Abstract: A slider for providing an air bearing between a transducer and a moving recording surface includes a platform having a first surface with a leading edge opposite a trailing edge and a lateral axis between the leading and trailing edges. A plurality of projections extend from the first surface. At least one of the projections is disposed between the leading edge and the lateral axis and another of the projections is disposed between the trailing edge and the lateral axis. Each of the projections includes a second surface and a recess facing the leading edge. The recesses are bounded on their sides by shrouds that limit air bearing leakage. The recesses provide lift and stability to the slider when the recording surface is moving and always remain out of contact with the recording surface. To limit stiction, only the second surface of the projections is in apparent contact with the recording surface when the recording surface is stationary.

Abstract: Direct communication between a primary portable unit initiating the communication and a secondary portable unit is established utilizing two handshaking operations. The first handshaking operation is performed in the base station channel to establish initial contact between the primary and secondary portable units. After initial contact is made, the second handshaking operation is performed to establish communication in an unoccupied channel. The base station channel and the unoccupied channel may be a TDMA/TDD channel or a TDMA/FDD channel.