Abstract: A microprocessor based decoder module for television video signals which have been encoded by suppressing sync pulses and/or inverting picture video. The decoder modules generates sync restoration gates and/or video inversion gates developed from timing signals present in the VBI of the encoded video signal. The VBI timing signals may be either sync pulses which are not suppressed during the VBI, or special timing signals inserted at the video encoder. The microprocessor, in the decoder module, may contain externally selectable program segments where each segment will allow decoding of a different variety of video encoding.

Abstract: A simplified data entry system, particularly for a lawn sprinkler timer, employing three data entry push buttons cooperative with a multiple position mode switch having manual selector controls operable to present various program modes or segments and associated display legends, one by one, to a data display and entry station; the mode switch positively restricting data entry to the particular requirements of the mode indexed to the entry station and limiting input thereto in accordance with its program requirements; such input data being supplied by push button depressions, which cooperate with a micro-computer to advance digits in a multi-digit display.

Abstract: A means for decoding a generally constant frequency sine wave scrambled television signal uses an automatic gain control circuit in a closed loop. The scrambling, applied at the head end of the television system, applies a greater scrambling level to the audio carrier than it does to the video carrier. The unscrambling signal, the detected audio carrier scrambling signal, is combined with the scrambled signal in an amplifier circuit, the output of which is a basic television signal. There is a residual of the scrambling sine wave remaining in the audio carrier output after unscrambling, but little or no residual scrambling remaining on the video carrier. The residual audio carrier scrambling signal is detected and amplified for application as the unscrambling signal.