CA2053261A1

CA2053261A1 - Method and apparatus for remotely controlling and monitoring the use of computer software

Info

Publication number: CA2053261A1
Application number: CA002053261A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Gary D. Hornbuckle
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: SofTel Inc
Priority date: 1989-04-28
Filing date: 1990-04-24
Publication date: 1990-10-29
Also published as: US5388211A; US5649187A

Abstract

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOTELY CONTROLLING
AND MONITORING THE USE OF COMPUTER SOFTWARE
Abstract Remote control of the use of computer data and video game software 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 game or computer "downloads" programs or data, via a telephone line and remote control modules, from a central host computer.
Usage of the video game and other program software 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 software 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.

Description

2 ~ ~

~ETHOD AND APPARATIJS FOR REMOTELY CONTROLLI~IG
AND MONITORING lHE USE OF COMPUTER SOFTWARE

Technical Field The present invention relates to remotelv controlling and monitoring the use of computer software. ~Iore particularly, this invention relates to a system for renting computer software products while 1) deriving customer use and billing information; 2) preventing unauthorized copying :~ and use; 3) maintaining the integrity of the rented software product (hereatter also "package"); and 4) controlling related voice, program and data communications between the host and user's computers.

Background Art For purposes of the present invention, rental computer software refers to the service of providing computer software to customers (hereafter also users) on a pay-as-used basis, where the software is executed on the customer's own personal computer. In the past, the only software offered for "rent" was software installed on centrally located computers, accessible 15 via remotely located workstations or terminals. Such systems are well-known as "time-sharing" systems.
In time-share systems, software is executed on the central computer system, and not on the customer's own computer. Time-shared software is typicallv accessed over telephone networks using a "dumb"
20 terrninal or equivalent located at the customer's home or office. In such systems, all customers share the central computer resource, and the quality ~nd delivery of ser~ices provided generally degrade, i.e., slow down, as more customers attempt to use the resource simultaneously. In addition to charges for the central computer to execute the users program (i.e. CPU time), charges for time-share usage must also include the cost for continuous use of the public telephone network for the duration of the connection to the central computer (i.e. connect time), whether or not the central computer is ~32~1 .

actuallv executing the user s program. rhus, as the number o~ users increase, both CPU time and connect time increase; as CPU time and connect time increase, charges escalate as service clegrades.
In general, and particularly in the circumstances just described, :~ charges for use of software via time-share svstems are likely to be much gTeater and far less predictable than for the rental of software which is executed on the customer's own computer. On the other hand, host-based, time-share systems have successfully provided software that is too expensive or complex to be made available on smaller systems such as personal 10 computers. Thus it is desirable to continue offering expensive and complex soitware installed on host-based systems, while eliminating the disadvantages of time-share svstems.
The software rental system of the present invention has some features which are not unlike pay-for-view television systems enjoved bv l5 television viewers today. In pay-for-view television systems, the customer generally pays to watch a particular program. For that purpose, the customer is provided with a control box supplied by a cable television company. The control box, once activated from the cable companv office, decrypts encrypted television signals transmitted to the user bv the cable ~0 company. If the customer is not authorized to view a particular program, the image remains scrambled, and is unintellig~ble to the v iewer.
Conversely, once the customer has selected and paid for the program desired, the control box decrypts the signal and the program is understandabie by the viewer.
~5 In the relevant prior art, U.S. Patent No. 4,361,851 discloses a television usage monitoring system comprising a modified program selector (installed in the home o~ a subscriber) which is used to select television programs for viewing while, at the same time, providing the selection information to a remote monitoring unit (also installed in the subscriber's 30 home). The rernote monitoring unit is connected to the subscriber's telephone line and is programmed to periodically communicate, via - 2~ 2~

telephone lines, with a central computer for the purpose of transmitting the television usage data thereto. The disclosed remote monitoring svstem can be utilized for"[a~ccess to centralized public database networks" (see column 2, line 4). ~he system is also described as having the capabilitv o~ producing a "disable" signal from the central computer to the remote unit if, for example, the subscriber has not timely paid charges due on his account. ~t should be noted that U.S. Patent No. 4,361,851 does not disclose a system for 1) secure and remotely controlled downloading and use of computer programs and data; 2) remotely controllable monitoring of use and security 10 of the downloaded programs and data; and 3) accessing and retrieving stored usage data. In addition, neither means for generating block check characters for data transmitted and received, nor voice-data switching capabilitv is described.
U.S. Patent No. 4,624,578 discloses a rental contract timer system 15 for operating a relay to connect power to the rental equipment such as a television set, only during the time for which rental has been paid. A
magnetic card reader determines, from an inserted card, the rental period and ;dentifying information, and the timer contains a real-time clock and a microprocessor to compare the current tirme with the tirne in the rental '0 period.
In addition, U.S. Patent No. 4,700,296 discloses an electronic access control system for controlling customer access to rental appliances located in the customer's home or other location away from the direct physical control of the renter. The system comprises a control module wired ~5 into the appliance with a card reader for programrning the module to permit access and usage of the appliance by the customer.

Di~sclosure of Tnvention In a software rental system according to the principles of the 30 present invention, a control module is installed on or in cooperation with the customer's computer (hereafter also target computer), and the customer pays 2~26~

~or services, i.e., the use of the sottware, received. While operation of the svstem is as convenient to use, substantiallv different features, advantages and implementation with respect to the corresponding televisinn system are necessary and desirable. Specifically, the customer in a software rental system :~ mav rent anv program of an entire librarv of computer programs at any time, rather than waiting for a particular tirne slot during which a particular program would be available. l~loreover, it is not necessary to install a separate transmission system, such as a TV cable system, to access programs, since they are downloaded over conventional telephone lines. Finally, the 10 software available for rent is not broadcast over the entire system, but rather individual programs are down-loaded to the user's svstem from the host onlv after selection bv the user.
Ihe control module used in the proposed so~tware rental system pertorms many more functions than its counterpart in the pay-for-view 15 television system. For example, it controls and verifies that use of a program is authorized; it records the actual time that the program is used; and it protects the rental program from theft, copying, vandalism or modification.
In addition, facilities for communication via the telephone lines between the control module installed at the user's site and the central or host computer ~o are provided.
A software rental system accorcling to the present invention is also efficient and highly automated, for performing a number of overhead functions. At the same time, in order to maximize customer satisfaction, the overhead activities of the control module are essentially transparent to the ~5 user. Thus, for example, accounting and billing activities are automated to avoid the need for manual "meter readers", and other control operations conventionally involving a high degree of overhead expense are reduced or eliminated where possible.
By means of the present invention, an authorized user at the ~0 target computer is able to "download" programs or data, via a telephone line and a programmable remote control module (RCM) connected at each end 2~32~
-thereof from a central or host computer. [,sage and other accounting data are monitored bv the RCM and stored in memorv resident therein. At predetermined times, the central or host computer accesses the RC~I for the pulpose of "uploading' the usage and other accounting data to the central :~ or host computer.
The RCM of the present invention also includes: (1) programmable modules for preventing unauthorized use, copying, vandalism and modification of downloadable data and programs dur~ng or after transmission to the target computer; (2) a polynomial generator/checker for 10 generating block check characters for assuring the integrity of data and programs transmitted and received; (3) a voice-data switch for switching between data communication (with the central or host computer) and voice usage of the telephone line via the RCM; and (4~ an audio amplifier and speaker so as to permit monitoring of activity on the communication line 15 during data transfers by the RCM.
With the features listed above, the proposed system provides for error-free transrnission of programs or other data between a host computer and a target computer, and for the secure transmission, reception and usage of programs or other data transferred between the host computer and the 'O target computer. The audio amplifier and speaker can be used bv the customer to monitor activity on the communication line during data transfers between the target and host computers. Finally, the RCM can be controlled to function as a conventional modem when conventional telecommunications service is desired. A voice/data selector switch is provided so that the user ~5 can select between voice and data communications.
The proposed software rental system has the capabilitv to provide users with access to a wide range of software, including virtually all software that is sold for use on a personal computer. Thus, the svstem is particularly suited to the dissemination, on a pay-for-use basis, of otherwise ~0 expensive and complex software, such as certain eng~neering or scientific software, as well as certain financial accounting or tax programs.

2~32~

~ he sottware rental svstem according to the present invention is further adapt~ble to the rental of video game software for use with well-known video game systems in combination with a home television set, for example, the well-known NINTEND0 home video game computer systems. Desired :, video game software can be downloaded from a central or host computer by an authorized user via public telephone lines to the RCM which stores the game software for repeated use and monitors game usage. Since the game softvvare is stored in the RCM memory, a telephone line connection is not required except to download additional game software and to transmit usage 10 and other billing data to the host computer. A plug-in cart~idge adapted to plug into a standard garne cartridge slot provides the interface between the RC~ and the video game svstem computer. A user makes a game selection via a joy stick or other input device provided with the video game system.
For example, the host computer may transmit (i.e., download) a menu to be 15 displayed on the user's television set screen providing a selection of games available for use. Additionally, the host computer may be utilized to transmit advertising and promotional material relating to new games and other services to be displayed wi~h the gan,e menu. 30wnloaded game software includes an encoded package identification number (PID) which is 'O unique for each separate game software package. The PID is utilized for security of the software and to prevent unauthorized use of the game. Each use of the downloaded game software is internally recorded by the RCM
and billed automatically by the host computer.
The system is also well-suited for allowing a customer to use ~5 moderately priced software on a rental basis to see if it really meets his needs. rf satisfied, the software could be purchased, and marketing programs whereby the customer may apply sorne or all of the rental fees to the purchase price of the software could be devised. The proposed software rental system, therefore, offers software on a rental basis to new or low-30 usage customers at lower cost than would be otherwise incurred by purchaseof the same software.

2~33~6 ~

Rental so~tware, as contemplated bv the present invention, is less expensive than time-share software, and more convenient to use because execution is controlled bv the user and unaffected by the number of other users. Bv eliminating the high initial cost of purchasing so~ware and unpredictable cost and inconvenience of time-sharing, the number of users of a software rental system could be expected to grow indefinitely.
~oreover, with more users becoming acquainted with various software products, the software industry as a whole would benefit, since the number of ultimate purchasers of the software would be likely to increase. Thus, with respect to both rental and purchase of software, the revenue of software vendors may be expected to increase.
~he above and other objects, features and advantages, as will hereinafter appear, and the nature of the invention will be more fullv understood by means of the detailed description set forth below, with reference to the associated drawings and the appended claims.

Brief Descriphon of the_Drawings Figure 1 is an illustration of the data communication system in which a remote control module of the present invention is employed.
'O Figure 2 is a block diagram of the remote control module emploved in accordance with the present invention.
Figures 3A and 3B are circuit diagrams of the remote control module shown in Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a system diagram illustrating the use of the remote ~5 control module of the present invention with a video game system.
Figure 5 is a block diagram of the remote control module shown in the video game system illustrated in Figure 4.

Best Mode for ~ng Out the Tnvention Referring now to Figure 1, software rental system 10 generally comprises host computer 12, target computer 14, remote control module 2~3261 (RC~I) 16 associated with the host computer 12. and RC~I 18 associated with the target computer 14. Communication between the host computer 12 and the target computer 14 and their respective RCMs 16 and 18 is accomplished via a standard serial RS232 communications lin~
:~ In operation, programs to be provided to authorized users on a rental basis are stored in the host computer 12. Typically, the host computer 12 is owned by a software rental service or companv and is located at their offices. As shown in Figure 1, the host computer 12 is connected to the public switched telephone network 26 via serial data line 20 RCM 16.
The target computer 14 is the computer of any user, and may be a workstation, minicomputer, or even a mainframe. However, for purposes ot software rental, the most likelv target computer is expected to be a personal computer, owned and operated by a user in a home or office setting.
The target computer 14 is connected to telephone network 26 via serial data line 22 and RC~I 18. RCM 18 is also connected to a conventional source of AC power via power line 28, which also can be provided to the target computer 14 by RCM 18 via power line 24.
In operation, the host computer 12 can "dial up" the target '0 computer 14 and, conversely, the target computer 14 can "dial up"
the host computer 12. Functions of the host computer 12 include transmission of software to the target computer 14, request for and reception of customer usage data associated with the target computer 14 from RCM 18, and performance of various accounting and software rental business ~5 functions.
RCMs 16 and 18 and the methods for using them which arP
disclosed herein are intenclecl to work with any type of host computer 12 and target computer 14. The software installed in the host computer 12 and the target computer 14 will, of course, be dif~erent for different tvpes of 30 computers, but the methods remain the same.
In accordance with the present invention, at any given time, the 2~2~

host computer 12 can communicate simultaneouslv with any number of target computers depending on the number of RCM's attached to, and the communications capacitv of the host computer 1~ hus, by adding host computer RCMs and, if necessarv, host computers, a virtually unlimited :~ number ot target computers 14 associated with RC~ls 18 can simultaneollslv access rental software packages from the host cornputer(s).
Communication with the host computer 12 is an integral part of the software rental concept of the present inven~on, but the timing ot communication of usage data to the host is not critical, since it is primarily 10 for accounting and other administrative functions. Of course, the target computer(s) 14 can run rental software whenever and as often as the user desires.
Host computer 12 employs RCM 16 rather than merely a conventional modem to provide also for data integrity and program securitv.
15 R(:M 16 includes error detection circuits and data encryption modules for use in conjunc~on with communication from host computer 12.
Finally, as seen in Figure 1, telephone 30 may be connected to RCM 18 via telephone line 32, using stanclard RJ11 modular plugs. In addition, a switch (not shown) may be provided on the front panel (not '0 shown) of RCM 18 for use by the customer to select voice or data modes ot communication. In the voice mode, telephone 30 can ~e used to conduc voice communication over telephone network 26.
In a user's system wherein the target computer 14 comprises a number of target computers on a local area network system, only one RCM 18 ~5 associated with the local area network system is requ~red. The target RCM
18 is coupled via the public telephone network through the user telephone PBX system to the host computer RCM 16 or, alternatively, the user may install a separate telephone line dedicated solely to the target RC~I 18. Each of tlle target computers on the local area network may then communicate ~0 with the target RCM 18 via the local area network. Optionally, a multiplexing apparatus (not shown) may be incorporated in the RC.~f 18 . ~ ~
- , ~

2~532~
1o output circuitry thus allowing simultaneous use by several target computers on the local area networ~
Referring now also to Figures 2, 3A and 3B, RCM 16 comprises microprocessor 50, program memory 52, read/write memory 54, real-time clock (RTC) 56, power supply 58, prioritv interrupt control circuit 60, light-emitting diode (LED) displays 6~, modem 64, dial acess arrangement (DAA) 66, RS232 serial data interface 68, data encryption/decryption module 70, and polynomial generator and checker (PGC) 72.
Microprocessor 50 is any conventional microprocessor, but may 10 be a multi-port integrated circuit device, such as an 8031 microprocessor, the ROM-less version of the 8051 microprocessor 50 (Figure 2) and the speed of the communications link between the host computer 12 and the target computer 14 (Figure 1) are not critical to systems constructed according to the principles of the present invention. Thus, while higher speed 15 communication is typically superior to lower speed communication, the only requirement is that microprocessor 50 be fast enough to implement the vario1-s tasks that it is called upon to perform in its operating environment Program memory 52 is any conventional read-only memory (ROM) and is used to store the program executed by microprocessor 50 in ~0 performing the functions of RCM 18. An erasable/programmable read-only memoly (EPROM), e.g., a 27128, may be used for program memor,v 52 when the modification of functions perforrned by RCM 18 may be desirable.
However, an equivalent conventional ROM is acceptable and, typically, is a lower cost device.
~5 Read/write memory 54 is, preferablv, implemented by a Toshiba TC5565 static random access memory (RAM) having a capacity of at least 8 kilobytes. Back-up battery power is provided by power supply 58 to ensure that the contents of memory 54 are not lost if power to the RC~I 18 is interrupted.
~0 RTC 56 is, preferably, an ICM 7170 device manufactured by Intersil. The latter circuit maintains the date and time to the nearest 0.01 h .

~ O ~ 3 2 6 1 .1 second. The occurrence ot a leap year is automaticallv accommodated. RTC
~6 is connected to the power supplY ~8 and receives batterv backup therefrom in case of power failure. RTC 56 functions in a conventional manner to provide control and time information, upon ~equest, to 5 microprocessor 50. This enables the RCM 18 to perform its func~on of developing time, accounting and billing data relative to customer access to and use of programs initially stored in the host computer 12. Such time and billing dat~ are provided to the host computer 12 by RCM 18 on command from the host computer 12.
Power supply 58 provides direct current power to the various other circuit elements of the RCM 18. ~n the event of a power failure or turning off of the AC power to the RCM 18, a "battery backup' feature of the present invention detects such condition, and the internal batte~ of RCM 18 provides battery backup power to the read/write memory 54 to protect data stored therein, and to RTC 56 to maintain operation thereof.
In this manner, the contents of the memory 54 and the operation of the RTC
56 are not disturbed by a loss of AC power. Preferably, the internal baKery of power supply 58 is a conventional rechargeable batterv such as to preserve the contents of memory 54 and rnaintain operation of RTC 56 for '0 several vears, if necessarv. Once AC power is restored to the svstem, the intemal battery returns to its "wait" state, and power is not expended by the internal battery.
RCM 18 is provided with one standard 110 VAC output receptacle for receiving the standard electrical power plug for the target ~5 computer 14. lhe receptacle is relay-controlled so that switched AC power output is provided to the target computer 14 via power line 24. In this manner, target computer 14 can be turned on or off by RCM 18 for certain functions as described elsewhere in this specification.
Device interrupts generated within RCM 18 of Figure ~ are merged in priority interrupt control circuit 60, Which coInprises a 74LS348 integrated circuit chip. Microprocessor 50 supports onlv two priority .

2~53261 interrupts, namelv, INT0 and INT1. I~T0 is unassigned and is available as a test point for use with various test equipment. All other interrupts are assigned to INT1. Since all of the devices of RC~I 18 have separate interrupt enabling control, any or none of the device interrupts may be used.
The nature and source of a particular interrupt is determined by reading terminals P10-P12 (as shown in Figure 3A) of interrupt control circuit 60. Once an interrupt has occurred, its cause must be resolved by microprocessor 50, or the same interrupt will continue to recur. A summarv of typical interrupts and their priorities is given in Table 1 below.
Interrupt Value of P10-PI Priorit~
Power low o Highest Incoming ring I Next Highest Modem Interrupt 2 Next Highest UART 3 Next Highest RTC 4 Next Highest PGC 5 Lowest LED displays 62 comprise a number of single light emit~ng ~0 diode displays to indicate the status of certain conditions and the occurrence of certain events. Such conditions or events include power-on, power-off, and the status of communications activity. During diagnostic and test functions, the l,ED displays ~ake on different meanings related to these functions. ,`
~5 Modem 64 includes modulation and demodulation circuitry for sending and receiving data over the public switched telephone network 26 (Figure 1). Preferably, modem 64 is implemented by a 73K222 modem circuit (for 300, 600 and 1200 baud) or a 73~ modem circuit (for 2400 baud) manufactured by Silicon Systems, lnc. However, other conventional modem 30 circuits, including modem circuits supporting higher baud rates, can be used to implement the functions of modem 64. .~loreover, since modem 64 can ~ ;.

13 20~261 serve as a standard personal computer tvpe modem when the target computer 1~ is not engaged in accessing rental sottware, it is not necessarv to include an additional modem for communication with other computer services or data base services.
:~ Dial access ~rrangement (DAA) 66 provides tor connection ot RCM 18 to the public switched telephone network 26. DAA 66 connects private circuits to the public switched telephone ne~worlc in compliance with FCC regulations, Part 68. Thus, DAA 66 includes transformer isolation, impedance matching circuits, ring detection circuits, voice/data switching circuits, hook relays and other well-known circuitr,v required for connecting to the public switched telephone network 26.
The serial data intertace 68 is a conventional serial intertace for communication in accordance with standard RS232 criteria. ~/lore specificallv, interface 68 is, preferably, a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART), model SCC2691, for carrying on serial data communication between RCM 18 and the target computer 14. Thus, the interface 68 is coupled to a standard RS232 serial port of the target computer 14 via serial data cable 22.
Data is transmitted serially between the target computer 14 and intertace 68, whereas data is transmitted in parallel on bus 74 between interface 68 '0 and microprocessor 50.
Further considering the serial link between interface 68 and the target computer 14, the clock for the serial port of the target computer 14 has a frequency equal to one-fourth the frequency of the internal clock of microprocessor 50 of RCM 18. Preferably, the frequency of the serial port ~5 clock of the target computer 14 is set to 2.7648 MHz.
'I'he baud rate between the RCM 18 and the target computer 14 may be any value, provided that the RCM 18 can buffer the data. The baud rate of the modem 6~ is set to 300, 600 or 1200 baud, depending on the transmission method chosen.
Data encr,vptior~decryption module 70 performs a decr,vpting function with respect to data received by RCM 18, from the host computer ,, " . .

,:

l~
Data decrvpted bv module , O of RCM 18 was encrypted by a corresponding data encryption/decrvption module in R(::~ 16 associated with the host computer 12 prior to transmission to the RCM 18. The encryption and decryption functions will be discussed in more detail herein below in connection with a more complete discussion of the software securitv technique employed by the present invention.
Polvnomial generator/checker (PGC) 7Z is, preferablv, an SCN2653 device manufactured by Signetics, Inc. Preferably, RCM 18 generates block check characters (BCC) for each block of data to be 10 transmitted by RCM 18 to the host computer 12. Correspondingly, each block of data received from the host computer 12 bv RCM 18 is checked in accordance with the BCC. By WaY of a further preference, PGC /2 emplovs a CRC-16 polynomial code with an Xl6 + X15 + X2 ~ 1 divisor. In this manner, all singl~e-bit errors and most multiple-bit errors are detected. ~he 15 CRC-16 polynomial is employed because the e~ror codes generated are much more reliable than the normal "check sums" typically used. This is especially true for data transmitted over the public switched telephone network 26.
Since data communications using the public switched or dial-up telephone network ~6 are notoriously error prone, special precautions are ~0 often taken to at least detect errors, if not correct them. .~ore elaborate schemes can be used to correct the errors, and such error-correction coding schemes are not precluded by the present design of the RCM 18. However, for reasons of economy and speed in data communications, the preferred embodiment described herein perfonns error detection only. In the present ~5 system, a data block is simply retransmitted in the event of an error detection.
As generally discussed above, the error detection method employed herein involves the transmission of a specially generated 16-bit cc1de at the end of each data bloc~ The check code is generated by PGC 72 ~0 using the aforementioned CRC-16 polynomial with the aforementioned divisor. At the receiving end, the check code is, in effect, regenerated and 2~32~

~ompared to the actual check code received. If identitv is not present, a transmission error has occurred and an error signal is generated bv PGC ~
Once an error is detectPd, a request for retransmission is initiated and the data block will be retransmitted bv the host computer 12 to RCM 18, or from RCM 18 to the host computer 12, as the case may be.
The check code employed herein can be mathematically shown to be very effective in detecting the types of errors that normally occur over public switched or dial up telephone networks such as network 26 (Figure 1). Simpler schemes could be implemented, and would not require the use 10 of PGC 72, but such schemes are not as effective for this application.
Accordingly, all communication between the host computer 1 and target computer 14 or RCM 18 employ the above-described error detection method with retransmission of data blocks upon detection ot errors.
In the latter regard, RCM 18 emplovs PGC 72 for checking data received from host computer 12, and a corresponding PGC in RCM 16 (Figure 1) checks data received from the target computer 14 or RCM 18.
Certain applications of the systern 10 (as shown in Figure 1), in particular for the business of software rental, typically will be configured so that the host computer 12 sends and receives data/messages to and from the ~o target computer 14 over the public switched telephone network 26. As also indicated above, RCMs 16 and 18 serve as interface devices to connect the host computer 12 and the tar~;e~ computer 14, respectively, to the telephone network 26. Obviously, while designed to work with the public switched telephone network the present invention can be configured to work with 'S any communications link between the host and target computers.
The circuit configurations of RCMs 16 ancd 18 are identical. The operation of the RCM 18 associated with target computer 14 and the operation of RCM 16 associated with host computer 12 is determinPd by program instructions executed bv microprocessor 50.
RCMs 16 and 18 provide serial communication, via RS232 serial data interface 68, to the host computer 12 and target computer 14, 2~326~
l6 respectiveiv, each Ot which is preferablv located within a short-distance (i.e.,a tew feet) of its respective RCM. Whereas a single RCM 18 is required ~or each target computer 1~, a plurality of RC~s 16 may be used with host computer 12. In fact, the number ot RCMs 16 must be equal to the number :~ Ot simultaneous data-transmission links between the host computer 12 andtarget computers 14 (to download software) or RCMs 18 (to upload usage and accounting data). In this manner, the host computer 12 can carry on data conversanons with several target computers 14 simultaneously.
When a customer contracts to participate in the rental software system, the software rental company will provide the customer, either through sale or rental, with RCM 18 for connection to and association with the customer's target computer 14. Installation of the RC~I 18 is easilv per~ormed by the customer. Referling again to Figure 1, RCM 18 is connected to the public telephone network 26 by means of a standard RJ11 type modular telephone cord extending be~veen RCM 18 and the telephone system jac~ In addition, RCM 18 is connected to the target computer 14 ~ria a serial data cable 22 and power cable 24, RCM 18 der~ving its power from a conventional AC power source via cable 2S. As an option, telephone (or telephone handset) 30 may also be connected to RCM 18 via telephone cable 'O 32 utilizing standard RJ11 modular plugs. Thus, when RCM 18 is not beingused for data communications, the telephone 30 can be used for normal voice communications. When data communications involving RCM 18 are to take place, RCM 18 performs automatic switching so as to break the connection between telephone 30 and telephone network 26, and to establish connection between DAA 66 (Figure 2) and the network 26.
During preprogrammed times, as established by the software of the host computer 12 and transmitted to RCM 18 and stored in memory 52 of RCM 18, RCM 18 will initiate an "automatic answer" mode of operation so that it may respond to messages received from the host computer 12.
~o Such communications between the host computer 12 and the targe~ computer14 normally occur at night so as to take advantage of ]ow telephone rates 2~32~

in erfect at that time, and also to avoid contlicts with other data transmissionfunctions ot target computer 1~.
The RCM 18 can also be used as a standard modem for the target computer 14, and can be set up to communicate with remote computer or other database services. RC~I 18 distinguishes between its usage as a standard modem and its usage as a special remote control module for controlling access to rental software.
During the time that RC:M 18 is not performing data communications and is not set up in its "automatic answer" mode, telephone 30 (if one is attached) is available for normal use" and will ring in the usual way when called.
One feature of the proposed sottware rental svstem is the ability to download software from the host computer 12 to target computer 14 during off-peak hours, such as late at night. Preferably, the customer will not be compelled to participate in or supervise the downloading of software during such late-night hours. rhus RCM 18 is able to control the AC power provided to the target computer 14 in response to control signals from the host computer 12. In order to enable this feature of the present invention, the on/off switch of target cornputer 14 is left in the "on" position, and the 'O power cable 24 (Figure 1) of target computer 14 is plugged into a receptacle 102 at the rear of RCM 18, RCM 18 being connected via its own power cord 28 to an AC power source, as previously described. Preferably, the front control panel of R(::M 18 is provided with an on/off switch so that the customer can tum on or turn off the target computer 14 manually.
~5 However, this switch is preempted when RC~ 18 receives a command from the host computer 12 ta tum on the target computer 14 for late-night operation.
Accordingly, when downloading of software is desired, the host computer 12 calls the target computer 14, and once the call is acknowledged by RCM 18, the host computer 12 turns on the target computer 14 by actuating the AC power switch in power supply 58 (Figure 2). When the ~326~

target computer 1~ is turned on bv RC.~I 18 at the command ot the host computer 12, the host cornputer 12 can download software to a srorage device (not shown) associated with the target computer 14. In addition, for reasons described below, a special patch for the target computer 14 operating system, which is required to run the rental software, is also downloaded (if not previouslv downloaded) from the host computer 12 to the target computer 14. Once the software downloading process is complete, the host computer 12 commands RCM 18 to turn off power to the targe~ computer 14.
Power to non-essential external peripheral devices associated 10 with targ~et computer 14, such as a printer, a display device and the like, need not be controlled through RCM 18 since the downloading process does not require the use of such extemal peripherals. However, if desired, such external peripheral devices may be controlled through the RCM 18 by making appropriate power connections to the RCM 18.
Referring again to Figure 2, RChl 18 contains a program memory 52 and a read/write memory 54. The program memory 52 holds the program instructions which microprocessor 50 implemlents in order to accomplish the functions of RCM 18. Readlwrite memory 54 holds the accounting data relating to software rental by the user of the target computer 14, and also '0 provides buffer storage for communications messages passing between the host computer 12 and the target computer 14. Read/write memorv 54 may also store other ancillarv data.
RTC 56 is included in RCM 18 in order to provide a real-time time-base, including exact year, month, day and time. Preferably, accuracy ~5 is to the nearest 0.01 second. l~e setting of RTC 56 with the year, month, day and time is strictly controlled by the host computer 12 using security techniques available to it through data encryption/decryption module 70.
Overall, RCM 18 is a real-time controller that can be called into action independently by host computer 12, target computer 14, a change of ,0 state of the power switches of RCM 18, and other internal conditions.
Accordingly, an intelrupt svstem is designed into the operation of RCM 18, 2~32~1 and is used to enable microprocessor ~0 to manage these independentlv occurring real-time events. The management of interrLIpts bv microprocessor ~0 is assisted bv prioritv inter~upt control circuits 60.
An important aspect of the present invention concerns securitv tor rental software executed by the target computer 14 (Figure 1). This software security function is provided by the cooperation of data encryption/decryption module 70 in RCM 18 with a corresponding data encryption/decryption module in RG~ 16 associated with the host computer 1~. Closely coupled with the function of providing software security is the 10 func~on of keeping track of and accounting for the time periods during which the target computer 14 is using the rental software on which the rental charges are based.
In at least some instances, the rental software provided by the host computer 12 may have a very large amount of code and many data 15 files. Of course, it is not necessary to provide secur~ty or protection for each and every component or module of most rental programs. In accordance with the present invention, a particularly critical module -hereinafter referred to as the "key module" -- in each rental program is identified. The key module, according to the present invention is essential to program ~o execution and without which the overall rental program will not run.
In addition to identification of the key module, the security of rental software according to the present invention also requires a special version of the operating system to be utilized in the target computer 14. The special ve~sion of the target computer operating system is created by a patch 25 module, hereinafter "operating system patch module" or "OSP" module (the OSP is identical for all rental software executed on target computers of the same or similar type), which is downloaded to the target computer 14 along with the rental software. The OSP module initiates decryption of the encrypted key module of the rental software package by module 70 of RCM
30 18, then loads the decrypted key module into the internal memory (not shown) of the target computer 14 for execution. In addition, periodically . .

2~326:1 o vhile the rental sottware package is running, the OSP module communicates with the RCM 18 to provide ve~ification that it is still connected to the targetcomputer 1~ for securitv and accounting purposes.
The key module is encrypted using the Federal Information :~ Processing Data Encrvption Standard No. ~6, well-known to those of skill in the art, by the data encryption/decr~rption module 70 of RCM 16. When the rental software is transmitted by the host computer 12 over the telephone network 26, the encrypted key module and the associated OSP module are transmitted as well. Alternatively, the encrypted module, the OSP module 10 and the unencrypted remainder of the rental software may be sent to the customer on floppy disks, optical disks, a compact disk ROM, for example, or magnetic tape bv mail or other deliverv service. ~f utilizing a magnetic or optical disk device, the target RC~I 18 would also incorporate a well-known SCSI drive interface thus allowing the encrypted software and data 15 to be accessed via the RCM 18. When downloaded from the host computer 12 or loaded from media otherwise provided by a software rental service, the entire rental software package (including the encrypted key module and OSP
module) is stored in a peripheral storage device (e.g., hard disk or floppy disk) associated with the target computer 14.
'0 Further referring to the encryption process of the present invention, data encryption/decryption module 70 of RCM 16 uses an encryption key unique to the individual target computer in which the rental software is to be used. Methods of encrvpting and decrypting using an encryption key, such as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,649,233, are well-~5 known. However, since the encryption key is an important element which the software security scheme of the present invention depends, the encryption key itself is always transmitted in encrypted form to RCM 18 (utilizing an encryption key identical to the encryption key provided in RCM
18) to assure proyer systems operation and integritv. When transmitted ~rom 30 RCM 16, the encryption key is then automatically decrypted as it is received by RCM 18 using a second, special kev built into RCM 18 which is unique ~32~
_l to each individual RC~f 18. The decrypted encr~ption kev is then stored in the RCM memory 52 until decrvption of a kev module is required. Since the encryption kev is retained in memorv ~2, the encryption key need onlv be transmitted to RCM 18 one time. If the RCi~ 18 is tampered with in anv manner, the encryption kev is destroved. Without the encrvption kev, decryption ot the key module of the rental software at the target computer 14 is essentially impossible, and use, copying, vandalizing or modification of the rental software is prevented. The securitv technique employed by the present invention also provides a high degree of protection during 10 downloading of the package via the public telephone network 26 owing to encryption of the key module and of the encryption kev.
As described above, decrvption of the key module is perforrned in the data encrvption/decryption module 70 of RCM 18. The encryption kev used in the decryption process is inaccessible to the user. Thus, in 15 accordance with the present invention, a downloaded rental software pack~ge will only run on the particular target computer 14 having an encryption key corresponding to the encryption key employed by the host computer 12 when the key module of the rental software package was encrypted. Since the rental software will operate only on a target computer 'O 14 serviced by an RCM 18 utilizing an encryption key unique to the target computer 14 (to decrypt the key module), no other physical or licensing restrictions on the user's ability to make copies of the rental software package are required.
PAor to a customer executing a rental software package on a ~5 target computer, the software package will have been transmitted electronically or by other suitable means and be resident in a peripheral storage device associated with the customer's target computer. The rental sofh~are package will have the corresponding OSP module appended and the original key module will be replaced with an identical encrypted kev 30 module.
Assuming that a customer wishes to run a rental software 2~326~

pack~ge protected in accordance with the present invention, the user follows exactly the same procedures for loading the sottware package from the associated peripheral storage device to the internal memory of target computer 14 as if an unrented version of the same package were being run.
However, in a manner transparent to the user, when the kev module of the sottware package is retrieved from the peripheral storage device of target computer 14, the OSP software moclule is activated. The OSP module fetches the encrypted version of the key module from the peripheral storage device (not shown) and sends it to the RCM 18 for decryption by the 10 encryption/decryption module 70. After decryption, the key module is sent back to the target computer 14 and loaded into its intemal memorv (RAM) for execution. At the latter step the OSP module also initiates a timer controlled by the RTC 56 to begin recording the actual use time of the rental program for computation of rental time charges.
The rental program with the decrypted key module now stored in the internal memory of target computer 14 will operate in exactly the same manner as it would if it were not a rental package (i.e., the same wav as if it were a purchased program). However, when execution of the rental program is complete, control reverts back to the OSP module. The OSP
~0 module then automatically erases the rental program including the key module from the RAlVf of target computer 14 and notifies RCM 18 that th~
period of use or rental period has stopped. The elapsed time between the starting and stopping of the rental program, as well as the time and date information, are recorded in memory 54 of RCM 18 for subsequent, off-line ~5 processing.
ft is essential that the RCM 18 be connected to the target computer 14 at the time that the rental period ends. Connection of RCM 18 to the target computer 14 insures that the exact time of termination of the rental period is recorded. Furthermore, to maintain proper securitv o~ the 30 rental so~tware in accordance with the present invention, while the rental software package is running, periodically control is passed to the OSP

~32~
_3 module upon the occurrence of certain per~odic events, disk access bv the target computer 14 operating system for example. The OSP module then executes routines to prevent circumvention of the rental accounting for use of the rental software package, and to protect the rental software package from theft, vandalism or other unauthorized modification. In particular, the OSP module then queries RCM 18 and verifies, through its response, that RCM 18 is, in fact, connected to the target computer 14. If it is, execution of the rented software continues; if it is not, the execution is terminated by the OSP module and the entire rental software program is erased from the 10 target computer 14 RAM.
It should be noted that the rental software package itself may be modified by adding code to ascertain that the RCM 18 is connected to the target computer 14 rather than modifving the operating system by adding the OSP module for receiving control from the rental software package.
15 Howe~er, since modifying the rental package is difficult without assistance from the developers of the package, adding the OSP module is preferable.
Therefore, an operating system, so patched, must be used when executing rental software according to the present invention. As described above, the OSP module is downloaded with the rental software pac3cage, if it has not 'O already been downloaded earlier with another software pacl~ge.
The software security scheme of the present invention involves encryption of only the key module of the rental software in a predetermined algorithmic manner using an encryption key. Further, the encryption key itself is encrypted and transmitted by the host computer 12 separately. No ~5 changes to the functions of the rental software are made during the encryption process. Thus, any software package may be rented without technical in~rolvement of the software vendor, and all of the securitv procedures are transparent to the user.
In accordance with the present invention, rnicroprocessor 50 in 30 RCM 18 is programmed to destroy an encryption key if: (1) the RCM 18 is physically tampered with; (2) the telephone number of the target 2~32~

computer 14 is changed without notice or the telephone is disconnected for longer than a preselected period or time (in this case, destruction of the protection kev takes place onlv after power is restored). If the encryption key is destro,ved by the RCM 18, RCM 18 will attempt to notifv the user bv 5 using a special alarm, such as a beeping sound or LED display. The host computer 12 also will be automatically notified by RCM 18, if possible.
Restoration of the encryption key is then possible at the option of the rental soft~ware company.
Referring now also to Figure 4, another preferred embodiment of the 10 present invention providing a video game software rental system is illustrated. Video game system 11 compr~ses central or host computer 1", remote control module (RCM) 29 associated with host computer 12, target game computer 15, television or monitor 13, RCM 21 associated with the game computer 15, interface cartridge 27 coupling the RCM 21 to the game 15 computer 15 and game control input device 19. Similarly, as described hereinabove with regard to Figure 1, cornmunication between the host computer 12 and the game computer 15 and their respec~ve RCMs 29 and 21 is accomplished via a standard serial RS232 communication link or other suitable communication link. In operation, the host computer 12 is linked '0 to the game computer's RCM 21 via the host RCM 29 and the public switched telephone network 26. Typically, available game software is stored in the host computer 12 which is centrally locate~i in order to provide rental service to a large number of authorized users.
The target game computer 15 may be ~ny of several well-known video ~5 game computer systems, such as that manufactured by Nintendo Company, tvpically owned and utilized by a user in a home or recreational setting in combination with a television or monitor. The game computer 15 conventionally utilizes readily available plug-in ROM game cartridges (not shown) which a user purchases. The game computer 15 and hence the 30 progress of the gàme being played is controlled by well-krlown control devices 19 such as a joy stick or a combination of rocker switches and 2~32~

buttons. The output of the game computer is coupled to the television 13 ~ia cable 31 and typically comprises video and audio signals generated bv the game` computer 15 under the control of the game software and the user via user input device 19. AC power adapter 25 provides power to the game :~ computer 15.
Referring now also to Figure 5, RCM 21 comprises microprocessor 51, program memory 53 (RAM) read/write memor,v 55 (also RAM), real-time clock (RTC) 57, power supply 59, pr~oritv interrupt control circuit 61, light-emittingdiode (LED) displays 63, modem 65, dial access module (DAA) 67, 10 inputloutput (VO) connector 69, data encrvption/decryption module 71 and data compression and error correction module 73. Both RCMs 21 and 29 operate similarly to RCMs 16 and 18 as described hereinabove with reference to Figures 2, 3A and 3B and only the differences in operation and detail therebetween will be further described herein. RCM 21 is coupled to the game computer 15 via VO connector 69, data cable 33 and data interface module 75. The data interface module 75 is incorporated in a plug-in cartridge 27 adapted for use with the car~idge slot provided in the game computer lS console. The data interface module 75 may comprise an RS232 serial data interface or other suitable data interface as required by the 'O particular game computer 15 utilized by a user. The data interface module utilized in RCM 29 associated with the host computer 12 comprises an RS232 serial data interface 68 as described hereinabove with regard to RCM 16 and Figure 2.
When a customer contracts to participate in the video game software rental system, the software rental company will provide the customer, either tluough sale or rental, with RCM 21 and plug-in interface cartridge 27 for connection to and association with the customer~s game computer 15. The type plug-in interface cartrictge 27 provided is determined by the particular game computer IS utili~ed by the customer. Referring again to Figures I
and 4, RCM 21 is connected to the public telephone network 26 by means of a standard RJ11 type modular telephone cord extending between RCM 21 '' ~ , 2~2~1 and the telephone svstem jack (not shown). The RCM 21 is connected to the game computer 15 via a serial data cable 33 and switched power cable 2~
integrated therewith. In addition, RCM 21 is connected to a conventional AC power source via power cable 28. A dedicated telephone line may be provided for RCM 21 or, altemativelv, a common telephone line may be shared between telephone 30 and RCM 21. Thus, when RCM 21 is not being used for data communications, the telephone 30 can be used for norrnal voice communications. When data communications involving RCM
21 are to take place, RCM 21 performs automatic switching so as to break 10 the connection ketween telephone 30 and telephone network 26 (as shown in Figure 2), and to establish connection between DAA 67 and the telephone network 26.
The RC~I 21 comprises a real time communications controller that can be initiated independently either by the host computer 12 or by the customer 15 or user via game computer 15. When a user desires to have a selected video game software downloaded, the user irutiates RCM 21 via the game connputer 15 thus establishing a communications between RCM 21 and the host computer 12. Game software downloaded to RCM 21 in accordance with the user's instructions is stored in the read/write memory 55 for 'O illune~ia~e and future use by the customer. Transfer or uploading to the host computer 12 of billing and usage data stored in the readlwrite memorv S5 is initiated by the host computer 12 as described hereinabove. Billing and usage data is uploaded to the host computer 1~ each time game software is downloaded. Further, host computer 12 may initiate RCM 21 at ~5 preprogrammed times automatically for uploading of billing and usage data.
When a user desires to play a video game, the user turns on the game computer 15 and RCM 21 via switched power cable 24. A game menu providing a list and description of available game software packages is called up and displaved on the television 13 screen. The menu is stored in 30 read/write memory S5 and is periodically updated by host computer 12. The user selects a desired video game from the menu via input device 19. If thP

20~326:~
, selected video game has alreadv been downloaded from the host computer 12 and stored in readiwrite memory 5~, the selected video game software is re~ieved by the game computer 15 for use and usage data stored in read/write memory 55. If the selected game software is not already stored :~ in read/write memory 55, the user initiates communications with the host computer via RCM 21. The desired video game software is then downloaded and stored in read/write memory 55 and the communications link with the host computer 12 terminated. The game computer 15 then retrieves the selected video game software for use. Since it is not required that the RCM
10 21 be linked to the host computer 12 except during the time that game softvvare is actually being downloaded, charges for use of the telephone network are not incurred during the time the user is actuallv playing the selected video game.
Security of and prevention of unauthorized use for the rental game 15 software downloaded by the host computer 12 is provided by the cooperation of the data encryption/decryption module 70 in RCM 29 and the data encryption/decryption module 71 in RCM 21. Closely associated witit the function of providing rental software security is the function of keeping track of an ac~ounting for the time periods dur~ng which the game computer ~0 15 is utilizing the game software on which l:he original charges are based.
Each game software package for each dif~erent game available for rental is assigned an ~character package identifier code which is unique to the particular game provided by the game software package. Each software package is encrypted with a package key, the package key being the uniyue ~5 pack~ge identifier associated with each different game available. The entire software package may be encrvpted or only selected critical portions or modules of the software are encrypted as described hereinabove. When a user signs up for a particular package, the package key associated with the soft~vare package is downloaded to the RCM 21 associated with the user's ~0 game computer 15. To protect the package identifier from unauthorized access while in transmission, the package identifier is encr~pted for , -,! .

20~32~
transmission utilizing a unique user identifier code to encrvpt the package kev. A unique user identifier code is assigned to each user contracting with the sortware rental svstem and is stored in RCM 21 associated with the user's game computer 15. Since all game software packages associated with :7 a particular game are identicallv encr~pted, a particular game software package is required to be encrypted and fully tested once only thus allowing duplicate software packages to be provided, such as on floppy disk, for inventory. Once an encrypted game software pack~ge has been downloaded from the host computer 12 or otherwise input to the RCM 21 and stored in 10 read/write memorv 55, it may be retrieved and used repeatably as long as the user is authorized.
Typicallv a video game will comprise at least 200,000 bvtes of data. In order to store a useable number of different video games, read/write memorv ~5 must have sufficiently large capacity, necessitating large blocks of 15 addressable RAM. Readi/write memory 55 may be a solid state memory block or, alternatively, may be an external storage module such as a magnetic disk drive. Further, because of the relatively large software programs be used, the data transmission rate becomes critical to the success of a video game rental software system. Well-known data compression techniques may be '0 employed to reduce the transmission time required for downloading the game sofhvare packages. For a data kansmission of 9,600 baud, the transmission time for 200,000 bytes is at least 200 seconds, or 3.3 minutes.
Utilizing presently known data compression techniques allows the transrnission time for this example to be reduced to approximately 1 minute.
25 As discussed hereinabove, error correction techniques are utilized to compensate for the relatively high data error rates encountered with the public telephone networks.
While preferred forms and arrangements have been described in illustrating the present invention, it is to be understood that various changes 30 in detail and arrangement may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention or from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claims I claim:

1. Apparatus for controlling the use by a second computer of information stored in a first computer, said apparatus comprising:
first transmitting and receiving means coupled to said first computer for transmitting information to said second computer; and a second transmitting and receiving means coupled to said first transmitting and receiving means and to said second computer for receiving information transmitted by said first computer;
said first and second transmitting and receiving means each including encryption/decryption means for encrypting and decrypting, respectively, preselected portions of the information, said preselected portionsincluding application program information, and a first encryption key for encrypting and decrypting said preselected portions of the information including, said application program information;
said first and second transmitting and receiving means each including a second encryption key for encrypting and decrypting, respectively, said first encryption key.

Apparatus as in Claim 1 further including monitoring means for monitoring usage by said second computer of the information transmitted to said second computer for developing time accounting data relative to rental charges for said usage, and for preventing usage of the information if said second transmitting and receiving means is disconnected from said second computer.

3. Apparatus as in Claim 2 further including memory means coupled to said monitoring means for storing said time accounting data, said second transmitting and receiving means being responsive to a second command from said first computer for transmitting said time accounting data to said first computer.

4. Apparatus as in Claim 3 further including:

error detection means for detecting the presence of an error in said time accounting data transmitted by said second transmitting and receiving means and for producing an error signal; and retransmission means coupled to said error detection means and responsive to said error signal for producing a signal representing a request for retransmission of said time accounting data, said second transmitting and receiving means responsive to said request for retransmission for retransmitting said time accounting data.

5. Apparatus as in Claim 1 wherein:
said encryption/decryption means in said second transmitting and receiving means decrypts the encrypted portion of the application program information only upon request of a user of said second computer to use the information, said second transmitting and receiving means thereupon transmits the decrypted information to said second computer.

6. Apparatus as in Claim 1 further including:
error detection means for detecting the presence of an error in the information transmitted by said first transmitting and receiving means and for producing an error signal; and retransmission means coupled to said error detection means and responsive to said error signal for producing a signal representing a request for retransmission of the information transmitted by said first computer, said first transmission and receiving means being responsive to said request for retransmission for retransmitting the information.

7. Apparatus as in Claim 1 wherein said first and second transmitting and receiving means are coupled to each other via a public communication network.

8. Apparatus as in Claim 7 wherein said first and second transmitting and receiving means each include connection means for connecting said first and second transmitting and receiving means, respectively, to said public communications means.

9. Apparatus as in Claim 8 further including a telephone coupled to said connection means associated with said second transmitting and receiving means, said connection means including means for connecting said telephone to said public communications network when said second transmitting and receiving means is not receiving the information and said transmitting means is not transmitting said time accounting data.

10. A remote control device for controlling and monitoring the use of computer software and data programs in a computer, said remote control device comprising:
first coupling means coupling said remote control device to said computer for transferring preselected portions of said software and data programs between said remote control device and said computer;
monitoring means for monitoring usage of said software and data programs in said computer and for developing time accounting data relative to said usage; and decryption means coupled to said first coupling means for decrypting preselected encrypted portions of said software and data programs, said decryption means including a first encryption key for decrypting said preselected encrypted portions of said software and data programs, said first coupling means responsive to a load program to transfer said preselected encrypted portions of said software and data programs from said computer to said decryption means when said software and data programs are loaded into said computer, said decryption means responsive to said load program to decrypt said preselected encrypted portions of said software and data programs, said first coupling means responsive to said load program to transfer said decrypted preselected portions of said software and data programs from said decryption means to said computer for execution, said monitoring means responsive to said load program upon the transfer of said decrypted preselected portions of said software and data programs from said decryption means to said computer to initiate monitoring of said usage.

11. A remote control device as in Claim 10 further comprising:

second coupling means coupling said remote control device to a host computer via a communications link; and transmitting and receiving means coupled between said first and second coupling means and to said monitoring means for receiving preselected computer software and data programs transmitted from said host computer for further transfer to said computer, said transmitting and receiving means responsive to a first command transmitted by said host computer to transmit said time accounting data concerning said usage from said monitoring means to said host computer.

12. A remote control device as in Claim 11 wherein said transmitting and receiving means comprises a modem and said communications link comprises a public telephone network

13. A remote control device as in Claim 11 further comprising error detection means for detecting the presence of an error in blocks of said preselected computer software and data programs transmitted from said host computer and for generating an error signal when an error is so detected.

14. A remote control device as in Claim 13 wherein said error detection means includes error correction means for generating error-correction codes to correct any errors so detected in said preselected computer software and data programs.

15. A remote control device as in Claim 13 wherein said error detection means includes retransmission means responsive to said error signal to generate a retransmission request signal, said host computer responsive to said retransmission request signal for retransmitting said blocks of computer software and data programs containing errors.

16. A remote control device as in Claim 11 wherein said monitoring means includes timing means for providing timing information and generating a clock signal for use in said remote control device.

17. A remote control device as in Claim 16 wherein said monitoring means further includes memory means for storing said time accounting data, said transmitting and receiving means responsive at preprogrammed times to said first command to transmit said time accounting data to said host computer.

18. A remote control device as in Claim 11 wherein said encryption and decryption means further includes a second encryption key for decrypting said first encryption key, said first encryption key transmitted from said host computer in an encrypted format.

19. A remote control device as in Claim 10 wherein said decryption means includes a second encryption key for decrypting said first encryption key.

20. A method of protecting the security of a computer software and data program comprising the steps of:
selecting a key module of said software and data program essential to the operation of the program, said software and data program not operable without said key module;
encrypting said key module with a first encryption key; and decrypting said encrypted key module utilizing said first encryption key in a decryption means associated with a computer on which said software and data program is to be run, said first encryption key unique to said computer, said decryption means coupled to said computer.

21. The method of Claim 20 including the further steps of:
modifying the operating system of said computer in which said software and data program is to be run utilizing an operating system modification routine, said operating system modification routine initiating the decryption of said key module;
adding said operating system modification routine to said software and data program.

22. The method of Claim 21 including the further step of monitoring with monitoring means the usage by said computer of said software and data programs, said operating system modification routine initiating a clock to measure the period of said usage for developing time accounting data, said decryption means including said monitoring means.

23. The method of Claim 21 including the further steps of:
encrypting said first encryption key with a second encryption key; said second encryption key incorporated in said decryption means associated with said computer in which said software and data program is to be run; and transmitting said first encryption key to said decryption means in an encrypted format.

24. The method of Claim 21 including the further step of erasing said software and data program from said computer when execution of said software and data program is complete, said operating system modification routine initiating said erasure of said software and data program.

25. The method of Claim 21 further including the step of destroying said first encryption key if said decryption means is tampered with in any manner.

26. The method of Claim 22 further including the step of periodically monitoring the state of said associated decryption means and monitoring means for determining if said associated decryption means and monitoring means is coupled to said computer, said operating system modification routine responsive to the occurrence of a periodic event associated with the execution of said software and data program to initiate said periodic monitoring of said associated decryption means and monitoring means.

27. The method of Claim 26 further including the step of erasing said software and data program from said computer and preventing the executing of said software and data program if said associated decryption means and monitoring means is decoupled from said computer.

28. A method of renting a software and data program for use on a customer's computer comprising the steps of:
storing said software and data program in said customer computer memory for use in said customer computer;

modifying the operating system of said customer computer utilizing an operating system modification routine;
modifying said use of said software and data program in said customer computer, said operating system modification routine responsive to a request to execute said software and data program to initiate said monitoring of said use for developing time accounting data; and transmitting said time accounting data to a central host computer.

29. The method of Claim 28 further including the steps of:
storing said time accounting data; and transmitting said time accounting data to said central host computer at preprogrammed times.

30. The method of Claim 29 further including the steps of:
monitoring the state of a time monitoring means associated with and coupled to said customer computer, said time monitoring means for monitoring said use of said software and data program in said customer computer; and preventing said use of said software and data program if said time monitoring means is decoupled from said customer computer.

31. Apparatus as in Claim 4 further including activating means responsive to a first command from said first computer for activating said second computer.

32. Apparatus for renting computer programs for use in a user computer, said apparatus comprising:
a rental computer;
first transmitting and receiving means coupled to said rental computer for receiving information from said user computer; and a second transmitting and receiving means coupled to said first transmitting and receiving means and to said user computer for transmitting information to said rental computer;
said first and second transmitting and receiving means each including security means for preventing unauthorized use of said computer programs.

33. Apparatus as in Claim 32 wherein said security means includes encryption/decryption means for encrypting and decrypting, respectively, preselected portions of said computer program and a first encryption key for encrypting and decrypting said preselected portions of said computer program.

34. Apparatus as in Claim 33 wherein said first and second transmitting and receiving means each including a second encryption key for encrypting and decrypting, respectively, said first encryption key.

35. Apparatus as in Claim 33 wherein said encryption/
decryption means includes means for encrypting and decrypting different preselected portions of said computer programs.

36. Apparatus as in Claim 32 wherein;
said computer programs are stored in said rental computer;
said first transmitting and receiving means also transmits information including said computer programs to said user computer; and said second transmitting and receiving means also receives information including said computer programs from said rental computer.

37. Apparatus as in Claim 36 wherein said security means includes encryption/decryption means for encrypting and decrypting, respectively, preselected portions of said computer program and a first encryption key for encrypting and decrypting said preselected portions of said computer program.

38. Apparatus as in Claim 37 wherein said first and second transmitting and receiving means each including a second encryption key for encrypting and decrypting, respectively, said first encryption key.

39. Apparatus as in Claim 37 wherein said encryption/
decryption means includes means for encrypting and decrypting different preselected portions of said computer programs.

40. Apparatus as in Claim 33 wherein said information includes time accounting data for determining rental charges for use of said computer programs.

41. Apparatus as in Claim 36 further including monitoring means for monitoring usage by said user computer of the computer programs for developing time accounting data relative to rental charges for said usage, and for preventing usage of the computer programs if said second transmitting and receiving means is disconnected from said user computer.

42. Apparatus as in Claim 41 further including memory means coupled to said monitoring means for storing said time accounting data, said second transmitting and receiving means being responsive to a first from said rental computer for transmitting said time accounting data to said rental computer.

43. Apparatus as in Claim 42 further including:
error detection means for detecting the presence of an error in said time accounting data transmitted by said second transmitting and receiving means and for producing an error signal; and retransmission means coupled to said error detection means and responsive to said error signal for producing a signal representing a request for retransmission of said time accounting data, said second transmitting and receiving means responsive to said request for retransmission for retransmitting said time accounting data.

44. Apparatus as in Claim 43 further including activating means responsive to a first command from said second computer for activating said second computer.

45. A software rental system for renting computer game software for use in a user game computer, said software rental system comprising:
a central computer for storing a plurality of selectable game software packages;
first transmitting and receiving means coupled to said central computer for transmitting information and selected ones of said plurality of selectable game software packages to a user game computer and for receiving information from said user game computer;
second transmitting and receiving means coupled to said first transmitting and receiving means and to said user game computer for transmitting information to said central computer and for receiving information and selected ones of said plurality of selectable game software packages from said central computer; and said first and second transmitting and receiving means each including security means for preventing unauthorized use of said selected game software packages.

46. A software rental system as in Claim 45 further comprising interface means coupled between said user game computer and said second transmitting and receiving means, said interface means for adapting said second transmitting and receiving means to said user game computer.

47. A software rental system as in Claim 46 wherein said interface means comprises a plug-in cartridge adapted for use with a plug-in slot provided in said user game computer.

48. A software rental system as in Claim 46 wherein said security means includes encryption/decryption means for encrypting and decrypting, respectively, said game software and a first encryption key for encrypting and decrypting said game software.

49. A software rental system as in Claim 48 wherein said second transmitting and receiving means includes a second encryption key for encrypting and decrypting, respectively, said first encryption key.

50. A software rental system as in Claim 49 wherein selected portions of said game software are encrypted prior to transmission by said first transmitting and receiving means.

51. A software rental system as in Claim 48 wherein said first encryption key comprises a unique software package identifier code.

52. A software rental system as in Claim 49 wherein said first encryption key comprises a unique software package identifier code, a different software package identifier code being associated with each of said plurality of selectable game software packages.

53. A software rental system as in Claim 52 wherein said second encryption key comprises a unique user identifier code, each user being assigned a different unique user identifier code.

54. A software rental system as in Claim 46 wherein said second transmitting and receiving means includes storage means for storing said selected game software packages and information transmitted from said central computer.

55. A software rental system as in claim 54 wherein said stored information includes menus providing information related to said plurality of selectable game software packages.

56. A software rental system as in Claim 54 further comprising user input means coupled to said user game computer for selecting desired ones of said plurality of selectable game software packages for transmission to said user game computer.

57. A software rental system as in Claim 56 further comprising display means coupled to said user game computer for displaying a menu providing descriptive information related to said plurality of selectable game software packages, said descriptive information including game software package selection data.

58. A software rental system as in Claim 45 wherein said information includes time accounting data for determining rental charges for use of said game software packages.

59. A software rental system as in Claim 56 further including monitoring means for monitoring usage by said user game computer of said selected game software packages for developing time accounting data relative to rental charges for said usage, and for preventing usage of said game software packages if said second transmitting and receiving means is disconnected from said user game computer.

60. A software rental system as in Claim 59 further including memory means coupled to said monitoring means for storing said time accounting data, said second transmitting and receiving means being responsive to a command from said central computer for transmitting said time accounting data to said central computer.

61. A software rental system as in Claim 60 further including:
error detection means for detecting the presence of an error in said time accounting data transmitted by said second transmitting and receiving means and for producing an error signal; and retransmission means coupled to said error detection means and responsive to said error signal for producing a signal representing a request for retransmission of said time accounting data, said second transmitting and receiving means responsive to said request for retransmission for retransmitting said time accounting data.

62. A method of renting computer game software for use in a user game computer comprising the steps of:
storing a plurality of selectable game software packages in a central computer;
encrypting said plurality of selectable game software packages;
transmitting selected ones of said plurality of selectable game software packages to a user;
receiving and decrypting said transmitted same software packages;
monitoring use of said transmitted game software packages in a user game computer for developing time accounting data; and transmitting said time accounting data to said central computer.

63. The method as in Claim 62 further including the step of storing said transmitted game software packages for repeated use in said user game computer.

64. The method as in Claim 62 wherein said step of encrypting said plurality of selectable game software packages comprises encrypting selected critical portions of each of said plurality of selectable game software packages.