Abstract: A broadband wireless network includes intelligent base stations and mobile units. The network includes control means to manage connectivity of the mobile units to the intelligent base stations. Software is provided to control connection of the mobile unit to an intelligent base station having preferred signal characteristics. When a mobile unit connects to an intelligent base station, the software broadcasts corrected routing information to all intelligent base stations on the network allowing persistent wireless connectivity.

Abstract: An underpad for use in a hospital-like setting is disclosed herein. In these situations it is desirable to minimize moisture or fluid penetration from one side of the pad to the other side, as for example, in situations where a patient may be incontinent. The pad can be repeatably washed and dried and includes at least two layers of materials secured to each other. One layer is a facing or fabric ply and the other layer comprises a moisture-resistant neoprene ply which resists degradation after repeated institutional washings and drying at temperatures on the order of 225.degree. F.