Abstract: A measuring apparatus is connected to a cable to perform testing and diagnosis of the cable. The measuring apparatus includes a voltage source, a resistance, a switch, and an inductance forming a charging circuit, and two anti-parallel thyristors or switched diodes together with the inductance forming a series resonant circuit loop. The apparatus produces a low frequency alternating voltage signal train including a low frequency test signal followed by a low frequency diagnostic signal. The diagnostic signal is a damped decaying signal oscillation in the resonant circuit connected to the test cable. At least one of the signals is bipolar. Both cable testing and cable diagnosis can be performed using the same single measuring apparatus in a single measuring procedure.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for achieving agreement among participating network devices in an asynchronous network for deciding on a common value is disclosed, whereby the common value is validated by a justification and both together satisfy a predetermined predicate. Moreover, a method for reliably broadcasting messages in an order within the asynchronous network is described. Up to one third or more of the participating network devices might be faulty in arbitrary ways.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for achieving agreement among participating network devices in an asynchronous network for deciding on a common value is disclosed, whereby the common value is validated by a justification and both together satisfy a predetermined predicate. Moreover, a method for reliably broadcasting messages in an order within the asynchronous network is described. Up to one third or more of the participating network devices might be faulty in arbitrary ways.