Abstract: A satellite reception assembly that provides satellite television and/or radio service to a customer premises may comprise a wireless interface via which it can communicate with other satellite reception assemblies. Wireless connections between satellite reception assemblies may be utilized for providing satellite content between different satellite customer premises. Wireless connections between satellite reception assemblies may be utilized for offloading traffic from other network connections.

Abstract: A mobile radio receiver for a vehicle includes a tuner front-end section, a location data port for receiving tuner location data, a sensor port for receiving sensor signal measurement data from at least one vehicle sensor, a tuner front-end section parameter server port for sending the tuner location data, the sensor signal measurement data for receiving a set of tuner front-end section parameter data, and a data processing unit. The data processing unit is operably connected to the tuner front-end section, the location data port, the sensor port, and the tuner front-end section parameter server port. The mobile radio receiver provides an operational mode, a checking mode, a tuner parameter retrieval mode, and a tuner parameter application mode.

Abstract: A satellite communication system using hierarchical modulation to transmit a plurality of modulated signals to sub-regions within a region. Each modulated signal includes high priority content and low priority content. The system includes a satellite equipped with a plurality of satellite transmitters coupled to a plurality of antenna elements, e.g. a phased array of antenna elements. The antenna elements are utilized selectively to direct a modulated signal from a satellite transmitter to a distinct sub-region. The satellite transmitters and antenna also cooperate to broadcast the high-priority content to the region such that a ground receiver traveling from a first sub-region to an adjacent second sub-region adjacent will not experience a loss of high-priority content. First low-priority content of a first modulated signal directed to the first sub-region is independent of second low-priority content of a second modulated signal directed to the second sub-region.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, system, and computer program product for auto-installing an integrated receiver/decoder (IRD) includes issuing an auto-installation command from the IRD to an outdoor unit (ODU) and receiving a plurality of tones from the ODU in response to the auto-installation command, each tone representing a center frequency of available user bands (UBs). The auto-installation also includes acquiring a UB center frequency by the IRD, requesting the ODU to confirm a UB number corresponding to the acquired UB center frequency, and receiving confirmation from the ODU that a UB number corresponds to the acquired UB center frequency. The auto-installation also includes sending an acceptance of the assigned UB number from the IRD to signal the ODU that it may mark the assigned UB as assigned.

Abstract: A method and system for achieving a link budget improvement in a diverse OFDM radio system by addressing the timing misalignment issue that can occur due to the differences in propagation time in signals between mobile stations and Radio Access Nodes. Timing misalignment is shared or split between the primary path to a primary Radio Access Node and a diverse path to a diverse Radio Access Node. The relative timing offsets between mobile stations are adjusted, the mobile stations are grouped into zones using a variety of different grouping techniques, and the transmission for each mobile station is scheduled, using one or more of a variety of scheduling techniques.

Abstract: A method and system of collecting local television signals includes a local collection facility a plurality of primary receiver circuit modules comprising a first receiver circuit module. The first receiver circuit module receives and demodulates the first channel signal and forms an IP signal. A remote facility is spaced apart from the local collection facility and communicates with the local collection facility through an IP backhaul. A primary decoder within the remote facility is in communication with the IP backhaul and forms a decoded signal from the IP signal. A primary encoder within the remote facility in communication with the primary decoder forms a first encoded signal from the decoded signal. A multiplexer in the remote facility multiplexes the first encoded signal into a multiplexed signal. The multiplexed signal may provide an output signal used for uplinking or other type of distribution.

Abstract: A satellite reception assembly may receive signals on a block of frequencies that encompasses channels of one or more wireless networks. The satellite reception assembly may convey information about signals received on the block of frequencies to a centralized location which may utilize the information to determine characteristics, such as coverage area and/or usage, of the wireless network(s). Additionally or alternatively, such information from a plurality of satellite reception assemblies may be aggregated and made available to third parties which may use the aggregate information, in combination with knowledge about the wireless network(s), to determine characteristics of the wireless network(s).

Abstract: According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a method for the detection of broadcast programming, the method comprising acts of receiving audio signals from a user over a communication network, receiving audio signals from a plurality of broadcast channels over the communication network, comparing, by a processor, the audio signals from the user with the audio signals from the plurality of broadcast channels, determining by the processor, in response to the act of comparing, that the audio signals from the user match the audio signals from at least one of the plurality of broadcast channels, identifying by the processor, in response to the act of determining, the at least one of the plurality of broadcast channels, and transmitting by the processor, in response to the act of identifying, information related to the at least one of the plurality of broadcast channels to the user.

Abstract: According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a method for awarding incentives, the method comprising receiving, via a first interface of a server, audio signals from a user over a communication network, receiving, via a second interface of the server, audio signals from a plurality of broadcast channels over the communication network, comparing, by a processor in the server, the audio signals received from the user and the audio signals received from the plurality of broadcast channels, determining, by the processor, based on the act of comparing, that the audio signals from the user correspond to a program currently being broadcast on one of the plurality of broadcast channels, and in response to the act of determining, automatically awarding, by the processor, the user at least one incentive.

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus and method which can be used to receive broadcast digital data. The apparatus and method are provided at one or more receiving locations and is connected to one or more broadcast data receivers at each location. The apparatus is capable of receiving and processing data in linear and/or circular polarity formats and the operating condition of the same can be altered in response to a command signal broadcast to the receiving locations prior to the transmission of data in a new format such as to the change in the operating condition of the apparatus to receive and process linear as well as the previously broadcast circular polarity format data.

Abstract: An end user can sample a radio or television broadcast, generate a user representation of the broadcast sample, and send the user representation to a comparison system, which also receives known representations of content broadcast by multiple different stations. The known representations are stored in a continuous fashion, and represent actually broadcast content. The comparison system identifies the source of the broadcast sample by comparing the user representation to the known representations associated with each of the different stations. By comparing two representations of content that was actually broadcast, a broadcast source can be identified without requiring the use of watermarks, timestamps, or a database of discreet content items.

Abstract: Secured broadband devices and methods for providing broadband communication are provided. A broadband device may include a housing, at least one broadband component, and a securing mechanism. The at least one broadband component may be situated within the housing and configured to receive a broadband signal. Additionally, the at least one broadband component may be configured to output at least a portion of the broadband signal for receipt by one or more external devices. The securing mechanism configured to secure the housing to an electrical outlet.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for improving initialization and synchronization of display devices to audio data. Current implementations to retain synchronization between a transmitter and a display use “Keep Alive” silent audio data stream in the format of the latest data stream on an interface between the transmitter and the display even when no data is available. Implementing the above solution in a system where the silent audio data stream is transmitted over a wireless link is bandwidth and power inefficient. The techniques provide an apparatus and method to efficiently generate and transmit silent audio data stream for maintaining synchronization.

Abstract: One or more circuits of a satellite reception assembly may be operable to receive a satellite signal, recover content carried in the satellite signal, and broadcast a signal carrying the content for reception by one or more mobile devices. The satellite reception assembly may be mounted to the residence of a satellite subscriber. The signal carrying the content may be frequency locked to a reference signal that is available to the satellite reception assembly and to one or more other satellite reception assemblies. The reference signal may be a GNSS signal. The one or more circuits may communicate with the one or more mobile devices to provide a key to the one or more mobile devices, where the key is required for descrambling and/or decryption of the content carried in said signal.

Abstract: A mobile device running a mobile application accesses a remote content receiver to request the remote content receiver to retrieve a particular recording timer, and upon receiving the recording timer from the remote content receiver, establishes a radio communication link with a second mobile device and transfers the recording timer to the second mobile device over the established radio communication link. The radio communication link is preferably the Near Field Communication (NFC) link.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are presented to allow one receiver architecture to be used for the reception of two different SDARS signals. Common receiver functions can be utilized to process each signal, thereby obviating the need to duplicate hardware elements. For example, it can be assumed that both signals will not be received at the same time, thus allowing for considerable hardware reuse and lowering the cost of an interoperable receiver.

Abstract: A display apparatus and a method of searching for a channel in the display apparatus includes a plurality of tuners and a plurality of antenna ports respectively connected to the plurality of tuners. The method includes receiving a channel search command; if the channel search command is input, searching for one of the plurality of antenna ports that is connected to a satellite antenna to receive a broadcasting signal, if one of the plurality of antenna ports is connected to the satellite antenna to receive the broadcasting signal, setting one of the plurality of tuners connected to the one antenna port, to a main tuner, and performing a channel search through the tuner set to the main tuner. Therefore, although an antenna port connected to one of the plurality of tuners initially set to a sub tuner, the display apparatus performs a channel search through the corresponding tuner.

Abstract: A system and method for automated activation of a radio, or content receiver, used to receive subscription radio services such as XM or Sirius radio. A wireless communications device with a short range data link wirelessly communicates with the content receiver to control the content receiver and receive a unique identification code from the content receiver. The wireless communications device also has its own unique identification code. The wireless communications device transmits an activation request message over a long range wireless communications link to a control station. The activation request message contains the receivers unique identification code and the communications device's own unique identification code. The control station maintains a database of valid identification codes that is used to authenticate the request. If the control station receives a valid request, an activation signal is sent to the receiver to allow operation of the receiver.

Abstract: A method, a base station, a Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) Coordination Entity (MCE), and a system for transmitting messages are provided. The method includes the steps of: defining a transmission order for different services in a service area; defining an arranging order of different messages in the same Transport Block (TB); generating and transmitting first messages carrying the transmission order for different services and the arranging order of different messages so as to synchronize contents of the first message TBs. According to the above technical solutions, the content synchronization of the MCCH RRC message TBs may be achieved.

Abstract: A device for receiving an Internet radio broadcast is provided. The device comprises a communication interface, at least one input control mounted on the device. a display, and at least one processor in communication with the communication interface, the at least one input control, and the display, and memory containing software executable by the at least one processor.

Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a system and method for acquiring signal received from satellite vehicles (SVs) in a satellite navigation system. In one example, although claimed subject matter is not so limited, information processed in acquiring a signal from a first SV may be used in acquiring a signal from a second SV.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an apparatus for protecting a satellite reception system from strong terrestrial signals. A high Q tunable trap is used to help reject strong ATSC signals or other signals that may be present on the input coaxial cable of a satellite receiver that operates in a single-wire multi-switch (SWM) environment.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system provide for efficient use of communication resources for providing broadcast services in a communication system. A receiver receives a first broadcast controller identification from a first base station, and a second broadcast controller identification from a second base station. A controller coupled to the receiver determines whether the first and second broadcast controller identifications are associated with use of a common set of broadcast parameters. A transmitter transmits a request for transmission of a new set of broadcast parameters when the first and second broadcast controller identifications are not associated with use of the common set of broadcast parameters. After receiving the new set of broadcast parameters, the receiver uses the new set of broadcast parameters for receiving broadcast services.

Abstract: A method and system for obtaining an available white space channel for wireless communication using a white space device (WSD) are described. The WSD scans signals of TV transmitters, determines the received signal strength (RSSI) for those signals, and records TV data, including TV designations and corresponding RSSIs, for signals that exceed a predetermined threshold. The WSD sends TV data for at least three TV transmitters to an enhanced TV white space database (EnTVDB). The EnTVDB uses the TV data and information in its database to determine the geo-coordinates of the WSD. The EnTVDB uses the geo-coordinates of the WSD to identify available white space. The EnTVDB sends at least one channel of available white space to the white space device for its wireless communication.

Abstract: A digital broadcasting system and a data processing method are disclosed. A receiving system of the digital broadcasting system includes a receiving unit, an SI handler, and a decoding unit. The receiving unit receives broadcast signals including mobile service data and main service data. Herein, the mobile service data may configure a data group, and the data group may include a signaling information region in some of a plurality of data regions. Also, the signaling information region may include TPC signaling data and FIC signaling data. The SI handler acquires channel configuration information of the mobile service data from the broadcast signal using pre-decided IP access information, and extracts encoding format information for each IP stream component within a corresponding virtual channel service RTP-packetized and received from the acquired channel configuration information.

Abstract: A satellite signal reception device can reliably execute a satellite signal reception process. The satellite signal reception device has a reception time setting unit 71 that sets a reception time; a timekeeping unit that keeps internal time; and a scheduled reception control unit 72 that executes a time-based reception process that operates the reception unit when the time kept by the timekeeping unit reaches the reception time. By having a scheduled reception control unit 72, the reception process can be executed when the internal time goes to the reception time set by the reception time setting unit 71. The reception process is therefore executed once a day. The satellite signal reception process can therefore be executed reliably without being affected by how the device is used, the season, weather, or other factors.

Abstract: A system provides GSM service over distributed mobile networks. A Network Area Controller (NAC) allows Global Titles (GT) and Mobile Station Roaming Numbers (MSRN) of the GSM network to be shared within a private GSM network. A processor within the Mobile Switching Center (MSC) of a mobile network transcodes voice data and maps the data to the proper bearer QoS to allow the use of Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) such as Iridium and Inmarsat.

Abstract: An Adaptive Polarization Array (APA) Algorithm is described for adjusting the polarization orientation of antennas, such as Dual-polarized array antennas. The APA Algorithm searches to find a polarization state that maximizes a signal quality of a received signal in the presence of interfering signals and noise. The search facilitates adjustment of a polarization state of, for example, receive antennas to maximize a signal quality metric. A proxy metric having no local maxima other than the global maximum is used to search the polarization search domain to find a best polarization state.

Abstract: A system and method for playing back digital satellite audio and video signals includes storing a file on a storage device associated with the satellite receiver 54. The file is communicated to a file playback device such as a mobile receiver 28 from the storage device. The file is played back using the mobile receiving device 28.

Abstract: A system and method for delivering content to a wireless station. An string broadcast station receives message content. The message content may, for example, be in the form of a coupon, an announcement, a menu, a news alert, directions and a link to additional content on a server. The string broadcast station parses the message content into one or more message parts. The message parts are transformed by the string broadcast station into one or more network information strings. The string broadcast station then broadcasts the one or more network information strings. A wireless station may receive the network information strings, determine the order in which the parts are to be assembled, and assemble the parts to obtain the message in its original form. A wireless station may also rebroadcast a message part for reception by other wireless stations.

Abstract: A system and method for broadcast response generally employing RDS, DARC, or similar technology is provided, including a method for responding to a broadcast comprising extracting an event identifier from a broadcast signal; detecting a response by a user to the broadcast signal; polling a communications device to determine a user identifier; and communicating the event identifier and the user identifier when the user response is detected.

Abstract: A fast and efficient automated satellite constellation detection process can be implemented at least in part independent of in-band data in the satellite signal. The automated detection process iterates through a set of various predefined transponder settings to detect one or more accessible satellite constellations through each satellite dish connected directly or through a switch to a satellite receiver. The process determines whether the satellite receiver is able to lock onto a satellite signal at each transponder setting. Based on the combinations of which satellite constellations are available at each transponder setting, the process allocates a specific satellite constellation to each satellite dish. In one implementation, channel information can be used to further refine the detection and identification of accessible satellite constellations for each satellite dish.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method of selecting spot beams to be actually used based on a traffic demand and a signal attenuation of each spot beam, and activating the selected spot beams in a satellite communication system having multiple spot beams. A control apparatus of a multi-spot beam satellite may include a beam selector to select, from among a plurality of spot beams, at least one spot beam to be assigned with a transmission resource, and an assignment resource determining unit to determine a transmission resource to be assigned to the selected at least one spot beam.

Abstract: There are provided a high frequency module and a receiver capable of exhausting an electric field and a magnetic field to the outside of a shield, more closely arranging electronic components inside the shield, and being downsized. The high frequency module has integrated circuits (IC) 112, 113 each incorporating an oscillator including an inductor, and a shield case 114 as a shield for covering the ICs 112, 113, and the shield case 114 as a shield is formed with openings 116A, 116B having a size equal to or more than half the shape size of the ICs 112, 113 in areas opposed to the arrangement positions of the ICs 112, 113.

Abstract: A method of processing broadcast data includes performing RS encoding and CRC encoding on mobile service data to generate an RS frame belonging to an ensemble including a signaling information table including access information of the mobile service data and identification information for identifying a stream where keys to decrypt the mobile service data are obtained, mapping a portion of data in the RS frame to a group including known data sequences, FIC data, and TPC data, wherein the FIC data includes information for rapid mobile service acquisition, and the TPC data includes FIC version information for indicating an update of the FIC data; and transmitting a broadcast signal including the group.

Abstract: An apparatus for wirelessly connecting a smartphone to a remote FM radio system, for controlling playback of audio content delivered wirelessly to the smartphone via a wide area network, on the remote FM radio system. An apparatus housing receives a DC power signal from a remote DC power source. A control panel has a display and controls for controlling playback of the audio content on the remote FM radio system, at least one of the controls performing a function in common with a playback control appearing on a display of the smartphone. An electronic subsystem communicates with the control panel and wirelessly receives audio content from the smartphone, and communicates the audio content as an FM signal via a user playback command input at the controls of the control panel, to the remote FM radio system.

Abstract: A method is capable of controlling signal transmission for multiple electronic devices in a system such as a satellite distribution system. According to an exemplary embodiment, the method includes steps of receiving a signal indicating a request from a device, changing an operating state of a signal source to be compatible with an operation of the device in response to the signal, and providing a signal path between the device and the signal source in response to the signal.

Abstract: A method, satellite and system utilizes non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) frequency spectrum in geostationary satellite orbit (GSO) satellite communication in a non-interfering manner. A ground station transmits signals to a GSO satellite using a GSO frequency band and an extended frequency spectrum including the NGSO frequency band whenever a noninterference situation exists, i.e., when an NGSO satellite is not in-line between the earth terminal and the GSO satellite or when the NGSO satellite is not utilizing the NGSO band of interest. A command module is provided to instruct the ground station to transmit signals to the GSO satellite using the GSO frequency band and the extended frequency spectrum.

Abstract: A mobile wireless system includes a transmitter such as a satellite that broadcasts wireless signals such as boundaries for wireless networks to a mobile receiving device. Mobile receiving device may include an antenna. A locating receiver is used to generate locating signals so that a determination may be made to the location of the mobile receiving device. Preauthorizations may be obtained to allow the mobile receiving device to communicate back to business controller to enable functions such as pay-per-view or on-demand, interactive television, gaming, and the like. The preauthorizations enable access to various wireless networks as the mobile receiving device moves.

Abstract: A radio receiver may comprise a receiver adaptable for receiving a plurality of broadcast streams over a plurality of broadcast channels, wherein the receiver will attempt to receive a selected broadcast stream on a selected broadcast channel, and if the selected broadcast stream is not receivable on the selected broadcast channel, the receiver will attempt to receive the selected broadcast stream on an alternative broadcast channel. A computer readable medium may allow a user of a receiver to create a composite stream comprising at least one portion selected from each of at least two of a plurality of broadcast streams. A method of open interface merge replication may involve comparing data between first and second databases, and if a conflict exists, updating one of the first and second databases with at least a portion of data from the other of the first and second databases to resolve the conflict.

Abstract: An outdoor satellite receiving unit (ODU) receives several independent satellite signals, selects two signals with a switch matrix, downconverts the two signals to a bandstacked signal with a high and a low band signal, and outputs the bandstacked signal on the same cable to receiver units. Several satellite signals can be selected in groups of two or more and output to independent receiver units. Signal selecting is performed at the received radio frequency (RF) and bandstacking is performed with a single downconversion step to an intermediate frequency (IF). Channel stacking on the same cable of more than two channels from several satellites can be achieved by using frequency agile downconverters and bandpass filters prior to combining at the IF output. A slow transitioning switch minimizes signal disturbances when switching and maintains input impedance at a constant value.

Abstract: A method of accessing a dedicated phone or Internet service at a remote location includes providing a system having a terminal, a phone, and a USB stick that is adapted to be used with a data-only communication device. The terminal has a phone jack that is coupled to a dedicated phone service line for use with the phone, a data jack that is coupled to a dedicated Internet service, and a connector that is adapted to receive a cable that is connected to a satellite dish for uplink and downlink communication with an orbiting satellite. Each of the phone and the USB stick are provided with an identification footprint that is unique to the terminal. The terminal is positioned at a first location. When the phone and/or the USB stick are moved to a remote location, voice and data signals corresponding to the dedicated phone service line and the dedicated Internet service can be communicated from the terminal to the phone and/or USB stick at the remote location via an antenna and the orbiting satellite.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for determining a position of a mobile satellite positioning system (SPS) receiver which is coupled to a communication receiver or transceiver. In one exemplary method, a change in a communication signal received by the communication receiver is determined. A parameter, based on the change, is determined, and SPS signals from SPS satellites are processed according to the parameter. According to further details of this method, the change involves the fluctuation of the level of the communication signal and the parameter is a motion information which specifies a frequency range for searching for SPS signals in the process of acquiring the SPS signals from SPS satellites. In an alternative embodiment the change in the communication signal is a change in the transmitted signal in response to power control commands. Apparatuses, such as a mobile communication system which includes an SPS receiver and a communication receiver, are also described.

Abstract: A system and method for performing automatic uplink power control (AUPC), using interference cancellation, to compensate for signal attenuation in a satellite communication system in which uplink path attenuation, forward channel attenuation, or both are estimated at a hub station without requiring signal quality reports from a remote station, and without requiring a satellite beacon. Estimates of uplink path attenuation or forward channel attenuation are used by the hub station to control the output power of a transmitted signal, thereby compensating for the estimated attenuation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic positioning antenna system for receiving multiple satellite signals and a method for tracking satellites to track positions of satellites through a satellite tracking LNB installed separately from a broadcast LNB, recognize the current position through information on tracked satellites and control an antenna to be oriented to the position of a target satellite to quickly receive satellite broadcast signals. The system includes an antenna unit having an antenna to which a broadcast LNB and a satellite tracking LNB receiving satellite signals for satellite tracking are connected, a switching unit for selecting the broadcast LNB or the satellite tracking LNB, a control unit for analyzing signals received through the satellite tracking LNB and controlling the antenna unit to be oriented to a target satellite using tracked satellite information; and a drive unit for moving the antenna unit under the control of the control unit.

Abstract: A unified system of programming communication. The system encompasses the prior art (television, radio, broadcast hardcopy, computer communications, etc.) and new user specific mass media. Within the unified system, parallel processing computer systems, each having an input (e.g., 77) controlling a plurality of computers (e.g., 205), generate and output user information at receiver stations. Under broadcast control, local computers (73, 205), combine user information selectively into prior art communications to exhibit personalized mass media programming at video monitors (202), speakers (263), printers (221), etc. At intermediate transmission stations (e.g., cable television stations), signals in network broadcasts and from local inputs (74, 77, 97, 98) cause control processors (71) and computers (73) to selectively automate connection and operation of receivers (53), recorder/players (76), computers (73), generators (82), strippers (81), etc.

Abstract: The various embodiments described herein generally provide apparatus, systems and methods which facilitate the transmission of data between a client device and a remote device over a wireless telephone network. More particularly, data from a client device is modulated into an audio signal and transmitted to a wireless telephone. The wireless telephone receives the audio signal and places a phone call to a remote device over a wireless telephone network. During the phone call, the wireless telephone transmits the audio signal across a voice channel of the wireless telephone network to the remote device. The remote device receives and decodes the audio signal to extract the transmitted data.

Abstract: A satellite receiver that is operable in a single cable system and that is configured to receiver satellite signals via an interface, comprises a controller configured to instruct the interface to perform a blind channel scan process over a predetermined frequency range to obtain measured spectrum signals and to change the predetermined frequency range until a desired frequency range has been measured. The satellite receiver further comprises a processing device configured to receive the measured spectrum signals, to process the measured spectrum signals to obtain a spectrum section and to concatenate the measured spectrum sections to obtain a spectrum.

Abstract: A band translation method and device for selecting two or more desired frequency bands of data and bandstacking the two or more desired frequency bands of data into a single output.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided to include a detector. The detector can detect that an interfering communications connection to a received satellite system signal in a mobile terminal is to be established by the mobile terminal. The apparatus include a processor that can prevent interference to the received satellite system signal due to the interfering communications connection by controlling uplink resource allocation of the mobile terminal based on the detection.