Abstract: An IP settop box for use in a network is described, including the apparatus and a method for updating the apparatus in a network. The method includes interfacing the device to a network, launching a service related to interfacing the network to the device, determining if the service is operating properly, requesting information related to the service if it is not operating properly, and updating the service using the requested information without restarting the device. The apparatus includes a network interface for communicating with a network including a request for an update related to a service and an updated value related to a service, a memory for storing a value related to the service, and a processor operatively coupled to the network interface and memory for managing the update related to the service in the apparatus by allowing a change to the value in the memory without restarting the apparatus.

Abstract: A method for generating commercial information using a data recording device can provide commercial sponsors with feedback regarding the effectiveness of their commercials. According to the method, program data including a commercial is recorded. The recorded program data including the commercial is played back. A trigger event for the commercial is detected during playback. Information identifying the commercial is stored in response to detection of the trigger event.

Abstract: A method for generating commercial information using a data recording device can provide commercial sponsors with feedback regarding the effectiveness of their commercials. According to the method, program data including a commercial is recorded. The recorded program data including the commercial is played back. A trigger event for the commercial is detected during playback. Information identifying the commercial is stored in response to detection of the trigger event.