Viewdata is a Videotex implementation. It is a type of information retrieval service in which a subscriber can access a remote database via a common carrier channel, request data and receive requested data on a video display over a separate channel. Samuel Fedida was credited as inventor of the system. The access, request and reception are usually via common carrier broadcast channels. This is in contrast with teletext.

Viewdata is still in use today in the United Kingdom, mainly by the travel industry. Travel agents use it to look up the price and availability of package holidays and flights. Once they find what the customer is looking for they can place a booking.

The travel industry is trying to move away from Viewdata to a Web based standard. There are a number of factors holding up a move to the Web. Travel consultants have been trained to use Viewdata, they would need training to book holidays on the Internet and the tour operators can't agree on a Web based standard.

Our Viewdata Machine is tha OEL PGU Viewdata Adaptor model SC (simple code) and has a serial number of 1557 and is pristine condition in its original packaging. Very kindly dfonated by Netherhall School, Cambridge