Abstract: A system and method are described for providing interactive television services and for switching between television programs, such as to an interactive program session from another program. An interactive server, capable of providing requested interactive video services to a set of subscribers in a given geographic area, is coupled to a network to which subscriber set top boxes are also coupled. Television programming, which may be furnished by any number of sources, is accompanied by a signal that indicates the availability of other programming, such as interactive television service related to the program being viewed, as well as information to be used in requesting such service. The user, when notified by this signal, may input to the set top box a request for a second program, such as an interactive program or application. The identity of the original program channel is stored, and a session with the video service provider is established over the network.

Abstract: A method for adjusting data transmission speed in a VOD (video on demand) service system, wherein video data from a VOD server is transmitted to a mobile communication terminal in accordance with a VOD service request is provided. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the method comprises analyzing power control information transmitted between a base station and a mobile communication terminal, wherein the base station provides the means of communication between the mobile communication terminal and a VOD server. The transmission speed of video data transmitted to the mobile communication terminal from the VOD server is then adjusted based on the power control information.

Abstract: An interfacing system enables an application client to interface with a device driver in a client device with persistent storage. In some preferred embodiments, the interfacing system includes a memory with logic and a processor configured with the logic to use the normal play time locations to reference media content instances of a buffer file stored in clusters of a hard disk. In some prefererd embodiments, the processor is configured with the logic to designate one of the referenced media content instances of the buffer file as a permanent file.

Abstract: A system and method are described for providing interactive television services and for switching between television programs, such as to an interactive program session from another program. An interactive server, capable of providing requested interactive video services to a set of subscribers in a given geographic area, is coupled to a network to which subscriber set top boxes are also coupled. Television programming, which may be furnished by any number of sources, is accompanied by a signal that indicates the availability of other programming, such as interactive television service related to the program being viewed, as well as information to be used in requesting such service. The user, when notified by this signal, may input to the set top box a request for a second program, such as an interactive program or application. The identity of the original program channel is stored, and a session with the video service provider is established over the network.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of playing a set of multimedia applications (A), each multimedia application including a list of tasks (TTD). The method includes the steps of creating a common scheduler (SCH) at a start time, in order to provide a target time, registering the tasks into the scheduler, and controlling the execution of the tasks as a function of the target time. The method also includes a step of giving a priority level to the task and the scheduler is adapted to control the execution of the tasks as a function of the target time and the priority level. The method further includes a step of computing a local time for a task from the target time provided by the scheduler and timing information associated with said task. With such a mechanism, each task has its own time reference, thus ensuring a correct operation of the overall application, while a global notion of schedule is maintained.

Abstract: A smart card for providing a software upgrade to host device, which has a smart card interface, includes a memory that stores the software upgrade for delivery to the host device. The smart card includes a card information structure (CIS) for identifying the smart card as providing a software upgrade so that the host device can access the software upgrade of the smart card to upgrade the software and/or firmware of the host device. The host device is an open-cable compliant set-top-box.

Abstract: A portable electronic book viewer receives electronic text and graphic files, or electronic books, by connection to a television program delivery system. The electronic books may provided as compressed data that is transmitted with a video signal. The electronic books are transmitted in the vertical blanking interval of the video signal. The electronic books may be received at a set top terminal, and stored in memory at the set top terminal. A hardware upgrade may be added to a conventional set top terminal to provide for reception, storage and processing of the electronic books. Such storage may be by way of a hard disk, a floppy disk, an optical disk, and a magnetic cartridge for example. The portable viewer may receive the electronic books from the set top terminal. The portable viewer may then decompress the electronic books for display and viewing. The electronic books are decompressed only at the time of viewing.

Abstract: Methods and system for service level agreement enforcement on a data-over-cable system. One or more service level agreements are created including one or more class-of-service or quality-of-service parameters. A pool of Internet Protocol addresses is allocated for the one or more service level agreements. Configuration files including service level agreement parameters are used to initialize cable modems or customer premise equipment. When a cable modem or customer premise equipment requests use of a service level agreement, an Internet Protocol address from the pool of Internet Addresses associated with a desired service level agreement is assigned. The service level agreements are enforced using the Internet Protocol address from a cable modem termination system including an integral switch cable access router and a bandwidth manager.

Abstract: A multimedia apparatus, such as a set top box for use with a television set, comprises a receiver for receiving program data from a communication channel and a processor which stores said program data with a file containing associated secondary program data, such as a promotional trailer. The processor compiles a menu of secondary program data files allowing a viewer to watch a trailer and decide whether to retrieve the full program or film. The secondary data may be broadcast in parallel with the program data. Alternatively, the processor may run an application for producing the secondary program data, e.g. using earmarked portions of the full program data.

Abstract: A method, device and network (100, 200) for compressing cable modem data signals and conserving bandwidth within the network. Cable modems (110, 210) transmit upstream data signals to a fiber node (130, 230) which compresses the data signals and transmits the compressed signals upstream to a headend (112, 212) which decompresses the data signals. The fiber node (130, 230) compression may be by a shaping filter (142, 144) or a fast Fourier transform (FFT) function 270. The headend decompression may be by an inverse shaping filter (162) or an inverse FFT function (272).

Abstract: Method and system for enabling users to perform self-service operations in interactive TV environments. In one embodiment, the method enables users to select and activate programming packages via a set-top box, thereby eliminating the need for the users to have to call a call center to activate the unit. Using a set of interactive screens, the user is enabled to view various programming package information, including comparative information. In one embodiment, the method assists users who are moving to activate/reactive broadcast services. For example, options are provided to enable the user to schedule service work, disconnect and activate services, and other activities connected with the move. In another embodiment, the method enables a user to select a programming package based on packages that are recommended by the system. Historic usage patterns, including viewing habits and attempts to access unavailable content are analyzed to determine which programming packages should be recommended for the user.

Abstract: A digital entertainment solution includes a system for treating digital content, transmitting the digital content over a network to a viewing station where the digital content is presented to a viewer. A network-booting set-top box built from computer desktop technologies supports gaming, web browsing, e-mail, music listening, movie viewing and the like. A scan converter within the set-top box converts monitor resolution images to formats used by standard television sets. A browser within the set-top box substitutes fonts optimized for television viewing for standard fonts designed for computer monitors. Multiple set-top boxes are combined in a network and isolated from data-only devices to ensure service quality and to prevent unauthorized copying of digital content. The reach of the network is extended with wireless segments that use a variety of mechanisms to ensure security and service quality.

Abstract: A consumer electronics device includes a universal control logic unit to interface a plurality of input controls, a display and an antenna to a host system via a bus. The host system is located within a shielded enclosure, while the remaining components (e.g., input controls, display, antenna, universal control logic) are located outside the shielded enclosure. Because a single bus preferably is used to interface the various input/output components located outside the shielded enclosure to the shielded host system, the host system can be more easily and effectively shielded than if numerous separate electrical lines and busses were used to directly connect the various input/output devices to the host system.

Abstract: The convention transmission method is an on-demand data communication, in which one discloses a demand and one provides a supply. However, this communication way is not suitable nowadays. Since amount of current data transmission is very large. In order to improve the quality in service, the service provider provides actively the required service to the customer. After browsing by the customer, then the customer transfers the selection items to the service provider and then the service provider provides required service to the customers, By this way, the customer may browse products rapidly and the quality of information service is improved.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for providing a full service cable television system. The cable system incorporates a digital and analog transmission architecture capable of delivering a high number of high quality television programs, advanced cable services, and online services to a subscriber's home. The cable system comprises a cable headend, at least one fiber transport, at least one distribution hub, at least one hybrid fiber coax plant, and a plurality of set-top terminals. Programs and services are transmitted to the set-top terminals in both digital and analog formats to maintain downward compatibility with existing systems. The set-top terminal incorporates a central processing unit, a unified memory architecture, a memory management unit, communications circuitry, I/O control circuitry, and audio and video output circuitry.

Abstract: A digital data distribution system that comprises a broadcasting station and an end station. The broadcasting station broadcasts a broadcast signal repetitively modulated with a digital information signal. The digital information signal includes a file group composed of body files containing any or all of audio, graphics and text information. The end system includes a receiver, a user interface, a memory, a controller and a reproduction section. The receiver receives the broadcast signal from the broadcasting station and demodulates the digital information signal from the broadcast signal to generate a digital bit stream. The user interface allows a user to select at least one of the body files for storage as a selected body file. The memory is substantially smaller than the file group. The controller identifies the selected body file in the digital bit stream and causes the selected body file to be stored in the memory.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved receiver capable of receiving either a satellite broadcast signal or a cable TV signal associated with a TV. The inventive receiver comprises a first BPF for filtering received broadcast signals, a first local oscillator for generating a first oscillation signal, a first mixer for generating a first IF signal, a SAW filter producing a waveformed band signal, a second local oscillator, for generating a second and a third oscillation signal, a second mixer for generating a second and a third IF signal, a switching block for switching the second and the third IF signal, a second BPF for producing a baseband channel signal selected from the cable TV signal, a first LPF for producing a baseband I signal of satellite broadcast channel, a shifter for shifting a phase of the third IF signal, a third mixer for generating a phase-shifted third oscillation signal, and a second LPF for producing a baseband Q signal of satellite broadcast channel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus providing time-shifted television within a video-on-demand system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for the remote control of a system for storage and retrieval of data/audio/visual signals by using a link on a web page. The link addresses a control server though an internet portal or web site. The control server communicates with a control processor associated with a digital set top box. The control processor is responsible for the storage and retrieval of the data/audio/video on the set top box. The web page containing the web page and link having access to the system is included in a network (internet) that receives input from a user of the system.

Abstract: A television system is provided with a storage device for a forced accumulation, the advertisement information is selectively received and accumulated therein. According to the present invention, a storage device 2 of a TV system 1 is accumulated with the advertisement information in addition to a variety of TV programs. The storage device is structured of an area that can be exclusively used and an area usable as a user intends. Mainly, the advertisement information provided free of charge by an entrepreneur and the life information necessary for a person to use for a life are selectively received and accumulated in the former area. A content of the advertisement information is properly automatically rewritten and can be viewed for 24 hours a day throughout the year, and hence the viewer can utilize the updated advertisement information free of charge at all times. An HDD of the storage device can be utilized for a receiving box spot of the E-commerce and for accumulating news items of the E-newspaper.

Abstract: A system for transporting content to subscriber premises includes a centralized content repository, a subscriber unit, and a network connecting the subscriber unit and repository. The content can be video, image, or other files and the network can include a digital subscriber line (DSL) link. The repository stores higher quality parts of decomposed content files. The subscriber unit locally stores lower quality parts of the content files corresponding to the higher quality parts in the repository. The lower quality parts can be downloaded to the subscriber unit during off-peak hours. During operation, a subscriber selects a locally stored file. In response to the selection, the repository downloads at least one of the higher quality parts corresponding to the selected file to be combined with one of the lower quality parts stored by the subscriber unit for real-time presentation of the content.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and that synchronizes utilization of a data transfer with an audio/video stream. Time information contained within an audio/video stream is monitored for a specified time at which a data transfer may be combined with the audio/video stream. Combination includes logical operations, arithmetic operations, and may include screen windowing or other operations. Time required to request and receive a data transfer may be monitored or estimated such that requests for data are issued in advance of utilization of the data, allowing for data transfer time and network access time or other factors. Requests for a data transfer may be processed employing user information such that returned data transfers reflect a characteristic of the user.

Abstract: An electronic program guide (EPG) hardware card is disclosed. The card is insertable into a television tuning device having EPG capability. A non-volatile memory, such as flash memory, is situated within a case of the hardware card, and has data stored thereon representing one or more loader programs for the device. Each program corresponds to an EPG provider, and gives the device the capability to receive EPG information from this provider. The case of the hardware card may have a form factor such as a Smart Card, a Compact Flash, a Smart Media, or another form factor. Alternatively, the data stored on the card represents non-executable information corresponding to an EPG provider. A business model and a server-based embodiment are also disclosed.

Abstract: A video-on-demand (VOD) system is disclosed and method for providing a real-time VOD experience using Tempo-Differential file transfer with various buffering techniques and an adaptive file distribution system. The system is configured to populate users' Set-Top-Boxes (STBs) with a set of videos which correspond to the individual user's preferences, and populates a Central Office Storage (COS) server with a larger set of videos based on an analysis of all of the users' preferences. The system thus provides a real time VOD service by either correctly predicting the videos that a user will request and preloading them onto that user's STB, or by delivering the requested video from the COS to the STB using a Tempo-Differential file transfer which delays the playing of the requested video while video trailers or other information is displayed on the video screen. When using a DSL connection to the COS, only a portion of the requested video needs to be buffered on the STB before the requested video begins playing.

Abstract: In a broadcasting receiver having a function to set and select an operation mode of the receiver for each user based on input by a plurality of users, the operation mode is selected for each user to make a user setting and stored in a memory in correlation with a predetermined input pattern of an operation key. When having received a user's input in the predetermined pattern, the receiver refers to the memory to select a user setting that corresponds to this input pattern, thus switching the operation mode. It is thus possible to identify the operation mode for each user in use by simple operations.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing VCR-like “trick mode” functions, such as pause, fast-forward, and rewind, in a distributed, video-on-demand program environment. Trick modes are supported by locally altering the viewing speed for each user who requests such functions, without affecting the operation of the central data source in any way. Thus, a virtual unlimited number of viewers are able to enjoy random access to video programming, including virtually continuous trick mode functionality. This is accomplished in a manner that is operable with existing telephone and cable distribution infrastructure.

Abstract: A broadcasting receiver for receiving a digital broadcast of the invention has a sub-channel changing-dedicated operation key so that upon reception of an instruction sent from this operation key, such a sub-channel that is adjacent in a predetermined direction in the same main channel may be selected in switch-over. If the desired channel cannot be found in the predetermined direction when an upward channel-movement instruction is received, such a sub-channel is selected that has the largest or smallest channel number. Thus, it is possible to accommodate a digital broadcast that has a hierarchical construction consisting of the main channel and the sub-channels and also that has a frequently fluctuating channel configuration, thus avoiding a delay in time required for channel changing.

Abstract: In a channel selection device in the digital/analog broadcasting receiver, when an instruction of the main/sub-channel change is given by ten keys, inputting by “-” key causes the main channel being currently received to be fixed, and a display device to OSD display a state of waiting for the sub-channel. This allows the hierarchical structure of the channel to be understood intuitively, and the input steps of the main channel to be simplified, thereby allowing the channel selection to be efficiently performed.

Abstract: A broadcast receiver includes an input unit, a receiving unit, a control unit, a main memory, a demultiplexer unit, and a decoding unit. A transport stream of digital packetized data includes various data types identified by various parameters within the packet header. A filtering table lists select identifying parameters representing the various data types which are to be stored and processed. Data packets which do not have a select parameter found within the filtering table are ignored by the broadcast receiver. The filtering table is scalable by a control unit to an optimum size, which is the minimum size necessary to store all necessary parameters. A control unit determines the number of parameters required in the filtering table, and scales the filtering table to accommodate that number of parameters.

Abstract: A multi-processor unit includes a first domain for processing data according to first configuration information and having multiple first domain processors each connected to communication apparatus and each performing a different function of the first processing. The first domain processors include a first domain control processor for controlling the first processing of the first domain. The multi-processor unit also includes a second domain for second processing of the first processed data depending on a second domain configuration and having multiple second domain processors each connected to the communication apparatus and each performing a different function of the second processing. The second domain processors include a second domain control processor for controlling the second processing of the second domain.

Abstract: An apparatus, and method for establishing audio and video (visual) conferencing capabilities are disclosed. A communications device comprises a first interface to a first channel for transmitting and receiving voice over a voice network, such as the public switched telephone network (PSTN). The communications device further comprises a second interface to a second channel for transmitting and receiving video data. A connection to the second channel for transmitting and receiving video data is established upon receiving a pre-determined signal transmitted over the first channel from a second, similarly-configured communications device.

Abstract: A tuner for digital terrestrial television has an input section which supplies a sampled intermediate signal, for example at zero intermediate frequency and digitised by an ADC, corresponding to a desired reception channel corrupted by interference such as impulsive noise interference. A threshold generator generates a threshold which is larger than a moving average of the amplitudes of consecutive samples and a comparator compares the amplitudes of the samples with the threshold. If a sample amplitude exceeds the threshold, a corrector sets to zero the sample before processing by a fast Fourier transform. The threshold generator excludes samples which have been set to zero from the moving average.

Abstract: A method for purchasing, downloading, and transferring audio and/or video data files through video broadcasts is disclosed. The user signals the set-top box of his video viewing system that he is interested in downloading the audio/video data file being offered. The box records the time, the channel being viewed, and, where applicable, the user ID. The box then sends this information to the controlling server when it next reports in. The server transmits the requested data, either over the Internet or by broadcasting it back to the set-top box, where it can be downloaded to a desired format.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and device to determine which type of Set-Top Box (STB) is used in conjunction with an interactive television signal to convey code that has been developed for that specific STB. The STB is in effect, interacting with the transmission point to identify itself, and in certain circumstances, issue a request for information so that a signal or code developed for that specific receiving unit may be delivered to it. More specifically, the aforementioned invention discloses methods and devices to make these determinations on either the server side or the client side of the system.

Abstract: A broadcast data receiver includes at least two tuners, each tuner controllable to receive a user selectable data transmission, such as a video and/or audio channel, independently of the other. The user can select to combine the data transmission from the first tuner with the data transmission from the at least second tuner to provide a customized merged data ouput.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a method for presentation of information received from a broadcaster which comprises the steps of: (a) receiving broadcast information; (b) receiving guidance information relating to presentation of the broadcast information; (c) analyzing the guidance information to determine a presentation rate; and (d) presenting the information at the presentation rate.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a drive server, a control server and one or more decoder devices. The drive server may be configured to present one or more compressed data streams in response to one or more first control signals. The control server may be configured to present one or more of the compressed data streams in response to (i) one or more request signals and (ii) the one or more compressed data streams. The decoder devices may be configured to present a decoded video signal and a decoded audio signal in response to (i) one or more second control signals and (ii) the one or more compressed data streams. The navigation software, which traditionally is processed local to the decoder, may be processed on the control server. The control server may be enabled to control the remote decoder.

Abstract: A multicasting system for reception of multimedia information comprising: a content switch coupled to a multimedia content source and at least one multimedia smart terminal. The multimedia content source includes a plurality of multimedia contents, wherein each multimedia content is supported by a primary multimedia stream transmitted over a primary dedicated channel having a primary bandwidth. At least one multimedia smart terminal is configured to receive from the content switch over a network each multimedia content as a secondary multimedia stream transmitted over a secondary channel having a secondary bandwidth. The content switch includes a bandwidth scaler configured to scale each primary multimedia stream to a plurality of secondary multimedia sub-streams that are substantially synchronized.

Abstract: A set top box (STB) includes multiple processors that handle either real time or non-real time functions within the STB. One of the processors may perform substantially all of the real time operations, such as control of a data pipeline to the STB, conditional access, and control of a program guide stored within the DVR. The other processor may control substantially all non-real time functions that are executed within the STB, such as graphics user interface and browser functions. The STB may be embodied as a digital video recorder (DVR). The additional processor(s) provide for increased overall system bandwidth, improved system security and greater system stability for an STB and/or DVR configured with these multiple processors, as compared to a conventional STB having a single micro-controller or processor.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed to provided interactivity using an interactive channel bug. The interactive channel bug (e.g., an “interactive broadcast channel branding logo”) allows a television user to access a variety of interactive services. The interactive broadcast channel branding logo may be configured to launch a functionality determined by a broadcaster. This functionality may change over time. The form of the interactive broadcast channel branding logo may also change over time in which the availability of new interactive services is indicated.

Abstract: An architecture for convergence systems is disclosed. The architecture includes a hardware component providing a convergence environment. A channel map services component includes a listing of receivers of programming associated with the convergence environment and a listing of channels associated with the receivers. A content services component includes a listing of programming associated with the channels of the receivers. A TV services component uses the channel map services component, and the content services component to control the hardware component of the convergence environment to manage the hardware component of the convergence environment. The TV services component controls the audio/video multiplexer to reroute programing signals from receivers to outputs audio/video multiplexer and various devices attached to the outputs. Conflicts are resolved with minimal user intervention.

Abstract: A data stream adaptation server (1), connected to a computer network (NET), for the adaptation of data stream information (DSI1, DSI2, DSI5), includes receiving means (7) for receiving retrieval information (AI1, AI2, AI3) from a retrieval device (2, 3, 4) connected to the computer network (NET), and includes source information memory means (8) for the storage of address information (ADI) of data stream information sources (5, 6) which can supply data stream information (DSI1, DSI3, DSI5) corresponding to possible retrieval information (AI1, AI2, AI3), and includes data stream retrieval means (11) for the retrieval of data stream information (DSI1, DSI3, DSI5) corresponding to the retrieval information (AI1, AI2, AI3) from one of the data stream information sources (5, 6), and includes supply means (7) for the supply of the data stream information (DSI1, DSI3, DSI5) to the retrieval device (2, 3, 4) via the computer network (NET), said data stream adaptation server in addition including data stream conversion

Abstract: A system is presented for two-way digital multimedia broadcast services, enabling a variety of interactive and other applications. These applications include: navigation from one video program to another by selection of objects in the current video; creation and transmission of records of user viewing selection histories; iterative video-based data search and retrieval; dynamic customization of coordination between video content of the broadcast stream and data embedded therein; and the dynamic creation of “personalized” programs by the user without, through the broadcast and selection of overlapping program segments which are themselves customized for a particular user or group of users.

Abstract: A power control method for a set top box is disclosed.

Abstract: A printing apparatus for printing the content information contained in the digital broadcast received by an STB, in which flexible printing is achieved efficiently at a low cost. The digital broadcast is received by an STB 30 and demonstrated on a display device 31 as the contents information comprehended in the ddb is printed by a printer 32. The contents information comprehended in the digital broadcast is converted by a contents information conversion unit 68 into contents suited for printing.

Abstract: A multichannel-type radio frequency modulation circuit for a set-top box, comprising a switch turned on/off in response to a switching voltage for passing/blocking a radio frequency signal from a radio frequency input terminal to a radio frequency output terminal, a modulation part enabled in response to operating voltages for modulating input audio signals and video signals into television signals at a plurality of channels, respectively, and a mixer for mixing the television signals modulated by the modulation part respectively with the radio frequency signal passed by the switch and outputting the resulting signals respectively to connected televisions via the radio frequency output terminal. The multichannel-type radio frequency modulation circuit is configured in a multichannel modulation manner in the set-top box such that a plurality of televisions receive broadcasting signals at different channels via the radio frequency modulation circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for supporting a PC communication and internet service while supporting D-CATV and VOD services by using a settop box connected to a network for D-CATV and VOD services, without a separate communication equipment. The apparatus includes a PC interface installed in the settop box to communicate with the PC; and an internet gateway prepared at a head end of the D-CATV to provide an internet service channel between a backbone internet and a D-CATV subscriber. The settop box includes a controller for analyzing a previously designated VC (Virtual Channel) cell for SLIP (Serial Line Internet Protocol) within of data received from the network and for transmitting the VC cell together with a SLIP header to the PC. The controller also is for separating the SLIP header from the data received from the PC and for transmitting to the network the designated VC cell together with an IP (Internet Protocol)-over-ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) header.

Abstract: A computerized advertisement broadcasting system that employs the technical conventions lay down by the motion picture expert group (MPEG). The system comprises a console and separable data memory cards, where the advertising program is stored within the data memory card in an MPEG compressed data stream format. The advertising program can be broadcast repetitively by the console Since the advertising program is stored digitally within a data memory card, programs can be changed simply by inserting a new data memory card. Furthermore, the system is assembled from a group of electronic devices.

Abstract: The invention facilitates and enhances review of a body of information (that can be represented by a set of audio data, video data, text data or some combination of the three), enabling the body of information to be quickly reviewed to obtain an overview of the content of the body of information and allowing flexibility in the manner in which the body of information is reviewed. In a particular application of the invention, the content of audiovisual news programs is acquired from a first set of one or more information sources (e.g., television news programs) and text news stories are acquired from a second set of one or more information sources (e.g., on-line news services or news wire services). In such a particular application, the invention can enable the user to access the news stories of audiovisual news programs in a random manner so that the user can move quickly among news stories or news programs.

Abstract: In an NVOD system, a data storage unit is provided in a receiving apparatus, whereby a video program can be provided with an instantaneous response equivalent to the VOD system. Namely, the data of the first part of the video data is stored in the data storage unit in advance. When there is a request for reproduction, that stored data is immediately reproduced. The data after the first data is sent from a transmitting apparatus in the same way as an NVOD system heretofore. Buffering is performed in the receiving apparatus, and the resultant data is reproduced continuous with the data of the first part.