| 摘要 |
<p>A method wherein a digital camera (12) is programmed to require a password to authorize its operation, and programs to respond to data instructing limited use. In order to operate the camera (12), a user must first call the owner's authorization facility (14) and send the specific camera identification number and the user's account or credit card number for billing purposes. With the camera (12) in communication with the owner's facility to a network connection (22, 23), the owner then sends data to the camera (12), including the password and specific conditions allowing the requested use. For example, the use may be for a set number of images for a still camera, or a set amount of recording time if the camera is a video camera, or for use during a certain set period of time. The user is then able to operate the camera (12) within the purchase limits and is billed accordingly by the owner.</p> |
