Abstract: A remote control and methods of configuring the remote control are provided. The remote control includes a plurality of favorite channel buttons, an icon holding member having at least one surface positioned adjacent to at least one of the favorite channel buttons, and a transmitter that transmits signals, such as a channel corresponding to an icon located on the icon holding member, to a media device in response to a favorite channel button being pressed by a user. The method of configuring the remote control includes placing an icon on the icon holding member adjacent to one of the favorite channel buttons and programming the remote control to send a signal representing a desired channel that corresponds to the icon using the transmitter when the favorite channel button adjacent to the icon is pressed.

Abstract: A remote control for learning a macro routine of optical signals is provided. An optical receiver is arranged to receive optical signals from one or more original equipment remote controls. The optical receiver outputs electrical signals. A microprocessor receives the electrical signals from the optical receiver. A memory device stores the electrical signals from the optical receiver. An operator interface is electrically coupled to the microprocessor. The operator interface receives operator input to designate a macro routine of operator-selectable optical signals from the original equipment remote control. The microprocessor causes the electrical signals from the optical receiver that correspond to the operator-selectable optical signals from the original equipment remote control to be associated with the designated macro routine and stored in the memory device. Electrical signals associated with a macro designation are retrieved from the memory device and electrically coupled to an optical transmitter.

Abstract: A wireless multi-camera home surveillance system includes a plurality of video cameras located at different locations in and around the home. The cameras are respectively connected to a plurality of wireless addressable rf receivers which receive over-the-air binary-coded rf address signals from a remote control unit. The addressed receiver applies an operating voltage to its associated camera to turn it on while all other cameras, including any previously on camera, are turned off.

Abstract: A system and a method in a computer for effecting a discount on a purchase of a second item include receiving from a customer a selection of a first item being offered for sale. Under control of the computer, the system and a method offer a discount for the second item.

Abstract: An alarm unit including a normally open switch is embedded in or affixed to an item that can be easily carried by an individual, such as a toy animal or other soft toy or cushion, or which can be worn by the individual, such as a watch. The item can thus be carried by the individual wherever he or she is seated in the home. When the individual senses the presence of an intruder, he or she presses against the portion of the item that includes the alarm unit, thereby to close or actuate the switch and activate an alarm.