A communications network tap with a link fault detector, comprises a first terminal and a second terminal adapted to couple the tap in-line in the network and communicate data packets with network devices. The information processing apparatus executes a function corresponding to a menu item of application software which menu item is selected by a user. The cuttings, optionally mixed with drilling mud andor soil, are converted to the useful structures by pozzolanic andor cementitious reactions after being mixed with suitable other materials andor are bonded into the useful structures by asphaltic materials. A repair method patterns a mask material to have openings over the interconnects where defects are likely to appear.