Abstract: A portable electronic device (100) includes a vibrating transducer having a resilient support and a first mass supported by the first resilient support forming a mechanical resonator, and an electrical circuit coupled to the first vibrating transducer to apply a drive signal. A plurality of tactile vibration transducers (130, 140) can work in unison to produce strong tactile stimulus (216, 228, 230).

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring a telecommunications system includes a detachable communications module, such as a modem, connected to a call line that is independent of the system to be monitored. A controller is connected to the monitored system and to the communications module. The controller includes at least one detector for sensing various off-normal conditions relevant to operating the monitored system. The controller also includes an auto-dialer that is responsive to the detectors for triggering a call to a remote site via the telecommunications module upon sensing the presence of one of the off-normal conditions. A backup power source is connected to power the controller and the communications module if a primary power source fails. Preferably, the backup source includes at least one battery and the backup source, the controller, and the communications module are contained in a housing that is separate from the monitored system.