Patents Examined by Timothy M. Murphy
  • Patent number: 6769129
    Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting and resolving interference between two IR signals in a remote control system. The two IR signals may include primary signals emitted from a remote control device to a first consumer electronics device and relayed signals sent from the first consumer electronics device to a second consumer electronics device using an IR blaster, or emitter. In order to minimize the likelihood of interference between the signals at the second consumer electronics device, the IR emitter does not begin transmitting the relayed signals until the primary signals are no longer being emitted. If, however, the remote control device begins to send another primary signal while the IR emitter is sending the relayed signals, the systems and methods include provisions for resolving any data loss that may result. Upon sensing the interference, the IR emitter sends a reset signal that places the secondary consumer electronics device in a known state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen G. Perlman