| 摘要 |
An information distribution system, in accordance with one form of the present invention, includes a central information bank (100) and a central transactional data base (104) coupled to point-of-sale delivery systems (202). Information flows between each point-of-sale delivery system and the central information bank and central transactional data base via communication network such as the telephone network, a satellite network, or any other network suitable for the transfer of information. The point-of-sale delivery systems may take one of many forms including a point of purchase delivery system, a point of rental delivery system, a "book bank" (116A) subsystem, a promotional delivery system, or any combination of such systems. Information exchanged within the system is controlled using various levels of encryption and is monitored to prevent unauthorized exchange. |
