Abstract: A satellite TV or cable video receiver includes a decoder for decoding information embedded in a broadcasted TV program which can be utilized to permit an operator to select the program for viewing only, or viewing and the preparation of a copy of the program. In an alternate embodiment, the operator may also select and the receiver permit the preparation of a copy inhibited tape. With this receiver, first run movies may be displayed on a tape or view basis without destroying the after-market for the film.

Abstract: An antenna horn of molded plastic construction. The horn may be constructed of multiple sections, each section being of molded plastic construction with the sections joined to form the horn.

Abstract: A polarity switch for connection between a dual antenna system and a satellite television receiver to permit multiple receivers to simultaneously receive channels of different polarity includes a pin diode switch and input circuitry to decode the standard receiver signal previously used to rotate the antenna feed of a single feed antenna.

Abstract: A satellite television reception only receiver includes a programmable microprocessor which has a communications link for communicating between a plurality of receivers connected in a multiple receiver installation. An antenna is connected to only one receiver in the network, and it controls operation of the antenna, and the information relating to the antenna is transmitted to the other receivers to update them. The microprocessor further provides a means to programmably restrict access to particular satellites or transponders on satellites at each individual receiver, and vary the particular transponders or satellites restricted from receiver to receiver.

Abstract: An antenna system for a television reception only antenna includes an integral declination adjustment comprising an upper and lower curvilinear surface as part of the superstructure supporting the main reflector dish with an upper and lower pad rotatably mounted to a pivot tube providing surfaces matching the curvilinear surfaces against which the main reflector dish rests. Slots and holes are cut into the matching surfaces and a pair of nut and bolt assemblies extending through the slots and holes secure the surfaces once the proper declination angle has been achieved.

Abstract: An antenna for receiving satellite broadcast television reception only (TVRO) programming, includes a main reflector dish, a pivot tube for pivotally mounting the reflector dish from a support, and an integrally formed azimuth track and drive comprising an arcuate track bolted to the back of the reflector dish with a trolley drive which engages the pivotal mount to drive the reflector dish along the azimuth to move the dish from satellite to satellite. The integral track and drive rides freely in the vertical direction on the pivotal mount to permit adjustment of the declination and elevation of the main reflector dish without disassembly or removal of the azimuth track and drive.

Abstract: An improved polarity switch for connection between a dual antenna system and a satellite television reception system has a first embodiment which utilizes a pin diode switch between the dual antenna system and each of a plurality of receivers to permit use of the receiver to select one of the two antenna feeds for decoding and display at that television set. A second embodiment is also disclosed which utilizes an electromechanical relay to isolate the antenna feeds from each receiver.