DATA TERMINAL AND SYSTEM FOR PLACING ORDERS

A pocket size data terminal is described for use by a large number of consumers in a system with which goods or services can be conveniently and automatically ordered. A plurality of data terminals which can automatically dial a local processing center (LPC) are distributed among users each of whom can address the LPC with a unique user identification and an internal terminal identification. The terminal is internally battery powered. Each data terminal can accumulate orders for goods or services in a send memory while the terminal is unencumbered by any external connector. When subsequently connected to a phone line modular jack, upon command by a user send memory contents are automatically sent to an LPC in a short burst. The LPC verifies the use of the terminal, the authorization of the requested service and format of the data as well as other items as may be included in the order. Upon verification, the LPC returns an appropriate message for visual display at the terminal and processes the order to suppliers of the requested goods or services.