Abstract: A television, such as an HDTV receiver, includes a plurality of signal inputs each of which is adapted to receive television signals comprising a plurality of channels and communicate the received television signals to a processor/tuner for selection of the various channels by a user for viewing on a display of the television. A channel search routine for the detection of channels in the television signal is accomplished on the currently designated signal input rather than on all signal inputs of the television. The channels detected during the search of the currently designated signal input are included in a channel list that is stored in memory of the television. A GUI is preferably used to initiate the channel search and is capable of displaying the detected channels relating to the currently selected signal input. Channel lists for each signal input are updated as the channels are detected.

Abstract: A liquid crystal display television receiver projection system uses a controller responsive to a first signal by providing power to a first set of circuits of the system. The controller is responsive to a second signal by removing power from a second set of circuits of the system; A timer defines a time interval between an instance of a power off signal and an instance of a power on signal. In the event a user issues a power on command before the first interval has elapsed, power will be applied to circuits other than the lamp The lamp will remain de-energized until the first interval has elapsed. Therefore, a user is prevented from re-striking the lamp.

Abstract: A system for selectively illuminates a light source that illuminates a power indicator of a video apparatus when the indicator distracts a viewer. The power button illumination is selectively set to be extinguished or illuminated when the video apparatus is powered on by means of an on-screen menu as an example. Extinguishing the power button light source does not affect the ability of the indicator to become illuminated to provide information to a viewer regarding the operating status of the video apparatus such as when a TV projection lamp has failed.

Abstract: A liquid crystal display television receiver projection system uses a high-intensity discharge lamp as a back lighting source. The lamp is of the type that should not be re-started or turned on immediately after being turned off. In response to a user power off command, the display screen will immediately give a false appearance of being turned off, during a first interval of, for example, 30 seconds that immediately follows the power off command. Despite the appearance of being turned off, the lamp is maintained powered on, during the first interval. Should a user issue a power on command, before the first interval has elapsed, the user will not experience any start-up delay. Should the user not issue et power on command, during the first interval, the lamp will be de-energized.

Abstract: A consumer electronic apparatus includes at least a clock, and in some cases a microprocessor, which produces data, such as time-of-day or control parameters, which are stored in volatile memory. A power failure can cause this data to be lost. The data are stored in nonvolatile memory according to an algorithm during normal operation, so that they are available after a power failure. In one version, the parameters are stored at fixed intervals. In another version, the parameters are stored in response to a change. In yet another version, the parameters are stored in a manner which is distributed among plural memory locations to extend life.

Abstract: A system for selectively illuminates a light source that illuminates a power indicator of a video apparatus when the indicator distracts a viewer. The power button illumination is selectively set to be extinguished or illuminated when the video apparatus is powered on by means of an on-screen menu as an example. Extinguishing the power button light source does not affect the ability of the indicator to become illuminated to provide information to a viewer regarding the operating status of the video apparatus such as when a TV projection lamp has failed.

Abstract: A liquid crystal display television receiver projection system uses a high-intensity discharge lamp as a back lighting source. The lamp is of the type that should not be re-started or turned on immediately after being turned off. In response to a user power off command, the display screen will immediately give a false appearance of being turned off, during a first interval of, for example, 30 seconds that immediately follows the power off command. Despite the appearance of being turned off, the lamp is maintained powered on, during the first interval. Should a user issue a power on command, before the first interval has elapsed, the user will not experience any start-up delay. Should the user not issue et power on command, during the first interval, the lamp will be de-energized.