Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing access to an electrically controlled service for perdetermined periods of time employs a dual magnetically striped record medium encoded in a CRB format with data indicative of the periods of time during which access is to be provided. The data is read by a reader and stored in a processor having an internal clock and a comparator for comparing the instantaneous time output of the clock with the predetermined time period data encoded on the record medium for enabling a security device only when the instantaneous time is within the predetermined time period.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing limited access to broadcast television programming in a CATV System wherein each television subscriber is provided with a converter for converting broadcast television signals into signals suitable for reception and display by a conventional television receiver and means for disabling the converter from producing TV compatible signals selectively activated by a switching device. A magnetic card reader reads the data on a program card inserted by the subscriber and compares it with a reference data record stored in a memory to determine if the program card is valid for the program sought to be viewed. If the card is valid a timer is actuated to cause the switching device to enable reception of the broadcast program while obliterating the data on the program card so that the card cannot be reused. The reference data record may be variable with time so that a program card will only be effective for enabling program viewing during a predetermined time period.