Abstract: An interactive video services system for enabling store and forward distribution of digitized video programming comprising merged graphics and video data from a minimum of two separate data storage devices is disclosed. In a departure from the art, an MPEG converter operating in tandem with an MPEG decoder device that has buffer capacity merges encoded and compressed digital video signals stored in a memory of a video server with digitized graphics generated by and stored in a memory of a systems control computer. The merged signals are then transmitted to and displayed on a TV set connected to the system. In this manner, multiple computers are able to transmit graphics or multimedia data to a video server to be displayed on the TV set or to be superimposed onto video programming that is being displayed on the TV set.

Abstract: An interactive video services system for enabling store and forward distribution of digitized video programming comprising merged graphics and video data from a minimum of two separate data storage devices is disclosed. In a departure from the art, an MPEG converter operating in tandem with an MPEG decoder device that has buffer capacity merges encoded and compressed digital video signals stored in a memory of a video server with digitized graphics generated by and stored in a memory of a systems control computer. The merged signals are then transmitted to and displayed on a TV set connected to the system. In this manner, multiple computers are able to transmit graphics or multimedia data to a video server to be displayed on the TV set or to be superimposed onto video programming that is being displayed on the TV set.

Abstract: An infrared remote control unit including an integrated card reading device. The unit is used for purchasing products or services offered via a television monitor, such that the unit transfers data to a receiver connected to a television monitor connected via at least one modem to a control computer for processing and purchase authorization. The unit includes a card reader for reading data encoded on a magnetic stripe of a card. A microprocessor operatively connected to the card reader receives and reformats the encoded data. A transmitter connected to the microprocessor transmits the reformatted data to the receiver for the purchase.

Abstract: An interactive video services system for enabling store and forward distribution of digitized video programming is disclosed. In accordance with a feature of the present invention, encoded and compressed digital video signals are transmitted via satellite link from a centrally located uplink site to a plurality of hospitality establishments, where the digitized video programming is stored in the memory of a video server computer or is transmitted "real-time" to the hospitality establishment's customers. The establishment either has its own downlink facilities or shares downlink facilities with other hospitality establishments. The uplink facility and satellite can transmit a variety of video signals - including video signals for real-time viewing by customers, compressed video signals for storage and subsequent retrieval and viewing by customers, and other types of digitized data, such as advertisements and barker screens.