Abstract: A transmit device and method, a record/play device and method, a record system as well as a media allowing selection of the ideal record media by the receiver. The EPG data generator of a transmit device generates an EPG (Electronic Program Guide) showing the scheduled transmission of the program to be broadcast An editor generates supplemental information containing information indicating the program data quantity, adds the supplemental information to the EPG and a multiplexer transmits the EPG added with the supplemental information.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for achieving quick startup of streaming video content. Streaming video content is provided in two parts generally comprising a static image and dynamic video content. A streaming media player is configured to buffer the static image and display it promptly while buffering the remaining video content in the background. Benefits of the disclosed systems and methods include a reduced waiting period between the selection of video content and the playback of content by a media player.

Abstract: An approach is provided for distributing multi-media information from a satellite broadcast system. A hub receives a signal from the satellite broadcast system, wherein the signal represents video information and audio information associated with multiple broadcast channels. The hub centrally demodulates and decodes the received signal for distribution to one of a number of access point devices. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the decoded signal represents uncompressed video and audio information corresponding to one of the broadcast channels. The access point devices convert the received decoded signal for output respective displays (e.g., television sets). The hub can also be equipped with an interface to provide access to a public data network, such as the global Internet. Further, the hub can be supplied with a digital video recording capability.

Abstract: A system for implementing a detailed and flexible searching function for programs to a data recording/playing device that records broadcast programs such as those delivered on TV. The system includes a search server 20 and a data recording/playing device 10 connected with each other over a network 30. The data recording/playing device 10 stores a data file of a given broadcast program and sends a search request specifying a program and a search condition to the search server 20. The search server 20 holds information on a given program, and at the same time, creates index information to be used for playing the program on the basis of information on the program, and sends the index information back to the data recording/playing device 10 in response to a search request from the data recording/playing device 10.

Abstract: According to the invention, a video delivery system for on-demand videos at least partially stored proximate to a user location is disclosed. The video delivery system has a number of channels that are normally viewable within the user location and a content receiver coupled to the plurality of channels. A hidden channel of the plurality of channels transports a hidden video stream that cannot be viewed as streamed to the user location. The content receiver includes a storage device and a video rendering circuit. The storage device is coupled to the hidden channel and proximate to the user location. The storage device stores at least a portion of the hidden video stream in a non-volatile manner. The video rendering circuit is coupled to the storage device. The video rendering circuit produces a video signal representative of the portion.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for multimedia-on-demand services. In an embodiment, a multimedia-on-demand system includes a mass storage device that receives and stores a multimedia content item. A processor and a memory are coupled to the mass storage device. The memory can store a multimedia-on-demand data table and multimedia-on-demand instructions. The multimedia-on-demand data table can include a multimedia content identifier field adapted to store a multimedia content identifier, where the multimedia content identifier corresponds to a multimedia content item stored on the mass storage device. The multimedia-on-demand data table can also include a multimedia content usage indicator field adapted to store a multimedia content usage indicator, where the multimedia content usage indicator is associated with the multimedia content item stored on the mass storage device.

Abstract: A multi-volume compact disk player employs a high speed digital memory for storing the beginning portion of each program on each of a plurality of compact disks. When it is desired to play a specific program, the beginning portion in the high speed memory is used to begin the playback while the changer mounts the volume containing the program and then retrieves the remainder of the specific program for reproduction at the conclusion of the playback of the beginning from high speed storage.

Abstract: Identical copies of a streaming program are stored on multiple sources. A client sets up multiple connections with a subset of the sources, and obtains a portion of the streaming program from each source. Because each source supplies only a small portion of the program, upload demands on each source are minimised. The client assembles the received data into a single data stream, reproducing the original file for access.

Abstract: A system, method and article of manufacture are provided for delayed synchronization of an event on a plurality of client apparatuses. First, a plurality of client apparatuses are connected via a network and an event is stored in memory on the client apparatuses. The event is then simultaneously played back on the client apparatuses utilizing the network. During the simultaneous playback, a request may be received from one of the client apparatuses for that particular client to be included in the synchronized event. In response to the request, information is transmitted to the requesting client apparatus utilizing the network. This information is adapted for identifying a location in the memory where the event is currently being played back on the remaining client apparatuses. This allows the simultaneous playback of the event on the requesting client apparatus.

Abstract: Aspects of embodiments of at least one of the inventions disclosed herein include a system and method for delivering content within a network of interactive televisions. In accordance with one embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosed herein, the system distributes media content, such as video and music, across a communications network comprising at least one server and at least one client device. Users of the system utilize a client device to access the media content, to view a preview or a description of the media content, and to purchase the media content. The client device receives the media content from the server, and the client device stores the media content within a storage device on the client device. The client device employs interface devices to facilitate user interaction with the system. The server records the purchase of media content and other activities and preferences of the user of the client device.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for sharing the capabilities of consumer electronic devices. In one aspect, a method includes receiving a task involving audio/video content from a user, identifying which device in an interconnected system of devices is operable to initiate the performance of the task, and assigning responsibility for the performance of the task to the identified device. The interconnected system includes two or more devices at remote locations.

Abstract: The integrated circuit comprises: a shared memory connected to a bus; an audio/multiplex/de-multiplex processor accessing the shared memory via the bus; a video processor performing heavy processes accessing the shared memory via the bus; and a local memory accessed by the video processor without passing through the bus. Avoiding latency time caused by access contention, probability that the integrated circuit can complete processes to be done in real time increases. Image data is displayed on the display device smoothly without deterioration of quality of display.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of control of the displaying of audiovisual transmissions by a receiver furnished with means of receiving and of recording audiovisual transmissions. The method comprises a step of recording a first transmission selected by the user; and following an action by the user to display the recorded transmission, a step of reading a transmission of a second type prerecorded in the recording means (this transmission being for example of advertising type), and a step of displaying the transmission of the second type before the end of the displaying of the first transmission for a duration stored in the receiver, the displaying of the transmission of the second type being a condition for displaying the first transmission.

Abstract: An interactive television program guide system is provided in which a user may use the program guide to watch one program while simultaneously recording another program without interrupting the recording or viewing process. This interactive television program guide system also allows a user the to utilize all or some of the program guide features while in the watch and record mode depending on the embodiment that is being implemented. Further, this watch and record system may be implemented using a multiple tuner set-top box or a single tuner set-top box with a RF bypass or digital switch. In addition to a set-top box, the system may be implemented using a satellite receiver, an advanced television with a processor and memory, or a computer. The various implementations provide a very versatile watch and record environment for the user.

Abstract: The system of the present invention includes an output device for generating media representation of media content extracted from a media receiver. The system includes an extraction module for extracting of media content from the media receiver. The output device generates a representation of media content extracted. Additionally, a media transfer interface permits communication between the output device and the media receiver. The methods of the present invention include a extracting media content from a media receiver, generating a representation of media content, and communicating with the media receiver through a media transfer interface. Methods of the system further include scheduling actions of the media receiver to occur at predefined times, recording and playing media content, and generating a schedule display of media programs by performing optical character recognition on the schedule displayed on a schedule channel.

Abstract: An integrated telephony and video system allows a viewer of a program to selectively accept a telephone call based on caller identification information and automatically buffer the program upon acceptance of the call. When the call is terminated, the buffered program is played from the point of interruption until the buffered program is the same as the real-time program. The system may store data about the call, such as the caller identification information and length of the call. Such data may be used to determine a compression format for the buffered program. Such data may also be used to generate a list of callers for whom the user desires to be interrupted while viewing the program.

Abstract: The erasion level appending range of a file is instructed. According to this instruction, the erasion level is set. When this setting range does not agree with the cell unit of the current cell, the current cell is divided to set a sequence of divided cells. Playback management information of each of the divided cells and current cell is re-created, and erasion level information is appended to playback management information of the divided cell that belongs to the appending range.

Abstract: A method and structure that allows a user who has access to an audio/visual object to cause an interactive control element of an interactive multimedia system to grab and store off for future retrieval the audio/visual object by simply activating a selection mechanism of the interactive multimedia system.

Abstract: A sub-picture category (SP_CAT) is added to a sub-picture unit header (SPUH) configuring a sub-picture unit, and a flag “Raw” indicating pixel data run length compression/non-compression is provided in the header. Original data with a 4-bit/1-pixel configuration is subjected to run length compression, and if the data after compression exceeds the size of the original data, flag “Raw”=1 (non-compression) is specified. If the data is slightly compressed, flag “Raw”=0 (compression) is specified, thereby enabling efficient recording of sub-picture information in a recording medium.

Abstract: Digital content is extracted from single and multiple-program transport streams for subsequent non-real-time (background) transmission in a bandwidth-efficient manner. At an encoder, several null and/or nonessential (N/N) packets (e.g., packets of unused programs) in a transport stream are replaced by an annotation packet (AP) to obtain non-real-time packets. The non-real time packets are inserted into null packet locations (NU) of a real time transport stream. At a decoder, the annotation packets are used to regenerate a specified number of null packets to maintain the original separation of packets of the non-real time data (for timing purposes), allowing existing hardware and/or software to decode the selected program.

Abstract: The invention relates to control of signal decoding in a set of subscriber receivers belonging to subscribers of mass distributed coded signals, such as digital satellite channels, which are conveyed via different distribution resources. By means of a central transmission of control signals to the subscriber receivers the decoding therein of the signals can be controlled, such that during certain periods a signal including a content being directed to each subscriber can be decoded in the respective subscriber receiver. Thereby commercial messages and other kinds of controlled or interest defined information can be focused to a relevant target group at the same time as the distribution resources are utilized efficiently.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a virtual video on demand services is disclosed. The method and apparatus disclose the storing of a segment of the video program in advance for VOD viewing at a later time. When the subscriber selects VOD service, a pre-stored video segment is retrieved for presentation to the subscriber. Remaining video program segments simultaneously broadcast on a plurality of channels are recorded in parallel while the pre-stored video program segment is retrieved and presented to the user.

Abstract: A system, method and article of manufacture are provided for delayed synchronization of an event on a plurality of client apparatuses. First, a plurality of client apparatuses are connected via a network and an event is stored in memory on the client apparatuses. The event is then simultaneously played back on the client apparatuses utilizing the network. During the simultaneous playback, a request may be received from one of the client apparatuses for that particular client to be included in the synchronized event. In response to the request, information is transmitted to the requesting client apparatus utilizing the network. This information is adapted for identifying a location in the memory where the event is currently being played back on the remaining client apparatuses. This allows the simultaneous playback of the event on the requesting client apparatus.

Abstract: A digital media system includes a digital media station operable to access a collection of digital media content, and a digital media player communicably coupled to the digital media station and operable to receive user commands and further access and decode digital media content specified by the user for playing on one or more components of an entertainment system coupled thereto.

Abstract: The system and method of the present invention provides viewers access to a library of movies, or any other audio/video content available for viewing at anytime. Specifically, the method involves transmitting movies wirelessly to a set-top box in one's home and allowing movies to accumulate. A hard disk drive in the set-top box is used to store movies. In an exemplary embodiment, movies are wirelessly transmitted to the set-top box using a datacasting technology which allows data to be encoded onto standard television signals and transmitted using existing television transmitters and broadcast towers. Movies are transferred to the set-top box using a broadcast file transfer protocol and stored on the hard drive. Movies are “packetized” and these packets are continuously transmitted to the set-top box where they are incrementally reassembled. The user is not aware of what data is being sent to their set-top box.

Abstract: A television has an encoder, a random access memory buffer, and a decoder in addition to components of a conventional television receiver. The encoder encodes television signals to a digital format and the random access memory buffer stores the encoded television signal in response to activation of a pause function. The random access memory buffer outputs the stored digital television signal and the decoder decodes the digital television signal output from the random access memory buffer in response to deactivation of the pause function.

Abstract: A stored program pay-per-play system includes a high-capacity storage medium facilitating compilation of video, audio or other programs at a subscriber's site. While the recording of such programs may take place at any time preceding playback, billing occurs only when, and if, the subscriber chooses to select a program for replay or actually enjoys the program substantially in its entirety. Billing is alternatively based on a store-credit or account debiting scheme. The recording of program materials may be directed automatically by subscriber-operated storage management facilities which scan program schedules and select materials to be recorded, based on title, cast, program genre or any other of a variety of viewer/listener preferences. Alternatively, the program provider may automatically download programs, either based upon actual or surmised viewer preferences, or at the provider's discretion, for example, using newly-available selections.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for distributing multi-media data, e.g., video and audio data, corresponding to television programs, movies, local advertising, etc. are described. Video on demand services such as pay-per-view (PPV) services are supported by caching initial portions of PPV programs in user devices such as cable set top boxes and satellite receivers. In response to a request for a PPV movie, the user is immediately presented with the movie by outputting data corresponding to the requested program from the cache. During the presentation of the PPV program to the user, the cached data is supplemented with broadcast data obtained from a time staggered repetitive broadcasting of the requested PPV movie. A variety of regional news programs are also made available to a user of the invention through the use of program segment caching. Regional news program segments are cached prior to presentation time.

Abstract: Media content, based on a predetermined set of constraints, from a content provider is delivered to a local cache of a user device before viewing the media. A client asset manager process resides in the user device, an asset list at the content provider site, and the media assets are located at a remote site.

Abstract: There is provided a digital broadcasting receiver capable of reducing the occurrence of situations where a charge for purchase is forced to be paid, although a purchased pay program cannot be viewed due to worsened weather, power failure, or the like. When a channel is turned in to a pay per view (PPV) program, a part of the program can be viewed free of charge in a preview period. When a user performs a purchase operation in an attempt to purchase the program, a digital broadcasting receiver 30 does not immediately perform purchase processing but waits until the preview period is almost terminated, and performs the purchase processing for an IC card 21A only when the receiving condition is within an allowable range at this time point. On the other hand, it does not perform purchase processing when the receiving condition is not within the allowable range.

Abstract: A digital video recorder (DVR) has a memory to simultaneously store consecutive video programs in a sequence of video programs. An automatic program selector automatically adds a video program from the sequence to a download schedule in response to playback of a first of the consecutive video programs in the memory, the video program sequentially following a last of the consecutive video programs stored in the memory. A modem downloads the video program from a video server based on the download schedule for storage in the memory.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a streaming information appliance for receiving and selectively reading blocks of streaming information. The information appliance includes a buffer, a writer module which receives blocks of streaming information and writes the blocks to the buffer at a write position, and a reader module which selectively reads the blocks from the buffer at a read position. An adjustment mechanism adjusts the relative positions of the read and write position.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing a video stream from a server to a client over a network include a memory for storing a forward-encoded bit-stream and a reverse-encoded bit-stream for a video data. The forward-encoded bit-stream includes I-frames encoded without inter-frame dependencies and P-frames encoded depending on forward-direction preceding frames, and the reverse-encoded bit-stream includes I-frames and P-frames encoded depending on reverse-direction preceding frames. When the server receives a request with a video cassette recording (VCR) function from the client, the server reads out and transmits frames selectively from among the first, second, third, and fourth frames in accordance with the request. The server can select the closest I-frame to a requested frame in either bit-stream for a fast-mode play or a random-access play, and switch the bit-streams to use subsequent P-frames in a different direction than that of the closest I-frame.

Abstract: A playback apparatus that is used for receiving and continuously playing back a plurality of video sources delivered via a network. Video sources Vm continuously played back in content and the display time of the video sources Vm are extracted from playback information described in a playback scenario read into a scenario management section via the network. The video sources Vm are rearranged in order of display time. The distribution of the video sources Vm among a plurality of decoder modules Dn, a playback schedule, and a schedule of switching a changeover switch are determined. By doing so, the plurality of video sources Vm are continuously played back.

Abstract: A resident application and a second application are provided in a set-top terminal to receive a TV broadcast service and network personal video recorder (NPVR) service, respectively. The resident application is suspended in favor of the second application when a user changes from a broadcast channel to an NPVR enabled channel, and vice versa. In an embodiment where a digital video recorder (DVR) set-top terminal is used, a DVR server therein provides trick mode functions (pause, rewind and fast-forward) before an NPVR session, e.g., a Look Back session, is established. In another embodiment, during an NPVR session the DVR server plays back recorded programming content downloaded from a communications network, and provides trick mode functions as well.

Abstract: An information processing apparatus includes a first bus to transfer various data. A first processor is provided to manage, as a file, data recorded in the storage device. A receiver is provided to receive externally supplied streaming data. A second bus is provided to transfer the streaming data received by the receiver. A third bus is electrically connected to the storage device. A second processor is electrically connected to the first bus, the second bus, and the third bus. Streaming data from the receiver via the second bus is stored in the storage device via the third bus. File management information from the first processor via the first bus is also stored in the storage device, in response to an access request from the first processor via the first bus.

Abstract: In order to maintain continuity before and after interruption of a streaming broadcast, a receiving apparatus according to the present invention includes: a reception unit which receives data on a stream broadcast; a memory which is capable of storing a predetermined amount of the received data on a stream broadcast; a data processing unit which processes the data on a stream broadcast to generate video data for the stream broadcast; a video output unit which outputs the video data to a display apparatus; and a detection unit which detects interruption point data indicating a position where the stream broadcast should be interrupted out of the received data on a stream broadcast; when an abnormality is detected, the output of the video data is stopped at a position instructed in the interruption point data detected by the detection unit.

Abstract: To precisely adjust a playback reference time counter in a host device by transmitting a time adjustment signal included in a broadcast signal from a broadcast reception apparatus to the host device so that transmission delay inequalities do not occur in a broadcast receive/play system constituted by the host device, which is a portable information terminal or the like that functions to playback stream data based on the MPEG-2 system standard or the like, and the broadcast reception apparatus, which has a card configuration or the like, is mountable in a card slot or the like of the host device, and operates when mounted in and having power supplied from the host device, the broadcast reception apparatus conducts transmission/reception of reception control commands, response data and so forth with the host device via a connection terminal in a first group in sync with a clock signal from the host device, and also, in sync with a clock signal generated within the broadcast reception apparatus, extracts stream

Abstract: A method of collecting data in connection with the retrieval of a media file includes the steps of transmitting to a media device (110) an embedded media player page for playing the media file and transmitting a media file identification message to a log server (104). The media file identification message identifies the media file. The log server (104) records that the media file has been selected for play back by a user in a log associated with the media file.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for managing recordings of data originating from a broadcasting network. The process analyses whether recording resources are available at the moment envisaged for executing the task envisaged, and as appropriate, for reporting the execution of this task during a next re-broadcasting of the data. An improvement consists in instigating a search for the equivalent resources, then instigating a negotiation with the current users of the resources when no equivalent resource is available. The invention also relates to a device and a centre for the implementation of the process.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a virtual video on demand services is disclosed. The method and apparatus disclose the storing of a segment of the video program in advance for VOD viewing at a later time. When the subscriber selects VOD service, a pre-stored video segment is retrieved for presentation to the subscriber. Remaining video program segments simultaneously broadcast on a plurality of channels are recorded in parallel while the pre-stored video program segment is retrieved and presented to the user.

Abstract: An interactive application uses Digital Video Record (DVR) features to create one or more video segments and associated indexes from broadcast television programming. The video segments and associated indexes may be obtained from independent sources and, in any event, are used by the application to create an enhanced programming viewing experience.

Abstract: A system for streaming data includes a channel for communicating requests between a client and server and another channel for transmitting streaming video. The client creates a media file for archiving received video data. A global list maintained by the client identifies all available data in the media file. A monitoring thread tracks the global list to identify unavailable data needed for playback, identify approaching data discontinuities, merge global list entries for contiguous chunks of available data and identify remaining unavailable data. The client requests unavailable data from the server until the media file is full. A client-side player with a graphical user interface facilitates pause, stop, play, fast forward, jump (scroll), and rewind operations. The system may play video data as streamed and store the streamed video data for playback in a download and store mode.

Abstract: An asset provider can identify a segment of a broadcast stream to be extracted at a distribution endpoint and formatted for on-demand viewing by cable subscribers. An asset provider can use a start time code and a stop time code to identify the start and end of the segment in the broadcast stream. The asset provider can also insert tags into the broadcast stream identifying a segment to be extracted at the distribution endpoint. Upon receiving the broadcast stream, the distribution endpoint can then extract the segment identified by either the start and stop time codes or the tags.

Abstract: A system includes a plurality of data stream capture devices, one or more storage devices and a plurality of user devices, all of which are connectable to each other via a LAN. The user device transmits a request to the capture device in accordance with a user's request, and transmits a request to said storage device in accordance with a user's request. When it is determined that the capture device is tunable to a channel for a desired broadcast program, in accordance with a received request, the capture device is tuned to the channel, and receives and provides a data stream of the program. In accordance with a received request, the storage device records the data stream of the desired program from the capture device which is tuned to the channel. In accordance with a received request, the storage device transmits a desired recorded data stream.

Abstract: There are provided a channel control method and apparatus for a TV having a channel reservation function. The TV channel control method includes (a) determining whether reservation instructions for a subsequent program have been received; (b) if it is determined in step (a) that the instructions have been received, extracting and storing predetermined information concerning the subsequent program from electronic program guide (EPG) information; (c) determining whether it is the starting time of the subsequent program using the predetermined information extracted in step (b); and (d) if it is determined in step (c) that it is the starting time of the subsequent program, changing the present channel to the channel for the subsequent program.

Abstract: Automated personal video recording for multi-user personal video recorders having a multiplicity of registered users, each user having allocated storage space on the PVR which allocated storage space for each user includes storage space upon which shows are recorded and storage space upon which shows have not been recorded (free space), including recording for a borrower a show owned by the borrower, the show having a storage space requirement exceeding the borrower's free space by a deficit amount; selecting, in dependence upon the deficit amount, one or more lenders, wherein the lenders are users, registered on the PVR, having free space; and borrowing, in dependence upon the deficit amount, from the lenders for the borrower, at least one loan amount of storage space. Embodiments include returning from the borrower to the lender the deficit amount after displaying the show to the borrower or upon repossession by a lender.

Abstract: A digital broadcast receiving apparatus that receives a TS and stores into an HDD a partial TS which contains a broadcast program selected by a TS decoder. A CPU creates broadcast program attachment information from PMT or the like in which control information of the selected broadcast program is written, and stores the broadcast program attachment information into a flash ROM. The broadcast program attachment information contains copy control information, bit rate information, and PIDs of CAT and EMM. When outputting the partial TS to an external VCR for copying, the digital broadcast receiving apparatus refers to the broadcast program attachment information, and gives instructions as necessary to update PMT or set the recording mode in the VCR, prior to the output of the partial TS to the external VCR.

Abstract: Broadcast signals carrying video and audio data are transmitted after encoding and compression process at a broadcast station and then stored temporarily in a hard disk recorder/player in a broadcast recording apparatus. The broadcast signal includes a row of video and audio packets having no empty spaces for synchronization with the actual program playback speed. The playback of a program is controlled with a timing data which is carried in each of the video and audio packets. Accordingly, the broadcast signals of the program transmitted at a speed faster than the actual program playback speed are temporarily stored and when desired, can be played back at any time.

Abstract: A digital satellite broadcast receiving system is proposed in which the necessary packets of an MPEG2-based transport stream can be transferred to the system memory of a computer to facilitate processing of packets by a CPU. The system has means for filtering packets, by packet ID, from an MPEG2-based transport stream, which is output by a digital satellite broadcast tuner, to facilitate section formation from packets of the MPEG2-based transport stream by a CPU of a computer, filtering being performed after the transport stream is descrambled if the broadcast is a subscription broadcast; a buffer memory for storing the filtered data, which has been output by the filter means, until the data can be accessed by a host bus; and DMA control means for transferring, by direct memory access, content of the buffer memory to the system memory of the computer via the host bus.