Back in "the old days," my friend Bill was working a radar sector when the computer failed.
The normal procedure was to put the scope into a horizontal position and then revert to the old broad-band radar and "shrimp boats." Knocking the scope down involved a bit of gymnastics - pushing a foot pedal while simultaneously pulling the scope forward and pushing it flat.
As I was walking down the aisle, I saw Bill struggling with his scope. He issued a clearance: "United 555, descend and maintain FL310, expedite through FL330 for traffic." He then clipped his mic switch to his belt.
Unknown to either of us, his mic was keyed.
I asked if he needed help with his scope. Bill nodded and replied, "I can't get this son-of-a-&@#$* to go down!" Just then we noticed the transmitter was on, so he unkeyed.
Over the radio came: "Center, United 555. Sorry sir, but we're descending as fast as we can."
Rich @
http://atcea.com