Abstract: A system and method providing a media server system are disclosed. A software module for storage on a computer and operable by the computer is provided to receive a media request for a media selection from a media source including video and audio data. The media selection is retrieved, and a media signal conveying the media selection is communicated. A communications hub receives the media signal and transmits the media selection for play on a remote media device. A receiver configured to communicate with the communications hub and with the remote media device receives the media selection and communicates the media selection to the remote media device for play. A set of media preferences associated with an identifier allows for selectable access to media content. A plurality of remote interfaces each can be coded for generating an identifier, whereby using a particular remote interface invokes a set of media preferences.

Abstract: Inventive systems and methods for remotely controlling infrared controlled devices by using addressed radio frequency control signals. Radio frequency signals propagate through most obstructions to infrared control signals. Augmenting each control signal with an address allows for great selectivity in an environment with several transmitters and receivers.

Abstract: Image viewing system and method for use with a video telephony application. The method includes forming a panoramic image by moving the camera about at least one axis, capturing images from at least two different camera positions, and joining the images together. The method also includes presenting the panoramic image on a visual display device, receiving input from a user indicating that a subset of the panoramic image has been selected, pointing the camera in a direction corresponding to the selected subset, and presenting images from the camera corresponding to the selected subset on the visual display device. The system includes a camera with a controllable pivot assembly that pivots in at least one direction in signal communication with a computer, and a software module that directs the pivot assembly to move the camera and presents images on a display.

Abstract: Inventive systems and methods for remotely controlling infrared controlled devices by using addressed radio frequency control signals. Radio frequency signals propagate through most obstructions to infrared control signals. Augmenting each control signal with an address allows for great selectivity in an environment with several transmitters and receivers.

Abstract: A remote control for learning a macro routine of optical signals is provided. An optical receiver is arranged to receive optical signals from one or more original equipment remote controls. The optical receiver outputs electrical signals. A microprocessor receives the electrical signals from the optical receiver. A memory device stores the electrical signals from the optical receiver. An operator interface is electrically coupled to the microprocessor. The operator interface receives operator input to designate a macro routine of operator-selectable optical signals from the original equipment remote control. The microprocessor causes the electrical signals from the optical receiver that correspond to the operator-selectable optical signals from the original equipment remote control to be associated with the designated macro routine and stored in the memory device. Electrical signals associated with a macro designation are retrieved from the memory device and electrically coupled to an optical transmitter.

Abstract: Inventive systems and methods for remotely controlling infrared controlled devices by using addressed radio frequency control signals. Radio frequency signals propagate through most obstructions to infrared control signals. Augmenting each control signal with an address allows for great selectivity in an environment with several transmitters and receivers.

Abstract: Inventive systems and methods for remotely controlling infrared controlled devices by using addressed radio frequency control signals. Radio frequency signals propagate through most obstructions to infrared control signals. Augmenting each control signal with an address allows for great selectivity in an environment with several transmitters and receivers.

Abstract: A remote control for learning a macro routine of optical signals is provided. An optical receiver is arranged to receive optical signals from one or more original equipment remote controls. The optical receiver outputs electrical signals. A microprocessor receives the electrical signals from the optical receiver. A memory device stores the electrical signals from the optical receiver. An operator interface is electrically coupled to the microprocessor. The operator interface receives operator input to designate a macro routine of operator-selectable optical signals from the original equipment remote control. The microprocessor causes the electrical signals from the optical receiver that correspond to the operator-selectable optical signals from the original equipment remote control to be associated with the designated macro routine and stored in the memory device. Electrical signals associated with a macro designation are retrieved from the memory device and electrically coupled to an optical transmitter.

Abstract: A handheld remote control unit transmits binary coded rf address and control signals to an addressable transceiver where those signals are detected, decoded and processed to derive binary coded control signals that are coded in accordance with the brands or manufacturers of the audiovisual components that are to be controlled along with the function that is to be thus controlled for the addressed components.

Abstract: A system and method for performing videophone operations over a television. The system includes a television system, a transceiver and a personal computer that is coupled to a communications network and the transceiver. The television system includes a camera, a microphone, a wireless receiver for wirelessly receiving audio and video signals, a signal processor for processing the received audio and video signals for presentation on a television. The transceiver includes a receiver for wirelessly receiving audio and video signals from the television system, and a transmitter for wirelessly sending audio and video signals to the television system.

Abstract: The present invention includes a Couch Link system which provides for a remote keyboard and a remote pointer to control a PC. The PC generates a PC monitor display and sounds, and the invention projects the same display image and play the sounds on a television. The remote keyboard and remote pointer may be in one room with the television, while the PC is in another room. The Relink system of the present invention further permits the PC to not merely generate and project its PC monitor display on the TV but, also, to control the TV's functions, including program selection, viewing, recording, and scheduling.