Abstract: A motion-picture distributor (12) uses a computer system (22) to convert video signals from a master film (14) into serial video data (41) complying with DVD-Video standards. Further, the computer system (22) modifies the sequence of scene-data sets (42-1, 42-2, . . . ) constituting the data (41) and encrypts the data for each scene-data set, thus producing encrypted non-serial video data (45). The data (45) are separated into DVD-ROMs (15-1, 15-2, . . . ), for distribution purposes. A theater (13) then uses a serialization apparatus (51) to read the data (45) from the DVD-ROMs (15-1, 15-2, . . . ), and sorts the scene-data sets in a correct sequence, thus producing encrypted serial video data (80). A motion picture projector (52) decrypts the data (80), thereby preparing the data (41). The data (41) are played back to view a movie. On the other hand, a movie distributor (12) may distribute the DVD-ROMs in a separated manner.

Abstract: A motion-picture distributor (12) uses a computer system (22) to convert video signals from a master film (14) into serial video data (41) complying with DVD-Video standards. Further, the computer system (22) modifies the sequence of scene-data sets (42-1, 42-2, . . . ) constituting the data (41) and encrypts the data for each scene-data set, thus producing encrypted non-serial video data (45). The data (45) are separated into DVD-ROMs (15-1, 15-2, . . . ), for distribution purposes. A theater (13) then uses a serialization apparatus (51) to read the data (45) from the DVD-ROMs (15-1, 15-2, . . . ), and sorts the scene-data sets in a correct sequence, thus producing encrypted serial video data (80). A motion picture projector (52) decrypts the data (80), thereby preparing the data (41). The data (41) are played back to view a movie. On the other hand, a movie distributor (12) may distribute the DVD-ROMs in a separated manner.

Abstract: A control device suitable for use in a sing-along or karaoke apparatus has a rotary encoder coupled to a selector knob through a transfer mechanism, such as gears. When the selector knob rotates, the rotary encoder generates pulse signals for each rotation of the selector knob. The number of pulses may depend upon a gear ratio of the transfer mechanism. The control device is used, for example, to scan and select music titles stored in a ROM cartridge or other suitable storage medium. The control device may be integrated with an apparatus for controlling the start or stop function. The control device provides a design flexibility due to its compact design.