INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM AND METHOD

摘要

An information distribution system (10) with an architecture that facilitates efficient distribution of a plurality of information asset data to a plurality of different requesting users (12) substantially simultaneously. Fundamental components of the system include a plurality of mass storage devices (14) that store information assets, mass storage device interface units (16), a switching unit (20), a centralized control unit (26) and a gateway to the users. Information transfer between various components of the system is accomplished through a plurality of communication channels according to a circuit switching protocol. According to one embodiment of the invention, a plurality of communication channels are provided between the mass storage devices (14) and the switching unit (20) such that information asset data may be transferred, in substantially a single format and according to substantially a single protocol, from the mass storage devices (14) directly through the switch (20) and to the requesting user (12).