Abstract: A method is disclosed that avoids the need to enlarge the translation tables held by Signal Transfer Points (STPs), for the purpose of effecting global title routing of certain signalling messages to enable number portability. Signalling links are monitored to detect messages needing to be routed by global title; the global title of each such message is then checked to see if it relates to a ported number and if this is the case, the global title is modified to a number that will result in the appropriate routing of the message on the basis of the existing translation tables of the STPs.

Abstract: A programmable message substitution unit PMSU (60) is provided for modifying signalling messages passing across a link (61) of a telecommunications signalling network without disrupting the link-level procedures operating over the link. In the event of a power failure or upon the detection of an operational anomaly, a bypass relay arrangement (65) is used to bypass the PMSU (60). The PMSU (60) comprises a substitution block for modifying selected messages, a database block for doing database lookups to ascertain new message parameter values to be substituted for existing ones, and a supervision block for checking the operation of the substitution block. The PMSU may be used to implement local number portability or other services.

Abstract: A bag includes a first panel with at least one access hole in it, and a second panel without a hole corresponding to the at least one hole of the first panel. Preferably, two holes are present, preferably near the bag mouth. The panels are substantially equal in length. The bag can be easily opened by described bag opening means, without the need for vacuum or air to open the bag. The bag can be used in conjunction with otherwise conventional taped bag systems. A method of making the bag, a bag opening system, a method of opening the bag, and a packaging system are also disclosed.