Abstract: A method of enabling the programming of universal remote control system for controlling a CE device of a combination type providing a combination of functionalities equivalent to that provided by a combination of devices with respective basic features, the CE device including an interface for receiving remote control signals to access the combination of functionalities, wherein the combination of functionalities determines possible operational states of the CE device, includes providing input data for a configuration process for generating program code enabling the remote control system to provide remote control signals controlling transitions between the possible states. The input data is assembled by a data processing system in accordance with information defining the combination of devices with basic features received through an interface to the data processing system.

Abstract: EPG data regarding programs and their scheduled times are structured and/or transmitted in such a way that program and schedule records are interleaved. This scheme allows better handling by receiving devices such as embedded devices (i.e. LCD remote controls), because a more efficient reception and storage of transmitted data is possible. In particular, the receiving device can read, parse and store the downloaded EPG data on the fly as it is being received (it can start reading, parsing and storing before the complete reception of data id finished). At any time when the device would have to stop storing EPG data into persistent storage, (almost) all of the data that was stored can actually be used.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of solving a conflict, the method comprising the steps of selecting (210) a program item and specifying at least one intended operation for said program item, determining (230) whether or not said operation can be performed without a conflict with at least one earlier specified item, choosing (270) which program item is to be operated and setting (280) data implementing that choice. According to the method of the invention, the method comprises a step (260) of executing an interactive game program to resolve the conflict. The invention also relates to a system for processing program items, the system performing the method of the present invention.