Abstract: A method and apparatus for supplying cooling air to electronic equipment from ones of at least two sources. A detector detects whether the quality, such as the temperature of the cooling air from a source, is satisfactory and if not shuts the damper to that source and opens the damper to another source. A main controller provides additional control signals for controlling the dampers to protect the electronic equipment, or for shutting down the electronic equipment.

Abstract: A communication device is described that includes a POTS interface system, a processing system, a conversion system, a voice interface system, and a digital interface system. When in operation, the POTS interface system receives analog voice signals for a call. The POTS interface system converts the analog voice signals from analog to digital to generate digital voice signals. The processing system performs an application on the digital voice signals to provide a presentation format of the digital voice signals of the call to a user. The conversion system then converts the digital voice signals into analog voice signals and a voice interface system transmits audible signals to the user. The digital interface system receives digital data signals from a data service provider and the processing system performs an application on the digital data signals to provide additional data to the user.

Abstract: The specification describes an emergency notification system (ENS) that is integrated with an existing telephone network. The ENS comprises a central emergency coordination center (CECC) that receives information specific to the nature and location of an emergency event, and selects one or more regional emergency coordination center(s) (RECCs) based on the location and nature of the emergency. The RECC selects a list of telephone numbers of customers potentially affected, calls those numbers, and transmits the emergency message. The calls are preferably initiated using a distinctive ring pattern. Techniques for overcoming answering machine interruption are disclosed. Embodiments where the customer is provided with means for detecting the distinctive ring pattern of the ENS, and the detection means directly activates an intrusive alarm or loudspeaker are also disclosed.