Abstract: A method of an input unit of a method and apparatus for controlling digital TV program start time. The input unit and method of the input unit receive digital channels from multiple sources, as a plurality of digital-transport streams, respectively. Each digital-transport stream has a multiplicity of transport packets. The input unit and method time-stamp each of the received transport packets of the multiplicity of transport packets, thereby generating a plurality of time-stamped packets, and aggregate the plurality of time-stamped packets, and scramble the aggregated plurality of time-stamped packets. The scrambled-aggregated plurality of time-stamped packets are encapsulated.

Abstract: A conditional access method and apparatus for use with a system for controlling of digital TV program start time. Subscriber access is authorized to digital program streams. Content are divided into a plurality of working periods. Each working period of the plurality of working periods is scrambled with a different working key. A working key of a given period is delivered ahead of the given period. The working key is synchronized with scrambling control bits in an header working keys are inserted into an entitlement control message (ECM) packet, and the ECM packet is encrypted using a service key. A time period is inserted into the ECM packet during which the service key is valid. A service key is inserted in an entitlement.

Abstract: A video system for providing a large number of video streams. The video system includes a video server and dividing means. Storage means, a switch and control means are located at the video server. The video server has a plurality of central-processing units (CPUs). The dividing means divides a plurality of input video-streams entering the video system, and sends the divided plurality of input-video streams, with each divided video stream identified with a separate Ethernet address, to the video server. The storage means stores an input video-stream of the plurality of input video-streams as a stored-video stream. The switch routes an input-video stream of the plurality of input-video streams to the storage means. The control means controls the storage means to replay the stored-video stream and to control portions of the stored-video stream at an appropriate time, and controls the plurality of CPUs at the video server to work in parallel.

Abstract: A construction arrangement for a small set-top box to protect cryptographic capabilities and prevent a digital program in clear from being able to be tapped as required by Digital Rights Management protocols. A first layer of sheet metal capable of blocking X-rays, is formed as a shallow pan to hold a set of printed circuit boards. A second layer has a thin epoxy based printed circuit material. A third layer has a printed circuit board with integrated components placed on top of the second layer. A fourth layer has a three layer thin printed circuit board with a first and second metallic layer and holes for large components, such as electrolytic capacitors. A black liquid thermosetting epoxy fills the interstices between the sheet metal layer and the second layer, and between the second layer and the third layer, and between the third layer and the fourth layer, thereby preventing access to exposed circuit trace carrying digital signals in the clear.

Abstract: An attachment system for use with a variable incidence vane is disclosed. The attachment system includes a vane arm for joining a unison ring to a vane spindle. The vane arm has an arm portion and a bushing connected to the arm portion. The attachment system further has a pin for joining the vane arm to the unison ring. The pin fits within an interior bore in the bushing and is joined to the unison ring by a dual swage.

Abstract: A system for the delivery of video on demand (VOD). A wireless remote control device generates keystroke signals for controlling a TV display and has a single button for restarting a selected program at a beginning of the selected program. A head-end unit supports separate downstream virtual channels for each separate TV set connected on a common TV feeder-cable; The head-end unit locally records and stores many programs, and transmits each program using a compressed digital format. The Compressed digital format may use MPEG-2 or MPEG-4. The head-end unit has means for protecting against signal theft. A set top unit encapsulates the keystroke signals and transmits the keystroke signals via a two-way channel to the head-end unit.

Abstract: A receivables management method whereby a credit provider provides sufficient credit to a plurality of buyers who place orders with a seller to cover debts incurred only when placing the orders with the seller. The buyers placing the orders with the seller thereby incurred debt with the seller. The seller fulfills the orders and transfers the debt to the credit provider in exchange for settlement of the debts by the credit provider. The credit provider seeks settlement of the debts from the buyers. In addition, an apparatus is provided for processing data wherein data is received from a seller relating to orders made by a plurality of buyers. The data includes order information and debt information. A data processing device is provided for separating the order information from the debt information and forwarding the debt information to the debt processing device.