Abstract: A credit verification terminal for use in several credit systems includes a dual purpose mechanism for sequentially propelling a user's credit card past a reading head, and for storing merchant identifying and other data that can be read by the head. In one embodiment, the mechanism comprises an axially movable drum containing coaxial bands of encoded data. As the drum is rotated, a selected band containing merchant data is read; further drum rotational propels a credit card past the head, so that the user data contained thereon is read. In another embodiment, a planar card carrier includes a movable table containing parallel stripes or rows of encoded merchant and other data on one surface thereof. The user's credit card placed on the carrier is propelled past the head in one direction, and the data recorded is read; with the card removed, the merchant data is read when the carrier is moved past the head to its initial position. Apparatus for changing the stored merchant information is described.

Abstract: A business transaction terminal for a credit authorization system or the like includes a microprocessor for receiving data from a magnetic card reader and a keyboard, automatically processing such data and transmitting it to a central data base for authorization of a proposed business transaction. The terminal receives back a response from the central data base which directs subsequent actions by the terminal user. Options are provided for receiving the response in a number of ways such as audible response, visual indicators and numeric displays. Options also permit the terminal to be operated in a hands free mode.