Indeed the DRM is a lock, which is in the file and anchores the file to the buyer. In case of eBook, DRM is used to wrap the eBook, or is a part of the eBook. DRM prevents to open the file, except the device or the software has a valid key. Most DRM systems lock other limits to eBooks, like copying or printing.
The protection systems are not 100% safe. All of them can be hacked, only the resources are the question (think of Wikeleaks). A workbook with several pages should not be protected by an expensive system, but it can be worthy at a valuable book, especially if the users/readers can be in connection with each other (e.g. university students).
From
time DRM is removable/hackable, its most important advantage is to keep
honest people honest. There are people who think that copying and
sharing with friends an eBook bought is not a bad habit. Well, DRM
prevents this action in general. Indeed, buyer cannot do lawful things:
s/he cannot sell the used book, or if her/his device goes wrong,
generally s/he cannot transfer the eBook to another one. Usually it is
frustrating them, although the printed book can be dropped in water, can
be chewed by a dog, etc...
It was important for us to choose a system, which has a strong protection while it gives freedom for readers: s/he can use the eBook like a studybook: can take notes, can underline/highlight text, and can be read on any platform. Now there is only one system on the market, which is used by e-publishinghouse.com also: existing pdf file can be secured which can be read only with a personalized code on a special reader.
We are planning to introduce a less strong (and cheaper) system in the future, which can be used e.g. as a workbook.
e-publishinghouse's DRM system converts
e static document file (pdf) to a secured (256 bits encrypt), and binds
to a device via online registration, which can be opened by a special
reader on Android, iOS, Mac and Windows systems. The registration code
is unique, after registration the publication cannot be opened on
another device.
The following settings are available for authors/publishers:
After
opening the publication PrintScreen is disabled, and screen capture
applications cannot be used. While a screen capture application is
running, the publication cannot be opened.
• Publication can be opened within a period of time (between a start and an end date).
• Publication can expire after a certain time from the date of first opening.
• No limit.
On how many devices the publication can be opened with the unique code. (Default: one.)
• Disable
• Certain number of pages can be printed.
•
Number of copies can be made. (If printing is enabled, it should not be
limited, the first print can be copied in another way as well.)
Publisher/author can limit how many times reader can open the publication.
Publisher/author can place a one line watermark in the publication on the screen and/or in print. The watermark can include:
File name, device name, document ID, user's name, device ID, date, time, registration code.
In case of screen the watermark appears on the bottom of the screen, even the page is zoomed in.
In case of print the following parameter can be set
• size, opacity, color of fonts
• layout: horizontally, vertically, diagonally (in given angle),
• offset on page from left and top
Readers/users can download and install the software to open the secured and the pdf files. The functions are different on the different OS. Touch screen operations are not supported on Windows.
| Windows 7+ | Mac OS | iPad/iPhone | Android 4+ | |
| Note taking |  | | | |
| Highlighting text | only in Javelin3 | | | |
| Strikethrough, underline |  | | | |
| Drawing | | | | |
| Bookmark | | | | |
| Zoom | | | | |
| Download document | | | | |
