Abstract: A video transmission method includes obtaining a target video data segment, obtaining t reference data sets, encoding the target video data segment using each reference data set to obtain t encoded data blocks that are in a one-to-one correspondence with the t reference data sets, where any k encoded data blocks in the t encoded data blocks and k reference data sets that are in the t reference data sets and that are in a one-to-one correspondence with the any k encoded data blocks can construct an equation set matrix, and data of a solution matrix of the equation set matrix is data of the target video data segment, and sending t first reference data groups to a video decoding device using n front-end servers, where each first reference data group includes one encoded data block and a corresponding reference data set.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system for transcoding a media stream. The system comprises at least one network interface; at least one memory; and at least one processor each coupled to one or more of the at least one network interface and one or more of the at least one memory, the at least one processor configured to publish, via a messaging bus, a segment transcode request in a segment transcode request queue, retrieve the segment transcode request by a transcode worker thread, wherein the first transcode worker thread monitors the segment transcode request queue, transcode by a second transcode worker thread a segment referenced by the segment transcode request, determine by the manifest processor whether the second transcode worker thread has completed transcoding the segment and is still operating, and, if not, transcode the segment by a third transcode worker thread, and store the transcoded segment.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer-readable storage medium distribute a non-live content stream in a network. An initial meta-file is transmitted in response to a request for the content, which identifies a division of the content stream into blocks, and available sources for delivery of the blocks. The initial meta-file can identify a first multicast and a second multicast server, assigning a first and second portion of the blocks for delivery using the first and second multicast source server, respectively. The first and second portions are transmitted using the first and second multicast source servers, respectively. The first and second portions correspond to distinct non-overlapping portions of the non-live content stream. The initial meta-file can also identify a unicast source server, assigning a third portion of the blocks for delivery using the unicast source server, the third portion being transmitted by the unicast source server.

Abstract: Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a device that facilitates sharing, by a mobile phone user, content that the user has viewed on a television coupled to a media processor. A message is initiated via a messaging client of the mobile phone, and a video clip is obtained by the mobile phone from the media processor. Additional video content provided at the mobile phone is attached to the video clip. The format of the video clip is converted to enable presentation of the converted video clip at a recipient device; the converted video clip is transmitted to the recipient device via the messaging client. The media processor and the mobile phone form a natively integrated device, so that a video clip of the content can be produced and transmitted without installation of an application on the mobile phone.

Abstract: Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a device that facilitates sharing, by a mobile phone user, content that the user has viewed on a television coupled to a media processor. A message is initiated via a messaging client of the mobile phone, and a video clip is obtained by the mobile phone from the media processor. Additional video content provided at the mobile phone is attached to the video clip. The format of the video clip is converted to enable presentation of the converted video clip at a recipient device; the converted video clip is transmitted to the recipient device via the messaging client. The media processor and the mobile phone form a natively integrated device, so that a video clip of the content can be produced and transmitted without installation of an application on the mobile phone.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to create and transmit transport multiplexes comprising one or more levels of service over a network. In one embodiment, the level of service comprises high definition (HD) content or programs, and the transmitted multiplexes are distributed over a plurality of downstream RF carriers in a cable network simultaneously. A head-end architecture for performing the multiplexing and distribution of multiple HD programs over the multiple carriers (i.e., in a “wideband” configuration) is disclosed. CPE having one or more wideband tuners is also disclosed, the CPE being adapted to receive the multiplexed HD content from the various RF carriers, and demultiplex it in order to permit decoding and subsequent viewing by the user. The use of multiple HD source programs with the multiplex advantageously provides for enhanced statistical multiplexing by providing a larger “pool” of constituent inputs and available carriers.

Abstract: In a cable television system in accordance with the invention, program materials are made available to subscribers in a neighborhood on an as needed basis. Specifically, when a subscriber at a set-top terminal selects a program channel to watch, the selection request is transmitted to a headend of the system. In response to such a request, a controller in the headend determines whether the material of the selected program channel has been made available to the neighborhood. If it has been made available, the controller identifies to the set-top terminal the carrier which is carrying the requested program material, and to which the set-top terminal tunes to obtain the requested program material. Otherwise, the controller assigns an unused carrier to carry the requested program material, and informs the set-top terminal of the identity of the newly assigned carrier. The controller also retires those carriers assigned for the program channels which are no longer watched by the subscribers in the neighborhood.

Abstract: This disclosure includes techniques for signaling characteristics of a representation of multimedia content at a representation layer, such as frame packing arrangement information for the representation. In one example, an apparatus for receiving video data includes a processing unit configured to receive information indicative of whether a bitstream includes a packed frame of video data, wherein the packed frame comprises two frames corresponding to different views of a scene for three-dimensional playback, and wherein the information is present in a representation layer external to a codec layer of the bitstream, automatically determine whether the apparatus is capable of decoding and rendering the bitstream based on an analysis of the received information and decoding and rendering capabilities of the device, and retrieve the bitstream when the processing unit determines that the device is capable of decoding and rendering the bitstream.

Abstract: Methods and systems for accessing content are provided. A non-tunable device (e.g., a device without the capability to tune to a particular channel) can access a particular channel via a tunable device (e.g., a device with the capability to tune to the particular channel). A computing device can facilitate content tuning. In an aspect, the non-tunable device can transmit a request for content to the computing device. The request for content can comprise a title of the content, a type of content, channel information, and the like. Upon receiving the request for content, the computing device can determine the characteristics of the non-tunable device such as device type, device capabilities, location, and identify all the tunable devices capable of communicating with the non-tunable device. Entitlement information can be provided to the one or more tunable devices. The entitlement information can facilitate access to the requested content by the non-tunable device.

Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments for streaming content over a network. First content segments are generated such that the time durations of at least a subset of the first content segments progressively increase with respect to time. Second content segments are generated that are configured to be played subsequent to the first content segments. The second content segments have time durations that are substantially the same with respect to each other. The first content segments and the second content segments are transmitted to a client device.

Abstract: A broadcast retransmitting method, a broadcast retransmitting apparatus, a broadcast output apparatus, and a broadcast retransmitting system using the same are provided. The broadcast retransmitting method includes receiving a broadcast signal, detecting an available frequency band, retransmitting the received broadcast signal, and transmitting information regarding the broadcast signal.

Abstract: A system and process is provided in which original video or dialog content is securely received from the content owner. Subtitle language data is derived, translated, stored and served on a separate database for synchronous playback with the content in video streaming, downloading or online TV following the activation of an option by the end user through a media player.

Abstract: A system may send a request for video content to a server device; obtain, in response to the request, control information, associated with the video content, where the control information may include one or more digital versatile disc (DVD) features that correspond to one or more portions of the video content; and present the control information, for display, via a user interface, where presenting the control information for display may enable a user, of the video client device, to interact with the control information as though the video content was being played by a DVD player. The system may also receive selection of a DVD feature, of the one or more DVD features; and obtain, from the server device, a portion of the video content, of the one or more portions of the video content, that begins at a point that corresponds to the selected DVD feature.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus that addresses and resolves the issues currently affecting the ability to offer Enhanced TV, in particular, those issues concerning timing and synchronization, interaction with other modules in the STB, and distribution.

Abstract: A system supporting the remote management of options related to media consumption in a media exchange network. A system may comprise a set top box communicatively coupled to a television display and storage. The set top box may be used for the consumption of media via a communication network. In such a system, server software may enable the remote modification, via a communication network, of options related to the consumption of media by a user of the set top box. The media consumed may be one or more of digital audio, a digital still image, digital video, and digital data. Other aspects may be seen in a personal computer monitor and personal computer circuitry, communicatively coupled to a storage and a communication network. A system may also enable the modification of TV viewing options via a telephone voice response system.

Abstract: A system and method for providing multimedia content through a cable, satellite television or other content server system is disclosed. A server facility which provides multimedia content divides formatted multimedia content into data chunks (e.g., collections of data corresponding to one minute lengths) prior to transmission to a user/subscriber receptor unit, and sends the divided data chunks according to a schedule which permits instantaneous starting and viewing of the multimedia content, such as movies, upon user/subscriber request. The user/subscriber receptor unit includes a cable box, video game device, or the like having a digital video recording capability and at least a memory capacity or disk space sufficient to store a complete unit of media content, such as full-length feature film.

Abstract: At least one of a probability density for a video and a granularity mapping for the video based upon the probability density are generated at an analytics server. The probability density is calculated according to a predetermined set of points in the video and a pseudo-randomly generated set of points in the video. The probability density is non-degenerate. The granularity mapping for the video provides a mapping of the probability density to the video. The at least one of the probability density and the granularity mapping are sent from the analytics server to a video content server so that the video content server sends the video and the at least one of the probability density, and the granularity mapping to each of a plurality of clients. A set of beacons is generated by the each of the plurality of the clients according to the probability density and the granularity mapping.

Abstract: A method of delivering video content is disclosed and includes sending data from a set-top box device to a video head-end of a video distribution network. The data indicates that the set-top box device has received a channel change command and identifies a requested channel. The method includes receiving video content associated with a program provided via the requested channel at the set-top box device, beginning at a set-top box receipt time, and retrieving a portion of backfill content from a digital video recorder (DVR) in response to a reverse command received at the set-top box device. The backfill content includes video content associated with the program extending from a start time of the program to the set-top box receipt time. The backfill content is sent from a buffer server at the video head-end to the DVR in response to the data sent by the set-top box device.

Abstract: A system and method support the exchange of media between friends, family members, and 3rd party media providers over a closed and secure media exchange network. The media may include, for example, digital video, digital audio, digital images, digital data, or any form of digital information.

Abstract: In a cable television system, a specific carrier is assigned to deliver programming content of a program channel to a service area for a period, defined as a function of viewership of the program channel during that period. For example, the program channel is assigned the specific carrier during the time when it has a generally strong viewership. Otherwise, the program channel is assigned a carrier on an as needed basis, i.e., only when one or more subscribers in the service area request such a program channel. Viewing statistics are generated to identify viewership patterns or viewing habits of the subscribers in the service area with respect to a given program channel. In another embodiment, based on the viewing statistics, popular and unpopular programs, program elements, program lineups, program channels are identified on a temporal and/or regional basis.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a PVR server for storing and playing back TV programs, in particular to an improved method for operating a network PVR and to an improved PVR server (102). The inventive method consists in determining the number of users storing in the personal archives thereof a determined TV program, which is stored in the memory (108) of the PVR server (102). When the user number is less than a predefined limit value, an erasing signal occurs to them and the program is cleared during a configurable period of time if no user selects said program as to be preserved.

Abstract: There is provided an information providing apparatus including an ECG scenario storage portion to store an ECG scenario related to a program in association with reference ID, an ECG package storage portion to store reference IDs of ECG scenarios related to programs in association with discrimination ID of an ECG channel allocated to an ECG package in order to provide a collection of information related to programs having a relationship as an ECG package, an ECG package providing portion to acquire discrimination ID of a particular channel from a receiving terminal, extract an ECG package corresponding to the acquired discrimination ID and provide it to the receiving terminal, and an ECG scenario providing portion to acquire reference ID of a particular ECG scenario included in the ECG package from the receiving terminal, extract an ECG scenario corresponding to the acquired reference ID and provide it to the receiving terminal.

Abstract: Techniques are described for a server to decompose a source video data stream to generate a plurality of video data streams. The video data streams may be combinable with one another. In particular, the frames of each plurality of video data streams may be combinable with the frames of the other plurality of video data streams. The plurality of video data streams may be available for download by a client device. The client device may combine and recompose two or more of the plurality of video data streams for presentment. In particular, the client device may combine frames from two or more of the plurality of video data streams to generate combined frames for presentment.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments include a method and an apparatus for digital content transmission that comprise: (a) partitioning the digital content into a plurality of sequential segments; (b) selecting a plurality of transmission time instants for each of the sequential segments as a function of their order; (c) generating a plurality of linear combinations of the plurality of sequential segments during the plurality of transmission time instants resulting in a plurality of linearly combined coded segments; and (c) transmitting the plurality of linearly combined coded segments from a server to a plurality of clients. In particular embodiments, the method and apparatus further comprise performing error correction based on an implicit error correction (IEC) method that employs the redundancy present in the linearly combined coded segments to perform error correction at the client side without extra bandwidth cost.

Abstract: A resource scheduling apparatus, a resource scheduling method, a program requesting method, a program requesting system, and a Set Top Box (STB) are provided. The resource scheduling method includes: distributing bandwidth greater than an inherent code rate of a program respectively requested by a user to a Video On Demand (VOD) program of the user within available bandwidth of a frequency point according to a received VOD user request; and reducing the bandwidth distributed to at least one VOD program to which bandwidth has been distributed according to the received VOD user request for currently requesting the program when the available bandwidth of the frequency point is smaller than an inherent code rate of a currently requested program, so that the available bandwidth of the frequency point is greater than or equal to the inherent code rate of the currently requested program. Thus, a transmission speed of the program and a utilization ratio of the bandwidth are increased.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing information in conjunction with media content, including a receiver, wherein the receiver receives at least one of a transmission of media content and a broadcast of media content, wherein the media content includes at least one of broadcast media content and entertainment media content, and further wherein the receiver receives information regarding the media content, a processor for processing at least one of the received media content and the received information regarding the media content, a display device for visually displaying the information regarding the media content, and/or a speaker device for audibly announcing the information regarding the media content.

Abstract: A method and system for communicating text descriptive data has a receiving device that receives a data signal having text description data corresponding to a description of a video signal. A text-to-speech converter associated with the receiving device converts the text description data to a first audio signal. A display device in communication with the text-to-speech converter converts the first audio signal associated with the receiving device to an audible signal.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for indirectly monitoring and controlling at least one media peripheral device in a media exchange network by accessing a media management system (MMS) via a first media peripheral (MP) device (e.g., a TV screen) using a user control device (e.g., a remote control). An operation corresponding to a second media peripheral (MP) device (e.g., a digital camera) may be selected via the MMS using the first MP device and the user control device. The operation is then carried out (i.e., performed) by the second MP device. A status of the second MP device may be selected via the MMS using the first MP device and the user control device. The selected status is then displayed on the first MP device.

Abstract: A method of receiving content includes joining an in-progress multicast stream to receive a first portion of a content. The method further includes sending a request to a peer for a catch-up portion of the content, the request including a deadline for delivery of the content, and receiving the catch-up portion of the content from the peer prior to the deadline.

Abstract: A system and method for providing multiple audio streams for a video over a network such as the Internet. The system comprises a server that includes an encryption unit and a slicing unit, a plurality of boxes, and an ordering box. The server encodes multiple audio streams and a single video to be sliced into segments. The sliced segments of multiple audio streams and the single video are seeded to a number of the plurality of boxes. This may be repeated for other videos with multiple streams. When the ordering box makes a request for a single video with a single audio, then the number of boxes with segments of the requested video and multiple audio streams, filters and sends the requested video and requested single audio stream to the ordering box. Similarly, multiple closed caption streams can be handled and provided like the audio streams.

Abstract: A networked personal video recording (“PVR”) system couples a plurality of clients to one or more PVR media servers over a network. One or more PVR media servers include television tuners to tune television signals. A storage medium buffers the television signals to implement PVR functionality. For example, the PVR media server records television programs for clients. Clients are assigned to television tuners, and the clients display television programs received at the assigned tuner. The network transfers the buffered television signals to the clients.

Abstract: A video server to transmit a plurality of video information, set to a the decode processing mode, the decode processing mode including a combination of allocation, a decoding method, and a buffering method, an allocation indicating which read port of a storage the designated content is output from, the decoding method being for a plurality of decoders, the buffering method being for a plurality of output buffers, the decoding method and the buffering method being based on each of the output modes, and to output a control signal with reference to an identification information depending on the set connection pattern and the set decode processing mode so that connection between an output interface port and an allocated read port is established, the control signal setting the destination of each of the selectors.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for allowing parties, e.g., individuals, at different locations to participate in an on-demand content delivery session are described. Dynamically updateable playlists are used to control content delivery to the session participants in a synchronized manner. Content may be delivered to different session participants from different servers with a different playlist corresponding to each session participant being used to control content delivery to the session participant's host platform, e.g., set top box. Either party may update the playlist with, optionally, each of the content delivery servers being controlled by a different or local copy of the jointly updateable play list. Thus, an inviting party and one or more joining parties are able to participate together in an on-demand session. While the participants may be served by the same or different content delivery servers, the parties are able to share images, audio, and/or video in a synchronized manner.

Abstract: An enhanced television service provides a shared folder over a television network, such as a fiber optic network. Users, the service provider, or trusted sources, share use of a program folder via television. A user recommends content, such as a program listing, to other geographically dispersed subscribers, by sending the content to the subscribers' shared folder. Users may create a personal content guide for use instead of a standard program guide that contains identical listings for all subscribers. The shared folder may consist of programs from a variety of channels as well as other content and may be populated by trusted sources in remote locations. Users may search for content that matches search criteria and may delete or edit listings from the shared folder. The contents of the folder may not only include program listings, but also other content such as movies, television shows, web sites, photos, home videos, etc.

Abstract: A system, method, and web-based application platform enabling a television viewer to utilize an Internet device to request a Video-On-Demand (VOD) server to stream a selected video to the viewer's Set Top Box (STB). An Internet Protocol (IP) connection is established between the Internet device and an application executing at a web site, and an Internet device identifier is passed to the application. The application communicates with the VOD server to obtain a listing of available videos, and provides the listing to the Internet device. When the viewer selects a video, the application accesses an equipment-mapping table, which associates the Internet device identifier with an STB identifier. The application then sends the STB identifier and a request for the selected video to the VOD server, which delivers the video to the STB over a television delivery system.

Abstract: A job processing system has first to third servers. The first server has a job generation program for generating jobs as requested. The second server has a storage device for storing attribute information on and a file for use in processing each job generated by the first server, a management table for managing job management information on each job by assigning a unique ID to each job, and a queue control program for registering job management information in the management table, referring to the management table, and registering the file for and attribute information on each job in the storage device. The third server has one or more job processing programs for processing jobs acquired from the second server, batch control program for acquiring jobs from the second server and issuing responses concerning the processed jobs, and a storage device for storing attribute information on and a file for each job acquired.

Abstract: A system providing search functionality supporting the exchange and consumption of media is disclosed. The searching of media on storage belonging to any of a pre-defined group of users of a personal media network is provided. In addition, media stored on designated servers may also be included in a search. The media stored may include audio, still images, video, and data. A user may search the stored media using a number of criteria including the time period of the media, the type of device, and the type of media. The system also provides support for the search of one or more media peripherals, which may be searched when the media peripherals are communicatively coupled to the system.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention provide novel solutions for providing real-time content in an on-demand environment. In a novel aspect of some embodiments, a real-time on demand server may be configured to integrate real-time content with on-demand content. This can allow a subscriber to enjoy the benefits of on-demand programming without having to forego access to real-time news, sports, weather information and/or the like.

Abstract: A system and method of generating an output signal includes a receiving system generating a plurality of signals having a first format, an encoder 162 encoding the plurality of signals into a plurality of transport streams and a multiplexer 210. The system also includes a local area network 130 routing the plurality of transport streams to the multiplexer 210 to form a combined signal, a modulator 214 modulating the combined signal to form a modulated signal and a system 202 forming the output signal from the modulated signal. In one aspect, the output signals may be satellite uplink signals.

Abstract: A system supporting the remote management of options related to media consumption in a media exchange network is disclosed. Such a system may comprise a set top box communicatively coupled to a television display and storage. The set top box may be used for the consumption of media via a communication network. In such an embodiment, server software may enable the remote modification, via a communication network, of options related to the consumption of media by a user of the set top box. The media consumed may be one or more of digital audio, a digital still image, digital video, and digital data. Other aspects of the present invention may be seen in a personal computer monitor and personal computer circuitry, communicatively coupled to a storage and a communication network. An embodiment of the present invention may also enable the modification of TV viewing options via a telephone voice response system.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method can include: receiving rules in an interoperability server, the rules being related to access control for an endpoint coupled to a variable source content stream via a multicast network; and sending to the endpoint using in-band controls of the variable source content stream via the multicast network: a description of content streams available for selection by the endpoint; a procedure for selecting an available content stream; and permission for accessing the selected content stream, the permission being based on the rules.

Abstract: A particular implementation correlates a broadcast media item, which has a metadata element containing either a station call sign or channel number for a program, to a specific broadcast frequency and a virtual channel that a service provider broadcasts the program on. A command string is algorithmically defined to encode the frequency and physical channel, and is presented to the tuner hardware for locking onto and decoding the signal. A URL including the command string can then be generated. Consequently, a DLNA client device can engage a media renderer to play the broadcast media item through the exchange of a URL and a control interface.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter provide methods and systems to record broadcast programming for at least one television channel for a period of time, wherein the recording is performed upstream from subscribers in a television distribution system, and further including after the period of time, keeping recorded programming by request from at least one subscriber. And further wherein the request is for at least one television program contained in the recorded programming or for a time window for a particular channel. According to another embodiment a subscriber requests that broadcast programming be saved for the subscriber upstream from the subscriber in a television distribution system, and wherein the subscriber may request the programming be saved for later viewing by the subscriber between the time the programming was broadcast and a later point in time.

Abstract: A method for transmitting a video data over a grid infrastructure network is disclosed. The method includes receiving a request from at least one user for viewing the video data and identifying a plurality of attributes from a plurality primary grid enabled mini servers (GEMS), wherein the plurality of primary GEMS together form the grid network. The method further includes partitioning video data into a plurality of discrete fragments using a shard creator indicative of the plurality of attributes in each of the plurality of primary GEMS and allocating the plurality of discrete fragments among the plurality of primary GEMS based on the plurality of attributes of each of the plurality of primary GEMS. The method also includes decoding the plurality of discrete fragments of the video data using a streaming server for transmitting the video data to the at least one user.

Abstract: A method for providing a progressive download service for a playback apparatus supporting a BD-J specification is disclosed. In accordance with the present invention, a standby time and a communication overhead necessary for receiving and playing a A/V data by a playback apparatus supporting a BD-J specification are minimized by dividing and playing a first clip and a second clip according to a size of clips.

Abstract: A system and method of delivering video content over a network in communication with a subscriber having an associated electronic device is disclosed. A plurality of staggered streams of video content is delivered over a network. A segment of the video content is pushed onto the electronic device. A request for the video content is received at the electronic device, the pushed segment of video content is retrieved from the electronic device and the pushed segment of video content is displayed to the subscriber. A staggered stream of video content delivered over network is located and recorded on the electronic device.

Abstract: Multiple files a served using a server coupled to a data network. A plurality of files is determined, wherein a file includes an integer number of blocks, and wherein each block includes at least one input symbol. For each file, an indication of at least one channel on which to serve the file is determined, and, for each file, a rate at which to serve the file is determined. Also, a schedule for processing the blocks is determined, and output symbols for the blocks are generated according to the schedule. The output symbols are transmitted on the corresponding at least one channel, wherein the files are concurrently served at their corresponding rates.

Abstract: A transmitting terminal can transmit a content held by itself to a specific receiving terminal having no email software as if using a mailer. The transmitting terminal (10) and the receiving terminal (20) are connected to a delivery server (30) via a network (4). The delivery server (30) comprises: a database (36) for registering the device ID that specifies the receiving terminal (20); a content storage (39) for temporarily storing a content transmitted from the transmitting terminal (10); and table (33, 37) for managing contents separately on a per device ID basis of the receiving terminal. The delivery server (30), when receiving a request from the receiving terminal (20), refers to the tables (33, 27) and transmits to the receiving terminal (20) a content, the transmission destination of which corresponds to the device ID of the receiving terminal (20).

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for interacting with video by displaying one or more interface links associated with video content being displayed, pausing the video content when an interface link is interacted with, allowing the user to view ancillary content the interface link is linked to over a network, and un-pausing the video content after the user elects to continue viewing the video content. In one or more embodiments, the ancillary content may permit e-commerce, display additional video or other images, and/or include links to additional ancillary content. The present invention also includes a method for creating an interactive video.

Abstract: A system and method support the exchange of media between friends, family members, and 3rd party media providers over a closed and secure media exchange network. The media may include, for example, digital video, digital audio, digital images, digital data, or any form of digital information.