Abstract: An operator workstation for use by an operator to service subscriber calls, the operator workstation includes a processor, a voice interface circuit, an audio control circuit, and a network interface. The processor is for controlling the operator workstation and decoding and encoding digital data received from the network interface. The voice interface circuit includes a headset interface for transmitting received signals to at least one operator headset and for receiving signals from the at least one operator headset. The audio control circuit is coupled to the voice interface circuit and the processor and is for performing signal mixing for inputs and outputs derived from the voice interface circuit and decoded digital data generated by the processor. The network interface is coupled to the processor and is for transmitting and receiving digital signals with a media gateway.

Abstract: A packing element for a fluid-fluid, fluid-solid, contacting de-entrainment or reaction apparatus is made from wire using two or more parallel wires which are loosely twisted together, the twisted bundle then being wound into a helix, and the helix then being twisted about a second pair of heavier gauge wires which form a core, so that the individual loops of the helix are spaced helically about the central core, the individual wires being slightly separated from one another to form gaps which can be bridged by a liquid, and encourage capillary flow so as to wet the whole of the packing area.