Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for communication between an operator or agent position and a switching system and databases. The position includes a display screen and keyboard. Data for controlling a plurality of displays for the screen is stored in the switching system. In response to an operator's logging into the system, the position is connected to a plurality of databases by switched virtual channels, carried over the data channel of an ISDN connection from the position to the switch, and via switched virtual channels to the databases. A special section of the screen is devoted to parameters which are automatically transferred from one display to another whenever a new display is requested. When an operator wishes to set up a call, the call will be set up in accordance with the latest version of the parameters, whether or not the operator requests a display of a call control screen.

Abstract: Methods and arrangements for associating control messages received in the D-channel of an integrated services digital network (ISDN) line with the call control process to which the message relates are disclosed. With ISDN, a single control channel, called the D-channel, can be used concurrently to control a plurality of calls. As each call is initiated, a call control process and data structure including the unique identity of the call, are created. The data structures associated with the same D-channel are linked together. When a control message including a given identity is received, the data structures associated with the D-channel conveying the message are searched in sequence until a data structure having the given identity is found. The contents of this data structure are used to access the control process associated therewith. When the search reveals no matching identity and the message is a call setup message, a new process and data structure are created.