Abstract: A postage metering system that includes a central processing system and a remote postage printing device (RPPD). The central processing system includes a secure metering device (SMD) operatively coupled to a central computer and configured to store accounting information. The RPPD operatively couples to the SMD via a wireless communications link. The RPPD receives a user request for postage, transmits the user request to the SMD via the wireless communications link, receives a secure postage indicium from the SMD, and directs printing of an indicium. The secure postage indicium can be generated using digital signature, encryption, or encoding, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: A meter and/or base (or computer), coupled to one or more modems, perform automated fraud reporting to a service center upon detection of particular ones of detectable faults. Diagnostic software and/or tamper detection devices test the meter to ensure that the meter operates in an expected manner. A detected fault can be classified into one or more categories or levels. For faults within certain levels, an alarm message is sent to the service center. Corrective action can be performed in accordance with a response from the service center. For major faults, the meter can be disabled until service is performed and the alarm message can be sent to the postal inspectors.

Abstract: A meter and/or base (or computer), coupled to one or more modems, perform automated fraud reporting to a service center upon detection of particular ones of detectable faults. Diagnostic software and/or tamper detection devices test the meter to ensure that the meter operates in an expected manner. A detected fault can be classified into one or more categories or levels. For faults within certain levels, an alarm message is sent to the service center. Corrective action can be performed in accordance with a response from the service center. For major faults, the meter can be disabled until service is performed and the alarm message can be sent to the postal inspectors.