EP0911767A2 - Method for data entry in a franking machine and apparatus for for franking mail - Google Patents

Abstract

The postal franking machine has a built in reader to receive a smart card (10) that provides identification and authorization data to a built in CPU (5). The system memory (3) contains programs for control of the data entry, the user identification and control of the franking operation. The system provides control of the system within a defined time window and allows updating of the system status.

Description

The invention relates to a method for data entry into a franking machine, an arrangement for franking of postal items and to generate one each Cost center assigned franking image according to the in Preamble of the claims specified Art.

A franking machine is used to frank mail used and is with at least one input means, in particular with a chip card read / write unit, an input / output control means and an output means equipped.

Chip cards are already known, the several non-volatile Memory or separately accessible memory areas and have a microprocessor to make different Data representing information in the Franking machine to transfer and to get data from the Read franking machine.

A known from DE 39 03 718 Al or EP 328 059 A2 Postage accounting system exhibits a writing / Reading unit for smart cards on a control unit is connected to a franking machine. In the chip card becomes postage meter usage information registered that later with a Personal computer is read out for billing.

A franking strip dispenser system was already described in DE 40 33 164 with chip card read / write unit proposed in the common housing. Im non-volatile Data memory of the chip card has 2 memory areas, where the 1st memory area is the current one Postage credit data and the 2nd storage area the data for an individual advertising cliché. The one User-assigned chip card can also be known How to load or credit the franking machine be used and has a transport and billing function to exchange data for billing as well as a reload function for an advertising cliché. The 2nd storage area for the individual Advertising cliché can be controlled separately in the chip card from the 1st storage area for postage credit and will only read when there is a need.

Billing data (date, number and Value of the imprints) additionally stored in the chip card to postponed billing to be able to carry out by means of a personal computer. However, due to the additional image data Storage space of the chip card fully booked, so that no further data can be saved.

This solution is also time-consuming, because after entering an identification code for each user an individual advertising slogan via the serial interface from the chip card into the processor system (Postmeter) loaded and the old one saved in the processor system individual advertising cliché against a new one individual advertising cliché is exchanged. Already the data exchange process via a serial interface takes longer than the data exchange via a parallel interface. The advertising cliché can thus are not constantly reloaded for each print. In order to is this solution for constant or frequent changes the user ineffective.

Due to the limited availability on a chip card Storage space, would have to be entered for further Data again several at the same time in several read / write units inserted chip cards are used, which is the time required for one associated with each printing process Data readout increased further.

The franking machines remain with the solutions mentioned above blocked for use until the Chip card in a corresponding read / write unit is inserted, thereby authorizing the user is initiated.

DE OS 41 29 302 describes a solution variant for the fee credit increase in the residual value memory of Franking machines by means of a reload credit carrying chip card proposed, which subsequently deleted can be removed again. In another Variant is the credit stored in the chip card debited gradually. However, there are no others Data can be called up from the chip card. For the postage (Postage fee table) becomes a pluggable EPROM inserted in a device-fixed socket.

It is common to use the new postage rates of a non-volatile memory chip by the Install customer service. Besides the substantial Service expenditure means above all one not through the subsequent replacement in practice effective postage fee table.

From US-PS 36 35 297 is a mail handling device known with automatic charge value calculation. On removable memory (ROM) contains a postage fee table, from when entering the weight of a postal item, if applicable, further shipping information the postage amount is calculated. The disadvantage is that Effort that arises when due to the entry into force of a new tariff, the fee values in the table of memory need to be changed. It there is no guarantee that the user of the device will Exchange of memory for updating in time can make.

When a new tariff comes into force, Update of those saved in franking machines Postage fee table already proposed a remote value specification been (DE 28 03 982). From a central The new tariff is operated remotely transfer several franking machines simultaneously. However, an update with the new tariff sets advance that the franking machines at these times switched on and are constantly accessible.

It is security against fraudulent manipulation already known from DE 38 23 719, a representative character pattern from a certain date to print out. When checking the post is in the post office the date of printing and the mark compared to the pattern, that is eligible for that date. For printing serves an authorization device, which is a storage device to store a number of character patterns and has date data. The data that is representative Assign character patterns to a defined date, are determined by means of an external value Voting device updated when the user the franking machines to apply for a credit. However, this security system is on landlines limited and for portable franking machines, that are carried from one place to another (mobile office) not applicable.

So far it has not been possible to use the portable, i.e. that were not permanently installed over a telephone network Franking machines to update and counter fraudulent To safeguard against manipulation.

It was already a removable from US 45 06 330 PCB with DIP switches at the address input of a PROM's for the selective addressing of a memory sector known. Postal differences within special Service classes can be calculated economically. Though becomes the storage requirement for customer data storage of post-zone tables is significantly reduced, however the DIP switches must be set manually.

In contrast, the franking machine known from US 41 38 735 a rate PROM on the radio or Telephone equipped with a current postage fee table can be. The possibility for a non-simultaneous Transfer of a postage fee table results from a single addressing everyone Franking machine. However, it is difficult to ensure that the connection on the part of the headquarters Has success. Another disadvantage is that not can be avoided that the memory of the franking machine are filled with a lot of unnecessary data.

There isn't that much data in one today single chip card storable, as it may be desirable would. But it would be with increased data processing effort possible, only those on the necessary Reduced data volume, data in a chip card too to save.

Another way to circumvent that on a smart card only limited space would be several inserted into read / write units at the same time To use smart cards.

An automatic transmission system is known from US 4 802 218 known with several slots for smart cards, that in addition to a chip card for credit recharge and billing, the postage value to be printed one is subtracted from the credit Chip card for a postage fee table at the same time used with the help of this aforementioned postage fee is determined. Through several read / write units the device becomes too large and too expensive.

On the other hand, accounting data is already in the franking machine saved, but so far have had to be stored in a chip card to this accounting data to one with a smart card reader equipped personal computer to transport and around a billing report via a printer connected to it to print out. With an electronic Printers in franking machines can, however, be variable Print images are generated.

It has already been proposed (DE 42 24 955) Print lists, such as internal billing reports about the consumption of the in the franking machine stored credit by the individual Cost centers through electronic printing processes, for example through a thermal transfer printing process realize. However, the enlarged Possibilities of operating the franking machine via slightly complicate the keyboard so far that this one unqualified user can not make.

Conventional franking machines have input options, to set values or specifications or to Enter commands. Either many buttons are used or a few keys have to be assigned several times and are operated sequentially.

In a known T1000 franking machine from the applicant is electronically stored in the machine for everyone Advertising cliché assigned a number. To Call up the selected number by pressing Key becomes a function key for the function Cliché presses to the advertising cliché change according to the selected number.

Because the effort for the controls does not continue should go up becomes a cheap faster operation required with a simple user interface. It must also be prevented that an illegitimate Users of the T 1000 have the option to Call up the data of external cost centers at the push of a button.

The invention is based, for a number of users setting a franking machine effortless to make.

There should be a data entry and supply process of franking machines with any number current data are developed at low cost, which is based on a wide use of chip cards for an electronic printing device Franking machine is based.

Another requirement was an appropriate one Interface for the multitude of other users too create, on the one hand the use of the franking machine understandable registered and on the other hand it is prevented that a person not authorized to do so User reads the data of the other cost centers.

The invention is based on the further object an arrangement for franking mail, preferably a portable franking machine that can be operated from anywhere of the genus mentioned at the beginning Security against fraudulent manipulation of any kind and franking in accordance with valid postal rates Depending on the weight and format of the To guarantee postal goods.

Another task is for a number of Users the setting of an advertising cliché on a Franking machine effortless to make, depending on the user to print an individual advertising cliché.

Another requirement was an appropriate one Interface for the multitude of other users too create, on the one hand the use of the franking machine understandable registered and on the other hand prevents an unauthorized user from doing so reads the data of the other cost centers.

These tasks come with the distinctive features of claims 1 to 2 for a method and according to Claims 3 to 15 solved for an arrangement.

The physical possession of a chip card conveys this User a key feeling. Towards attaining an access authorization to functions of the franking machine without a chip card, only by means of a password, spying the password is useless with a chip card and avoided operating errors, such as that Forget logging out after using the franking machines.

Based on the fact that the user has multiple special chip cards for the respective intended Thermal transfer printing or franking machine function A method can be used according to the invention proposed being used to execute the credit non-reducing operations, the smart card, the loads these operations, not in the machine must remain.

The invention is further based on the consideration that the operating system of the franking machine with a communication and operating system of the card is able to access the memory of the chip card and read its content if any of the users the franking machine his personal chip card the chip card read / write unit is inserted.

The invention assumes that the timely Transfer of the new tariff to everyone, especially to the portable not switched on in the meantime to ensure or not ready franking machines, an intermediate storage in a transmission medium and an automatic takeover of the current tariff through the franking machines during requires switching on.

The invention is further based on the consideration with the intention of changing the tariff of the postage charges the early preparation of postage fee tables to plan so that this is well before its entry into force be made accessible to all postal customers. It depends on the majority of participants in good time instead of simultaneously with a current one as before To equip postage fee table.

Also in time with the commissioning or Switch on the franking machine a table with additional functions for safety or for checking Mistakes and fraudulent manipulation and increase ease of use.

The invention provides a set of different ones Data-carrying chip cards for the user ready to use this for a sequential cost center dependent Setting the franking machine via a to use only chip card read / write unit. In each case, a personal chip card of the user can be for a cost center-dependent setting of a Use advertising clichés. This advantageously eliminates Way the otherwise required user-relevant Settings of the cost center and the Advertising clichés on the keyboard of the franking machine.

The invention assumes that there is no advertising cliché is loaded from the chip card and entering a identification codes to be entered by the user none Prerequisite for reading such data from the Is smart card that select the advertising cliché. On The advantage here is that a person does not have one Chip card legitimate user, no possibility at the T 1000 franking machine has more at the push of a button to retrieve the data from other cost centers.

Another advantage of the solution according to the invention is that all modules, except the scale module, in one housing can be arranged.

The franking machine is with a non-volatile Storage for a number each of the cost center of the User-assigned advertising clichés and with a Smart card read / write unit equipped and enables a frequent card change for a large number of users. An existing franking machine, for example Francotyp-Postalia T1000 with a known one Chip card read / write unit can be equipped.

The interface board of the chip card read / write unit is with the serial interface of the franking machine connected. The contacting device has at least 6 contacts and data exchange between the unprotected and / or the protected card storage area and a non-volatile memory of the Program storage means of the franking machine becomes serial automatically as part of a communication protocol is made as soon as the chip card in the Insert slot has been inserted.

In a preferred variant, the chip card serves primarily for cost center-dependent entry of data and if necessary, also for billing data.

• automatisches Verändern des letzten Standes an gespeicherten Dateninhalten in einer Frankiermaschine zu deren Einstellung mittels Daten und/oder Flags, wenn mindestens innerhalb eines Zeitfensters nach dem Einschalten ein erstes Übertragungsmittel (10) bereit-gestellt wird, um die das Verändern bewirkende Daten und/oder Flags aus einem Speicher des Übertragungsmittels (10) in einen Speicherbereich des Speichermittels (3) der Frankiermaschine zu laden, und/oder
• automatische Eingabe einer Abrechnungsnummer für die Kostenstelle des Benutzers und/oder einer Druckfunktion oder der Nummer einer Druckfunktion in einen Speicherbereich des Speichermittels (3) der Frankiermaschine, durch weitere im Speicher eines weiteren Übertragungsmittels (13) gespeicherte Daten und/oder Flags vor dem Betrieb der Frankiermaschine.

The further invention relates to a method for entering data into a franking machine before triggering a selected printing function, comprising the steps:

• automatic change of the latest status of stored data contents in a franking machine for their setting by means of data and / or flags, if a first transmission means (10) is provided at least within a time window after switching on, around the data and / or flags causing the change to load from a memory of the transmission means (10) into a memory area of the storage means (3) of the franking machine, and / or
• automatic entry of a billing number for the user's cost center and / or a printing function or the number of a printing function in a memory area of the storage means (3) of the franking machine, by further data and / or flags stored in the memory of a further transmission means (13) before the operation of the Franking machine.

Figur 1,

Blockschaltbild einer mit einer Chipkarten-Schreib-Leseeinheit ausgerüsteten Frankiermaschine

Figur 2,

Flußdiagramm einer Dateneingabe

Figur 3,

Flußdiagramm mit Benutzeridentifikation

Figur 4,

Flußdiagramm zur Druckausführung

Figur 5,

Kommunikationsprotokoll

Figur 6,

Zusatzfunktionstabellenspeicherbereiche

Figur 7,

Ansicht der Frankiermaschine T 1000 mit Chipkarte

Figur 8,

Flußdiagramm zur Druckausführung

Figur 9,

Variante einer Frankiermaschine

Figur 10,

vereinfachtes Blockschaltbild einer Frankiermaschine

Figur 11,

Portogebührentabellenspeicherbereiche

Figur 12, 13,

Zusatzfunktionstabellenspeicherbereiche

Figur 14,

Kommunikationsvariante GSM

Figur 15

Informationsfeld

Advantageous developments of the invention are characterized in the subclaims or are shown in more detail below together with the description of the preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the figures. Show it:

Figure 1,

Block diagram of a franking machine equipped with a chip card read / write unit

Figure 2,

Flow chart of data entry

Figure 3,

Flow chart with user identification

Figure 4,

Flow chart for printing execution

Figure 5,

Communication protocol

Figure 6,

Additional function table memory areas

Figure 7,

View of the T 1000 franking machine with chip card

Figure 8,

Flow chart for printing execution

Figure 9,

Variant of a franking machine

Figure 10,

simplified block diagram of a franking machine

Figure 11,

Postage fee table storage areas

Figures 12, 13,

Additional function table memory areas

Figure 14,

Communication variant GSM

Figure 15

Information field

In FIG. 1, the basic structure of a franking machine, for example the T 1000, which the inventive method allowed to perform, explained.

Input and output means are in a common housing 4, 8, 20, 22, 23 via an input / output control means 6, 61 with a post-technical security area processor system 3, 5, 9, 14, 100, 101 connected directly or via a BUS. The processor system consists of at least one storage means 3, a pressure controller (DS) 14 and a processing unit (CPU) having control means 5, one a special circuit 100, 101 or program means and a clock / date module 9. The special Circuit and / or program means 100, 101 are preferred Part of a battery-backed memory (CMOS-RAM) in the clock / date module 9 and / or one non-volatile memory (EEPROM) in the storage means 3.

The base of the franking machine consists of a printer module 7 and a power electronics / actuator sensor module 11, the one power supply and control for the drives (paper transport, printer, belt, Strip encoder) contains. Can on the processor system also other - not shown - peripheral An input / output means 21 may be connected. This are direct with the processor system 3, 5, 9, 14, 100, 101 and / or coupled via the input / output control means 6.

The storage means 3 usually consists of several permanent and temporary non-volatile To save. Part of the memory forms with the CPU 5 a protected postal area in a known manner within the processor system. A permanent storage the storage means 3 of the franking machine 1 assigns programs for communication via interfaces 20, 21, 22, 23 with the external input means on. The input means provide the connection to the transmission means 10, 13 ago.

It is provided that the first transmission means 10 for a country-specific provision of additional functions and current information for permanent and / or temporary configuration of at least a franking machine and that the second transmission means 13 for user-specific setting of the Postage meter is used.

In a variant it is provided that the first transmission means 10 a communication network that one Memory with the data and / or flags that can be called up Reloading additional functions and information in which contains the franking machine.

The central office transfers the data to a decentralized one Memory of the transmission medium and is from there each franking machine accessed at different times. The connection is established decentrally from every franking machine to the store in the Means of transmission. The franking machine has second Funds in their control module based on that from the central Select an offer. The advantage of this solution is in the absence of calling a franking machine and their addressing from the head office or a transmitter out.

Here, the predetermined interface 23 external MODEM connected that the connection to the Manufactures memory in the communication network.

1. Einstecken einer integrierten Chipkarte ICCA zur automatischen Nachladung von Daten und/oder Flags innerhalb eines Zeitfensters nach dem Einschalten, damit die zuletzt gespeicherte Einstellung der Frankiermaschine 1 verändert werden kann.

2. Nach der Anzeige des erfolgten Nachladevorganges von Daten der Chipkarte ICCA zur Konfigurierung der Frankiermaschine, wird die Chipkarte ICCA freigegeben und kann gezogen werden.

3. Einstecken einer integrierten Chipkarte für Benutzer ICCB mit der Kostenstellen-Information und der ausgewählten Druckfunktion.

4. Auslösen einer ausgewählten Druckfunktion.

A transmission means is preferably a chip card which is brought into contact with the chip card read / write unit 20 for chip cards serving as input means 20.
In the variant shown in FIG. 1, the first and second transmission means (10) and (13) are an integrated chip card ICCA and ICCB, each of which has a memory with the data and / or flags that can be called up to reload additional functions and information have the franking machine or to adjust it. The process is characterized by the following steps:

1. Insert an integrated chip card ICCA for automatic reloading of data and / or flags within a time window after switching on, so that the last saved setting of the franking machine 1 can be changed.

2. After displaying the reloading process for data from the ICCA chip card to configure the franking machine, the ICCA chip card is released and can be removed.

3. Insert an integrated chip card for user ICCB with the cost center information and the selected printing function.

4. Trigger a selected print function.

a1

Adaption eines externen Modems

a2

Adaption eines ISDN-Anschlusses

a3

Adaption einer externen Waage

a4

Portogebührentabellen

a5

Postamt-Informationen, aktuelle Postleitzahlen

a6

aktuelle Telefonnummer für Service-Dienst

a7

Druckbild, Posthörnchen

a8

Anzeigetexte für LCD

a9

Deaktivieren defekter Funktionen

a10

Aktivieren ungenutzter Funktionen

a11

Einstellen der Schriftart

a12

Neuladen von Softkey-Funktionen

a13

Kalendarische Informationen z. Auswahl temporärer Botschaften

a14

Umstellungsdaten für Sommer/Winterzeit

A first number of data contents al to a14 of a first number of country-specific configuration chip cards ICCA1 to ICCA14, which is automatically read in depending on existing conditions, comprises:

a1

Adaptation of an external modem

a2

Adaptation of an ISDN connection

a3

Adaptation of an external balance

a4

Postage fee tables

a5

Post office information, current postcodes

a6

current telephone number for service

a7

Print image, squirrel

a8

Display texts for LCD

a9

Deactivate defective functions

a10

Activate unused functions

a11

Setting the font

a12

Reload softkey functions

a13

Calendar information e.g. Selection of temporary messages

a14

Changeover dates for summer / winter time

b1

Schalten auf den Druckmodus ""Frankieren", wahlweise
mit KST-abhängige Klischeeauswahl,
mit KST-abhängiger "Hoher Frankierwert" und
mit KST-abhängige "Maximale Frankiersumme"

b2

Zugangsberechtigung zum Druck von Abrechnungsberichten alle Kostenstellen und Einstellen eines vorbestimmten Formates des Abrechnungsberichtes

b3

Druck des Abrechnungsberichtes einer ausgewählten Anzahl von Kostenstellen (KST) auf Papier

b4

Druck des Abrechnungsberichtes der eigenen KST auf Papier

b5

Druck des Abrechnungsberichtes der eigenen KST auf Label

b6

Umschalten auf den Druckmodus "Adressendruck auf Label"

b7

Umschalten auf den Druckmodus "Druck Posteingangsstempel"

b8

Umschalten auf den Druckmodus "Druck des Firmen-Logos"

b9

Umschalten auf den Druckmodus "Druck eines Bar-Codes"

A second number of following data contents bl to b9 can be retrievably contained in a second number of user chip cards ICCB1 to ICCB9.

b1

Switch to the "Franking" print mode, optionally
with KST-dependent plate selection,
with KST-dependent "high franking value" and
with KST-dependent "maximum franking amount"

b2

Access authorization to print billing reports for all cost centers and set a predetermined format for the billing report

b3

Print the accounting report of a selected number of cost centers (KST) on paper

b4

Print the accounting report of your own KST on paper

b5

Print the accounting report of your own KST on the label

b6

Switch to the print mode "Address printing on label"

b7

Switching to the "Inbox stamp" print mode

b8

Switch to the print mode "Print the company logo"

b9

Switch to the print mode "Print a bar code"

The above data contents al to a14 can either in a correspondingly the same size or in Combination with each other in a smaller number of Configuration chip cards ICCA1 to ICCAi available his.

In a first variant - shown in FIG. 2 after a first configuration using a selected special configuration chip card A one Setting the franking machine using a selected one special user chip card B made.

A number of such chip cards ICCA1 to ICCAi can be too a special configuration of the franking machine be used. The desired setting is confirmed with a selected special ICCAi chip card within a certain time window, i.e. while this in Is put into operation. All of them are among them Adjustment options to understand how it works to act on the franking machine. They are in one Variant a special circuit 100, 101 for a Time and sequence control and in another variant Program funds, i.e. special tax types for the Processing unit and / or flags, their state program parts activate or deactivate. These works together with the pressure control DS 14.

Simultaneously with those through such programs and / or Flags are configurable machine functions too current information is transferred to the franking machine. The machine functions and / or information are preferably in tabular form in the chip card saved before.

These chip cards cannot - in one in FIG. 2 shown way - successively in the read / write unit to be inserted sequentially to load into the franking machine. The one with it achievable setting of the franking machine is on the chip card surface in an easily understandable form specified and is after loading into the franking machines displayed by their display unit. The reached Configuration is shown to the user in a clear view and / or made clear using symbols before the old chip card is pulled and the next chip card in the slot is inserted.

The last temporary configuration remains in of the franking machine only until it is switched off saved. In contrast, the current information remains and permanent configurations up to to the next data wiping (UPDATING) Transmission means 10, 13 stored and are behind available again when switching on again.

In a first exemplary embodiment, the franking machine is intended to be an external scale is connected and one Franking with one, based on weighing and based on a current postage fee table in the franking machine determined franking value.

According to the invention, additional functions are proposed and tables, especially a postage fee table in to save a chip card. Such a chip card is in the associated slot 26 of the Franking machine used. After turning on the first data content within a time window a3 and a4 in the memory module 3 of the franking machine loaded. In response to the readable on the display 4 The ICCAi chip card will be prompted for "CARD A ISSUE" away. The readable prompt "CARD B INPUT "in display 4.

A second data content bl to b9 User chip card containing ICCBj is used by the user selected and in the associated slot of the Franking machine used so that the printer of the Franking machine performs the desired printing function.

Only this one special user chip card, which as last inserted, can be used to execute printing functions stay plugged in all the time. It was already proposed (P 43 02 097.6), the cost center number by means of a user-specific chip card in enter the franking machine.

The cost center number is for billing and in particular with the "Franking" print function for the Selection of advertising slogan required.

This eliminates the otherwise in an advantageous manner required user-relevant settings the cost center and the advertising slogan via the keyboard the franking machine.

In a second embodiment, the Interface 23 of the franking machine an external modem can be connected to the remote value specification of a To have credit made automatically in the future.

The special configuration chip card ICCA1 is inserted in the The read / write unit and the franking machine switched on. This will automatically reload made with data for the adaptation of the franking machine and the last set KST number deleted. The franking machine can now be switched to a corresponding one Print function "Franking" can be set.

A special ICCB1 user chip card is used for reloading the KST number is inserted and can, if the display the KST number and the number of the selected print function is done, be pulled again.

In a further variant — shown in FIG. 3 only one ICCB1 user chip card per user used. In addition, there are automatic and manual Input of password, PIN CODE or name for the Calling up the second data content corresponding to b2 to b9.

In a further exemplary embodiment, additional functions are intended and / or information in the franking machine by means of a transmission means 10, preferably by means of a user chip card ICCBj become. Standard work is often carried out, for example only standard letters should be franked, so that one or more extensive data content is not have to be invited again. Then within the Time slot no ICCA chip card inserted.

Part of the above-mentioned first data contents a4 to a14 can also - as shown in Figure 6 - in the ICCBj user chip card is stored in tabular form be automatic under predetermined conditions entered in the storage means 3 of the franking machine 1 become. Doing so can be an additional requirement also a manual entry of PIN code or password to be required.

For loading country-specific and temporary Functions provided F1 ... Fn or such Additional information such as timetables, opening times etc. are entering the country and the Date and a defined key figure as another Condition for a transfer of table data the transmission means 10 required.

In the table areas labeled "Field" the type of functions using a key figure that can be entered selected. After loading the related data the functions are available.

For loading country-specific and temporary Telephone numbers provided are the input the country and the date and a defined key figure as another condition for a transfer of table data from the transmission medium required. This key figure can be open accessible or by a secret PIN CODE or by to act a password.

A password can be used in a preferred variant of the invention change daily so that individual Features or additional information against one the fee to be paid to the customer temporarily beforehand can be rented. The machine only takes out the Tables the memory that a correctly entered Password is assigned. A large number of invalid ones Passwords prevented at the time of the respective date a targeted search for the right password by unauthorized users. From a certain Failure attempts will automatically lock the number Loading additional information or functions.

It is also possible to get to know new ones Some passwords are open and some functions Period remain valid.

An advantageous option is to load one partly others adapted to the individual countries Keyboard layout. This is particularly possible if Softkeys are used because they are easy to use assigned to the function designation shown can be.

Provided that the sending country, for which the franking machine is approved and the advertising clichés, assigned to the cost center specified and stored in the franking machine you only need to enter the user name, to have access authorization for a specific Cost center and thus also for the assigned advertising cliché to get. Such an additional function can also in the chip card 10 additionally as a temporary one Additional function can be saved. Another temporary Additional function, with no switching to one Service mode must be done and also only one Name needs to be entered, especially since the date is automatically specified by the franking machine, is the authorization for printing all cost center related accounting data. Another An advantageous option is the selection of different ones Forms of cost center related to be created Billing reports with the printer of the Franking machine via a name and / or password entry.

An alternative to the franking function is an additional one possible printing function, for example printing an entrance stamp, by means of a name and / or password entry.

The franking machine is advantageously used several times: Entry stamp function, accounting reports on the Use of the franking machine per cost center, advertising cliché prints and business cards. This becomes country-specific selected a font or display style and transfer with if the valid at the time Password is entered.

The chip card 10 thus contains more information than are usually needed. To access this information are at least two conditions (name and Country, name and date or country and date). With the help of temporarily valid passwords that the user be communicated on request when paying additional functions, special functions or Information can be used. By changing the Chip card can without the programs in the franking machine the additional functions would have to be changed updated or information on the latest Be brought up.

With an inserted or a different colored ribbon the franking machine can also advantageously to generate further not serving franking Print images are used.

ETR and other thermal transfer printing processes are as high quality non impact printing process for various applications on the market for a long time spread. The ribbons used here enable printing on plain paper, for example around a cost center accounting report or addresses, Postmark, company logos or barcode Envelopes or self-adhesive franking strips (Label) to print.

Ribbon and operating costs depend on the type and Number of uses. This is the cost center number in the last chip card to be inserted Billing basis for the consumption of ribbon and / or label.

The entry of an identification code of no requirement for the user to read such data from the smart card. Already the owner is entitled to automatically select its advertising slogan allow. In the franking machine are by means of Program funds 100 such software measures taken been granted the user's access to the data that allow his cost center and that at the same time the user's access to the data prevent the other cost centers.

That in the non-volatile memory of the storage medium 3 stored program for communication via the Chip card setup with the chip card can, however a further variant by means of software 101 be formed, which has an addressable table has at least one password to automatically one Data exchange between a protected card storage area and the non-volatile memory of the Storage means 3 serially in the context of a communication protocol as soon as the chip card 10 in the insertion slot 26 has been inserted. The For example, card allows three attempts at a password to enter. In contrast to the manual entry of a Password, can be used for the automatic entry of the in passwords stored in the table are error-free be assumed. With that are input attempts unnecessary and a maximum of 3 different user groups assignable passwords possible. The three user groups form the user group.

The franking machine program now determines which one User group the owner of the inserted Chip card belongs and releases corresponding functions or blocks functions for unauthorized users. The franking machine is inserted by inserting one Chip card not belonging to the user group is blocked.

A corresponding flow chart is shown in FIG. After the start and the usual initialization routine the franking machine is first - as in shown in Figures 2 or 3 - the smart card information queried before the system administration routine begins.

After switching on and initializing can still the configuration chip card within a time window Ai can be inserted into the insertion slot 26. But it is reaches the end of this period without a Configuration chip card Ai has been inserted, remains old configuration of the franking machine set and the display prompts "CARD B INPUT".

As long as no chip card was inserted, the Franking machine cannot be worked, i.e. the feed motor for a sheet of paper, a letter, etc. running not at.

After inserting a suitable card, data from read the chip card. Identification takes place a valid card, the selection of a cost center and setting the functions.

Due to the special circuit 100, 101, the component the pressure control unit (DS) 14 and / or software means a command sequence is called that with the commands RESYNCHRONIZATION shown in FIG. 5, SELECT APPLICATION, POWER ON, SELECT ICC APPLICATION starts and also other commands to the Switch to the security mode of the chip card and for password entry. Only then are the dates available to set the user cost center and the associated other functions mentioned above automatically.

If there is no error, the display "CARD B INPUT" goes out and the corresponding numbers of the cost center and the functions are displayed.

The franking machine arrives - as shown in FIG. 4 has been - through the system administration routine in their normal operating mode.

A print function is now with the set data and date possible, whereby the print is made as the print function would be set via the keyboard been. Likewise, the cost center functions performed as if they were set on the keyboard been. So far for hiring provided keys have no function. Among other things, even the erroneous or intentionally wrong one Prevention of an external cost center prevented.

The pressure control unit (DS) 14 is in one variant with means 15 for electronic orthogonal pixel storage field rotation equipped to an internal Execute cost center printing according to a certain format.

Further information on this can be found in application P 42 24 955.4 removable.

FIG. 7 is a view of the franking machine T 1000 shown. The franking machine T1000 shows on the Front a compartment 40 provided with a lid 45 for the ribbon cassette and the electronic printer 7 and a keyboard 8 and an LCD display unit 4 on. There is an operator key on the back of the T 1000 12, a mains connection 61 and a connection 22 for a further input device, in particular a balance arranged.

An interface board 24 and contacting device 25 having smart card read / write unit 20 built into the T1000 in such a way that one for the Easily accessible opening for the insertion slot 26 of the contacting device 25 on the Back of the franking machine above the connection for the serial interface of the scale 22. The good accessibility results from the location of the Opening in the upper third on the back of the franking machine vis-à-vis the LCD display unit 3. A special visual monitoring when inserting the Chip card 13 is not necessary since the chip card 13 is inserted from above and when plugging in the same height as the LCD display unit.

A corresponding flow chart is shown in FIG shown when a user chip card uses ICCB shall be. After the start and the usual initialization routine the franking machine is first again the smart card information is queried before the system administration routine begins.

In FIG. 9, the basic structure of a franking machine, for example T 1000, which contains the arrangement according to the invention, explained.

Input and output means are in a common housing 4 to 8 via an input / output control means 6 a processor system 111, which is a post-technical Has security area, directly or via a bus connected, at least one storage means 3 and a processing unit (CPU) 5 and a clock / date module 9 connected. The base of the franking machine consists of a printer module 7 and power electronics 11, which is a power supply and control for the drives (paper transport, printer, belt, Strip encoder) contains. On processor system 111 can also other - not shown - peripheral input / output means 2 can be connected. This are with processor system 111 directly and / or via the input / output control means 6 coupled.

The storage means 3 usually consists of several Permanent, temporary and non-volatile To save. Part of the memory forms with the CPU 8 a protected postal area in a known manner within the processor system 111. A permanent memory the storage means 3 of the franking machine assigns programs for communication with the input means 20 on. In the permanent memory of the franking machine are also the programs for a user interface and addressable tables with addressable data stored, each table can be called up assigned to a specific function. These programs form software resources 100 that emulate inserting a chip card 10, 13 into one for this intended opening in the franking machine, the Setting the user cost center and the associated advertising clichés automatically and prevent the retrieval of external cost center data.

The first input means 8 and comprising a keyboard the first output means 4 containing an LCD are included connected to the input / output control means 6, the one Has LCD controller and a parallel interface 51. The output means 4 is used to display a user interface and the first input means 8 of the selection of functions and / or setting the parameters, which are required to carry out franking are.

The franking machine is in a known manner with at least a further input means 2 and with at least a second output means, namely the printer module 7 the T 1000 franking machine. Both means 20 and 7 are each via a serial interface connected to the input / output control means 6.

The port outputs of the microprocessor 5 of the processor system 111 are in the I / O control means 6 included - gate circuits not shown in Figure 9 having demultiplexer with the corresponding serial interfaces of the input / output control means 6 coupled.

In another - not shown in FIG. 9 - Variant, are some port outputs of the microprocessor 5 of the processor system 111 with a bus or directly coupled with the corresponding input or output means.

The input device is a chip card read / write unit 20 and can also be added to an in known way on the back of the housing Postage meter arranged connection 22 for a external balance also a modem connection 23 for an external Modem and / or others - not in Figure 9 shown - include connections for input means that each with a connection to the associated serial Interface of the input / output control means 6 coupled are.

In a variant with a - not shown in Figure 9 - internal modem, is a communication port to the telephone network next to the connection for the external scales provided. A function key M on the keyboard 1 can be used as a modem function key become.

A contacting device 25 is shown in FIG a first connection ST1 to an interface board 24 the smart card read / write unit 20 connected. A second connector ST2 of the interface board 24 is with the power supply circuit of the T1000 and a third connector ST3 with the associated serial Interface 54 coupled.

As a chip card read / write unit 20, for example the unit CARD READER ENHANCED ADAPTER MODULE (CREAM) from ORGA.

The CREAM consists of an interface board 24 and a contacting device 25 for ISO chip cards the push / pull principle. Manufacturer of the contacting device is Amphenol-Tuchel Electronics GmbH in Heilbronn (Order no .: C 702 10 M 008 0xx3). The same The manufacturer sells the interface under the order no. C 705 10 M 008 0011. The interface has its own Processor (80C31) and memory to standard software to be able to execute for all common chip cards. Access to the interface is via a serial Standard interface (V.24 with TTL level) implemented, connected to the serial interface of the T1000 is. The interface board is connected to the 5 volt power supply and connected to a V24 driver of the T1000. The V24 driver has a level converter from + 5V to ± 12V in the T1000.

The contacting device 25 of the chip card read / write unit 20 is with 8 in the ISO standard (ISO 7816) specified electrical contacts equipped and enables a frequent change of cards for one Many other users.

The chip card 10, 13 used contains one corresponding contact set of 8 contacts, one Processor and memory. The communication and The card's operating system enables this to be carried out of communication protocols and the DES algorithm. With the communication protocol the access is controlled on the memory of the card.

The operating system of the T1000 is therefore able to to access the memory of the chip card and its contents to read and write. The one in the franking machine included software means 100 do not take inserted chip card appropriate signaling or message in the LCD display 4 before and block franking with the franking machine until the chip card 10, 13 for setting the User cost center and the associated advertising cliché is plugged in.

This now results for the user of the franking machine The following simplified functional sequence is advantageous.

After switching on the T1000, the display shows "CArd" and thus prompts the user for input a chip card. As long as no chip card is inserted cannot be franked with the T1000, i.e. the feed motor for a letter does not start.

After inserting a suitable card, data from read the chip card. This is the identification a valid card, the selection of a cost center and hiring an advertising slogan. in the If there is no error, the "CArd" display and the corresponding numbers of the cost center and the advertising slogan are shown.

A franking is now with the set data, i.e. Postage and date possible, with the imprint of Advertising clichés are as if they were on the keyboard been discontinued. Likewise, the cost center functions performed as if they were on the keyboard been discontinued.

The so far for setting the advertising clichés and The keys provided in the cost center have no function. This will make the mistake or willful incorrect setting of a third-party cost center prevented. One not legitimized by having a smart card User no longer has the option to Call up the data of external cost centers at the push of a button.

This will release the M key that was previously used to change the Cost center was used for further functions, for example for a modem for automatic remote value specification of a credit free. As an alternative for in a known manner, the modem is also the "Teleporto" credit reloading service is freely available.

The - shown in Figure 5 - dialogue between the Operating system of the T1000 and the chip card interface takes place according to a master / slave principle. The T1000 there as master commands and receives responses from Chip card interface as slave. The dialog routine is constantly running in the background. It consists of five Commands.

Resynchronization is performed first. The T 1000 sends a first 4 byte record D1. As a result, the chip card is in a defined state transferred. This data record D1 contains one Address in the first byte, one byte (control byte) for one Control word with counter reading for each protocol unit (PDU), one byte for the data length and one check byte. The data length is initially 00 Checkbyte is used to save errors in the transmission.

The response from the smart card device is a 4 byte containing data record D2, with the mirrored address in the first byte, the control byte, the byte for the data length and the check byte.

After receiving a positive answer, the master sends it the transmission of a select application sequence with a third data record D3, with the address in the first Byte, the counter reading or

Control byte, the byte for the data length. The data length 02 indicates the following of two bytes of data content. The first byte is the SELECT APPLICATION command code. The data content of the second byte is 00. Den The check byte again forms the end.

In the case of an error, the chip card unit Return code that shows that the Chip card is inserted. The data record D4 for the return code again shows the mirrored address in the first Bytes on. A subsequent control byte is counted again in the upper nibble (nibble). On third byte for the data length shows the data length 01 on. This is followed by a fourth byte that follows the actual return code for the inserted but voltage-free Smart card forms. Finally follows again the check byte.

The third command POWER ON turns the voltage on on the card. The data record D5 has 5 bytes and have the same structure as data record D4, with the address in the first byte, the control byte, the Byte for the data length, the fourth byte and the Check byte. The fourth byte contains the information that the voltage is switched on.

In response to the chip card unit, the after T = 14 specification defined "Answer to Reset" expected, which comprises a data record D6 with 24 bytes, wherein the last byte is the check byte again.

The fourth command SELECT ICC-APPLICATION contains one ID of the card manufacturer for the ICC (Integrated Chip card). Data record D7 contains several nested ones Layer. The first layer includes the address in the first Byte, the control byte, the byte for the data length, which are followed by a further 20 bytes, which are followed by a Start control byte, to which there is an address byte, one control byte, and one byte for the data length connect in the second layer with the check byte and A third byte then starts with a third layer a command byte F1 and a byte 0B for the Data length of further 11 bytes following the o.g. ID of the card manufacturer in the form of ASCII-coded Contain data. The said 11 bytes are there for the following identifier: 9280ICC-3/3. Conclude two check bytes.

In response to the chip card unit is a 21 byte long data record D8 expected.

With the fifth command READ TOKEN the chip card prompted for data from an unprotected area to spend. The first and second layers of the 13th Byte long data record D9 are analogous to the fourth Command built up, the eighth to eleventh byte den actual command for READ TOKEN included and starting At the end there are two check bytes again.

In response to the chip card unit is a 64 byte long data set D10 expected with the mirrored Address in the first byte, the control byte, the byte for the data length etc. and the check byte at the end. The twelfth byte contains the data for the Chip card number card #, which contains thirteenth bytes the data for the cost center number KST # and that fourteenth byte contains the data for the plate number AD #.

The entry of an identification code of the user does not have to read such data from the smart card. Already the owner is entitled to automatically select its advertising slogan allow. In the franking machine are by means of Program funds 100 such software measures taken been giving the user access to the data that concern his cost center, allow and at the same time the user's access to the data prevent the other cost centers.

In a further variant, not shown after inserting a chip card 13 into one for it intended opening in the franking machine initially the unsecured memory area of the chip card is queried, and then the data from the secured storage area in the memory of the franking machine. This data can function as the franking machine modify and / or a current postage fee table reload. In addressable tables data is stored, with each table one assigned to a specific function and in the Memory of the franking machine can be taken over. in the The secure memory area of the chip card stands for this 2 to 7 KB available while in unsecured Memory area of the chip card only 32 bytes available are.

In particular, a current one is used as the transmission medium and an additional one applicable to the future tariff Chip card 10 having a postage fee table as shown is already known for the value specification of fee values, used. FIG. 10 shows a simplified one Block diagram of the franking machine according to the invention 1 with a chip card read / write unit 2 shown. A storage means 3 is provided with a Display means 4 and a bus with a Control module 5, as well as with an input / output means 6 which a printer module 7, an input means 8 and the Chip card disk-reading unit 2 are connected in Connection. Next is a - in Figure 1 not closer shown - connection of a weighing module 14 via the BUS provided directly or via the input / output means 6.

It also detects the existence of a programmable battery-powered clock module 9 in every franking machine assumed its accuracy and programming is the correct date data to generate the storage means 3 of the franking machine with the current and future specific Date dates associated with their entry into force To load postage fee tables. The programming concerns in particular those that have to be taken into account in different locations Time, essentially from longitude dependent time zones of the earth or the one to be considered Date line.

This is for a franking arrangement that is only operated stationary, as well as especially for a portable, from Franking machine that can be transported from place to place is advantageous, that the franking arrangement is a programmable clock module 9 contains, due to a defined the actual or future location Delivers local time or franking time including date. With a given accuracy, the can only be checked after a very long time, a one-time factory setting is sufficient if the local time can be set by entering the location. For this there is a memory area for the clock module provided that the relevant places with associated Includes local time shift for setting the clock. It becomes the local time difference to Greenwich Time added.

The franking machine 1 has 5 means in the control module on when the franking machine 1 at least one postage fee table for the franking machine 1 from the chip card 10 via the receiving means 2 and 6, in a predetermined storage space of the Load storage means 3 and contains other resources in the Control module 5, which means 3, 4, 8, 9 and 2 based on the country or place of dispatch entered and of the date the current one in force Select the postage fee table based on which the respective postage fee is determined. These funds are hardware and / or software as a fixed or freely programmable logic module or program of a Microprocessor control manufactured.

The chip card 10 is for use as a debit card with a national or international validity provided, however, in no way other accounting methods to exclude for monetary data. she is preferably valid in the European Community executed. Payment and settlement of fees takes over, for example, a service center for the national postal authorities.

Advantageously, other functions are in the Chip card 10 by the current from the clock module 9 delivered date stored in a retrievable manner. The information for the others to be loaded into the franking machine Functions is subject to a condition (date, time, Location).

In particular, security can be fraudulent Manipulations are increased in that the Update one associated with the update date Number of functions in the franking machine 1 are loadable and the further triggerable to be loaded Functions varied and not selectable are. For security against fraudulent manipulation can be from the national postal authority to which the respective The place of dispatch belongs, only from the respective one national postal authority machine-readable printout be given. For example, this expression the transaction number for an authorization check in Barcode representation or another agreed sign, which using the same or another printer at a defined Place is printed on the mail.

In addition, the input option 8 allows the input option for the place of dispatch, place of the mailbox or the responsible post office and / or the respective Postal authority and others therefore be provided for another Selection among those loaded into the franking machine Functions.

FIG. 11 shows a memory area with one Storage section associated with update date for the current and future postage fee table shown. Depending on the one sending country allocated memory area is at least one Postage fee table available. That enables the right one Setting the fees for each machine the information stored in the transmission medium. Any postage fee table applicable to a national postal authority is in zones for sending mail from the place of dispatch, i.e. the post office to which the person with franked mail assigned to the mailbox to be loaded is divided into the place of reception. The distances and / or assigned domestically or abroad Zones or the distance from the sending location to the receiving location can be determined as an additional function in one further memory areas A, B, C, ..., not shown stored for every country and from Control means will be the corresponding zone of the addressed the current table. After determining the The correct zone can be selected by the postal customer that of the franking machine manufacturer with the respective national post offices agreed services of Type of dispatch (letter, reply postcard, printed matter, Letterhead, parcel ...), the form of dispatch (Value specification, registered mail, personal delivery, Return receipt, cash on delivery, express delivery, airmail, Fast shipment, post-warehousing, ...), and additional Services (advance order) or similar imprints (Cliché, advertising ...). After Enter a weight amount and the type of shipment and the form of dispatch of the postal matter can automatically appropriate postage fee will be taken from the zones. There are no further memory areas in FIG. 11 represented future ones from the current further update date applicable postage fee tables for further, preferably for each of the national postal authorities. For each of the tables is from the tax resource in each case the date to be entered that appears on the postal item Date stamp with the update date for compare the entry into force of the table.

In Figures 12 and 13, those in the other Storage areas each saved a sending country A, B or location and / or assigned to a current date Additional function tables shown. Through the Enter the sending country A, B for each area a first selection among those in the franking machine loading functions manually or automatically and when commissioning the franking machine in it Storage medium loaded. The additional functions F1 (Fee for express deliveries from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.), F2 (Fee for express deliveries from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.), F3 (Fee for independent delivery) Fn (...) etc. are there for an agreed time of day or from national postal authority certain restricted Duration valid (Figure 12).

Figure 6 relates to a table for a number of to be transferred to the franking machine and then freely selectable additional functions. As a rule, will the post when a franking machine is in stationary operation picked up. It can also be attaching an in-house stationary mailbox agreed with the post office become. For the mobile use of a franking machine are other services of the postal authorities (Assignment of zip code and post office numbers to place names). The data for permanently open as receiving points for postal items Mailboxes in public places, ports, airports, Railway stations, traffic stations etc. Nodes in another updatable, not shown Directory listed are apt to be saved Access information or functions available after putting this data in a field for open acceptance points and the date manually can be entered. This is another one Storage area provided. Can be a number Functions are not selected due to location, can then send another location that has these functions allows to be determined.

It can also be agreed between the customer and the manufacturer be certain additional information to others Place to print on the mail, especially calendar Information and temporary advertising messages. For example, an organizer for a Advertise fair. This information to be printed appears automatically in the printed image according to the previous programming. Another can also do this Storage area may be provided.

Figure 13 relates to a table for the due to a Condition to be transferred to the franking machine firmly agreed additional functions. The one additional Serve additional functions that cause labeling for example for the security of the detection of a pre-dating for future mail, i.e. Post the in advance is franked. Such functions are from Franking machine manufacturer agreed with the postal authority and are determined by the time of delivery of the Post defined at the place of dispatch.

By entering a field for the task location, location the mailbox, especially the postcode (zip code) or for the number of the responsible post office further selection among those in the franking machine loading functions automatically and when commissioning the franking machine into its storage medium loaded (Figure 6) or (Figure 13).

In a further variant - shown in FIG. 14 the solution according to the invention are cellular Communication networks, especially Groupe Speciale Mobile networks (GSM networks) are used as transmission media. Such GSM networks have a radio switching system (SSS) with transitions on the one hand to other radio or Fixed networks (NETZ), in particular (PSTN, ISDN, PDN), and on the other hand to the mobile subscribers (FM) a radio base station system (BSS). There is one in the BSS Transcoder unit (TCE) with several BSS control devices (BCE) to which the respective sending / receiving stations (BTS) are connected. Operations and maintenance centers of the Radio switching system (OMC / SSS) or such operating and maintenance centers (OMC / BSS) of the base station radio system (BSS) or the associated control device (BCE) with a storage means 300, 301 or 302 equipped which memory sections for the retrievable published postage and not secret additional function tables and for others Has service and additional information.

Entering the sending country or place and the country or local time can be used for portable franking machines when mobile radio (D network) is used, preferably automatically respectively.

An information field for - shown in FIG Date, place of dispatch, weight, format, postage and further usual information as well as for that of the respective national postal authority approved additional functions can in the display means 4 or 400 of the respective Franking machine 1 and 100 are shown to a Selection of functions to make. Not shown are the information that can only be called up using a password, such as device number, transaction number, piece count, Registration amount, postage, billing list.

The invention is not based on the present embodiment limited, because obviously more other arrangements or designs of the transmission means and the receiving means developed or used can be made by the same basic idea of Invention based on the appended claims become.

Claims (15)

Method for entering data into a franking machine before triggering a selected printing function, with Loading data causing a change from a memory of a transmission means (10) into a memory area of the memory means (3) of the franking machine if a first transmission means (10) is provided at least within a time window after switching on and automatic change of the last status of non-volatile stored data contents in the franking machine for their adjustment by means of the loaded data. A method according to claim 1, characterized by the steps:
Loading data causing a change from a memory of a transmission means (10) into a memory area of the memory means (3) of the franking machine if a first transmission means (10) is provided at least within a time window after switching on and Loading further data stored in the memory of a further transmission means (13) before operating the franking machine for automatically entering a printing function or a number into a memory area of the storage means (3) of the franking machine, the aforementioned number being an accounting number for the user's cost center or the number is a printing function, as well automatic change of the last status of stored data contents in the franking machine for their adjustment by means of the loaded data. Arrangement for franking mail with a franking machine, which has first means for loading at least one table from a transmission means (10, 13, GSM) into a predetermined memory space of a storage means of the franking machine, the first means at the time the franking machine is switched on ( 1) and in accordance with at least two non-volatile conditions stored in the franking machine, namely country of dispatch and date, field name and country of dispatch or field name and date, the associated table data or information which is stored in tables in the memory of the transmission medium and which can also be called up subject to these conditions , load into the predetermined storage space of the storage means (3) of the franking machine (1), and
that the franking machine (1) has second means in the control module (5) that select the current table and / or information available for the function of the franking machine (1) based on the further conditions, the further conditions include the time, password and / or other identifiers and are specified by third means and that the third means include storage, display and input means (3 and 8) and a clock module (9). Arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that in the transmission means (10) at least one postage fee table is available that the franking machine (1) in the control module (5) has means that at least when commissioning the franking machine (1) a postage fee table for the franking machine the transmission means (10) via the receiving means (2, 6), in a predetermined storage space of the storage means (3) load and that the franking machine further Has means in the control module (5), which means (3, 4, 8, 9, 11) based on the country of dispatch entered or - place and the date the current one in force Select the postage fee table based on which the respective postage fee is determined. Arrangement according to claims 3 and 4, characterized characterized in that the transmission means is a chip card (10) and which in their storage means (12) at least one callable area (A) for each Defined update date data for the entry into force the respective assigned postage fee table and that each area (A, B, ...) for at least one Postage fee table is designed. Arrangement according to claims 3 and 4, characterized characterized in that the transmission means a cellular communication network (GSM) is and that Storage means (300) of the cellular communication network are equipped with storage sections and that the entry of the sending country or sending place and the information associated with the country or local time via receiving means (200) with mobile radio switched on preferably automatically into the storage space of the franking arrangement he follows. Arrangement according to claims 3 to 6, characterized characterized in that the storage means (12, 300) of the Transmission means with memory sections for the retrievable postage fee and additional function tables and is equipped for additional information, via the receiving means (2, 200) in the Franking arrangement are loadable and that an input of the Country of dispatch or place of dispatch and the country or Local time with the device switched on via the Input means (8) takes place. Arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that the means (9) is a battery-powered watch module for supplying the franking machine (1) via a BUS with time and date data. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 3 to 8, characterized in that the means (3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11) means (22, 8) are assigned for a Weight entry and entry of the type of shipment and the Shipment form for each zone in the franking arrangement loadable postage fee table and that this Means an input via the input means (8) and / or a partially or fully automatic entry via allow the means (22) to determine the postage fee to be able to. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 3 to 9, characterized in that in the transmission means (10) such additional functions are stored, for a limited period of time and / or for a specific period Country or a specific place from a predetermined one Date are valid and in the franking arrangement are loadable, whereby from the loaded number of Additional functions a part through the input means (8) is freely selectable, while another cannot be manipulated Part is provided for security purposes. Arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that the franking arrangement is a portable franking machine is. Arrangement according to claim 11, characterized in that the franking arrangement has a programmable Includes clock module (9), due to a defined actual or future location delivers the respective local time. Arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that the means (3, 4, 5, 8, 22) a balance, preferably an integrated in the franking machine Weighing module is assigned. Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that another chip card for use as a debit card with validity for the European Community is running. Arrangement according to claim 10, characterized in that functions associated with the update date are loadable, one from the respective national Post authority default machine readable imprint in the postage meter as a the update date assigned function is loadable.

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