Abstract: There is disclosed a communication system using a bi-directional bus, which includes a plurality of devices (e.g., TV image receiver or video tape recorder, etc.) connected to each other. Each device includes a transmit signal formation unit having a frame structure including an address field for specifying addresses of devices between which communication is carried out, a control field for specifying whether communication is carried out in the state where device on the receiving side is locked or in the state where that device is unlocked, and a data field for specifying data to be transmitted. For transmitting data having a data quantity greater than data capacity of the data field, the data is divided into a plurality of frames, an indication to lock device on the receiving side is given to control field of a frame transmitted first, and an indication to unlock that device is given to control field of a frame transmitted last.

Abstract: An electrical connector having a planar gripping member which allows for improved manual gripping of the connector to facilitate easy connection/disconnection of the electrical connector from an interface point.

Abstract: In a database accessing system, access information concerning access to a database system is transferred using call control messages including user-to-user information within a control procedure defining the connection of a call on a signal channel. This results in a database accessing method that offers the improved use efficiencies of communication lines and the upgraded operating ratio of a database system, and allows users to enjoy reduced communication charges.

Abstract: A cellular communication system includes a mobile station with a switch or button which, when actuated by the user, calls a predetermined party. In the case of an emergency, the user actuates this switch and automatically places a call to an emergency agency. The switch also actuates a system for automatically locating the mobile station by measuring distances from the mobile station to a plurality of fixed stations in the cellular communication system.