Abstract: One version of a microprocessor based auto dialer for a PPV television system includes an IR receiver for receiving impulse "buy" decisions, in the form of one or more key pad entries from a portable IR transmitter, and a number generator for adding the appropriate digits to a partial ANI telephone number stored in memory. In another version, the auto dialer is connected to the serial port of a PM type CATV decoder and a PPV identifier and telephone number may be downloaded to the ANI auto dialer to eliminate the permanent storage of the telephone number and to simplify subscriber interaction. The auto dialer dials the telephone number of the cable head end. Further embodiments include carrier current interfaces between the IR receiver/detector and the auto dialer, and between the decoder and the auto dialer.

Abstract: A television encoding system passes a modulated video carrier through a pair of SAW filters for attenuating and reversing the phase of the carrier during horizontal intervals. Another pair of SAW filters impart intermediate amplitude and phase changes to the video carrier during transitions into and out of the horizontal intervals to minimize switching transients and frequency disturbances in the color and audio carriers.

Abstract: A thermal printer is disclosed in which ultrasonic energy is converted to heat a dye image in a receiver to cause such dye to fuse into such receiver.

Abstract: A thermal dye transfer apparatus includes a laser which illuminates an image or pattern produced by a liquid crystal display. This laser image is projected onto a dye carrying donor. The donor absorbs heat from laser light and dye transfers by sublimination from the donor to the receiver to form the image or pattern in the receiver.

Abstract: A pulsed constant current circuit is disclosed for each electrode of a resistive ribbon thermal printer. The circuit is energized for a predetermined time and provides a constant current pulse through the electrode to the resistive ribbon to cause a predetermined amount of dye to transfer from the ribbon to thereby provide a continuous tone print.

Abstract: A cable converter for a television signal transmission having a stereo audio signal includes a coaxial output jack supplied with a 4.5 MHz aural intercarrier and a DC voltage for volume control and mute purposes. An interface circuit includes a pair of transistors connected in series for controlling the DC voltage level on the output jack as a function of desired volume level. One of the two transistors functions as a switch that may be operated from the cable head-end to provide a mute voltage level at the output jack for disabling the audio for nonauthorized channels. Optionally, a head-end control signal may operate another transistor for preventing coupling of the 4.5 Mhz aural intercarrier to the output jack.

Abstract: A video system includes a VCR coupled to the output of a summation circuit that has two inputs. The first input is supplied from an active splitter and the second from a UHF modulator/upconverter which has its input connected to the active splitter through a decoder/converter. The output of the summation circuit is coupled through a passive splitter to the VCR and the VCR is connected to the TV receiver in normal fashion. The arrangement permits full use of the VCR capabilities.

Abstract: A decoder for a television signal encrypted with randomly inverted video and randomly suppressed sync pulses includes inverting and noninverting amplifiers for inverting the inverted video and a sync pulse restoration circuit for restoring suppressed sync pulses, all under control of decoder logic. A comparator is coupled to the noninverting amplifier and changes its output voltage in the presence of signal portions extending beyond the mid sync level of the video signal. The output of the comparator is connected to the emitter of a transistor that has its collector supplied through a voltage divider load from a source of blanking level voltage. The junction of the voltage divider receives the decoded video signal. The transistor is driven conductive in response to flyback pulses, corresponding to the occurrence of sync pulses, applied to its base.

Abstract: A television signal converter includes ON/OFF means and channel selection means responsive to remotely transmitted infra-red command signals. The signal channel frequency output of the converter is coupled to the input of a VCR having program means enabling a user to determine a recording time schedule. A microprocessor driven programmable remote command signal transmitter supplied ON/OFF and channel selection command signals to the converter.

Abstract: A VCR includes a single two-way signal splitter and a plurality of RF switches for interconnecting a source of television signals, a television receiver, and a decoder or converter to enable complete flexibility in viewing of any channel while recording of any channel, including a channel requiring a decoder without incurring additional signal loss.

Abstract: A CATV decoder for receipt of television stereo audio includes a shunt path having a 4.5 MHz filter and amplifier for translating the 4.5 MHz audio signal to a modulator thus bypassing the normal audio baseband detector and 4.5 MHz oscillator circuit. A switch acts through an OR gate for selectively enabling the shunt path and normal audio path. Control from the cable head end is provided by a signal to the OR gate for returning operation to the normal audio path if reception is not authorized. In a similar manner, a remote audio mute signal may be supplied to the OR gate by the viewer.

Abstract: A television receiver includes conventional systems for the reception and processing of a received broadcast signal. An AFC loop operative upon the tuning system frequency conversion produces complementary control effects by detection of both sound and picture carriers. A filter network provides frequency dependent phase shift of sampled IF signal which is applied to a product detector. The quadrature phase shift frequencies are selected to provide complementary control effects and avoid production of AFC offset at correct tuning.