Abstract: A single data stream filter dwells on a network data stream. A version identifier reflecting the status of quasi-static data carried on a different data stream is encapsulated in a network message. The network message is propagated by the network data stream according to a network protocol. The version identifier is extracted from the network message and compared against a previously stored version identifier. Based on the comparison, the data stream filter is tuned to receive the quasi-static data when an updated version of the data is needed.

Abstract: A method and system identify programming code that is appropriate to the architecture and capabilities of a set-top terminal in a cable television system. The appropriate programming code is identified from among a variety of code objects being broadcast from the headend facility of the cable television system. A platform identifier stored in the set-top terminal is matched to a corresponding platform identifier in an entitlement management message or other download locator message that specifies where in the transport stream from the headend a particular code object can be acquired. By acquiring the object corresponding to the message bearing a matching platform identifier, the set-top terminal acquires programming code compatible with its attributes. Additionally, the cable television system can then optimally support a varied population of set-top terminals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the purchase of lottery tickets via a television terminal. A lottery interface is provided to enable communications between the television terminal and a lottery system. A lottery application residing on the television terminal enables communication of a lottery ticket purchase request to the lottery interface via an upstream television path. A user interface is provided which is capable of accessing the lottery application residing on the television terminal. A lottery ticket purchase request is initiated via the user interface. The user interface accesses the lottery application in order to generate the purchase request. The purchase request is then communicated over an upstream television path from the lottery application to the lottery interface. The purchase request is forwarded from the lottery interface to the lottery system, where a purchase of the lottery ticket is completed.

Abstract: The invention provides for delivery of broadcast messages to a sub-population of recipients in a network. The network has multiple interim processing points, each with a plurality of recipients (clients) associated therewith. Processor 205 at message source 100 generates a broadcast message and encases the broadcast message in a message envelope. The message envelope directs the broadcast message to the specific interim processing point (e.g., 110A). Transmitter 210 transmits the message envelope containing the broadcast message over the network to the specific interim processing point 110A. Receiver 215 receives the message envelope containing the broadcast message if the message envelope is associated with that interim processing point. Processor 220 at each interim processing point 110A strips the message envelopes associated therewith from the received broadcast messages. Transmitter 225 forwards broadcast messages to recipients (clients 120A, 121A, . . .

Abstract: A central control system is provided for broadband communication terminals. A message source generates control information adapted to provide different functionality to different broadband communication terminals or populations of such terminals. At least one transmitter is adapted to transmit control information generated by the message source to the terminals on different control channels. The message source provides control channel configuration messages targeted to different terminal populations or to individual terminals. The control channel configuration messages designate a particular control channel from which the targeted terminal population or individual terminal should thereafter acquire the control information required to control the functionality of the respective terminal(s).

Abstract: The invention relates to ways for more efficiently receiving information with a set top box. In one embodiment, a method for distributing a message in a conditional access system is disclosed. In one step authorization information is received and stored by a conditional access receiver. An identifier is determined with the authorization information. It is determined if the conditional access receiver is authorized to receive the message associated with the identifier. Receipt of the message associated with the identifier may be blocked based, at least in part, upon the determining if the conditional access receiver is authorized.