Abstract: A network tap module having a network line monitoring function has a signal splitter to split a signal received from a network into a first copy which is returned to the network and a second copy. A line monitoring and statistics circuit receives the second copy of the signal and carries out line monitoring and statistics collecting thereon. The module further has at least one of: (i) a display for displaying an indication of the state of the network line based on the line monitoring and statistics collection carried out by the line monitoring and statistics circuit, and (ii) an interface for allowing data relating to the state of the network line based on the line monitoring and statistics collection carried out by the line monitoring and statistics circuit to be output from the module.

Abstract: A traffic generator for generating a packet information stream that includes plural information cells has plural memory regions. Each memory region contains identical data in the form of plural information cells. A memory-reading device reads information cells from the plural memory regions in an alternating manner such that, as an information cell is being read from one of the memory regions, the next memory region from which the next information cell is to be read can be activated. In this way, the next information cell can be read from the next memory region substantially as soon as the previous information cell has been read from the first memory region, thereby to generate a packet information stream from the read information cells.

Abstract: A composite metallic article for effecting a seal with glass, said article comprising a nickel-iron alloy core portion, a low carbon steel alloy sheath portion bonded to the core, and a uniformly thick shell portion of a glass-wetting material bonded about the sheath. A method for making the article is also disclosed.