Snap-on Inc.

Brian O'Sullivan

Steven W Rogers

George Michael Gill

Michael L Baird

Michael J Kling, Iii

Anthony Carroll

Brian McAuliffe

Joe Gibbs

Jean deBelleuille

A network-based method and system for distributing data, such as service data for various types of service processes and models, including software applications, specifications, user's manuals, or parameters, etc, over a data transmission network. A remote service provider maintains a database of the data. The database is updated frequently. The remote service provider maintains a website for authorized users to access the data. Authorized users can access and download desired data by connecting to the remote service provider via the data transmission network. Certain approaches are used to verify a user's identity. In one aspect, a combination of a product code that is specific to a system and a license/activation code that is generated based on the product code is verified. Unless a proper combination exists, the downloaded data cannot be properly accessed. The remote service provider also allows users to purchase a license to access the data online. Therefore, users can access the most updated data without waiting for CD-ROMs containing new software or specifications to arrive.

Network-based method and system for distributing data

Growing community of inventors

County Cork, Ireland

Brian O'Sullivan