Abstract: A database system comprises a plurality of replicated databases and a database provisioning system such that when a record needs to be updated, the database provisioning system selects one of the replicated databases as a selected database with the remaining databases being non-selected databases. The provisioning system transmits to each non-selected database update data for updating the record and pointer data that identifies the selected database. The update data is placed in a memory queue in each non-selected database while the pointer data is written into a pointer field in the record being updated in each non-selected database. The non-selected databases then each transmit a ready-to-commit acknowledgment to the provisioning system. The provisioning system then transmits the update data to the selected database. The pointer field of the record being updated in the selected database is reset indicating that the selected database has been selected.

Abstract: Apparatus and method of operation for transporting data packets between data systems located in telephone local access transport areas and for implementing enhanced services to control operation of a telephone local access transport area switching network to interconnect calling and called parties in accordance with requested ones of the enhanced services. The apparatus is interconnected with the data systems and switching systems and is responsive to receipt of dam packets from originating data systems requesting transport of data packets to destination data systems and from switching systems requesting an enhanced service for assessing a charge for use of the apparatus by each received data packet.