Apparatus and method for distribution of high quality image and audio programs to remote locations

A provision for the distribution of digitized information of images and audio to projection locations, particularly of very high quality visual or audio programming material from one or more central hubs (102) to one or more presentation locations (56, 104) , such as rooms that use high-speed data links, such as satellites (106). In the central hub (102), a source generating system (108) generates an electronic program signal from an analog signal, a compression / encryption system (110) encodes and encrypts digitally the electronic signal, and a modulation system / transmission (114) processes the signal for transmission via satellite (106). A network administration (112) in the central hub (102) controls the operation of the hub. In the room (56) or in another location, a receiver / demodulator (120) receives the programming signal transmitted with the use of the satellite (106). A room management system (122) then controls the storage, routing, decryption and display of the received programming material. Storage arrangements (124A-124N) in the lasala system (104A-1 04N) provide centralized storage of programming material. The programming material is routed through a local area network to the designated auditoriums, several of which can operate within a room system (104A-104N). Devices are also proposed so that in each auditorium, the programming material is decompressed and decrypted for the exhibition with the use of electronic projection equipment (132A) and standard sound systems (134A); and a method for distributing said digitized information that uses said provision.