Abstract: A system for scrambling a video signal that includes a vertical blanking interval of equalizing pulses spaced at half line intervals followed by serrations which are, in turn, followed by equalizing pulses spaced at half-line intervals and thereafter by horizontal pulses spaced from each other at intervals of two half-lines each. The scrambling includes (a) providing an unsuppressed interval in each field which extends through the first horizontal sync pulse preceded by a two half-line space and (b) suppressing horizontal sync pulses occurring after the first horizontal sync pulse preceded by a two half-line space.

Abstract: A video multiplexing communications system for distributing two distinct video programs via a single satellite channel utilizes time division principles, transmitting alternating lines of video information for the two programs by a single frequency modulated carrier to increase FM carrier-to-noise, thereby also maintaining each video program signal-to-noise ratio above FM detection threshold. The alternating lines are compacted in time and occupy a substantial portion of the synchronizing pulse period of the video lines; one line is partially repeated to reduce spurious system transient responses upon inter-program line switching; and amplitude expansion/reduction may be employed to maintain a large FM carrier deviation.

Abstract: A television communications system enhances the video signal-to-noise ratio by delaying video intelligence over an interval (as by loading the video into a store therefor), while obtaining a measure of its average value and dynamic range. At the transmitter, the video is then read out from memory, has its average value diluted and is amplified before transmission to approach the channel amplitude capacity.At the receiver, the communicated average value and dynamic range signals are utilized to restore the average value to the received wave--and to appropriately reduce its relative amplitude. The concomitant channel amplitude reduction, with offsetting amplitude enhancement at the transmitter, improves the composite channel transmission ratio.

Abstract: An automotive ignition system utilized multiple sparks for each cylinder ignition to ensure complete burning of the fuel mixture therein. To this end, a plurality of control signals are produced each time the engine breaker points or other timing apparatus signals that a chamber is conditioned for combustion. Successive control signals during each combustion cycle build up and collapse a magnetic field in the primary winding of the ignition coil to thereby generate the requisite multiple sparking. The resultant complete burning of the fuel mixture in each cylinder results in increased gas mileage, reduced air pollution, and improved and continued high level engine performance, notwithstanding degradation in ignition system elements.

Abstract: A one-way cable communications system -- as for a lodging facility, distributes commercial and supplementary video programming from common equipment to spaced subscriber stations located, for example, in each hotel-motel room. Heterodyne converter apparatus is included at each station for viewing the supplementary programming on a standard television receiver.The system includes common address and command transmitting, and room terminal receiving equipment to control the video reception mode for the several room terminals.