Abstract: A peer-to-peer (P2P) application which can be applied to TVs. The P2P application promotes a social networking aspect by allowing devices connecting to either the home mesh network and/or Internet to share contents and create common-interest channels. The P2P application does not require support from network infrastructure (e.g., no central servers), and consequently is extremely cost-effective and easy to deploy. The distributed nature of this system allows users to join or leave the network at will. It takes advantage of the local home mesh network connectivity, or existing Internet connections. A participant that tunes into a broadcast on an Internet channel is not only downloading a video stream, but also uploading it to other participants watching the program. Data mining systems capture user preferences and create personalized Internet channels on the TV using the P2P network.

Abstract: A WiFi chipset is integrated into a TV chassis as are wireless audio-video signal antennas that feed the chipset. The TV processor causes signals from home network components received through the antennas and chipset to be displayed on the TV.

Abstract: Rather than have a unique code set per TV product, a common code base is provided to service multiple products and even multiple product lines. Embedded systems can be upgraded through a network connection. The software architecture provides a flexible approach to supporting multiple product offerings through a plug-in modular middle-ware and to providing standardized hardware acceleration for both 2D and 3D graphics. The plug-in capability provides for feature additions and upgrades after sale.

Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a Viterbi decoder is described that operates on convolutional error correcting codes. The decoder allows for a pipelined architecture and a unique partitioning of survivor memory to maintain data integrity. Throughput rate is improved and stalling minimized by accessing memory words using a look-ahead function to fill the pipeline.

Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a Viterbi decoder is described that operates on convolutional error correcting codes. The decoder allows for a pipelined architecture and a unique partitioning of survivor memory to maintain data integrity. Throughput rate is improved and stalling minimized by accessing memory words using a look-ahead function to fill the pipeline.