Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for constructing databases for digital television services, wherein it comprises a step of tuning to a carrier frequency, a step of extracting the data representing the information table of the network corresponding to this frequency, a step of storing the trio of information items constituted by the information table, the carrier frequency, and an identifier, a step of extracting and storing the trio constituted by the service table, the frequency of the carrier and the identification of the SDT service table.

Abstract: Information corresponding to previewed channels is displayed using a sequential arrangement having a main channel location and several remaining channel locations. A currently previewed channel resides in the main channel location. The channels move along the sequential arrangement and into the main channel location for previewing. An arc shaped arrangement having the main channel location at an intermediate point allows channels to progress from one side of the arc, then into the main channel location for previewing, then to the other side of the arc. A jog dial can be rotated to cause the previewed channels to rotate along the arc. Thus, the user can cycle through available channels or a subset of channels by merely holding the jog dial in a given position.

Abstract: The present invention is implemented in one embodiment in a tuning decoder device, such as an Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD) of a digital satellite system. The IRD is coupled to a satellite system, the remote controller and a monitor, such as a TV set. The present invention allows a user to store up to five stations in a JUMP Loop sequence during a single viewing period by depressing a single key in a remote controller.

Abstract: In a video processing system and method, individual program channels are allocated first and second identification numbers. The first identification number is associated with an information provider. The second identification number is used in identifying a broadcast sub-channel from among a group of sub-channels associated with the first identification number. The first and second identification numbers in conjunction, are used in identifying data constituting a program transmitted on the broadcast sub-channel. The group of sub-channels are displayed along with the associated information provider in a hierarchical fashion for channel selection purposes.

Abstract: A system and method for content-based television program selection are provided that allow a viewer to “surf” directly between programs of a desired content category. The system includes a head-end server operable to receive program signals from a programming source, and a viewer input apparatus, such as a remote controller, which is operable to generate an input signal indicating a viewer's desired program content category. The system further includes at least one set-top box, where the set-top box has a program receiver for receiving program signals from the head-end server, and a viewer input receiver for receiving the input signal from the viewer input apparatus. In addition, the set-top box includes a processor that determines whether any channels are currently showing a program of the desired content category at the time the input signal is received.