A central monitoring station is linked to a plurality of remote terminals,
such as payment terminals at a plurality of parking facilities. The
central monitoring station and each remote terminal includes a two-way
communication system in the form of a video camera and display, and audio
speaker and microphone. The station and remote terminals are preferably
linked through an Ethernet or Internet connection, although a hard-wired
connection is also contemplated. The two-way communication system can be
used by a customer at the remote terminal to achieve direct human
interaction with an attendant at the remote central station to address
problems occurring at the terminal. The communication system can also
allow the attendant to manipulate the processor of each remote terminal
to collect data, troubleshoot or override the function of the terminal.