In a program information broadcasting system, it is aimed to minimize time
for retrieval of program by viewers in operating an electronic program
guide or time for waiting when applying for subscription. As a program
information broadcasting system, program elements constituting a
broadcasting program are divided into a plurality of items and are turned
to data at a center, and a master data 21 of a program information to
recognize the program is prepared. From the data constituting the master
data, minimal necessary items for preparation of a program table are
extracted, and a program basic information 22 is prepared. Said master
data and said program basic information are transmitted simultaneously
with the broadcasting, and said program basic information is received,
reproduced and displayed before receiving of the master data at a
receiving terminal unit 31 is completed. As a result, the program basic
information having far less amount of data than the master data can be
incorporated, and it is possible to minimize the time required for
storage of the data in memory of the receiving terminal unit.