Abstract: A holding tool for use in holding a first portion of an item, such as a hydraulic coupling, in a static position, while a torque application tool applies torque and rotates a second portion of the item. The holding tool helps reduce twisting of the first portion relative to the second portion when torque is applied. The holding tool also communicates with a controller when the tool is in use. For example, the tool communicates with the controller in response to a user applying a force to the tool in a direction of the first portion the tool is engaged with. That force releases pressure on a switch that activates a communication signal for communication to the controller. This allows the controller to monitor whether the holding tool was used in conjunction with a torque wrench to tighten the coupling; thereby providing an error reducing function.

Abstract: A holding tool for use in holding a first portion of an item, such as a hydraulic coupling, in a static position, while a torque application tool applies torque and rotates a second portion of the item. The holding tool helps reduce twisting of the first portion relative to the second portion when torque is applied. The holding tool also communicates with a controller when the tool is in use. For example, the tool communicates with the controller in response to a user applying a force to the tool in a direction of the first portion the tool is engaged with. That force releases pressure on a switch that activates a communication signal for communication to the controller. This allows the controller to monitor whether the holding tool was used in conjunction with a torque wrench to tighten the coupling; thereby providing an error reducing function.

Abstract: A holding tool for use in holding a first portion of an item, such as a hydraulic coupling, in a static position, while a torque application tool applies torque and rotates a second portion of the item. The holding tool helps reduce twisting of the first portion relative to the second portion when torque is applied. The holding tool also communicates with a controller when the tool is in use. For example, the tool communicates with the controller in response to a user applying a force to the tool in a direction of the first portion the tool is engaged with. That force releases pressure on a switch that activates a communication signal for communication to the controller. This allows the controller to monitor whether the holding tool was used in conjunction with a torque wrench to tighten the coupling; thereby providing an error reducing function.

Abstract: A telephone answering system and method that integrates caller ID and directory information to automate the message reply functions is taught. In an illustrative embodiment a telephone line interface circuit for receiving voice and caller ID information, with a telephone number portion, is coupled to a caller ID data decoding circuit. A voice message memory and a data memory are coupled to a controller. The controller operates to receive and store the voice portion of each message in the voice message memory, and to store the decoded caller ID data in the data memory. A reply actuator is coupled to the controller, and actuation of the reply actuator causes the controller to enable a telephone line interface to place a telephone call to the telephone number portion of the caller ID data. The reply message may be recorded to the message memory for communication at a later time, specified by the user.