Abstract: Methods of displaying video data are disclosed. The methods generate a plurality of queries for determining from which of a plurality of video data sources video data is to be displayed and store each of the queries. One of the queries is selected for display and the selected query is matched with metadata from one or more of the plurality of video data sources. The video data from the video data sources that match the query is displayed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a plurality of sequential image data samples for display, is disclosed. A first one of the image data samples is accessed and then a second one of the image data samples is accessed. The first and second image data samples may then be provided for display, where one or more further data samples are provided in the event that the first and second image data samples are not contiguous. These further data samples indicate that image data samples are not available between the first and second image data samples.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of retrieving video frames over a network for subsequent display. A user interaction (303) with a timeline (202) represented by a client (103) coupled to the network (105) is detected. From the detected interaction, a request (304) for video to be retrieved from a server (101) across the network is formed. A series of non-contiguous (scattered) sample frames (FIGS. 13-16) received in response to the request are then cached (104) for subsequent display. This method permits efficient handling of video scrubbing requests for streamlining video as only selected ones of the cached sample frames close to a GUI play head position (203) need be reproduced. Since the frames are non-contiguous, the scope of the source video is quickly sampled permitting improved user response and, where desired, adjustment of the play head position.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a plurality of sequential image data samples for display, is disclosed. A first one of the image data samples is accessed and then a second one of the image data samples is accessed. The first and second image data samples may then be provided for display, where one or more further data samples are provided in the event that the first and second image data samples are not contiguous. These further data samples indicate that image data samples are not available between the first and second image data samples.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a plurality of sequential image data samples for display, is disclosed. A first one of the image data samples is accessed and then a second one of the image data samples is accessed. The first and second image data samples may then be provided for display, where one or more further data samples are provided in the event that the first and second image data samples are not contiguous. These further data samples indicate that image data samples are not available between the first and second image data samples.

Abstract: Methods of displaying video data are disclosed. The methods generate a plurality of queries for determining from which of a plurality of video data sources video data is to be displayed and store each of the queries. One of the queries is selected for display and the selected query is matched with metadata from one or more of the plurality of video data sources. The video data from the video data sources that match the query is displayed.

Abstract: A service providing apparatus for providing a service to a user of a user interface card (10) is disclosed. The card (10) is configured for insertion into a card read device (1) that has a receptacle (4) to receive the interface card (10). The interface card (10) comprises a substrate (12) with indicia (14) formed thereon. The apparatus also comprises a central processing unit for receiving a service identifier and data stored on the card (10), from the read device (1). The data is related to a user selected indicia (14), wherein the central processing unit is configured to provide a service. The service is identified by the service identifier.

Abstract: A service providing apparatus for providing a service to a user of a user interface card (10) is disclosed. The card (10) is configured for insertion into a card read device (1) that has a receptacle (4) to receive the interface card (10). The interface card (10) comprises a substrate (12) with indicia (14) formed thereon. The apparatus also comprises a central processing unit for receiving a service identifier and data stored on the card (10), from the read device (1). The data is related to a user selected indicia (14) wherein the central processing unit is configured to provide a service. The service is identified by the service identifier.