Patent ID: 6085181
Filing Date: 2000-07-04
Classification: G07B

Abstract:
A postage metering system comprising:a plurality of printing means operatively connected as part of a network and operating as client printing means on the network, the client printing means including processor, memory and storage means;a postal security device (PSD) coupled directly to a first one of the client printing means, local client printing means; the PSD including unique identification, postal value storage means and digital signature means;means in the client printing means for functioning as a postage metering network wherein one of the client printing means remote to the PSD requests first evidence of postage payment from the PSD through the local client printing means for concluding postage metering transactions; andmeans in the local client printing means for functioning as a stand-alone meter when requests for second evidence of postage payment from the PSD are initiated at the local client printing means.