Abstract: A system and method for automatically sets the encoding bit-rate across a network. The method includes encoding an original media stream with an encoding bit rate having an adjustable rate, transmitting the encoded media stream to a receiver, monitoring a throughput of the encoded media stream, computing an adjustment to the encoding bit rate, and adjusting the encoder's encoding bit rate. A throughput monitor (which can be freestanding, part of the transmitter, or part of the receiver), is operable to monitor the encoded media stream, wherein the transmitter is operable to adjust the encoding bit rate using a result of the monitored throughput. The transmitter and receiver both contain a buffer, and respective buffer monitors. Conditions (e.g., overflow, full, empty) at the transmitter or receiver buffer are detected by the respective transmitter or receiver buffer monitor, where upon a repeated condition the encoded bit rate is adjusted higher or lower.

Abstract: A remote control system includes a RF communication chipset that has a transceiver and antenna at a handset/remote and another transceiver and antenna at a base station is operable to maintain a two-way communication connection. The two-way communication connection includes the capability of uploading display data for presentation on a display located at the handset/remote, and also includes the capability of downloading keystroke codes from the handset/remote keyboard. A processor is in communication with the base station, and is operable to control an infrared emitter. Devices are controlled by infrared commands decoded from the downloaded keystrokes and provided to the infrared emitter. Full telephonic capability is supported between the handset/remote and a plain old telephone system.

Abstract: A system and method that selectively discards contents of a buffer memory containing audio-visual digital media content in response to a media switching event. The system includes at least one server in communication with a digital media source and connected to a network. At least one receiver is also connected to the network and includes a display device that presents audible and visual information to a user. The buffer memory can be located in either the receiver, server or both devices. Upon generation and detection of the media switching event, the contents of the buffer are discarded so as to minimize the time-delay of changing the display information.

Abstract: A system and method for synchronizing digital media playback at multiple digital media playback devices interconnected on a network is provided. A digital media playback device comprising a processor, a synchronization component, a timekeeper component and a digital media source performs synchronization processes to arrange for other players to begin playback at a predetermined position and time in the digital media signal. Synchronization is accomplished by processes which approximate the arrival time of a packet containing audio and/or video digital content across the network and instruct the playback devices as to when playback is to begin, and at what point in the streaming media content signal to begin playback. One method uses a time-stamp packet on the network to synchronize all players. Other methods utilize reiterative processes to narrow approximations of packet arrival time at each playback device.

Abstract: A method of presenting an interactive electronic program guide (EPG) in a hierarchal data form which interactively allows users to find content more quickly. Search results of the EPG are stored in data records which are associated with meta criteria based on functional interrelationships. The method depicts the selections available to a user, and interacts with a user's selection by moving laterally, upward, or downward through the hierarchal format. Information is organized in a more useable manner by grouping channels into categories. Additional methods remove shows already recorded by a user based on information maintained in a database.