A method, a system and a device for data communication between a sender and
a plurality of recipients are provided to be used for interactive
multimedia systems such as interactive television game shows. First, the
sender transmits over a data network a first message. The first message
causes a response message returned by one of the plurality of recipients
to be delayed for a random period of time. Then, the sender broadcasts a
second message asking the plurality of recipients for a response message.
After having received the second message, each recipient initiates a
response message. The response message is delayed for a random delay time.
Thereafter, the response message is transmitted to the sender over the
data network. Finally, the sender waits for a second period of time for
response messages to arrive at the return address. A major advantage of
the invention is a reduction of a peak load caused by the recipients'
response messages.
