Abstract: The systems disclosed allow an STB to manage a CPU as a resource. Further, users can be notified of the CPU status and presented with options to modify CPU resource preferences. The systems disclosed allow an STB to manage the CPU when the CPU is running tasks and applications such as DVR and digital video playback, recording and playback of disks including DVDs and CDs, photograph slide shows, and so on.

Abstract: A content resource manager (CRM) in a home area network is configured to determine if a conflict exists between current use of a media pipeline and a requested use of the media pipeline. If a conflict exists, the CRM requests the user to indicate if a current use of a media pipeline should be discontinued and the desired program retrieved. The CRM may provide the user with a plurality of media pipelines to select from to override over which the desired program may be provided.

Abstract: A Digital Video Recording (DVR) system and method obviates the need for prior art circular video buffers and their associated problems by using information from a Program Guide Service to specify an appropriate length buffer. As a result, older portions of a program are not erased because of buffer size limitation, and system resources are not inefficiently allocated for small programs. The invention is especially compatible with live-pause recording and playback. At the viewer/user's option any program being played back or recorded can be stored in long-term memory.