Abstract: A system and method for enabling a user to request and download selected media files from distributed content provider sites via the Internet. The system includes a plurality of user sites each including a player/receiver housed in an enclosure having a simple user interface, a plurality of content provider sites, and a transaction server site. The player/receiver enables the user to connect to the transaction server via the Internet to access a program guide listing available media files. The user is then able to select a desired file and, via the player/receiver and Internet, request the transaction server to authorize download of the selected file. The file request along with file encryption and transfer instructions are sent from the transaction server via the Internet to the content provider site storing the requested file. Requested files are then dynamically encrypted by the content provider site and securely downloaded to the requesting player/receiver.

Abstract: A system and method for enabling a user to request and download selected media files from distributed content provider sites via the Internet. The system includes a plurality of user sites each including a player/receiver housed in an enclosure having a simple user interface, a plurality of content provider sites, and a transaction server site. The player/receiver enables the user to connect to the transaction server via the Internet to access a program guide listing available media files. The user is then able to select a desired file and, via the player/receiver and Internet, request the transaction server to authorize download of the selected file. The file request along with file encryption and transfer instructions are sent from the transaction server via the Internet to the content provider site storing the requested file. Requested files are then dynamically encrypted by the content provider site and securely downloaded to the requesting player/receiver.

Abstract: A system and a method to establish reconfigurable electrical connections between selected leads of electronic devices includes a node board having a plurality of nodes into which the leads of the electronic devices are inserted, and a device proximity detector for locating the position of the electronic devices inserted in the node board, and a power controller containing a plurality of switches disposed to connect power and ground to selected nodes, and a connection array of switches for coupling combinations of nodes. The system and method determine the location of the electronic devices present on the node board using information from the device proximity detector about which leads are present and a board layout diagram. Devices are placed on the node board in the same relative positions as they appear on the board layout diagram and their locations are automatically determined and connections according to a schematic are automatically established.