Abstract: A universal multimedia access apparatus for accessing any of a plurality of multimedia applications provided by a multimedia network. The universal multimedia access apparatus accesses a predetermined one of the plurality of multimedia applications using an application-specific module interfaced thereto, the application-specific module being selected from a plurality of application-specific modules. The universal multimedia access apparatus comprises a transceiver and a processing unit. The transceiver communicates multimedia information between the multimedia network and the application-specific module, and communicates with the multimedia network in any one of a plurality of communication modes.

Abstract: A wide-angle lens produces a distorted wide-angle optical image. An imaging sensor, having a surface in optical communication with the wide-angle lens, converts the wide-angle optical image into a corresponding output signal. The imaging sensor includes a plurality of imaging elements. The plurality of imaging elements have a distribution on the surface of the sensor that is representable by a nonlinear function, wherein the distribution of the imaging elements corrects the distortion in the wide-angle image.

Abstract: This microphone includes a microphone element, speaker and antenna all internal to the microphone housing. These components are carried by a chassis that is fastened to the microphone body at its lower end which also provides the effective attachment point for the microphone cable. The speaker is mounted in the chassis at an angle having its face slight upwardly incline to project sound towards the top of the microphone. An antenna element includes walls on either side of the speaker for reflecting sound upwardly. The antenna element has apertures in its top portion to allow for the passage of sound therethrough. The microphone element is also in a position for picking up sound through the top of the microphone.

Abstract: A whip antenna assembly of conductive cable, conductive base section, conductive protection knob and a environmental cover. The conductive antenna cable is constructed of multiple layers of brass plated stainless steel wire wound in a helix about a single wire strand which serves as a central core. The conductive base section and conductive protection knob consist of a zinc alloy and are injection cast onto opposite ends of the conductive antenna cable. An environmental cover made from polyurethane is injection molded over the subassembly of conductive antenna cable, conductive base section and conductive protection knob.