Abstract: A connection controller suitable for use in a PBX. The connection controller can set up a media path to allow a user at a known terminal to receive audio information from an audio source. The connection controller has a directory of audio sources and a processing unit for searching the directory to select an audio source suitable to provide the audio information desired by the user. When the selection is made the processing unit generates and directs control signals to one or more components operative to establish the media path between the selected audio source and the known terminal.

Abstract: The invention provides a key system unit comprising a first interface suitable for connection to a plurality of local terminals and a control unit coupled to the first interface. The control unit is operative for receiving a user data signal from the first interface and routing the user data signal toward a selected destination. The control unit has a registry for storing status information, the status information including a local segment and at least one remote segment, the local segment providing a representation of the functional status of the key system unit, the remote segment providing a representation of the functional status of a remote key system unit. The information in the registry can be displayed on a display screen on a local terminal to provide the user with system status information on the local key system unit and the remote key system unit.