This disclosure relates to a good processing apparatus with a first communication module. The first communication module is connected to a controller. The good processing apparatus is designed to accommodate at least one second communication module. The controller is designed to determine whether the second communication module is ready for operation.

A system for printing an imprint on a flat material includes a cartridge holding a consumable (e.g. ink) and at least one material processing device (MPD) (e.g. franking machine) having a printer and a data processor connected to the printer to control use of the cartridge to produce the imprint. The MPD is configured to detect insertion of the cartridge into the printer and generate current consumption information representing the use of the cartridge by the printer since insertion. The cartridge can include a first non-volatile memory that (unchangeably) stores a unique cartridge identification of the cartridge. The data processor is configured to: cause, based on a predeterminable usage-relevant event occurring, a current use-information, generated based on the current consumption information logically linked to the cartridge identification, to be stored in a second memory, and write to an irreversibly writable memory area of the first memory when the event occurs.

Systems and methods are provided for address verification support. One embodiment includes a print server. The print server includes an interface that receives a print job comprising multiple mail pieces which each include an address of record from a client, and a controller that processes the print job according to a first workflow of the print server accessible by a first set of operators, detects address anomalies within the mail pieces by accessing an address verification system of a delivery entity, generates a second workflow that is for handling a mail piece having an address anomaly and is accessible only by a second set of operators distinct from the first set of operators, and confirms that the address of record for the mail piece in the second workflow has been updated based on input from the second set of operators.

Computerized apparatus and methods useful for causing provision of location-based services to users via a user portable wireless computerized device or other device. In one embodiment, the user device establishes a secure communication session with a network server (e.g., proxy process for a service coordinator or provider) to provide user-specific location-based services such as a time-limited rental of a tangible object or space. In one variant, dynamic generation of a response to the user included providing image data relating to provision of the user-specific location-based service, the image data enabling the user to authenticate at least one aspect of the provision of the user-specific location-based service by the third party service provider.

Apparatus and methods for tracking or otherwise accounting for chattel (e.g., personal property such as keys, pocket knives, and the like) at a point of departure such as an airport, bus station, train station, etc., or areas where people congregate (e.g., sporting events, concerts, etc.). In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a kiosk adapted for use near a security checkpoint, wherein passengers or patrons can efficiently deposit their items for shipment to their home, travel destination, or third party.

Various embodiments comprise systems, methods, architectures, mechanisms and apparatus providing improved National Security and Emergency Preparedness (NS/EP) Priority Services mechanisms within the context of IEEE 802.11-type networks.

A limited-function computing device is provided that allows a user to print postage indicia or other value-bearing items on demand, without requiring the user to log in to or otherwise access specialized software executing on a general-purpose computer.

Computerized apparatus and methods useful for causing provision of location-based services to users via a user portable wireless computerized device or other device. In one embodiment, the user device establishes a secure communication session with a network server (e.g., proxy process for a service coordinator or provider) to provide user-specific location-based services such as a time-limited rental of a tangible object or space. In one variant, dynamic generation of a response to the user included providing image data relating to provision of the user-specific location-based service, the image data enabling the user to authenticate at least one aspect of the provision of the user-specific location-based service by the third party service provider.

Computerized apparatus and methods useful for authentication and/or handling and tracking of users and objects such as e.g., items being shipped or baggage associated with a user during travel. In one embodiment, a computerized apparatus located at a departure location (e.g., a kiosk) includes digital imaging and scanning apparatus to enable biometric user authentication, imaging of chattel associated with the user, as well as networked access to a computerized travel reservation system, so as to enable authentication of the user (and/or the item being shipped) as well as other aspects of the shipment transaction. The kiosk may further enable computerized control and operation of an item shipment receptable so as to allow or deny access based on the authentication processing.

Computerized apparatus useful within vehicles for causing provision of location-based services to users via a portable wireless computerized device. In one embodiment, the vehicle comprises a global positioning system (GPS) based receiver capable of providing location data to the computerized apparatus.