Patents by Inventor Tom T. Thompson

Tom T. Thompson has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 8095956
    Abstract: A method for providing interactive programming over a broadband network. A service provider provides a private data packet including the provider's address that is inserted between frames of a transmission that is broadcast over the broadband network. The interactive video/data system may include a broadcast source, a broadband digital terminal, and a set top box for a consumer's television receiver. A data path may be enabled by the set top box upon receipt of the private data packet included with the video transmission. The private data packet includes application interface information communicated in real-time between the set top box and broadcast source in addition to the destination address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Qwest Communications International Inc
    Inventors: Donald L. Brodigan, Tom T. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6574236
    Abstract: A customer interface device for coupling a customer site to a VDSL-based video, voice and data distribution network includes a signal splitter for separating incoming narrowband and broadband from a single twisted-pair copper wire, a narrowband port for connection to existing telephone wiring at the customer site, and a broadband port for connection to a customer set-top box via a CAT 5 wire. The interface device further includes a high pass filter connected between the splitter and the narrowband port, and a low pass filter connected between the splitter and the broadband port. The filters improve broadband signal quality while preventing feedback of EMI noise from the existing building wiring to the network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Qwest Communications International Inc.
    Inventors: Linda K. Gosselin, Tom T. Thompson, Richard H. Fink
  • Patent number: 6320125
    Abstract: An enclosure for electronic devices includes a frame device for moving at least one electronic device from the interior of the enclosure to a position outside to the enclosure, or a position where the device does not obstruct access to other components. A frame device may be attached to at least one interior surface of the enclosure as well as an electronic device, such that as the frame is moved within enclosure, the electronic device, connected thereto is repositioned as well. The frame may further include an additional hinge device for rotating the electronic device away from the enclosure. With this movement of the electronic device, greater access may be provided to other electronic devices and components contained therein. The enclosure may further include a specially-adapted ground bar for grounding the individual components in the enclosure. Specially marked attachments may be provided such that individual connections are established from each component as well as a connection to an electrical ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Qwest Communications Int'l., Inc.
    Inventors: Michael C. McKay, Tom T. Thompson