Abstract: A video processing apparatus and a method capable of selecting various video signals are provided. The video processing apparatus includes an input unit which receives a video signal select key value by which a video signal select command to select one of the plurality of video signals is recognized; a storage unit which stores a plurality of video signal names corresponding to the plurality of video signals; and a control unit which sets a first display mode or a second display mode according to the duration of the video signal select key value, the first and second display modes indicating opposite orders in which the video signal names corresponding to the plurality of video signal units are displayed, and displays the video signal names sequentially in the set display mode. Thus, a user can conveniently select the video signal.

Abstract: A method for sharing data and synchronizing broadcast data with additional information, the broadcast data and the additional information being provided by at least two distinct sources to a multimedia device. The method comprises steps of: receiving by a data extractor associated to the multimedia device broadcast data from a first source and extracting first metadata from the broadcast data, accessing by the multimedia device to additional information provided by a second source by using the first metadata and obtaining from the additional information second metadata and additional content data related to a content of the broadcast data, merging and synchronizing, by the multimedia device, the second metadata and the additional content data with the content of the broadcast data, and obtaining modified broadcast data.

Abstract: A integrated content guide for multiple sources is provided with hyper-text type links to allow for the selection of various programs. The hyper-text links are provided for a transmitted and then stored digital bit stream. This allows for the embedding within the content guide what could be additional commercial information. The embedding may also be as to additional information for other related television or radio shows or the like. Information can be additional television shows, related information or activities on on-line services or automatic telephone ordering of products or services being displayed.

Abstract: Systems and methods applicable, for example, in the provision of service listings, channel listings, and/or the like. The location of a device may, for example, be determined, and one or more service parameters corresponding, for instance, to the location may, for example, be employed in receiving service listings data, channel listings data, and/or the like.

Abstract: An interactive television program guide system with digital storage is provided. The program guide gives users the ability to store information associated with recorded programs in a directory in the digital storage device thereby providing easy access to program information. The program guide may also provide a global media library for indicating the programs stored on removable storage media used with the program guide. The guide may also allow the user to manage and maintain a user media library to do the same. Non-time-sensitive data associated with recorded programs may be stored in a way that allows the user to interact with the data on playback as if the program were being originally aired. The program guide also allows the user to define “super-programs” for playback of a sequence of stored programs or program segments.

Abstract: Partial data related to information data is received, image data corresponding to the received partial data is generated by sequentially processing the received partial data, and the generated image data is output to a display unit. Before output of the image data corresponding to the partial data to the display unit is completed, reception of the information data is started. Then, image data corresponding to the information data is generated by processing the received information data, and image data to be displayed on said display unit is switched to the image data corresponding to the information data from the image data corresponding to the partial data after the reception of the information data is started.

Abstract: Candidates for channels of television programs to be displayed are determined in accordance with a result of voice recognition of a voice input by a user. The channel candidates are assigned to a limited number of tuners and television programs received by the tuners are displayed to allow the user to make a selection.

Abstract: The present technology concerns cell phones and other portable devices, and more particularly concerns use of such devices in connection with media content (electronic and physical) and with other systems (e.g., televisions, digital video recorders, and electronic program directories). Some aspects of the technology allow users to easily transfer displayed content from cell phone screens onto a television screens for easier viewing, or vice versa for content portability. Others enable users to participate interactively in entertainment content, such as by submitting plot directions, audio input, character names, etc., yielding more engaging, immersive, user experiences. Still other aspects of the technology involve a program directory database, compiled automatically from information reported by network nodes that watch and identify content traffic passing into (and/or out of) networked computers. By identifying content resident at a number of different repositories (e.g.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems for centrally and uniformly controlling the operation of a variety of devices, such as communication, consumer electronic, audio-video, analog, digital, 1394, and the like, over a variety of protocols within a network system and, more particularly, a control system and uniform user interface for centrally controlling these devices in a manner that appears seamless and transparent to the user. In a preferred embodiment, a command center or hub of a network system includes a context and connection permutation sensitive control system that enables centralized and seamless integrated control of all types of input devices. The control system preferably includes a versatile icon based graphical user interface that provides a uniform, on-screen centralized control system for the network system.

Abstract: An interactive mosaic channel video stream with indicators as to the action on a given video stream. The interactive mosaic channel is displayed on a video monitor, with a plurality of individual video feeds being presented at a given time, comprising a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell associated with one of the plurality of individual video feeds, each video cell further comprising an area within the video cell reporting data related to the video feed, and a cursor, which can be moved between the plurality of video cells, for selecting at least one characteristic associated with a selected video cell, such that the user can then directly select a video program associated with the selected video cell.

Abstract: There is provided a channel selection device receiving a multi-channel video including plural videos and video configuration information on each video from a head end. The channel selection device includes a first screen display unit editing the multi-channel video based on the video configuration information and searching view configuration information to generate a channel searching view and displaying the channel searching view on a sub-screen of a television; and a second screen display unit displaying on a main screen of the television a video selected by a viewer out of the videos included in the channel searching view.

Abstract: A content reproduction method is provided. First, a broadcast program having a program content is received and electronic program guide data including program information on the broadcast program is received. Then, a content corresponding to the program content of the broadcast program is retrieved from a network based on the electronic program guide data. Finally, identification information identifying the content is displayed with the program information.

Abstract: In order to easily download a program obtained from the outside onto a connected device while a device on which a program is to be downloaded is being properly selected, when a second device connected to a first device is controlled by executing a first program inputted to the first device from the outside and a second program prepared beforehand in the first device, the most desirable device is selected as the second device by executing the second program and the first program is executed by using information on the selected device.

Abstract: Described is a system used in defining and producing a live television broadcast. The system includes one or more control panels, a workstation, a router, and devices. The control panels may be hard control panels or soft control panels. The control panel includes programmable buttons having a display determined in accordance with a show definition. Display and control of a portion of the control panel buttons may vary in response to another control or button selection. Primary and backup communication connections are used to control the live show production.

Abstract: While reviewing potential programs when using an interactive programming guide, a viewer can select to place information regarding specific programs in a list (in one embodiment, such entries are made on an automated basis). The viewer can then recall that list to make a final selection of a present program to view (or record). In some embodiments, this list can be automatically cleared in response to a predetermined trigger event.

Abstract: Systems, and computer-implemented methods are described for selecting programming information from among multiple sets of programming information.

Abstract: A set-box (SBB) is advanced into a receptacle on the rear of a TV to add functionality to the TV. Digital video information is conveyed from the SBB to the TV using respective HDMI connectors on the SBB and TV that mechanically engage each other, whereas bi-directional control information is passed wirelessly between the SBB and TV.

Abstract: A display device and a method of checking signals input to a display device. The display device includes a signal identifying unit, a signal checking unit, and a signal changing unit. The signal identifying unit receives an input signal and identifies the type of input signal that is received. The signal checking unit checks whether the identified input signal is abnormal. The signal changing unit switches from the checked input signal to a next input signal to be checked so that the signal checking unit can check whether the next input signal is abnormal, after the signal checking unit checks whether the input signal is abnormal. Accordingly, when a display device goes to an abnormal mode, one of input signals can be checked in the display device to automatically change to another signal according to the order of checking the signals, the time required to check the signals, and the number of times the signals are checked without manipulating an additional key.

Abstract: Aggregating media content catalog data from a plurality of content providers. The catalog data is merged according to rules and provided to a user on a scheduled basis or on demand. In an embodiment, the merged catalog data represents an incremental update to previously delivered catalog data.

Abstract: An apparatus integrates a plurality of television signal sources into a cohesive audio/video environment. Internal provisions include a standard broadcast-frequency tuner, cable tuner as well as other optional inputs such as for a direct-broadcast satellite, previously recorded video material, etc. In the preferred embodiment, means are provided whereby a main or primary program channel may be linked to additional channels providing supplementary information to enhance resolution, sound quality, or to facilitate special effects.

Abstract: A set-back box (SBB) includes a digital TV signal receiver. The SBB can be connected via a HDMI cable to a TV having only an analog TV signal receiver so that digital TV signals from the SBB can be displayed on the TV screen. The TV processor recognizes the SBB and in effect treats the digital receiver of the SBB as its own, such that a single remote control can be used to control both analog channel selection within the TV and digital channel selection within the SBB.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems for centrally and uniformly controlling the operation of a variety of devices, such as communication, consumer electronic, audio-video, analog, digital, 1394, and the like, over a variety of protocols within a network system and, more particularly, a control system and uniform user interface for centrally controlling these devices in a manner that appears seamless and transparent to the user. In a preferred embodiment, a command center or hub of a network system includes a context and connection permutation sensitive control system that enables centralized and seamless integrated control of all types of input devices. The control system preferably includes a versatile icon based graphical user interface that provides a uniform, on-screen centralized control system for the network system.

Abstract: A television includes multiple interfaces, a storage medium, an updating module, a processing module and a display module. The multiple interfaces are mounted on a housing of the television, for connecting to peripheral devices. The storage medium stores a table comprising logos of the multiple interfaces and names of the peripheral devices connected to the multiple interfaces. The updating module receives the names of the peripheral devices and updates the table with the names of the peripheral devices. The processing module reads the data of the table stored in the storage medium and converts the data of the table into image signals. The display module visually displays a menu based on the image signals. The menu shows the logos of the multiple interfaces and the names of the peripheral devices connected to the multiple interfaces.

Abstract: A broadcasting receiving apparatus includes: a signal receiving unit which receives a first signal and a second signal different from the first signal; a signal processing unit which processes the first and second signals; a communication unit which communicates with an external device to output a sound; and a controller which controls the signal processing unit and the communication unit to process a video signal of the first signal to be displayed and to process an audio signal of the second signal to be transmitted to the external device if the first signals contains the video signal and the second signal contains only the audio signal.

Abstract: In order to accurately display information on the format of different signals from respective different signal source apparatuses as an image, the output signals of analog signal sources are supplied through an interface, signal lines and other interfaces to an analog signal processing circuit. Also, output signals of digital signal sources and output signals of information generating circuits are synthesized by multiplexers and supplied to a demultiplexer through interfaces, buses and an interface. The signals from the separated signal sources are processed in a digital signal processing circuit. The signals from the separated generating circuits are supplied to an information processing circuit, so that an image corresponding to the information indicating the format of the apparatus and/or the output signal is formed, and is synthesized with the signals from the signal processing circuits to be supplied to a monitor.

Abstract: A display apparatus and a driving method thereof, which are able to conveniently and efficiently provide a social networking service and a broadcasting service between users. The display apparatus may display a web page, receive a broadcasting signal, and display an image of the broadcasting signal. By transmitting at least one of the web page and the image to another user, the display apparatus conveniently provides the social networking service and the broadcasting service to the users.

Abstract: A video distribution system is provided. The video distribution system includes a receiver to receive a plurality of video data streams. The video distribution system also includes a splitter to separate a first video data stream and a second video data stream from the plurality of video data streams. The video distribution system further includes a combiner to output a composite signal for communication via a first network. The composite signal includes the first video data stream modulated to a first radio frequency band associated with a first user and the second video data stream modulated to a second radio frequency band associated with a second user.

Abstract: A user interface (UI) for an Internet enabled TV lists content genre such as photos, music, and video, and for each genre a sub-list of content is provided regardless of the source of the content, i.e., regardless of whether the content in the particular genre is stored locally or is sourced from the Internet.

Abstract: A resident application and a second application are provided in a set-top terminal to receive a TV broadcast service and network personal video recorder (NPVR) service, respectively. The resident application is suspended in favor of the second application when a user changes from a broadcast channel to an NPVR enabled channel, and vice versa. In an embodiment where a digital video recorder (DVR) set-top terminal is used, a DVR server therein provides trick mode functions (pause, rewind and fast-forward) before an NPVR session, e.g., a Look Back session, is established. In another embodiment, during an NPVR session the DVR server plays back recorded programming content downloaded from a communications network, and provides trick mode functions as well.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved TV converter system for changing digital TV signal to analog and/or having multipurpose capabilities that the host computer of the TV broadcast station remotely controls the TV converter system according to the address and transmits a national emergency disaster warning signal, a digital file of printing contents such as newspaper, commercial catalogues or books, and contents of VOD to the specific TV converters by its' address. It also provides the technology for high speed wireless internet service with the TV converter by its bidirectional data communications system which comprises the downward signal with a digital TV broadcasting signal through the TV converter and upward signal with data transmission system of subscriber's mobile phone network system.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for interacting with video by displaying one or more interface links associated with video content being displayed, pausing the video content when an interface link is interacted with, allowing the user to view ancillary content the interface link is linked to over a network, and un-pausing the video content after the user elects to continue viewing the video content. In one or more embodiments, the ancillary content may permit e-commerce, display additional video or other images, and/or include links to additional ancillary content. The present invention also includes a method for creating an interactive video.

Abstract: An arbiter component receives a request from a media control object for control of a media resource. The arbiter determines whether a media resource is available, and if a media resource is available, forwards the request to the available media resource. The control object may lock control of the media resource to maintain control of the media resource until the media control unlocks control of the media resource.

Abstract: A unified system of programming communication. The system encompasses the prior art (television, radio, broadcast hardcopy, computer communications, etc.) and new user specific mass media. Within the unified system, parallel processing computer systems, each having an input (e.g., 77) controlling a plurality of computers (e.g., 205), generate and output user information at receiver stations. Under broadcast control, local computers (73, 205), combine user information selectively into prior art communications to exhibit personalized mass media programming at video monitors (202), speakers (263), printers (221), etc. At intermediate transmission stations (e.g., cable television stations), signals in network broadcasts and from local inputs (74, 77, 97, 98) cause control processors (71) and computers (73) to selectively automate connection and operation of receivers (53), recorder/players (76), computers (73), generators (82), strippers (81), etc.

Abstract: A video decoder system collates program guide information acquired from a variety of local and remote sources. Program guide information is received from a first source and a selectable program guide menu icon is displayed. A category of program guide information items from the first source is collated by a display attribute in response to selection of the menu icon and the collated program guide information items are displayed. The display attribute allocated to the category of program guide information items is common to both the category of items and to the menu icon. Codes identifying program categories may be converted to other codes using equivalence mapping information for classifying programs according to a master set of program categories. Composite program map information may be formed including new data identifiers allocated to program guide information items for use in retrieving the items from a second source.

Abstract: A display device including a communication function for performing wireless communication of data with each of a plurality of devices, and a display function for displaying and outputting information. First, reception quality of each device is obtained (S 100). Next, based on the reception quality of each device, average reception quality of each room in which each device is placed is obtained (S 101). Next, based on the average reception quality of each room, the size of an image indicating each room is obtained (S 102), and based on the obtained size, the image indicating each room is illustrated on a display screen (S 103). Next, based on the reception quality of each device, the size of an image indicating each device with respect to each room is obtained (S 104), and based on the obtained size, the image indicating each device is illustrated on the display screen (S103).

Abstract: A method is provided for controlling an image storing system comprising an external storage device including a plurality of storage processors, and an image processing apparatus connected with the external storage device and storing a received video signal in the external storage device. The method includes storing data about operation state of the plurality of storage processors of the image processing apparatus by the image processing apparatus; and generating a user interface menu representing the external storage device as a plurality of storage device items on the basis of the stored data about the operation states of the plurality of storage processors when a storing operation for the video signal is selected.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for generating and displaying one or more indicators indicative of a level of activity within a media sharing system. In one embodiment, with respect to a user participating in the media sharing system, an indicator representative of an activity level of a media collection shared by the user in the media sharing system may be generated and presented to the user. In addition or alternatively, indicators representative of activity levels of media collections shared by other users participating in the media sharing system may be generated and presented to the user. Still further, in addition or alternatively, indicators representative of activity levels with respect to playlists in the media sharing system may be generated and presented to the user.

Abstract: Methods for providing access to third-party content related to a television program of interest to a user via a single user interface. When a user schedules a recording of a television program, the metadata associated with the television program is obtained. At least one broadcast network content provider and at least one non-broadcast network content provider are queried for content relevant to the metadata. Content received from the at least one broadcast network content provider and the at least one non-broadcast network content provider is aggregated by type of media and stored. A navigation strip is rendered providing access to the recorded television program and the content received from the at least one broadcast network content provider and the at least one non-broadcast network content provider.

Abstract: A video and audio recording apparatus including: a plurality of tuner units each of which receives commercial broadcasting to output video and audio signals; a distributor that distributes high-frequency signals input to an input terminal from the outside of an apparatus body to the plurality of tuner units; a video and audio recording unit that simultaneously records the video and audio signals output from the plurality of tuner units; and a remote controller that is provided with tuner switching keys for switching, in a predetermined order, a tuner unit which sets receiving channels or records the video and audio signals to be output, among the plurality of tuner units, whenever the switching key is operated.

Abstract: Methods and systems for transmitting electronic service guide (ESG) data to a mobile terminal are described. The method for delivery of ESG data comprises steps of receiving ESG data, encapsulating metadata associated with the ESG data to generate a new ESG object, replacing a current ESG object with the new ESG object, transmitting the new ESG object in a carousel, and transmitting a notification of a change in the carousel. Another method for receiving ESG data comprises steps of receiving a notification of a change in a carousel, receiving a new ESG object in the carousel, replacing a current ESG object with the new ESG object, extracting metadata associated with ESG data from the new ESG object, storing the ESG data and metadata, and updating an ESG on a mobile terminal with the ESG data.

Abstract: A television apparatus having digital serial bus ports allows a user to select a user-designated digital video content source input such as a digital tuner of the television apparatus and digital serial bus compliant components connected to the television apparatus via the digital serial bus ports of the television apparatus, and to cause digital content from the user-designated digital content source device to be recorded onto a digital recording device connected to the television apparatus via the digital serial bus ports. The present invention allows a user to continuously record digital content onto a digital recording device (e.g. an AVHDD), whether from the TV's digital tuner or from another digital serial bus compliant device in a peer to peer arrangement. The connection is always recording, but allows the user to select or designate a digital (i.e. MPEG2) source (i.e. the TV tuner or another digital serial bus compliant device), in addition to displaying the selected content.

Abstract: Systems and methods for implementing a communication mode for a communication terminal are provided. An embodiment of a method for implementing a communication mode includes receiving a first type of data over a first type of communication channel, determining that the first type of data is subsequently not available over the first type of communication channel, and responsive to determining that the first type of data is subsequently not available over the first type of communication channel, receiving the first type of data over a second type of communication channel.

Abstract: Recording reservation information of a plurality of programs is grouped and at least the latest program among the programs recorded on the basis of the reservation information is left on a recording medium. Therefore, a program information registration unit to register a plurality of items of recording reservation information as groups and a reserved program recording control unit to record the reserved programs onto the recording medium and leave at least the latest program among the programs recorded on the recording medium to delete the others on the basis of the reservation information.

Abstract: An electronic equipment is provided that includes a playlist with a plurality of media objects, each associated with a ranking from a hierarchy of rankings, ranging from a highest ranking to a lowest ranking. The electronic equipment includes a media player section configured to play the plurality of media objects. The media player section has a random play function, which is operable to randomly access media objects associated with the highest ranking for play by the media player section. The media player section also includes a tracking function to lower the ranking associated with the randomly accessed media objects from the highest ranking to a lower ranking. If there are no media objects associated with the highest ranking, the tracking function is operable to raise the ranking associated with each of the plurality of the media objects until at least one media object is associated with the highest ranking.

Abstract: Improved last channel button functionality is described. A remote control device for interacting with a media system includes a mechanism (e.g., a button) by which a user can direct the media system to automatically access a previously tuned (but not immediately previously tuned) channel; or a list of previously tuned channels. A previously tuned channel to be selected may be determined based on an amount of time that the media system was previously tuned to the channel and/or based on receipt of user command indicating user interest in the channel.

Abstract: A digital broadcasting receiver includes a digital tuning section having a plurality of tuners which receive digital broadcasting and output video signals of programs as well as a copy control signal, and a controller which selects one of video signals supplied from the tuners based on the copy control signal supplied from the digital tuning section. The foregoing structure allows the receiver to output the videos of programs free from intermittence at the beginning of the program of which copy control signal is switched from the previous one.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems for centrally and uniformly controlling the operation of a variety of devices;, such as communication, consumer electronic, audio-video, analog, digital, 1394, and the like, over a variety of protocols within a network system and, more particularly, a control system and uniform user interface for centrally controlling these devices in a manner that appears seamless and transparent to the user. In a preferred embodiment, a command center or hub of a network system includes a context and connection permutation sensitive control system that enables centralized and seamless integrated control of all types of input devices. The control system preferably includes a versatile icon based graphical user interface that provides a uniform, on-screen centralized control system for the network system.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards systems and methods for generating one or more channels for the organization of content items. A method according to one embodiment comprises selecting a content item and one or more items of metadata for the selected content item. A determination is made to determine if the selected content item should be associated with a given channel on the basis of the metadata. A channel is generated on the basis of the determination, with the selected content item organized in association with the channel.

Abstract: An information processing apparatus includes: a managing module configured to manage pieces of image information corresponding to types of applications; a determination module configured to determine whether a present time satisfies a preset temporal condition; an image selecting module configured to select first image information corresponding to a type of an activated application, and second image information corresponding to the type of the activated application when the present time satisfies the temporal condition; and a display module configured to generate a first image based on the first image information to be displayed on a display device when the image selecting module selects the first image information. The display module generates a second image based on the second image information to be displayed on the display device in place of the first image when the image selecting module selects the second image information.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device that can easily configure an entertainment system automatically or semi-automatically. The reconfiguration of the entertainment system can be achieved by cycling through the possible configurations of the entertainment system (i.e. different combinations of operational states of the components that make up the entertainment system) by changing various operational states of certain components until an operable configuration is found. The invention may be implemented in any component of the entertainment system including a set-top-box, satellite receiver or a remote control.