Abstract: A communications network comprising a wireless local area network includes a plurality of access points connected to a host computer and each other, and a plurality of mobile units with each mobile unit being arranged for association with at least one access point. The mobile units are arranged to periodically scan for and identify the most eligible access point for association at the highest data rate on the basis of a performance criteria at the current data rate.

Abstract: A communications network comprising a cellular local area wireless network includes a plurality of access points connected to a housed computer and each other, and a plurality of mobile units each mobile unit being arranged for association with an access point. The mobile units are arranged to periodically scan for and identify the most eligible access point for association on the basis of the criteria of best quality signal strength and loading factor. In order to identify when mobile units are being removed from a predetermined area, access points having directional antennae are situated adjacent exit points to detect when mobile units are in a vicinity. Each mobile unit may include paging facilities, including the capability of transmitting information in a coded form known both to the unit and to a host, and power-saving facilities.

Abstract: A communications network comprising a cellular local area wireless network includes a plurality of access points connected to a housed computer and each other, and a plurality of mobile units each mobile unit being arranged for association with an access point. The mobile units are arranged to periodically scan for and identify the most eligible access point for association on the basis of the criteria of best quality signal strength and loading factor. In order to identify when mobile units are being removed from a predetermined area, access points having directional antennae are situated adjacent exit points to detect when mobile units are in a vicinity.

Abstract: Improvement to a check sorter. The sorter comprises a sorting track and a number of diverters. Each diverter is pivotable about a vertical axis. Each diverter is caused to pivot by the magnetic effect created between a magnet attached to the diverter and a coil 21 arranged close to the magnet.

Abstract: A hopper for receiving documents, such as checks, fed on edge from a conveyor and adapted to be stacked one atop the other inside the hopper includes a slot in one wall of the hopper through which a portion of a check projects when the stack reaches a predetermined height. A detector in the form of a light emitting member and light receiver is disposed on respective sides of the slot outside the hopper to provide a control signal when the light beam is interrupted due to projection of a portion of a check to signal when the stack has reached a predetermined height.