Method and apparatus for remotely controlling and monitoring the use of computer software
April 20, 2013. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent ReferencesSystem for remote monitoring and data transmission over non-dedicated telephone lines Software protection system Two-tiered communication security employing asymmetric session keys System for vending program cartridges which have circuitry for inhibiting program usage after preset time interval expires Cartridge programming system Rental contract timer system Protected software access control apparatus and method Software distribution system Method and device for protecting software delivered to a user by a supplier Method and system for controlling use of protected software InventorAssigneeApplicationNo. 050749 filed on 04/20/1993US Classes:717/178, Including downloading702/186, Computer and peripheral benchmarking705/32, Time accounting (time and attendance, monitoring billable hours)705/52, Usage or charge determination705/55, Requiring a supplemental attachment or input (e.g., dongle) to open705/77, Including remote charge determination or related payment system713/187, COMPUTER PROGRAM MODIFICATION DETECTION BY CRYPTOGRAPHY713/190Computer instruction/address encryptionExaminersPrimary: Black, Thomas G.Assistant: Loomis, John C. Attorney, Agent or FirmForeign Patent References
International ClassesG06F 011/30G06F 015/40 G06F 013/12 AbstractRemote control of the use of computer data is described in a system for renting computer software which derives use and billing information, prevents unauthorized use, maintains integrity of the software and controls related intercomputer communications. A user at a target computer "downloads" programs or data, via a telephone line and remote control modules, from a host computer. Usage of the programs or data by the target computer or other accounting data are recorded and stored and, at predetermined times, the host computer "uploads" the usage data for processing. Other features include: (1) software and usage security for rental programs; (2) a polynomial generator/checker for generating block check characters for assuring integrity of data transmitted and received; (3) a voice-data switch for switching between data communication and normal telephone communication; and (4) an audio amplifier and speaker for monitoring of activity on the communication line during data transfers.Other References
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