Return Path Patents (Class 725/65)
  • Patent number: 11838441
    Abstract: A communication apparatus includes a user signal transmission unit that transmits a user signal required for an end user to perform communication; a manager function implementing unit that implements a function provided to a manager of the present apparatus; a license monitoring unit that monitors a license of the present apparatus, and outputs a function limitation signal when the license has expired; and a function limitation unit that limits the function implemented by the manager function implementing unit when receiving the function limitation signal. In a communication apparatus that transmits a user signal required for an end user to perform communication, a function of the apparatus is limited when a relevant license has expired, while preventing an influence of the limitation upon the end user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kaichiro Saito
  • Patent number: 11800009
    Abstract: A communication apparatus includes a user signal transmission unit that transmits a user signal required for an end user to perform communication; a manager function implementing unit that implements a function provided to a manager of the present apparatus; a license monitoring unit that monitors a license of the present apparatus, and outputs a function limitation signal when the license has expired; and a function limitation unit that limits the function implemented by the manager function implementing unit when receiving the function limitation signal. In a communication apparatus that transmits a user signal required for an end user to perform communication, a function of the apparatus is limited when a relevant license has expired, while preventing an influence of the limitation upon the end user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kaichiro Saito
  • Patent number: 11792108
    Abstract: A system that includes a data source, a plurality of network devices, a routing device, and a network analysis device. The network analysis device is configured to obtain metric information that is associated with a plurality of messages and to input the metric information into a first machine learning model that outputs a traffic volume classification based on the metric information. The network analysis device is further configured to obtain bandwidth information that is associated with the plurality of network devices and to input the bandwidth information and the traffic volume classification into a second machine learning model that outputs routing recommendations based on the bandwidth information and the traffic volume classification. The network analysis device is further configured to generate routing instructions based on the routing recommendations and to reconfigure the routing device based on the routing instructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: Bank of America Corporation
    Inventor: Asim Kumar Ghosh
  • Patent number: 11509388
    Abstract: A method is provided for off-loading MAC (medium access control) functionalities that were previously carried out by satellites, and carry out these functionalities by control gateways that are located on the ground, and by implementing that to simplify the operation and maintenance of the satellite communications network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: SATIXFY ISRAEL LTD.
    Inventors: Arie Keshet, Doron Rainish
  • Patent number: 9326101
    Abstract: An Internet protocol low noise block downconverter (IP LNB) assembly, which may be within a satellite reception assembly, may be operable to determine location information and/or time information of the IP LNB assembly, such as via a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) module in the IP LNB assembly. The IP LNB assembly may provide services based on the determined location information and/or the determined time information of the IP LNB assembly. The IP LNB assembly may communicate the determined location information and/or the determined time information to a wireless communication device for determining location information of the wireless communication device. The IP LNB assembly may determine location information of a wireless source device based on a signal received from the wireless source device, the determined location information and the determined time information of the IP LNB assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: MAXLINEAR, INC.
    Inventors: Curtis Ling, Timothy Gallagher, Glenn Chang
  • Patent number: 9015772
    Abstract: An interactive gaming channel presented on a monitor, with a plurality of transponders being used to present the games available at a given time. Such a channel in accordance with the present invention comprises a game selection screen, comprising a genre selection area and a game selection area, related to the genre selection area, wherein a viewer of the monitor selects a game to be played from a plurality of games.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew J. Thompson, Richard F. Purpura, Eric W. Adams, Andrew K. Shiozaki
  • Patent number: 9009762
    Abstract: Provided is a digital video broadcasting-satellite-second generation (DVB-S2) based transmission and reception apparatus and method operable in circumstances of a low signal to noise ratio (SNR), the DVB-S2 based transmission and reception apparatus including a DVB-S2 based transmitter, a mapping unit to determine bit mapping based on at least one of a state of a transmission channel and an area to be applied, and a physical layer frame (PLframe) replica processing unit to repeat a PLframe in which a physical layer header (PLheader) corresponding to a spreading factor (SF) is inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Pan Soo Kim, Deock Gil Oh
  • Patent number: 9002171
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, there is provided a control block including a read control processor for reading designated content, a time information processor for processing time information. A controller returns, to a user terminal, a response signal, and information indicating a second absolute time point when an operation is executed in response to a request signal generated by the user terminal at a first absolute time point. The controller stores time difference information indicating a time difference between the first and the second absolute time points. When responding to a further request signal sent from the requester via the network, the controller sets, as tag time information, time information obtained by correcting, using the time difference information, a current relative time period for which the designated content is read.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Hideo Kataoka, Hajime Aoyama
  • Patent number: 8988495
    Abstract: A method for controlling an image display apparatus includes determining a type of a video signal included in an input signal, determining whether three-dimensional (3D) format information is included in the input signal, if the video signal is a 3D video signal, requesting 3D format information about the video signal to a server that stores 3D format information, if the input signal does not include the 3D format information about the video signal, and processing, upon receipt of 3D format information from the server in response to the 3D format information request, the video signal according to the 3D format information and displaying a 3D image based on the processed video signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: LG Eletronics Inc.
    Inventor: Jeongsim Kim
  • Patent number: 8887205
    Abstract: A method for dynamic routing is provided. Status information of a multichannel video and data distribution service (MVDDS) channel from customer premises equipment (CPE) is received. The status information is evaluated to determine if data destined for the CPE over the MVDDS channel should be routed over a secondary channel. Data destined for the CPE is route over the secondary channel when the data is determined to be routed over the secondary channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: CSC Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Steven J. Schecter
  • Patent number: 8881202
    Abstract: A data delivery system leverages existing satellite infrastructure to deliver massive data sets (e.g., genomic data) to last-mile, remote or rural, locations. The system repurposes existing high-capacity satellite links normally used to broadcast entertainment content by creating customized channels specifically adapted to delivering large data sets to be stored upon computer systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Nant Holdings IP, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Wittenschlaeger
  • Patent number: 8875190
    Abstract: A method and system for monitoring signals corresponding to a satellite having a first transponder generating a first plurality of channel signals, a plurality of integrated receiver decoders receiving the first plurality of signals and generating a first plurality of received channel signals corresponding to the first plurality of channel signals and a monitoring system displaying all of the first plurality of received channel signals corresponding to the first transponder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Eduardo Barroso
  • Patent number: 8862761
    Abstract: A system and method for a operating a content distribution system includes a destination device and a requesting device that communicates a primary audio stream secondary audio stream and a video stream to the destination device. The destination device communicates the primary audio stream to a display. The destination device includes a secondary decoder configured to decode the secondary audio stream to form a decoded secondary audio stream. The destination device combines the secondary decoded audio stream and the primary audio stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Diem V. Nguyen, Noreen Fong, Mark C. Guidarelli, Titus Winters
  • Patent number: 8839312
    Abstract: Multiple systems for delivering satellite signals are described. An embodiment in accordance with the present invention comprises a receive antenna, including at least one low noise block amplifier (LNB), and a module, coupled to and proximate the receive antenna, the module comprising a multiswitch, coupled to the LNB, for directing the satellite signals received by the LNB to a plurality of outputs of the multiswitch, a plurality of tuners, respectively coupled to the outputs of the multiswitch, for tuning to a plurality of specific portions of the satellite signals in a respective fashion, the specific portions of the satellite signals selected based on commands received from a plurality of receivers, and an interface for delivering the specific portions of the satellite signals to the plurality of receivers, wherein the specific portions of the satellite signals are combined into a single combined signal and delivered to the plurality of receivers on a single output of the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. James, Dipak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 8763037
    Abstract: A broadcast system and method for allocating its resources includes a broadcast operation channel management system forming a database having broadcast system data from a bit rate allocation for a transponder of a satellite and a guide channel definition. The broadcast operation channel management system generates a user interface that displays a least a portion of the broadcast system data on a display. The broadcast system data is modified through the user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph T Hayes, Jorge P del Moral, John D Lee, Trang V Luu, Mark T Takamoto, Jonathan L Tronson, Paul P Woo, Gilbert Zaldivar
  • Patent number: 8719409
    Abstract: A communication system for providing network access over a shared communication link is disclosed. The communication system includes a user access point, a network access point and a communications link. The user access point is coupled to one or more user terminals that access a remote network. The network access point is coupled to the remote network. The communications link couples the user access point and the network access point. The communications link is at least partially controlled by the network access point, which monitors information passed between the remote network and the user access point to create an estimate of future usage of the communications link by the user access point based on the information. The network access point allocates communications link resources for the user access point based on the estimate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: ViaSat, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Eidenschink
  • Patent number: 8707380
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Brant L. Candelore
  • Patent number: 8689263
    Abstract: A frequency translation module for delivering satellite signals to Integrated Receiver Decoders (IRDs). The module comprises at least one input for receiving polarized satellite signals, wherein at least one input is coupled to at least one low noise block amplifier (LNB), at least one legacy output, the legacy output coupled to the input through a multiswitch, wherein each legacy output selects a polarization of a satellite signal based on a Legacy IRD command directly to the multiswitch, and at least one combined output, the combined output coupled to the multiswitch through an interface, wherein at least one new IRD selectively commands the frequency translation module such that each new IRD receives a portion of a satellite signal based on commands received from each IRD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. James, Dipak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 8683531
    Abstract: According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a digital data stream is divided into at least two complementary digital substreams and delayed in time. The first digital substream and the second digital substream are transmitted by the broadcasting systems with a time offset in accordance with the broadcasting principle such that any receiver can use the respectively intact part of the other complementary digital substream in order to ensure a seamless media reception when a break in the transmission or reception occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Tim Fuss, Christian Schaupmann
  • Patent number: 8621525
    Abstract: Multiple systems for delivering satellite video signals are disclosed. An embodiment of the present invention comprises a module comprising a multiswitch, the multiswitch selectively directing the satellite video signals to a plurality of outputs of the multiswitch, an interface for delivering the satellite video signals to at least one receiver, and a power inserter, coupled between the interface and the at least one receiver, for controlling the flow of signals between the multiswitch and the at least one receiver, wherein the power inserter continuously flows the satellite video signals to the at least one receiver while selectively flowing commands between the module and the at least one receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. James, Dipak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 8577282
    Abstract: A method for reporting multi-address information comprises a step wherein each of mobile stations (UE) obtains the positional information relating to the mobile stations (UE) and manages information relating to the obtained positional information, a step for reporting multi-address information provided with an electronic signature to each of the mobile stations (UE), a step wherein each of the mobile stations (UE) verifies the multi-address information by use of the electronic signature provided to the received multi-address information, a step wherein each of the mobile stations (UE), when the verifying is successful, compares positional information contained in the multi-address information with the positional information being managed, and a step wherein each of the mobile stations (UE) performs processing in response to the multi-address information on the basis of the result of comparing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: NTT DoCoMo, Inc.
    Inventors: Wuri Andarmawanti Hapsari, Itsuma Tanaka, Minami Ishii, Alf Zugenmaier
  • Patent number: 8566882
    Abstract: Systems, method and apparatus are described for facilitating the collection of data from television receivers. First and second television receivers exchange data over a wireless communication link. The first television receiver transmits the data received from the second television receiver to a data collection system associated with a television provider. The data collection system processes the received data to analyze the operation of the second television receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: EchoStar Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Rajiv Singh Cullen Pal
  • Patent number: 8549564
    Abstract: A wireless access system comprises a base station and a control system. The base station wirelessly broadcasts a pilot signal including a network access provider identifier that identifies a wireless video service. The base station wirelessly receives a wireless video uplink request from a wireless video device in response to the pilot signal. The control system processes reservation data for the base station to determine if the wireless video device has a current wireless video uplink reservation and directs the base station to provide a wireless video uplink to the wireless video device if the wireless video device has the current wireless video uplink reservation. The base station wirelessly receives video data from the wireless video device over the wireless video uplink as directed by the control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.
    Inventors: John Michael Everson, Jarrod A. Nichols, Jason R. Delker, Bradley Allen Kropf
  • Patent number: 8549565
    Abstract: Multiple systems for delivering satellite signals are described. An embodiment in accordance with the present invention comprises a receive antenna, including at least one low noise block amplifier (LNB), and a module, coupled to and proximate the receive antenna, the module comprising a multiswitch, coupled to the LNB, for directing the satellite signals received by the LNB to a plurality of outputs of the multiswitch, a plurality of tuners, respectively coupled to the outputs of the multiswitch, for tuning to a plurality of specific portions of the satellite signals in a respective fashion, the specific portions of the satellite signals selected based on commands received from a plurality of receivers, and an interface for delivering the specific portions of the satellite signals to the plurality of receivers, wherein the specific portions of the satellite signals are combined into a single combined signal and delivered to the plurality of receivers on a single output of the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. James, Dipak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 8539530
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method and apparatus for ordering entertainment programs from different programming transmission sources. A selection is received from an entertainment system to buy an upgraded media feature for a programming transmission. The purchase is automatically coordinated and the upgraded media feature is automatically provided for the programming by a server system. The server system bills a client for services performed by the server system and provides billing information about the client to at least one of a plurality of programming transmission sources that provided the programming transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Anthony A. Shah-Nazaroff, Jean M. Goldschmidt Iki, Kenneth Alan Moore, Christopher D. Williams
  • Patent number: 8514787
    Abstract: Systems and methods for an integrated antenna and satellite dish. Exemplary embodiments include an apparatus, including a satellite dish, a wireless antenna coupled to the satellite dish and a coupling box communicatively coupled to the satellite dish and the wireless antenna. Additional exemplary embodiments include a content communication method, including receiving a satellite signal, receiving a first wireless signal, performing coupling box processing on the satellite signal and the wireless signal, transmitting the satellite signal and the wireless signal to a set top box and performing set top box processing on the satellite signal and wireless signal. Further exemplary embodiments include a content communication system, including a satellite dish for receiving content from a satellite, a wireless antenna for receiving content from a wireless network and a coupling box for processing the content from the satellite and the content from the wireless network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Samuel Zellner, Neale Hightower, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8468566
    Abstract: A method of communicating control information in a satellite broadcast communication system is presented. In the method, at least one copy of a control message set is transmitted from a control system by way of a satellite to a broadcast receiver. The control message set includes at least one control message. At least one copy of each of the control messages of the control message set is received at the broadcast receiver. A feedback message is transmitted from the broadcast receiver by way of a terrestrial communication link to the control system. The feedback message includes an indication that all of control messages of the control message set were received at the broadcast receiver. The feedback message is received at the control system. In response to receiving the feedback message, transmission of subsequent copies of the control message set is terminated at the control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: EchoStar Technologies L.L.C.
    Inventor: Nicholas Brandon Newell
  • Patent number: 8422982
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for energizing a multi-channel LNBF containing multiple LNB(s) the LNBF connected to multiple IRDs. The number of IRDs present is detected. If more than one IRD is present, all LNBs are energized. If only one IRD is detected, power sufficient to supply the LNB the IRD has selected is supplied. Identification of which LNB the single IRD has selected may be determined by monitoring the presence of a desired voltage, frequency tone, and or series of frequency tones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Raven NC LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Baird, Jonathan Walker
  • Patent number: 8418210
    Abstract: A satellite television ground system, particularly for a make or break satellite television signal system, includes an outdoor unit and an indoor unit that are in communication with each other via a single coaxial cable and an optional separate single conductor for power. The satellite television ground system is operative to measure and reverse frequency conversion errors utilizing DSP techniques, allowing for more precise generation and transmission of uplink signals from the satellite television ground system. Control data for the system is sent via a low data rate connection on a power cable thereof, or by a narrowband signaling channel via a coax cable. The system also utilizes a single reference oscillator to drive the various frequency synthesizers and the like. The satellite television ground system utilizes related oscillators for the uplink and downlink sections. Carrier frequency offset in the downlink is measured in a carrier tracking loop part of a television signal demodulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Thomson Licensing
    Inventors: Paul Gothard Knutson, Kumar Ramaswamy, Max Ward Muterspaugh
  • Patent number: 8359387
    Abstract: A communication system for providing network access over a shared communication link is disclosed. The communication system includes a user access point, a network access point and a communications link. The user access point is coupled to one or more user terminals that access a remote network. The network access point is coupled to the remote network. The communications link couples the user access point and the network access point. The communications link is at last partially controlled by the network access point, which monitors information passed between the remote network and the user access point to create an estimate of future usage of the communications link by the user access point based on the information. The network access point allocates communications link resources for the user access point based on the estimate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: ViaSat, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas Eidenschink
  • Patent number: 8346057
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, there is provided a control block including a read control processor for reading designated content, a time information processor for processing time information. A controller returns, to a user terminal, a response signal, and information indicating a second absolute time point when an operation is executed in response to a request signal generated by the user terminal at a first absolute time point. The controller stores time difference information indicating a time difference between the first and the second absolute time points. When responding to a further request signal sent from the requester via the network, the controller sets, as tag time information, time information obtained by correcting, using the time difference information, a current relative time period for which the designated content is read.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Hideo Kataoka, Hajime Aoyama
  • Publication number: 20120311630
    Abstract: Described herein are techniques for allowing a customer support agent to remotely analyze a television receiver. A television receiver is communicatively coupled to a customer support center through a communication network. A customer support agent remotely accesses the television receiver and the television receiver transmits video content to the customer support center through the communication network. The video output is outputted to the customer support agent at the customer support center for analysis of the television receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: EchoStar Technologies L.L.C.
    Inventor: Pamela Margit Tritt
  • Patent number: 8320823
    Abstract: For each audio and data service, a table of contents (TOC) specifies which logical channel may carry data. The TOC may be transmitted over the NRSC-5 transmission system using a pre-defined protocol, which is received and decoded at an NRSC-5 receiver apparatus that extracts the TOC. When a user or an application requests a specific service from the receiver, the receiver logic may examine the TOC and may identify which LC may carry the requested service data. The receiver may only decode the LCs that are needed for the requested service, and may not decode other unneeded LCs thereby conserving power and memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: SiPort, Inc.
    Inventor: Oren Arad
  • Patent number: 8289898
    Abstract: Systems and methods for an integrated antenna and satellite dish. Exemplary embodiments include an apparatus, including a satellite dish, a wireless antenna coupled to the satellite dish and a coupling box communicatively coupled to the satellite dish and the wireless antenna. Additional exemplary embodiments include a content communication method, including receiving a satellite signal, receiving a first wireless signal, performing coupling box processing on the satellite signal and the wireless signal, transmitting the satellite signal and the wireless signal to a set top box and performing set top box processing on the satellite signal and wireless signal. Further exemplary embodiments include a content communication system, including a satellite dish for receiving content from a satellite, a wireless antenna for receiving content from a wireless network and a coupling box for processing the content from the satellite and the content from the wireless network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Samuel Zellner, Neale Hightower, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8265013
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing an interactive broadcasting service in a Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) system are provided. The method includes receiving content attributes, including a terminal interaction request time index information, and corresponding contents from a content provider; after transmitting the contents to a terminal, sending a burst allocation request message to a Base Station (BS) to allocate an uplink bandwidth to the terminal at the terminal interaction request time; and receiving interactive information from the terminal over the uplink bandwidth allocated to the terminal. The content provider or the service provider can request a response from a plurality of recipients through the MBS service, gather their responses, and reflect the gathered information in the contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Jun-Hyung Kim, Nae-Hyun Lim, Yong Chang
  • Publication number: 20120204212
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising: a first transceiver for communicating with a set-top box via a first network corresponding to a short-range network; a second transceiver for communicating with a geostationary communication satellite in a second network, the first transceiver being configured to receive information corresponding to a request from said set-top box related to broadcast content, and said second transceiver being configured to transmit a message corresponding to said request to said geostationary communication satellite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Publication date: August 9, 2012
    Applicant: ASTRIUM LIMITED
    Inventors: Donald Lester, Niall Andrew MacManus
  • Patent number: 8209726
    Abstract: A satellite transponder switch (STS) maintains a table that maps set-top boxes (STBs) to carrier frequencies. The STS receives a first request from a first STB for a first transponder band and a second request from a second STB for a second transponder band. The STS receives contact from the first STB on a control channel upon power-up of the first STB and in response to the contact from the first STB, assigns a first carrier frequency to the first STB. The STS frequency shifts the first transponder band to a first carrier frequency assigned to the first STB and the second transponder band to a second carrier frequency assigned to the second STB. The STS outputs a signal that comprises the frequency-shifted first and second transponder bands to the first STB and the second STB. The frequency-shifted first and second transponder bands are separated by a separation band. A first carrier frequency of the signal is unique to the first STB and a second carrier frequency of the signal is unique to the second STB.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Dinesh Nadarajah, Ahmad C. Ansari
  • Publication number: 20120066724
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing wireless coverage such as WiMAX or LTE coverage via a wired network are provided. For example, systems and methods are discussed in which a Cable TV (“CATV”) network, Direct Broadcasting Satellite (“DBS”) and/or Passive Optical Network (PON) are used in order to deliver the native wireless signals into the buildings or an area in which wireless coverage is desired, where a small Consumer Premise Device is used to transmit and receive the signals to and from the wireless devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: ALVARION LTD.
    Inventor: Mordechai ZUSSMAN
  • Patent number: 8041832
    Abstract: Embodiments of a system and method for distributing network data to multiple nodes in a data communications network is described. Two data communication channels are provided for each node in the network. While one of the communication channels carries routing and flow control protocol messages, as well as data, in both directions between network nodes, the other communication channel is configured to transmit data traffic—and only data traffic—in a single direction from the network data server toward all of the other nodes in the network. By using 100% of the available bandwidth for data traffic only, the speed at which data may be distributed throughout the network is maximized and the performance degradation caused by the congestion, collisions or packet loss that typically occurs in two-way data communication channels is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Verizon Services Corp.
    Inventors: George Louis Hughes, Jr., Craig Reding
  • Patent number: 8024759
    Abstract: A frequency translation module for delivering satellite signals to Integrated Receiver Decoders (IRDs). The module comprises at least one input for receiving polarized satellite signals, wherein at least one input is coupled to at least one low noise block amplifier (LNB), at least one legacy output, the legacy output coupled to the input through a multiswitch, wherein each legacy output selects a polarization of a satellite signal based on a Legacy IRD command directly to the multiswitch, and at least one combined output, the combined output coupled to the multiswitch through an interface, wherein at least one new IRD selectively commands the frequency translation module such that each new IRD receives a portion of a satellite signal based on commands received from each IRD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. James, Dipak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 8000647
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems for connecting a set-top box (STB) to the Internet over existing and future wireless networks, combining television with wireless Internet access. A conventional television is used in combination with a STB that has a wireless or wired keyboard, a power supply, and audio/visual connections for connecting the STB to the television. In an embodiment, a wireless telephone is placed in a docking station on top of the STB, providing the user with both data (when docked) and voice capabilities (when being used simply for telephone calls). CDMA, CDPD, or other wireless technologies may used for connection to the Internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventor: George E. Hill
  • Patent number: 7950038
    Abstract: Multiple systems for delivering satellite signals are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. James, Dipak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 7945932
    Abstract: A bandwidth-limited system for delivering satellite video signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. James, Dipak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 7937731
    Abstract: A combination of new hardware at the subscriber site, hardware and services at the satellite broadcasting center and new installation procedures provide a cost-effective approach for verifying “callback” functionality. The required test and monitoring hardware may be provided as an external test CAM and call progress monitor (CPM) or integrated into the IRD. The satellite broadcast center is provided with a call responder & data test system (CRDTS) that is set up to automatically receive and evaluate test calls over a back channel and a call recording system (CRS) that records the test results and notifies the billing center of a successful installation. The installer installs the dish and IRD, verifies “callback” functionality by placing a test call that is evaluated by the CRDTS, and then calls a customer service representative (CSR) to complete the service authorization process. The CSR checks the CRS to verify that the “callback” function is operational and authorizes payment to the installer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventor: James D. Allen
  • Publication number: 20110055875
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing WiMAX coverage via a wired network are provided. For example, systems and methods are discussed in which a Cable TV (“CATV”) network, Direct Broadcasting Satellite (“DBS”) and/or Passive Optical Network (PON) are used in order to deliver the native WiMAX signals into the buildings or an area in which WiMAX coverage is desired, where a small Consumer Premise Device is used to transmit and receive the signals to and from the WiMAX devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: CLARITON NETWORKS, LTD.
    Inventor: Mordechai Zussman
  • Patent number: 7900230
    Abstract: An intelligent switching network for delivering satellite signals to a plurality of Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD). The network comprises a plurality of inputs, designed to receive a plurality of satellite signals, wherein the satellite signals are directed to the inputs based on an originating satellite for each of the satellite signals, a multiswitch, having a plurality of inputs and a plurality of outputs, wherein at least some of the inputs are coupled to the plurality of inputs and receive the satellite signals, and an interface, coupling the plurality of IRDs to the outputs of the multiswitch through the interface on a single cable, wherein the interface controls the flow of signals from the plurality of IRDs to the multiswitch and controls the flow of satellite signals to the plurality of IRDs based on commands from the IRDs to the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas H. James, Dipak M. Shah
  • Patent number: 7836470
    Abstract: System and method of common synchronisation for bursts transmitted over an uplink connection in an integrated multispot satellite communication system (S) in a multimedia broadcasting network for setting up bi-directional communication with a satellite with return channel. The common burst synchronisation (4) is produced in such a way that the transmission rate in the downlink direction (P2; U2; C2) from the satellite is a whole multiple of the network clock reference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Fernando Ortega Rodriguez, Maria Africa Rodriguez Martinez
  • Patent number: 7796939
    Abstract: A digital multimedia broadcasting (DMB) receiver and a method for notifying location information of the receiver is provided. The DMB receiver stores location information of each gap filler matched to a gap filter identification (GFID), and the gap filler relays digital multimedia broadcasting data transmitted from a satellite. The receiver performs receiving digital multimedia broadcasting data from the gap filler, detects the GFID of the gap filler from the received digital multimedia broadcasting data, detects location information of the gap filler by using the GFID and outputs the location information. Therefore, a user in motion may watch DMB without any risk of missing a destination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Seong Geun Kwon
  • Patent number: 7793323
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for transmitting a media program comprising audiovisual data. The method comprises the steps of transmitting the audiovisual data from a ground center to a satellite; transponding the audiovisual data to a ground-based hub; and transmitting the audiovisual data from the ground-based hub to a display entity if the satellite is obscured from the display entity. The apparatus comprises a ground transmitter transmitting the audiovisual data from a ground center to a satellite; satellite for transponding the audiovisual data; and a ground-based hub, having a receiver for receiving the transponded audiovisual data and a hub transmitter for transmitting the audiovisual data from the ground-based hub to a display entity if the satellite is obscured from the display entity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Mark L. Powell, David Confair, Michael David Repp
  • Patent number: 7783248
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for connecting a primary uplink site and a diverse uplink site includes a satellite and a communication line that couples the primary uplink site and the diverse uplink site. The primary uplink site receives television signals and communicates the signals over the communication line using a video-over-internet protocol. The primary site forms primary uplink signals and selectively communicates the primary uplink signals to the satellite. The diverse uplink site receives the television signals from the primary uplink site through the communication line and forms the diverse uplink signals and selectively communicates the diverse uplink signals to the satellite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: The DIRECTV Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Cecilia C. Comeaux, Wayne Ladrach, Benjamin Mui, Hanno Basse