Abstract: A method for transmitting audio/video data from a web site to viewing devices, e.g., personal digital assistant, cellular phone. The method includes prompting at least two selections on a viewing device, which is coupled to a worldwide network of computers through a wireless connection. The two selections comprises a first selection for an automatic set up (441) and a second selection for a manual set up. The method includes selecting either the first selection or the second selection and transmitting the selection to a web site, which is coupled to a source of audio/video data, e.g., camera. If the first selection is entered, a web page based upon a viewer's profile of the viewing device is formed and transmitted to the viewing device. Alternatively, if the second selection is entered, a form page of selectable parameters is formed and transmitted from the web site to the viewing device.

Abstract: In a cable broadcasting system of the invention capable of setting output or stop of broadcasting-signals from tap output terminals of a tap device in response to a command signal transmitted by a center equipment, when demand for output setting for many tap devices occurs, output setting of the corresponding tap devices can be surely carried out without increasing the load on each power supply device for supplying the tap devices in each district with electricity. When demand for setting tap output of plural tap device occurs, a head-end controller reads output setting data for all the tap devices which are the objects of tap output setting and transmits command signals in order to tap devices at a rate of one tap device per each district covered by a power supply device.

Abstract: Improved approaches for configuration, management and operation of a media delivery system are disclosed. The media delivery system centrally manages and stores media content and also controls the delivery of media content to subscribers. According to one embodiment, a method for providing a program guide to subscribers of the media delivery system is disclosed. The media delivery system delivers programs to the subscribers in accordance with the program guide. The program guide can be customized for subscribers. The customization can be implemented in a variety of ways. One example of customization is to provide the program guide with a time bar.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling viewing of video programs. The apparatus includes a signal unit for receiving and processing a video signal, a decoding unit for decoding a grade code of a video program contained in the video signal, a key input unit for receiving control data from a user wherein the control data includes a secret number, a storage unit for prestoring a grade code and a secret number, and a control unit for comparing the decoded grade code with the prestored grade code, comparing the secret number inputted to the key input unit with the prestored secret number if the decoded grade code matches the prestored grade code, and outputting the video signal to the user if the secret numbers match.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that enables a user to store or indicate event information while watching a television broadcast is disclosed. The event information is transmitted to a server, preferably via the Internet, either in batches or in real-time. Based on the event information, the server determines which program the user was watching when the event information was stored or indicated, and the time within that program. Based on the determined program and time, the server determines an assortment of goods and services that were displayed on the user's television when the event information was stored. This assortment is presented to the user, preferably via the Internet.

Abstract: A parental management controller for use in a DVD environment is disclosed that defines, in a distributive computer environment, department, country, or corporate controls over DVD content viewed by machines within the environment. The controller provides automated parental management installation on remote machines. It provides parental management enforcement on remote machines. It adjusts the default parental management enforcement level to local cultures and moral values. The controller also provides a logging of any parental management violations on local machines.