Abstract: A method for a system including a plurality of encoders each for receiving a first signal and encoding to generate a respective second signal for sending to a respective subscriber, comprising receiving, in each encoder, the first signal from a first source, while testing a signal path between a second source and the encoders, the first source on a first assembly, the second source on a second assembly, and each encoder on a respective third assembly, while each encoder is receiving the first signal from the first source, receiving, in each encoder, a third signal from the second source, generating, from each encoder, a fourth signal based on the third signal, the fourth signal being a redundancy signal and receiving and examining the fourth signal at the second source and subsequently receiving the first signal from the second source.

Abstract: A method for providing Topology Change functionality in a Local Area Network (LAN) comprises a plurality of operations. An operation is performed for determining that a Multiple Spanning Tree Instance (MSTI) Master port on a Bridge of a LAN has transitioned to Forwarding state from a corresponding Common Internal Spanning Tree Instance (CSTI) Root port state and an operation is performed for transitioning a Port Transmit state machine of the Bridge from an Idle state to a Transmit state for enabling issuance of a Topology Change (TC) BPDU message from the MSTI Master port. The operation of transitioning the Port Transmit state machine is performed in response to performing the operation of determining that the Multiple Spanning Tree Instance (MSTI) Master port has transitioned to Forwarding state.

Abstract: A method for communicating real-time to subscribers of an Internet service provider, without requiring installation or set-up of client software by the subscriber, utilizing unique identification information automatically provided by the subscriber during communications to provide a fixed identifier which is then examined in real time. Messages may then be selectively transmitted to the subscriber. The system may be transparent to the subscriber, with no modification of its content along the path identified by the subscriber. Where desired, content may be modified or replaced along the path to the subscriber. The system forces the delivery of information to the subscriber for the purposes of establishing a reliable delivery of bulletin messages from providers to their subscribers. These messages may be displayed permanently, temporarily, or in separate pop-up browser windows, according to provider preference.