Abstract: A method for redundant communication at a network gateway includes (1) exchanging data packets with a network application via a first access communication interface, (2) exchanging data packets with customer premises equipment (CPE) via a local communication interface, and (3) in response to occurrence of a first event, exchanging at least some data packets with the network application via a second access communication interface that is different from the first access communication interface.

Abstract: Both manual and automated pipetting apparatus for collecting and dispensing controlled amounts of a given specimen are disclosed herein along with their methods of operation. Each of these apparatus utilizes a pipetting device including a stem which carries a replaceable tip and each device is designed so that a tip, once used, can be automatically removed from its associated stem. Each apparatus disclosed also includes a particular arrangement for placing a new tip on a given stem and each utilizes a specific arrangement for collecting used tips and for cleaning certain components of its pipetting device of specimen residue.