Abstract: A Fiber Channel or other high speed data transmission channel is provided to transfer movie files and other content between shared storage and screen servers to enhance content availability in a digital cinema system. In one embodiment a digital cinema system is provided that includes a first screen server coupled to a first digital projector. Additionally, the digital cinema system includes a memory for storing a digital movie, and a Fiber Channel communication link coupled between the first screen server and the memory. The Fiber Channel communication link is configured to transmit a copy of the digital movie from the memory to the first server for storage therein.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method and apparatus to insure continuous presentation of digital content to an audience when a locally stored copy of a file containing the digital content suddenly becomes unavailable to a digital projector. In one embodiment of the method, a first computer generates a first command to read a first block of data from a file stored on a first memory device, wherein the first computer system is coupled to a digital projector. The first computer system also generates a second command, which is subsequently transmitted to a storage device external to the computer system. The external storage device includes a hard disk that stores a copy of the file that is stored on the first memory device or vice versa. The external storage device includes a read/write head.

Abstract: A method is described that enables a user to remotely manage and/or monitor servers such as digital cinema screen servers and other equipment such as digital projectors within one or more digital multiplex theaters. In one embodiment, the remote management and/or monitoring of the present invention can be performed via a public, wide area network (e.g., the Internet) with or without VPN. In other embodiments, the remote management and/or monitoring of the present invention can be performed via a private, wide area network (WAN), or via a satellite communication link. In yet another embodiment, the remote management and/or monitoring of the present invention can be performed via a local area network (LAN).

Abstract: A camera system including a matte box assembly for use on cameras for supporting a plurality of filters, the matte box assembly including a filter holder mechanism which is insertable into the matte box assembly. The filter holder accommodates a bottom filter element and a top filter element, the filter elements stacked in the frame in parallel relationship to one another, one on top of the other, with the bottom filter element engaging the lower ledge portion of the frame member.