Abstract: A scalable architecture is disclosed for delivery of real-time information over a communications network. Embedded into the architecture is a control mechanism that provides for the management and administration of users who are to receive the real-time information. In the preferred embodiment, the information being delivered is high-quality audio. However, it could also be video, graphics, text or any other type of information that can be transmitted over a digital network. Preferably, there are multiple channels of information available simultaneously to be delivered to users, each channel consisting of an independent stream of information. A user chooses to tune in or tune out a particular channel, but does not choose the time at which the channel distributes its information.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 6, 1998
Date of Patent:
November 9, 1999
Assignee:
Netcast Communications Corp.
Inventors:
Antonio M Monteiro, James F Butterworth
Abstract: A scalable architecture is disclosed for delivery of real-time information over a communications network. Embedded into the architecture is a control mechanism that provides for the management and administration of users who are to receive the real-time information. In the preferred embodiment, the information being delivered is high-quality audio. However, it could also be video, graphics, text or any other type of information that can be transmitted over a digital network. Preferably, there are multiple channels of information available simultaneously to be delivered to users, each channel consisting of an independent stream of information. A user chooses to tune in or tune out a particular channel, but does not choose the time at which the channel distributes its information.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 9, 1996
Date of Patent:
July 7, 1998
Assignee:
Netcast Communications Corp.
Inventors:
Antonio M. Monteiro, James F. Butterworth