Abstract: An apparatus such as a television signal receiver, radio or other device provides an emergency alert function. According to an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus includes a processor operative to detect a first condition wherein signal strength on a selected channel frequency associated with the emergency alert function exceeds a predetermined threshold, and to detect a second condition wherein a broadcast test associated with said emergency alert function is passed. A visual indicator is operative to provide a predetermined output if the first and second conditions are detected.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for providing user selectable default recording modes in a recording device. The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for determining a default recording mode comprising the step of defining at least one default recording mode rule to be applied across a plurality of video recording sessions.

Abstract: A television signal receiver (having an emergency alert function provides an alert output in accordance with a user selectable alert mode corresponding to the type of emergency event. According to an exemplary embodiment, the television signal receiver includes a tuner operative to tune a frequency including emergency alert signals indicating a type of emergency event. A processor is operative to enable an alert output responsive to the emergency alert signals, wherein the alert output is provided in accordance with a user selectable alert mode corresponding to the type of emergency event.