Abstract: A system of ATMs wherein a customer can execute a complex transaction in stages, at different times, and perhaps at different ATMs. Considering a loan application as an example, a customer can supply part of the information required by the loan application at one ATM, and can supply other information at a later time, at the same, or another, ATM. While the customer is present at any ATM, or afterward, the invention undertakes processing required by the loan application, such as ordering credit reports.

Abstract: The invention concerns establishing a video conference between a remote station, such as an Automated Teller Machine (ATM), and a central facility, such as a bank. At the bank, multiple AGENTs are available to handle incoming calls.These AGENTs receive incoming calls (which are non-video calls) through Automated Call Distribution equipment (ACD), known in the art. The ACD receives an incoming (non-video) call (from ATMs and other sources), locates a free AGENT, and delivers the incoming call to the free AGENT.Under the invention, an ATM places an ordinary telephone call to the ACD, which routes the call to the computer of a free AGENT. The call delivers a message requesting a video conference, and identifies the calling ATM. The free AGENT's computer then calls the ATM, via a high-bandwidth telephone channel, such as ISDN, and establishes the video conference.

Abstract: The invention concerns remote sampling of video clips stored in a repository, such as a computer. The video clips, in principle, resemble video tapes, and contain both audio and video information. However, the video clips are stored in digital format.In sampling, a single video frame and a segment of audio information is transmitted to a remote computer. The single frame is displayed while the audio is played. The invention allows a user to retrieve an entire video clip after the sampling.

Abstract: The invention concerns Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) which are equipped with video conferencing capability. The ATM allows a customer to undertake numerous different types of transactions, such as withdrawing cash, checking a balance, applying for a loan, obtaining interest rate quotations, and so on. If a customer needs assistance with a transaction, the invention (a) identifies the transaction, without intervention of the customer, (b) selects a consultant who is expert in the type of transaction identified, and (c) establishes a video conference with the selected consultant.

Abstract: The invention concerns using Automated Teller Machines as video conferencing stations. In a video conference, two parties can both see, and speak with, each other. The invention allows a user of an ATM to hold a video conference not only with the financial institution which operates the ATM, but with any other suitable facility, such as a personal computer, properly equipped.