A method and system for decoding and storing encoded coupon data delivered
via the horizontal overscan area of a video signal. An electronic coupon
displays representations of coupons defined by coupon data that can be
extracted from an encoded video signal that can be broadcast or
played-back from video tape. The electronic coupon is equipped with a
non-volatile memory that permits the coupon data to be stored for display
subsequent to the transmission session (e.g., a televised program). The
electronic coupon has a set-up mode which allows a user to pre-select
types of coupons that the user would like to receive. Coupon data
satisfying the user's selections will be stored in the electronic coupon,
while coupon data not satisfying the user's selections will not be
stored. A decoder extracts the coupon data from an encoded video signal
and transmits the coupon data to the electronic coupon via a receiver of
electronic contacts. Advantageously, the coupon data can be transmitted
to the electronic coupon during television commercials.