An answering machine, also known as an answer machine (especially in UK and British commonwealth countries), ansafone (tradename  (http://www.ansafone.com/)), ansaphone (tradename  (http://www.ansaphone.com/)), answerphone or telephone answering device (TAD), is a device for automatically answering telephone calls and recording messages left by callers. Unlike voicemail, which is a centralised or networked system that performs a similar function, an answering machine is installed in the customer's premises alongside the telephone. While early answering machines used magnetic tape technology, most modern equipment uses solid state memories. Magnetic tape is still used in many low cost devices.
An answering machine can be used for screening calls.
- The History of Answering Machines (http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blansweringmachines.htm) - from about.com