A vending machine for vending computer software and electronic data into a
user's portable device and for providing in one embodiment, travel
information, maps etc. either as data or as a printout. The machine has a
display to show items available and a keyboard for entering the user's
requests. A central unit directs operation of various parts of the
apparatus. Connectors for different devices, such as ebook, PDA, and smart
cards are provided.