Abstract: Methods and apparatus for multi-purpose metering are disclosed. An example method includes acquiring a rate of data transfer to/from the monitored location and comparing the acquired rate of data transfer to a threshold. The example method also includes setting at least one media monitoring device in a first bandwidth mode when the acquired rate of data transfer exceeds the threshold, and setting the at least one media monitoring device in a second bandwidth mode when the acquired rate of data transfer is below the threshold.

Abstract: A mesh network sensor and video surveillance system and method for providing communication between a base system having at least one wireless sensor capture device SCD and other SCD(s) and at least one input capture device ICD and other ICD(s), wherein the SCD(s) are capable of smart cross-communication with each other and with the ICD(s) and where the where the ICD(s) are capable of smart cross-communication with each other and offer remote access to their inputs and the SCD(s) inputs via a server computer, including the steps of providing this base system; at least one user accessing the ICD and SCD inputs remotely via a user interface through a remote server computer and/or electronic device communicating with it, for providing a secure sensor surveillance system with extended inputs range and wireless smart cross-communication for monitoring a target environment.

Abstract: A digital broadcast receiver and a control method thereof are disclosed. The digital broadcast receiver includes a reception unit for receiving a broadcast signal which mobile service data and main service data are multiplexed, an extractor for extracting transmission parameter channel signaling information and fast information channel signaling information from a data group in the received mobile service data, an acquirer for acquiring a program table describing virtual channel information and a service of an ensemble by using the extracted fast information channel signaling information, the ensemble being a virtual channel group of the received mobile service data, a detector for detecting a descriptor defining Internet access information corresponding to the mobile service data by using the acquired program table, and a controller for controlling such that the Internet access information of the detected descriptor and the mobile service data are displayed.

Abstract: A system and method that provides satellite television users with a simple interface in which to choose from a variety of video images representing a different camera angle at a given event. The invention comprises a plurality of cameras positioned at a certain event, such as a sporting event. The video images from the cameras are broadcast to one or more satellites, which downlink the images to a central broadcast center. At the central broadcast center, information relating to the event is bundled with the video images and re-broadcast to a second set of satellites. The information and video images are then downlinked to multiple users situated within the satellite's footprint, to be viewed on their televisions.

Abstract: Tools are provided for supporting content syndication to a set top box. The set top box requests a syndicated feed at regularly scheduled times, and receives the syndicated feed through an Internet Protocol (“IP”) network. Hence, a syndicated feed is distributed to the set top box that subscribes to the syndicated feed. Additionally, the set top box converts the syndicated feed for use by the set top box, and causes at least one image based at least in part on the syndicated feed to be displayed on a display device for a user.

Abstract: An integrated cable modem and cable television management system. The invention may include a stand alone device, a portable device, or a vehicle adapted device in various embodiments of the invention. The invention allows for two-way communication and interaction between a television service provider and a user of the device. In addition, other various circuitries may reside in the device allowing storage and processing of received signals. The invention allows a device operable to receive different broadcast signals, including analog and digital signals. In addition, the invention allows for download of selectable programming from a cable television server using the device, either offline, streaming, or in real time when online. The invention allows for recording and buffering of received signals. In addition, the invention allows for control of commercials, publications, and content contained within received signals. The invention allows for time compression of such signals as well.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a television configuration technique includes determining a location, from a web service, of a television set using an internet protocol address of the television set or a zip code corresponding to a physical location of the television. Electronic programming guide, interactive programming guide or the like data for a plurality of service providers in the determined location are downloaded. The electronic programming guide data, interactive programming guide data, or the like for one or more channels that are unique between the plurality of service providers are checked against transmitting station identifier data or system information protocol data to identify the specific service provider that the television set is connected to. A channel list for the specific service provider is then determined from the electronic programming guide or interactive programming guide corresponding to the specific service provider.

Abstract: Video analytics and a mass storage unit are contained in a camera housing of a video camera. The camera produces video data representing the field of view of a scene observed by the camera. The video analytics analyzes the video data and detects whether there is an occurrence of a defined feature of an object or a defined event of interest. The video analytics also generates metadata based upon the content of the video data. The video data and metadata are stored in the mass storage unit. Access to stored video data may be controlled based on content, and access to live video data may be controlled as metadata corresponding to the video data is created. The metadata can be used to search for corresponding video data representing the detected feature of an object or event of interest observed in the scene.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for communication between a mobile phone and a TV set. The method comprises the following steps of: generating standard RGB signals by an LCD controller in a central processing unit (CPU) of the mobile phone; transmitting the RGB signals to an LCD of the mobile phone and a TV-OUT chip simultaneously; enabling the TV-OUT chip to receive and recognize the RGB signals through configuration of commands; carrying out video conversion on the RGB signals by the TV-OUT chip to output standard AV signals; and transmitting the AV signals to a display of the TV set via a dock. With this disclosure, information on the LCD screen of the mobile phone can be transmitted to the display of the TV set.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed in which a buffer receives a first content stream carrying a content channel signal. The first content stream carries the content channel signal at a rate substantially greater than the streaming content playout rate, for initially loading the buffer. The buffer switches its reception of the content channel signal from the first content stream to a second content stream. The second content stream is at a rate substantially the same as the streaming content playout rate. Generally, this switch occurs when some predefined threshold of the content channel signal is buffered.

Abstract: A particular method includes extracting uniform resource locator data from closed-captioning content using a set-top box. The closed-captioning content is included in a broadcast signal received by the set-top box. The method includes generating a web page using the set-top box. The web page includes a portion of the uniform resource data as one or more selectable links. A check box is associated with each of the one or more selectable links. The web page includes a first selectable option to enable each selectable link associated with a checked check box to be added to a uniform resource locator address book. The method also includes sending the web page from the set-top box via a local area network to a device coupled to the set-top box by the local area network in response to a request from the device for the web page.

Abstract: A receiver comprises a first signal acquisition unit for acquiring a first type of signal block formatted according to a first format, wherein the first type of signal block is interleaved with a second type of signal block formatted according to a second format. The first signal acquisition unit includes one or more parameter estimation units for estimating, from received signals of the first type, one or more signal parameters related to acquisition of the first type of signal block at a respective frequency; memory to store data relating to the or each estimated parameter for the respective frequency; and a controller configured to initialize parameter estimation for subsequent received signals on a revisited frequency based upon data stored for that respective frequency.

Abstract: A system is provided that allows a user to select a pay program for purchase from a program guide. The program guide determines whether the selected program is part of a package of pay programs. If the selected program is part of a package, information regarding the package is provided to the user so that the user may decide whether to purchase the package. If the selected program is part of several packages, information for all packages is provided. The system automatically sets reminders for packages containing repetitive programming. The system monitors whether the user has watched any of the programs in such packages. When the user watches a program from the package, the remaining reminders are cancelled. If a user does not watch any programs in a package of any type, purchase of the package is cancelled and the user is provided with the opportunity to reschedule.

Abstract: In one aspect, the invention provides an interactive, multi-platform video network. In another aspect, the invention provides a dynamic scheduling method.

Abstract: Computer implemented methods for managing communication between a display device and a remote server or services is provided. A remote server provides access to widget applications that are to be used on the display device. The method includes receiving a request from the display device, and the request includes data that identifies attributes of the display device. Then, examining the data to authorize access a specific application widget gallery. The specific widget gallery includes widget applications that have passing filter parameters for the request. Then, returning to the display device data for populating attributes or widget application data for rendering on the display device. Furthermore, the methods and systems for providing access to, installing, administering and rendering web-based applications (e.g., widgets) on a display device, which connects to a server, are provided.

Abstract: Embodiments provide power-efficient mechanisms for communicating small amounts of information to receiver devices within a mobile broadcast system. A generic transport mechanism enables transmitting data relevant to upper layer protocols in a lower layer sub-channel so multiple information summary flows can share the same physical layer sub-channel. Data fields are added to the Overhead Information Service (OIS) channel to provide power-efficient logical channels for carrying the summary information. Data from the power-efficient logical channels are provided to an upper protocol layer that receives the information summary flows. Information summary flow may carry a version number of an information flow in the broadcast signal, codes or other information. Receiver devices periodically monitoring the OIS receive the information summary flows.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for identifying image capture opportunities. Expert photo agents (526) that process metadata extracted from a captured image are obtained (706) at a user-device (102). Metadata (214) characterizing visual content of a captured image is produced (310) by processing the visual content of the captured image. Image capture opportunities are selected (410) based upon processing of the metadata with the at least one expert photo agent. The image capture opportunity selection specifies content to capture in a subsequent image.

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, system having a controller to receive from a set-top box (STB) a request for assistance, identify a subscriber account associated with the STB, identify from the subscriber account a subscription grade, select one of a plurality of subscriber support services according to the subscriber grade, and establish communications between the STB and the selected subscriber support service. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: A broadcast receiver receives a packetized stream. The broadcast receiver extracts display time information from the header of the received packetized stream, and extracts preparation trigger information including a target service identifier from the payload of the received packetized stream. If a current time is a preparation time designated by the extracted display time information, the broadcast receiver starts to prepare an object corresponding to the target service identifier for activation at a later time.

Abstract: Embodiments generally disclosed herein include computer-implemented methods for delivery of video content across a network. Such methods comprise a content delivery manager capable of receiving a video stream from a content source for delivery to a end user of a content publisher. The content delivery manager is further capable of detecting a trigger signal within the video stream. For example, the trigger signal can indicate a temporal mark injected into the video stream by the content publisher. During general operation, the content delivery manager processes the trigger signal to determine whether to modify delivery of the video stream to the end user. According to another general embodiment, a computer-implemented method is provided for authorizing delivery of a video stream to an end user.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for selecting digital (network) interface technology for programming and data delivery over, e.g., a content-based network. In one embodiment, the network comprises an HFC cable or satellite network that includes a server process interfacing with a plurality of customer premises equipment (CPE), and/or associated client devices, each having different capabilities profiles. The server determines the one or more capabilities possessed by the CPE, and evaluates one or more program or content choices for possible delivery to that CPE based on its profile. The server generates a list of programs or content based on this evaluation, and transmits this list to the CPE, which displays the list for viewing by a user. The user is therefore offered a list of available content that is compatible with their specific configuration.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for providing enhanced consumer access to information sources and controllable entities. An Access device can be a stand alone device such as a DVD player in which the DVD disk contains the back-end information network. Other Access devices obtain the back-end information network from remote sources. By way of a specific example, the consumer can then view a game and interactively select every television camera located at the game venue.

Abstract: An exemplary method includes a promotion system 1) detecting a promotion opportunity based on a condition associated with a migration of a user account from being associated with a first digital video recording (“DVR”) system to being associated with a second DVR system and 2) providing, based on the detected promotion opportunity, promotional content for access by a user associated with the user account. Corresponding methods and systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: A radio-over-fiber (RoF) hybrid wired/wireless transponder is disclosed that is configured to provide both wireless and wired communication between a hybrid head-end and one or more client devices. The hybrid transponder includes optical-to-electrical (O/E) and electrical-to-optical (E/O) conversion capability and is configured to frequency multiplex/demultiplex electrical “wired” signals and electrical “wireless” signals. The electrical wireless signals are wirelessly communicated to the client device(s) via a multiple-input/multiple-output (MIMO) antenna system within a cellular coverage area. The electrical wired signals are communicated to the client device(s) via a wireline cable that plugs into a wireline cable port on the transponder. The hybrid RoF system includes a hybrid head-end capable of transmitting and receiving wired and wireless optical signals, and an optical fiber cable that is optically coupled to the hybrid head-end and to at least one hybrid transponder.

Abstract: Systems and methods for presenting user-generated content in an easily accessible manner using an interactive media guide are provided. In particular, a user may be able to peruse user-generated content through an interactive media guide which is also used to access non-user-generated media content such as linear programming (e.g., over-the-air broadcast, cable, and satellite scheduled programming) and on-demand media. The interactive media guide may include a provider of user-generated content populated with user-generated content according to the user's interests or most recently added to the provider.

Abstract: Provided are video nodes for wireless networks and methods thereof that wirelessly extend a wired surveillance system. A wireless interface device services wireless communications between a wired video surveillance network and a wireless viewing node. According to another aspect, a wireless interface device transmits an alert over the wireless network upon a triggering event. In yet another aspect, a technique for viewing an image source from a surveillance system includes displaying available surveillance systems for a user to select according to a display criteria and responsive to selection of an available surveillance system, enabling wireless access to the surveillance system.

Abstract: An apparatus, method, and system are provided for associating or tying an audio source/content to visual/video content. A request to tie a selected audio source to visual/video content may be received. Upon receiving the request, the selected audio source may be tied to the visual/video content. Audio received from the selected audio source may be substituted for audio associated with the visual/video content. One or more synchronization techniques/methods may be used to synchronize audio content with visual/video content.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for integrating a bi-directional control channel into an entertainment display device to deliver content and exchange control information. The system collects request and response information from the entertainment display device. The system also provides format translation of received and collected content to and from a plurality of formats such as N-PCS technology formats and video display formats in such a manner that the integrated system is independent of broadcasters, satellite, IPTV and cable operators. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.

Abstract: Methods, systems, computer readable media, and apparatuses for providing enhanced content are presented. Data including a first program, a first caption stream associated with the first program, and a second caption stream associated with the first program may be received. The second caption stream may be extracted from the data, and a second program may be encoded with the second caption stream. The first program may be transmitted with the first caption stream including first captions and may include first content configured to be played back at a first speed. In response to receiving an instruction to change play back speed, the second program may be transmitted with the second caption stream. The second program may include the first content configured to be played back at a second speed different from the first speed, and the second caption stream may include second captions different from the first captions.

Abstract: A system is provided for collecting defect data of components in a passenger cabin of a vehicle that includes, but is not limited to a component identification device for identifying an affected component, and a malfunction selection device, connected to the component identification device, for selecting a malfunction of the identified component from a predefined quantity of component-specific malfunctions. The system includes, but is not limited to a locating device for acquiring a position of the affected component in the passenger cabin, with the aforesaid being connected to the component identification device. In this manner, by means of devices that are very simple to use, imprecise positioning information, component information and malfunction information can be avoided.

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a server having a controller to monitor spectral characteristics of a target channel, a first channel and a second channel, where the target channel is of a digital terrestrial television system, where the first channel is an upper adjacent channel to the target channel, and where the second channel is a lower adjacent channel to the target channel. The controller is adapted to generate an emission mask based on the monitored spectral characteristics and detect interference between the target channel and at least one of the first and second channels based at least in part on the emission mask. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: At a client device, a user subscribes to a specified stream, where the specified stream includes one or more other streams. A respective stream of the one or more other streams includes two or more content feeds, and each content feed includes a set of content items published by a respective publication source. The client devices presents to the user (e.g., on a display of the client device) content items associated with the specified stream. In some embodiments, streams can be recursively defined to include combinations of other streams, and users who subscribe to a recursively defined stream receive content items from the content feeds associated with that stream.

Abstract: Techniques are described for presenting streaming media content to users in an engaging manner. A streaming media player may provide an interface that allows users to browse though a collection of available titles sorted into different categories (e.g., science fiction titles, television shows, westerns, etc.). The interface may be configured to automatically begin playback of one of the media titles at a designated insertion point, providing a user with a preview of the title. The insertion point itself may be selected as an interesting point in a given title, and therefore, likely to engage a user in that title.

Abstract: Flexibility with respect to access and enjoyment of time shifted content in a content distribution network is provided, especially with regard to content not present on a DVR. A DVR accesses a network storage device over a network for particular portions of content not available on the DVR and the network storage device provides those missing portions. The user may then rewind and playback not only already locally stored content but also that content provided by the storage device. Content can be provided through faster-than-real-time transmissions such that the content is made available to the DVR prior to it being needed for rewind functionality or playback.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of processing data. The method of processing data includes receiving a broadcasting signal where mobile service data are multiplexed with main service data, extracting transmission-parameter-channel signaling information and fast-information-channel signaling information from a data group within the received mobile service data; obtaining first program table information describing virtual channel information of an ensemble and a service provided by the ensemble using the fast-information-channel signaling information, the ensemble the ensemble corresponding to a virtual channel group of the received mobile service data, obtaining information indicating that second program table information, which describes an additional service provided by the ensemble, is included in the ensemblem and parsing the second program table information according to the obtained information; and providing the additional service by using the second program table information.

Abstract: A system may route media stream samples in time-stamped packets to a media interface. The system may determine a hash value from a stream identifier that identifies a source media stream corresponding to the media stream samples. The hash value may be determined based on a combination of a first portion of the stream identifier and a second portion of the stream identifier. The system may determine whether the stream identifier identifies a subscribed media stream by looking up the hash value in a hash table. The system may route the media stream samples to a media interface if source media stream is a subscribed media stream.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a method and system for reducing channel switching delay of an IPTV.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for providing both static and dynamic IP multicasting. When a router receives a PIM message or an IGMP message, the router determines whether the group specified in the message is within the multicast Static-Range. If the group pertains to a static multicasting group, the router does not propagate the message to upstream routers and only connects or disconnects interfaces internal to the router. If the multicast group address in the message is not within the multicast Static-Range, the router implements PIM or IGMP protocols. If the invention is used for broadcasting TV, the low end of TB channels or commonly used channels can be created as static IP multicast. This way, a user can access or leave such channels without an entire shortest path tree being created or torn down, improving access time and channel surfing for a user.

Abstract: A web server presents a web page to a user. The web page dynamically presents information corresponding to a digital video recorder (DVR) associated with the user. The web server accepts input information to control the DVR. A delayed-job server accepts input from the web server and stores a job entry corresponding to the input in a message queue. The delayed-job server processes the job entry from the message queue and creates a function request representative of the web server input. An access server accepts the function request from the delayed-job server and bi-directionally communicates messages with the DVR. The access server communicates a response to the function request back to the delayed-job server. The delayed-job server communicates data from the response to the web server, wherein the web server is not blocked while waiting for the response from the delayed-job server.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally pertains to an arrayed media converter (AMC) that has an array of Wavelength Division Multiplexing-Passive Optical Network (WDM-PON) Optical Network Units (ONUs) for terminating an optical channel in the feeder or distribution portion of a telecommunication network. The ONU converts an optical signal from the optical channel into at least one electrical signal for transmission to a customer premises. Thus, the AMC serves as an interface between at least one WDM-PON link and at least one conductive connection, such as a twisted pair. In one exemplary embodiment, the AMC comprises a sealed housing that is environmentally hardened to protect the AMC from environmental conditions, including changes in weather. Such an AMC may be used to provide a robust, cost effective Fiber To The Curb (FTTC) solution, but the AMC may be used at other points within the network, if desired.

Abstract: Systems and methods according to the exemplary embodiments provide for bookmarking of content in IPTV systems. An IPTV control server can subscribe to receive notifications associated with the insertion of advertisements into other content. Upon receipt of a bookmark storing request, the IPTV control server can determine whether the bookmark storing request is associated with an advertisement or with the other content. A bookmark can then be stored by the IPTV control server including a content identifier based on the determination.

Abstract: According to one implementation a method is provided that involves transmitting from a social network site to a television broadcasting site a stream of data for being broadcast to multiple end-user media devices and also transmitting via a unicast communication from the social network site non-broadcast content for the purposes of being incorporated, integrated or otherwise played in conjunction with the broadcast content in the end-user media devices.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing a mobile streaming adaptor includes a processor configured to receive media content from a remote camera, process the received media content by capturing, encoding and encapsulating the media content at a mobile electronic device, connect to a remote streaming server through function of a mobile networked device; and stream the encapsulated media content to the mobile networked device for communication of the encapsulated content to the remote streaming server through an Internet Protocol (IP) network for real-time distribution to a communication device. A corresponding computer program product and method are also provided.

Abstract: A method and system for the creation of interactive programming incorporating viewer interactions. An interactive program includes moderator content generated by the moderator and edited participant commentary, such as interactive messages, and is served by a moderator server. Moderators create and manage interactive programs using a Web site. Viewers register to be participants in interactive programs using the Web site. The interactive programs can be distributed as electronic documents written in a markup language such as HTML or XML over a communications network such as the Internet. The interactive programs can also be converted to conventional interactive television content for distribution over an interactive television network. The interactive programs can also be distributed over a virtual private network for use as a collaboration tool by an enterprise such as a business concern.

Abstract: A handheld terminal includes a device communication unit which communicates with at least one or more broadcasting reception apparatus receiving contents and content information about the contents from a content provider and receives the content information from the broadcasting reception apparatus, a content display unit which displays the content information received from the broadcasting reception apparatus, a server communication unit which communicates with an information providing server which manages related information relating to the contents and receives the related information relating to the content information received from the broadcasting reception apparatus from the information providing server, and a related information display unit which displays the related information received from the information providing server.

Abstract: Systems and methods of delivering video content are provided. A method of delivering video content is provided that includes predicting a channel change request at a network device. The predicted channel change request indicates a predicted stream of video content. The method also includes generating a control signal at the network device related to the predicted channel change request and storing the control signal at a data storage device associated with the network device. In an illustrative embodiment, the network device stores the control signal when the network device is associated with a first data capacity. Additionally, the network device sends a video content request to a service provider server when the network device is associated with a second data capacity. The video content request is related to the predicted stream.

Abstract: A computer conversation system comprising: at least one server including a processor and memory and configured for communication with a plurality of user computers which each comprise a display; a video recording application configured to record video or receive recorded video from some, and preferably all, of the individual computers of the plurality of user computers; wherein the at least one server is configured to send a sequence of recorded videos to the plurality of users, the sequence of recorded videos based on the videos recorded or received from the individual computers and optionally the system is configured to send a file to the plurality of user computers which results in each of the plurality of computers displaying on the display an array of visual indicators in a set order, wherein each of a plurality of the visual indicators corresponds to at least one recorded video to be sent by the server, and the set order of the array corresponds to the order of at least part of the sequence of recorded

Abstract: An approach is provided for establishing a virtual community for remotely participating in an event. A remote camera set is controlled by a user equipment to view an event from a plurality of viewing perspectives. A virtual community is built to share viewing of the event by multiple participants.

Abstract: A server may be used to handle at least some of processing of content retrieved via and/or derived from Internet access operations of a plurality of set-top boxes (STBs). Resource allocation and/or utilization, and/or tasks or applications performed in the server during the processing may be configured based on control data, which may be determined by the server and which may comprise capabilities of links between the server and each of the plurality of STBs, requirements of the tasks, characteristics of the content and/or the Internet access operations, user preferences and/or interactions, and/or content provider preferences. The server may dynamically reconfigure the tasks and/or resources based on monitoring of its operations and/or changes of the control data. Configuring tasks and/or resources may comprise time slicing access to resources that are commonly used during concurrent servicing of at least some of the plurality of STBs by the support server.

Abstract: A communication system and a family of methods for remote access to personal television service are disclosed. According to this invention, a remote personal TV service center provides centralized program guide information. A user may access to the personal TV service center through a digital video recorder which is connected to the personal TV service center via telephone modem or a network server. A user may access to the personal TV service center through a remote computer terminal or a personal digital assistant which is connected to a computer network. The user selects program events and programs the digital video recorder by using a graphical user interface installed in the front panel of the digital video recorder in case of local programming, or using a similar GUI which is incorporated into the Web pages presented to remote users by a Web server in case of remote programming. The media stream stored in one digital video recorder may be transferred to another digital video recorder.