Abstract: A data request router for use with a public safety answering point (PSAP) system. The router receives a data request from the PSAP system and transmits the data request to a primary database and an alternate information sources. The router is capable of determining whether the primary database is able to provide the data requested by the PSAP system. If the router determines that the primary database is unable to provide the data requested, it receives a reply from the alternate information source and transmits the data contained in the reply from the alternate information source to the PSAP system. In one aspect, the router includes a switch designed to directly connect the PSAP system to the primary database when the router becomes inoperative either due to a failure or loss of power.

Abstract: A personal communication system for communication with another entity uses global positioning system receiver, phone book storage, and audio input as alternative forms of generating position data. A transmitter communicates a service request and the position data to the other entity, which in turn, relays the request to the appropriate party. Alternatively, the personal communicator may directly contact the desired individual. The personal communicator also includes a plurality of command buttons to control operation and a display to provide the user with instructions and data. The personal communicator also includes a sound generator to generate a loud sound upon manual command by the user or by remote command from the other entity. The transmitter can be an analog data link or part of any packet data radio communication link.