Jinx, you might want to check out TI's TCM1520A Ring Detector, if it's
still available... It connects directly to the phone line (USA) and
typically requires two common resistors and capacitors. It's available in an
8-Pin DIP package. Some of it's features include:

       > On-Chip 150V Bridge Diode Configuration.
       > 1M Typical Standby (On-Hook) Impedance.
       > Optoisolator, TTL, and CMOS Compatible Output.
       > Built-in 5V Series Regulator (For Optoisolator, etc).
       > Built-in Lightning and Transient Protection.
       > Interface to Telephone Line via 1 Resistor and Capacitor.
       > Low Ringer Equivalency Number (< 1 Typ).
       > Typical Operating Range: 40 - 150V, 16 - 68Hz.

    I bought a couple of them from JDR about 6 years ago for a project but
I'm not sure of current availability. This was a PIC-based line monitor
that reset a PC via the phone amongst other things. The complete circuit
only requires 2 resistors, 2 capacitors, and an optional optoisolator.
At the time, I paid $1.29 each.

    - Tom

At 20:01 31-05-02, Jinx wrote:
>I've looked around and found several alternative methods. Not
>too familiar with phone circuits but do know that some phones
>use a neon as both the ring detector and the visual indicator
>of an incoming call. Is this circuit of my own feasible
>
>http://home.clear.net.nz/pages/joecolquitt/ringdet.html
>
>I suggest it only because I have all of these parts lying
>around. I've seen solid state alternatives but really don't
>have the time to twiddle about with anything involving a pile
>of transistors, zeners, bridges blah blah blah

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