent during the active call.
Troubleshooting Tips
Complex Sequences
For complex navigation paths, break down the instructions into clear steps with specific triggers for each action.
Summary
The Send DTMF tool enables your AI agent to:
- ✓Respond to Requests: Send tones when callers ask for button presses during the call.
- ✓Assist Callers: Help customers who need tones entered on their behalf.
- ✓Interactive Sessions: Participate in conference calls or other scenarios requiring tone input.
- ✓Simple Integration: Basic tool that works during active calls with your agent.
The Send DTMF tool is a simple utility that allows your AI agent to send dial tones on command during active calls. While it doesn't provide automated menu navigation, it's useful for scenarios where callers need assistance with entering tones during your conversation.
Ready to Get Started?
Add the Send DTMF tool to your agent to enable tone sending during active calls.
View Quick Start Guide