Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A computer-aided telecommunication system and method which uses an Internet web site and at least two computers to permit people located remotely from one another, and who may be unskilled in computer operation, to conduct real-time visual communication with other computer database subscribers, and promptly transmit to them money, still and moving images, and notices about sales, upcoming events, and employment opportunities at a cost that is relatively low when compared to alternative forms of communication. The simplest preferred embodiment of the system comprises two central processing units; two monitors; four keyboards; two printers; two printer/scanner/fax/copier combination devices; two video recorders; and at least two privacy booths each having a display screen, a camera, audio speakers, a microphone, an optional writing surface, and at least one piece of furniture that can comfortably accommodate visual correspondents. It is also contemplated for the system to comprise at least two control stations, at least one privacy booth and at least one e-mail station in the vicinity of each control station, as well as optional remote e-mail stations each placed in monitored locations, such as hotels or restaurants to deter theft and vandalism. Each subscriber is assigned a unique access code and e-mail address. For e-mail communication, subscribers would not have to know the recipient subscriber's e-mail address, only the name of the intended recipient subscriber or identification of the group of subscribers to which the e-mail communication is directed.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim