Abstract: A method and apparatus for manipulating an RF or NTSC video source to control access for video products such as television, cable, satellite, VCR, DVD, and video game devices. An apparatus and method provided by the present invention takes a signal from any one of a number of signal sources and interfaces with the monitor/television/device subject to control. The apparatus and method provides a master control for the amount of time the entertainment source can be accessed and during which times of the day it can be accessed. Within the master control, subsidiary controls can be implemented within master code guidelines. The apparatus also provides its own video signal for on-screen display of functions and timing.

Abstract: The present invention is a telephone set for use in a telephone network in which a central switch gear is connected to incoming telephone lines and to a plurality of telephone stations. The switch gear serves to establish communication between selected stations and/or the incoming lines. The switch gear further has a memory and capability to receive command signals from the individual telephone set, and transmit confirmation signals to the set and perform selected functions in response to the command signals. The telephone itself has a plurality of manually actuated switches (51-56), each of which corresponds to a selected function. The set also has a programmable microprocessor (10) that automatically scans the switches, detects an actuated switch and generates a command signal corresponding to a selected function.