Abstract: An operator interface device is connected to the central control unit of a remotely-monitored security system, which also includes one or more local control units located at monitored sites. A local control unit may initiate a telephone call to the central control unit to alert the operator of an event such as an intrusion at the site. The interface device has a keypad on which the operator can enter commands that are transmitted to the local control unit. A processor in the interface device uses a look-up table, state machine or other predetermined relationship to translate the command entered by the operator into the native or local command recognized by the local control unit.

Abstract: Subterranean tunnels extend deep into the Earth's crust between two points on the Earth's surface. A magnetically levitated rail transportation system operates in each tunnel. Gravity provides most of the energy needed to propel the trains. One or more magnetic accelerators in the tunnel provide the energy boost needed to compensate for frictional energy losses. Steam turbine-powered generators, disposed in the tunnels, provide electrical power to the magnetic levitation system and accelerators. The heat from the surrounding rock may be used to produce steam for powering the turbines. A machine for constructing the tunnels bores through solid rock and molten or partially molten rock. As the machine moves forward, it lays pipes that are fed from the surface through the newly-bored tunnel. The pipes carry chiller fluid that solidifies magma that comes into contact with the pipes.

Abstract: A remotely-monitored stored-audio security system has a local control unit at a monitored premises that communicates with a remotely located central control unit for alerting personnel of an alarm at the premises. Microphones located on the monitored premises receive sounds that are recorded on a recording device in the local control unit. When the alarm occurs the recording device ceases recording, thereby preserving any sounds that occurred prior to and immediately after the activation of the security system. A detector monitors the input to the recording device and detects the occurrence of a discrete sound, i.e., a sound exceeding the level of ambient noise. When the local control unit transmits the alarm indication it also transmits an indication to the central control unit for informing personnel whether any discrete sounds have been recorded.