Abstract: Atomic channel change in a switched digital video (SDV) system. A set-top box (STB) sends join and leave message commands to a SDV device when requesting a channel change. If one of the IGMP message commands does not reach the SDV device, oversubscription can occur. A combined join and leave message ensures that a join command is performed only when a leave command is also performed. If the single message does not reach the SDV device, the STB resends the command.

Abstract: A method for providing a television presentation enhancement includes receiving from a remote location trigger attribute data identifying at least one display attribute of an interactive icon, responsive to receiving the trigger attribute data, causing an interactive icon having the at least one attribute identified by the trigger attribute data to be displayed via a display device, receiving user input selecting the interactive icon, and responsive to receiving the user input, providing a television presentation enhancement. Systems and other methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: An improved graphical manipulation technique for a home communication terminal (HCT) includes a linked-list of commands controlling various video operations in an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). After each command has been implemented by the ASIC, the ASIC proceeds to the next command without interrupting a host processor. Accordingly, the linked-list eliminates the need of the host processor to continually process interrupts at the completion of each instruction. The linked-list command structure aids in intensive video operations including bit block transfers, video capture, and video display.