Abstract: According to the invention, a method for providing a stored program to a user for playback is disclosed. In one step, a program selection is received from the user. The stored program corresponding to the program selection is requested. The stored program is provided to the user whereby viewing may occur. It is determined if the user is authorized to view the stored program after the stored program is provided to the user whereby the user may view the stored program before authorization is determined.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention comprises a system for delivering video program content and promotional information to viewing devices at a user location. The system comprises a program distribution system adapted to provide video programs to one or more viewing devices at a user location. In addition the system comprises a viewing control system in communication with the program distribution system and the viewing devices. In one embodiment, the viewing control system is adapted to establish one or more viewing limits for video programs provided to a user during a time period, determining whether the user reaches the one or more viewing limits during the time period, and if the user reaches one or more of the viewing limits during the time period, provide promotional information to the user based on the viewing limit reached. In some embodiments, the video programs comprise programs selected from group including pay per view video on demand (VOD) programs, near VOD programs and subscription VOD.

Abstract: A system for controlling the viewing of programs at a user location having one or more viewing devices. The system comprises a viewing control system, which is adapted to count a number of viewings of a program during a time period, determine whether the number of viewings exceeds a viewing limit for the time period, and prevent further viewings of the program if the number of viewings exceeds the viewing limit for the time period.