Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system for distributing digital products subject to intellectual property rights comprises a plurality of interconnected modular processing components including at least an Order Management System (OMS), an Offer Catalog Component (OCC), and a Rights Locker Component (RLC). The OMS manages the application. The OCC lists available products, and the RLC provides client branding. The components are advantageously digitally interconnected via a common messaging language. In a preferred embodiment additional modular components are coupled to additional components OMS, OCC, and RLC to encompass the full range of distribution functions.

Abstract: The provisioning of a multimedia application is enhanced by using a communications protocol which defines a number of different functions and which allows a multimedia application to be segmented into a plurality of logical blocks such that a user may enter a request characterizing one such function and, in response thereto, the system performs the function with respect to a particular one of the logical blocks. The underlying multimedia system is also enhanced by arranging it so that an application provider may interact with the system via a telecommunications network for the purpose of, for example, storing the application thereon and/or "debugging" the stored application.

Abstract: A microprocessor is utilized to monitor and control the operation of an image projector and a magnetic tape cassette player. Inaudible cueing tones recorded on the tape allow the recorded narrative to be kept in synchronization with the image projected. A sync counter within the microprocessor keeps track of the amount and direction by which the image and tape are out of synchronism. The microprocessor controls a visual indication to the operator that shows the direction in which the tape must be moved to regain synchronization. When the tape is moved forward to achieve synchronization, the microprocessor will stop the tape after the cue pulse that precedes the narrative for the associated image. When the tape is moved in the reverse direction to achieve synchronization, the microprocessor will stop the tape just beyond the cue pulse at the beginning of the desired narrative.