Abstract: [Object] Distance information can be acquired with a high degree of accuracy by a simple configuration, and positioning of high reliability is performed. [Solving Means] A communication apparatus includes a phase acquisition unit that acquires a phase characteristic of a frequency in a propagation channel with a different communication apparatus, a distance generation unit that generates distance information in reference to the phase characteristic, and a speed sensor unit that measures a movement speed of a transmission side of the propagation channel, the movement speed being usable for correction of the phase characteristic.

Abstract: A copper alloy wire has a composition composed of no less than 0.01% by weight of Ag and balance Cu and unavoidable impurities. The copper alloy wire has been prepared by drawing a wire stock having the composition at a reduction ratio of no lower than 40% and subjecting the wire stock to heat treatment for half annealing to have a tensile strength of no lower than 27 kg.multidot.f/mm.sup.2 and an elongateion of 5%. An insulated elecric wire includes the copper alloy wire as a conductor and an insulation layer covering the wire. Also, a multiple core parallel bonded wire includes two or more such insulated electric wires bonded parallel to each other.

Abstract: A dip forming apparatus for continuously forming a cast rod includes a furnace for holding molten metal, and a crucible having an open top and a bottom wall. The crucible has a core wire-passing region vertically extending therethrough. The crucible has a hole formed through the bottom wall. A passage connects the furnaces to the core wire-passing region. A device is provided for keeping the molten metal in the furnace at a predetermined level so as to flow the molten metal from the furnace to the core wire-passing region through the passage. A partition wall is disposed in the passage and has a throttling orifice of a predetermined size formed therethrough so as to allow the molten metal to pass therethrough to limit the flow of the molten metal from the furnace to the core wire-passing region.