Abstract: A processor arrangement is described having a programmer logic controller (PLC) operating to a ladder diagram process. A number of event inputs (11-15) are provided connected to an interrupt buffer (31), in turn connected to a real time clock (32), for recording times of events of signals received on the event inputs and generating interrupts. Sequential storage locations in a cyclical buffer (60) store interrupts and their event times, where events occurring within a predetermined incremental time window are stored, with their event times, in a storage location for that time window. Each location of the cyclical buffer is inspected in sequence upon each new step of the sequential process. The PLC is arranged to operate on any events stored in the buffer which are affected by the new step of the sequential process before proceeding to the next step of the sequential process.

Abstract: A communications system is described having a number of communicating units arranged for communication over a common communications channel. A first communicating unit (10) transmits a data transmission (104) followed by an end-of-data indication (102) and a predetermined period of further transmission activity (101) to a second communicating unit (12). During the period of further transmission activity (101) of the first unit, the second unit seizes the channel (103) and transmits a preamble (105) prior to its response data. This process continue ensuring that periods of further transmission activity (101) and the preamble (105) keep the channel open for the duration of the communication, for sole use by the communicating units. The invention is applicable to, but not limited to use in supervisory control and acquisition-of-data (SCADA) systems.

Abstract: In a radio frequency communication system, a primary unit interrogates a plurality of secondary units over a radio communication channel. The primary unit receives a command to initiate an interrogation cycle over the communication channel. The primary unit then selects a time delay from a set of time delays, and transmits an interrogation request to each secondary unit of at least a subset of the plurality of secondary units in series after the selected time delay if the channel is free at the end of the selected time delay. The primary unit then selects the longest time delay for the next interrogation cycle if a channel grant command is received, and selects a shorter time delay for the next interrogation cycle if no channel grant command is received.

Abstract: A call box (201) provides vandal-resistant operation by using a concealed magnetic switch and magnet (179) and specially locked compartments (101 and 103) in a heavy duty structure. The concealed magnetic switch determines the position of a handset (119) within the call box (201). When the handset (119) is removed from its resting position, a radio (129) within the call box (201) responds when a pushbutton (127) within the call box (201) is pressed. When the pushbutton (127) is pressed, telephone service is provided via a radio (129) to a preprogrammed phone number, such as the highway patrol for a call box (201) located on a highway, to handle situations such as a malfunctioning vehicle.