Abstract: A system that maps media content information to an interactive program guide displayed on a screen includes, among other things, a memory with logic, and a processor configured with the logic to display at least one personal video recording display channel in the interactive program guide. The processor is further preferably configured with the logic to display media content instance listings in the personal video recording display channel for corresponding media content instance recordings.

Abstract: A method that communicates a request from a first device to a proximally located second device for a movie residing in storage associated with the second device, the request communicated over a communications network, responsive to the request, receives the movie from the second device over the communications network, presents a menu on a screen corresponding to the first device, the menu comprising playback options to enable a user to manipulate playback and rewind of the movie, and responsive to user selection of one of the playback options, presents the movie on the screen.

Abstract: A system and method for managing the digital video recorder (DVR) recording process during unplanned changes in schedule is described. In one embodiment, for example, codes that indicate the current condition of the television program are broadcast with the program. The codes are used to indicate common conditions such as television programs running longer than planned or programs being pre-empted. The codes enable the management of both current and subsequent programming, enable correcting the start and end times of recordings, and enable detection of program cancellation.

Abstract: By combining an earphone with an extra audio splitter and jack, it becomes possible to share the audio being played over one set of earphones with another set of earphones in a sanitary manner using ordinary, unmodified earphones.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed of a network including a primary device, a plurality of remote devices, and a shared peripheral device. The network allows the remote devices to operate the peripheral device, such as a DVD player, VCR, or camcoder, via the primary device and the network. The peripheral device is typically connected to the primary device and shared among all devices. The network also includes a splitter/isolation module (SIM) that routes the signals between the primary device and the plurality of remote devices.

Abstract: A cleaning apparatus capable of holding soap or other cleansers is described. The apparatus includes a washcloth for scrubbing and abrasion and a pouch or pocket made of relatively more permeable material for holding soap. The soap is held on both sides by relatively more permeable fabric and is not obscured by the more permeable material of typical washcloths, and yet the apparatus includes a washcloth for comfortable bathing. The pouch may include a closure for retaining the soap.

Abstract: A system for transferring file position between electronic media files is described. In one embodiment, for example, a consumer may download and read a sample of a complete book. Upon either full or partial completion of the sample, the consumer may wish to purchase the entire book. When the complete book is purchased, viewing of the book proceeds from the point where the sample was left off, allowing a seamless transition from sample to complete version.

Abstract: The invention is a method of measuring salinity that presents an alternative to conventional salinity sensors that require AC voltage to measure salinity. The use of AC voltage is undesirable due to the need for two accurate analog measurements (current and voltage) and, in the case of computer based measurements both analog measurements must be converted to a digital signal.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed of a network including a primary device, a plurality of remote devices, and a shared peripheral device. The network allows the remote devices to operate the peripheral device, such as a DVD player, VCR, or camcoder, via the primary device and the network. The peripheral device is typically connected to the primary device and shared among all devices. The network also includes a splitter/isolation module (SIM) that routes the signals between the primary device and the plurality of remote devices.

Abstract: A master device interactively distributes a television signal to a remote device for remote display with low latency between a user input and a television signal change.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards enabling a set-top box, a cable card, or a television to insert data into horizontal or vertical bars on a display image. More specifically, when an aspect ratio of a program is converted, letterboxing bars are used either along the horizontal or vertical edges. Within these edges, data is then composited at appropriate times to display such things as program information, television information, personal settings, etc. Additionally, graphical bars may be rendered in order to block any received data from being inserted into these bars.

Abstract: Included are systems and methods for performing an internal operations test to a set top terminal (STT). At least one embodiment of a method includes creating a test pattern for testing video functionality of the STT, sending the created test pattern to a digital encoder, and converting the test pattern to an analog signal.

Abstract: DVD playback over Multi-room by copying to the hard drive of a primary device in a networked multi-room system (NMS). The DVD content is saved to a hard drive and can then be retrieved by any of the remote devices in the NMS by accessing the program guide or the recorded programs list. The DVD menu can be altered to include previews, contests, products, etc.

Abstract: A system that maps media content information to an interactive program guide displayed on a screen includes, among other things, a memory with logic, and a processor configured with the logic to display at least one personal video recording display channel in the interactive program guide. The processor is further preferably configured with the logic to display media content instance listings in the personal video recording display channel for corresponding media content instance recordings.

Abstract: A digital media recorder includes a first storage device associated with the digital media recorder and an interface for removably attaching a second storage device to the digital media recorder. Each of the first and second storage devices are configured to store media data representing programming from a media source. The digital media recorder is configured with logic for prioritizing the storage of the media data to one of the first and second storage devices before storing the media data to the other of the first and second storage devices.

Abstract: A system that maps media content information to an interactive program guide displayed on a screen includes, among other things, a memory with logic, and a processor configured with the logic to display at least one personal video recording display channel in the interactive program guide. The processor is further preferably configured with the logic to display media content instance listings in the personal video recording display channel for corresponding media content instance recordings.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a primary device that detects the proximity of additional remote devices, which are intended to be within the same local network. The primary device communicates with the remote devices using wireless communication. In the event that the remote devices are outside of a predetermined range, the remote devices are disabled.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing downstream signals to a plurality of receiver networks. A receiver network (i.e., a networked multimedia system) includes a splitter/isolation module (SIM), a primary set-top terminal (STT), and at least one point of deployment module. The point of deployment module communicates with the primary STT via the SIM over coaxial cable. Accordingly, the point of deployment module and connected television utilize some or all of the features including hardware and software that are included in the primary STT via the networked multimedia system.

Abstract: Included are systems and methods for performing an internal operations test to a set top terminal (STT). At least one embodiment of a method includes creating a test pattern for testing video functionality of the STT, sending the created test pattern to a digital encoder, and converting the test pattern to an analog signal.

Abstract: Systems and methods for media content transfer are described. One exemplary embodiment of a method for transferring content from a first digital video recorder (DVR) set-top to a second DVR set-top includes recording instances of media content to a first storage medium located internal to a housing of the first DVR set-top and receiving an indication that the instances of media content stored to the first storage medium are to be made available for playback using the second DVR set-top. One exemplary method further includes, in response to receiving the indication that the instances of media content stored to the first storage medium are to be made available for playback using the second DVR set-top, providing the instances of media content to the second DVR set-top over a communication interface of the second DVR set-top, the communication interface accessible from an external port of the second DVR set-top.