Abstract: A networked personal video recording (“PVR”) system couples a plurality of clients to one or more PVR media servers over a network. One or more PVR media servers include television tuners to tune television signals. A storage medium buffers the television signals to implement PVR functionality. For example, the PVR media server records television programs for clients. Clients are assigned to television tuners, and the clients display television programs received at the assigned tuner. The network transfers the buffered television signals to the clients.

Abstract: A menuing system for a video distribution system provides an interactive display to allow a user to select and control the delivery of program material. A central host computer processes initial request for service from users and maintains a database of currently available program materials and other system resources. In response to a user's request for service, the central host computer assigns one of a plurality of assignable computing devices (ACDs) to communicate with the user. The ACD reads the database and presents an interactive menu to the user on the user's audiovisual display monitor. Using a graphical user interface (GUI) the user may then respond to the menu by selecting an item for viewing. The menuing system may have a number of levels that the user may parse through to allow the user to select desired program material. Upon selection by the user, the ACD passes the request on for further programming.

Abstract: A system for providing interactive services in a subscription television system includes a system controller for controlling the interactive services, a video signal source for transmitting a video signal and a subscriber terminal for receiving a downstream transaction from the system controller and the video signal. The system controller comprises a memory for storing subscriber terminal address data and transaction data, a processor for generating a downstream transaction including subscriber terminal address data and transaction data, a transmitter for transmitting the downstream transaction, and a receiver for receiving an upstream transaction. The subscriber terminal includes memory for storing the downstream transaction, an on screen display generator for overlaying data in place of or superimposed on the video signal, data input circuitry for generating upstream data, and an upstream transmitter for transmitting the upstream data to the system controller.

Abstract: A multimedia communicator is disclosed. The multimedia communicator comprises a processing unit; and a storage device coupled to the processing unit. The multimedia communicator further includes a plurality of interfaces to allow the multimedia communicator to offer a user a plurality of services. The MMC which includes a microprocessor computing system may be located in a car, for example, or within a handset similar to handsets presently utilized for cell phones. The MMC may be connected to a WiFi Internet connection, a cellular network, a satellite radio or equivalent satellite network, or to other available wireless networks. Additionally, the MMC has the potential to interface with GPS signals as desired.

Abstract: A multimedia communicator is disclosed. The multimedia communicator comprises a processing unit; and a storage device coupled to the processing unit. The multimedia communicator further includes a plurality of interfaces to allow the multimedia communicator to offer a user a plurality of services. The MMC which includes a microprocessor computing system may be located in a car, for example, or within a handset similar to handsets presently utilized for cell phones. The MMC may be connected to a WiFi Internet connection, a cellular network, a satellite radio or equivalent satellite network, or to other available wireless networks. Additionally, the MMC has the potential to interface with GPS signals as desired.

Abstract: A TV has a TV processor and a display presenting a map showing the topology of the home network of which the TV is a part. Upon initial energization the TV discovers network devices in the home, uploads this information to an Internet server, which in turn sends back to the TV necessary information for configuring the network, without any user interaction to configure network devices.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system comprising a plurality of groups of one or more TV-signal distribution units connected to each other in cascade. Each TV-signal distribution unit comprising a plurality of lines for transporting input signals coming from a head end from an input side to an output side of the unit. At least one of the TV-signal distribution units of each group comprises measurement means for measuring a signal characteristic of a TV-signal transported on the lines, a programmable processing means for comparing each of the measured signal characteristics with at least one programmable reference value and determining a signal quality from each comparison, and indicator means for indicating the signal qualities to an installer of the system. The invention further relates to a method for installing such a system and a signal degradation compensation system.

Abstract: An information processing system may include first apparatus and second apparatus coupled to each other through communications means. The first apparatus may include a transmitting/receiving unit effecting two-way communications with the second apparatus, and a control unit that transmits data corresponding to the operating signal from the transmitting/receiving unit to the second apparatus in response to an operating signal transmitted from the second apparatus, and to perform control of the first apparatus. The second apparatus may include a transmitting/receiving unit effecting two-way communications with the first apparatus, a display displaying an image based on the data transmitted from the first apparatus, and a control unit that displays, on a screen of the display, a first operating image for operating the first apparatus and a second operating image for operating a menu screen related to the first apparatus, in response to a remote controller signal supplied from a remote controller.

Abstract: A communication system for home networking, the home networking communication system including: a plurality of repeaters that are respectively provided in some zones from among a plurality of zones, a splitter that is connected to the plurality of repeaters through a coaxial cable, and a hub that is provided in one zone from among the plurality of zones, is connected to the splitter through the coaxial cable, and relays data communication between the plurality of repeaters. Accordingly, a cost for installation is reproduced and an installation of the communication system is more convenient.

Abstract: A system for unifying heterogeneous multimedia tuners. The system produces a unified channel lineup and coordinates multiple diverse tuners to perform multimedia tasks associated with the unified lineup. In one implementation, tuner allocation policy allows behind-the-scenes tuner assignment and on-the-fly tuner swapping so that the user experience is seamless, access quality is continuously optimized, and tuners with the most bandwidth are kept available.

Abstract: A hybrid data distribution system includes a modulator coupled to an analog device, one or more processors coupled to the modulator, and a database coupled to the one or more processors. The database is configured to store encoded data. The system also includes an Ethernet switch for transmitting the encoded data to a digital device. The Ethernet switch is coupled to each of the database and the digital device. Moreover, the one or more processors are configured to directly or indirectly obtain the encoded data from the database, decode the encoded data, and directly or indirectly transmit the decoded data to the modulator. The modulator is configured to transmit the decoded data to the analog device, and the Ethernet switch is configured to directly or indirectly obtain the encoded data from the database, and to transmit the encoded data to the digital device.

Abstract: A plurality of intelligent device systems for use with a wideband signal distribution network, and methods for transmitting digital information and receiving digital and non-digital information onto and off of an RF carrier through a wideband signal distribution network, are disclosed. The intelligent device systems provide networks of intelligent devices that modulate and demodulate digital video, IP video/data/voice and digital wireless onto, and off of, a wideband signal distribution system, such as an analog carrier system, using existing EIA/TIA 568 standard wiring infrastructure. The methods modulate and demodulate digital video, IP video/data/voice and digital wireless onto, and off of, a wideband distribution system, such as an analog carrier system, and separate IP portions from non-IP portions.

Abstract: A remote control device for controlling a media renderer is provided, the remote control device includes a wireless personal area network module and a wireless local area network module. The wireless personal area network module includes a receiving module and a determining module. The receiving module receives a packet from the media renderer. The determining module determines whether the remote control device roams according to the packet. The wireless local area network module includes a control module. The control module controls another media renderer to play from a paused position according to the paused information when the remote control device roams. An automatic switching method is also provided.

Abstract: A system and method for establishing and maintaining synchronization of isochronous audio and video information streams in wireless multimedia applications. The system includes a media source device capable of sending multimedia content a media consumer device capable of receiving said multimedia content, control signals that are exchanged between said media source device and said media consumer device, and an algorithm that uses the control signals to synchronize isochronous video and audio streams that pass between said media source device and said media consumer device. Some embodiments of the present invention include an algorithm to enable a device to have both the media sourcing and media consuming functions. The system and method includes algorithms that use the control signals to establish and maintain synchronization between the isochronous audio, data, and video streams of multimedia content, and, optionally, allows a device to both transmit and receive said multimedia content.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments providing one or more improvements include a media system which connects to multiple media demodulation devices through a cable infrastructure and to a digital media content provider to allow a user to purchase, download and play media content by interacting with a remote control located at any given one of the media demodulation devices.

Abstract: A method for configuring a wireless network includes pointing a first end of a network configuration device at a wireless device and actuating the network configuration device to add the wireless device to the wireless network. The method may include positioning the first end in close proximity to the wireless device. A device is provided for configuring wireless networks that includes a transmitter configured to transmit at least one of an initiation signal and a connection table to a wireless device. The initiation signal is sent by the device to the wireless device to add or delete the wireless device from a network that is being configured. The connection table includes information about each wireless device that has previously been added to the network. A receiver is included in the device that is adapted to receive at least one of the connection table and a unique identifier from the wireless device.

Abstract: A control gateway is configured to control at least one consumer electronic device. The control gateway includes an optical transmitter unit, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver unit, and a controller. The optical transmitter unit is configured to transmit optical signals compatible with a first type of consumer electronic device. The RF transceiver unit is configured to receive RF signals. The controller is configured to generate an output command configured to control the first type of consumer electronic device in response to RF signals received by the RF transceiver unit, and to communicate the output command through the optical transmitter unit to the first type of consumer electronic device. Related methods of controlling at least one consumer electronic device from a control gateway are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a command receiving device (1200) for controlling an electronic device operable using wirelessly transmitted commands. The command receiving device (1200) includes: a network interface (1210) for coupling to a communications network; a control interface (1240) for coupling to said electronic device; a memory (1230) for storing a set of one or more control commands recognised by said electronic device; and a processor (1220) coupled to the network interface (1210), the control interface (1240), and the memory (1230). The processor (1220) translates at least one command received from said communications network via said network interface (1210) to at least one of said control commands, said control interface transmitting said at least one control command to said electronic device to control said electronic device. The electronic device may include, for example, a recording device or a signal source device.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed. One embodiment is a method of synchronizing media streams among a plurality of digital home communication terminals (DHCTs). The method comprises the steps of: decoding a stream of encoded media frames; receiving an indication of a desired playout time; determining a variation between the target playout time and the desired playout time; and adjusting the decoder playout speed to reduce the variation. At least a first portion of the frames have a target playout time conveyed in the stream. The indication of desired playout time is received for at least a second portion of the frames.

Abstract: A method used in an information processing apparatus for transferring a set of images from a server unit over a network and controlling a printing process of the transferred set of images, the method comprising: a) forming an image selection method at a local network device for identifying the set of images; b) communicating the image selection method to the server unit over the network; c) receiving, at a network device other than the local network device, the set of images from the server unit over the network responsive to the image selection method; d) arranging the set of images into a layout on the network device other than the local network device; e) converting the layout into a page description language (PDL) format file; and f) communicating the PDL format file to a printer over the network.

Abstract: Systems and methods of assembling an elementary stream from an encapsulated multimedia transport stream are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method is performed in a digital home communication terminal (DHCT). This method comprises the steps of: receiving a layer-2 packet through a binding to a network interface driver; applying at least one filter to the received packet to determine whether the received packet contains one or more multimedia transport packets meeting criteria associated with the filter; and for each multimedia transport packet meeting the applied filter criteria, copying the respective multimedia transport packet to an elementary stream buffer.

Abstract: A method for near real time data communication is disclosed. The method includes discovering a first device associated with a first location, determining available data from the first discovered device, and inserting a listing for the first discovered device into an electronic program guide (EPG). A data structure in memory is disclosed that includes a device identifier field for containing data indicating an identifier for a discovered device, a name field for containing data indicating a name associated with the discovered device, a receiver available field for containing data indicating a data receiver is available for the discovered device location, an electronic program guide (EPG) field for containing data indicating an EPG and an EPG2 field for inserting listings for discovered device data into the EPG for display to a user at an STB. A system is disclosed for near real time data communication is also disclosed.

Abstract: A residential gateway (RG) for distributing video, data and telephony services to multiple devices within a residence is disclosed. The RG receives signals from a telecommunications network, converts the signals to formats compatible with the multiple devices, and transmits the appropriate signals to the appropriate devices. Optical Remote Control devices (RCs) associated with remotely located televisions (TVs) transmit channel select commands to the RG as optical signals. The optical signals are received by an optical receiver located in close proximity to the remotely located TVs. The optical signal is then converted to an RF signal by an RF transmitter which transmits the RF signal over coaxial cable. A Remote Antennae Module (RAM) extracts the channel select command from the RF signal and provides it to the RG.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for facilitating local video distribution. A method incorporating teachings of the present disclosure may include linking a plurality of users with associated carrier frequencies. The associated frequencies may be given approximately six MHz slices of the radio frequency spectrum that correspond to portions of the very high frequency (VHF) ranges assigned to television channels. A user may input a command identifying a desired video stream, which may be encoded in an MPEG format. In response to the command, the desired video stream may be decoded and modulated on the carrier frequency associated with the user. The modulated signal may be output to a premise network such that the user can access the modulated stream by tuning a premise network connected television to the appropriate carrier frequency.

Abstract: A system and method for communicating between a signal generator and a signal receiver, for providing controlled access to information and/or communication channels, whereby the signal generator and the signal receiver are set to wirelessly transmit and receive a plurality of simultaneously transmitted signals, respectively, and the signal receiver is set to selectively provide access to information and/or communication channels on receiving the plurality of simultaneously transmitted signals from the signal generator, the signal generator comprising means for limiting a transmission of a predetermined signal to at least one of a prescribed duration and a prescribed number of activations for access to the information and/or communication channels.

Abstract: A host includes a controller configured to receive a request self-diagnostic to the host, wherein the request is for diagnostic information associated with memory allocated for an application. The controller is further configured to collect the requested diagnostic information.

Abstract: In a first embodiment a method for distributing video data from an originating device in a communication network is disclosed including storing metadata at the originating device describing the video data; selecting at the originating device, a plurality of candidate devices to receive the video data based on a correlation between the metadata and subscriber profiles for the plurality of candidate devices; and distributing the video data to a first set selected from the plurality of candidate devices in the communication network based on the correlation.

Abstract: A function adding system capable of adding a function irrespective of resources of a device is realized. A function adding system for adding a new function to an incorporated device has an arithmetic processing device in which a program to realize an additional function is installed, and a device which is an incorporated device for, when using the additional function, accessing the arithmetic processing device via a network, then making a request for processing of the additional function, and receiving a result of processing.

Abstract: A method for providing a first media data by a first portable electronic communication device is provided. The method includes receiving a request from a second portable communication device to send first media data to the second portable communication device receiving the first media data in the form of bursts using a first communication technology, sending the first media data to at least the second portable communication device using a second communication technology, the second communication technology being different than the first communication technology, such that the second portable communication device can receive the first media data using the second communication technology.

Abstract: The invention relates to a remote control unit for intelligent digital audiovisual reproduction systems, comprising storage means, payment means, a sound control circuit, display means and a metal chassis wherein said remote control unit comprises a distant radio frequency transmitter that is associated with a radio frequency receiver connected to the sound control circuit of the audiovisual reproduction system.

Abstract: A controller for filtering sub-channels of DVB is provided, including a media access control (MAC) unit, at least a data compression unit and at least a physical interface circuit. The MAC unit includes a plurality of registers. The MAC unit is connected to the DVB packets through a bus, and the registers provide storage for the program identification of at least one DVB sub-channel packet so that the MAC unit can determine whether to discard or output the DVB packet based on the program identification. The data compression unit is connected to MAC unit for being controlled to determine whether the packet should be compressed before output. The physical interface circuit is connected to the MAC unit and the data compression unit for outputting the compressed or uncompressed packets.

Abstract: A system and method for uploading firmware into television display is disclosed, in that it allows a user to upload firmware data to the user's television using conventional consumer technology, such as video media players with firmware encoded into a video format suitable for uploading firmware to the television through use of a conventional media player attached to the user's television display. Preferred embodiments of the system and method call for encoding firmware data into a format which is suitable for playback on a media player and communication to a television and the associated systems and methods in the television for decoding, processing and storing the new firmware data to the television set. Various embodiments of the invention disclose different methods of encoding and decoding, including, for example, image encoding, bar code encoding and Vertical Blanking Encoding methods for transmission of firmware data and decoding by the television.

Abstract: A method and system for transmitting video information from a sender to a receiver over a wireless channel, is provided. Video information bits are placed into multiple data packets, and transmitted in a burst sequence from a sender to a receiver over a wireless channel in a first time frame. Transmission of each data packet is separated from transmission of the next data packet by an inter-frame time period which is shortened by a channel switching duration. Then, selected video information bits are retransmitted to from the sender to the receiver in a second time frame.

Abstract: The invention prevents unwanted sounds from being outputted from an AV output apparatus such as a HDTV receiver. In the invention, when a streaming signal of a predetermined format having video data and audio data is inputted to a streaming input terminal 10, separation unit 23 of a relay apparatus 2 separates this signal into the video data and audio data. HDMI transmitter 27 generates and outputs a streaming signal having the video data separated by the separation unit 23, of the same format as that of the streaming signal inputted to the streaming input terminal 10.

Abstract: A system for delivering digital content on demand in a multiple unit environment includes a server local to the multiple unit environment. The server stores, in its memory, the digital content, and is capable of supporting multiple simultaneous asynchronous accesses to the digital content. A billing system tracks the bill for each unit in the multiple unit environment, based on the accessed digital content. Within each unit that supports access to the digital content, an access system (preferably a set-top box) allows a user to access the digital content.

Abstract: A lodging entertainment system provides a variety of products and services, including free television, pay-per-view movies, video games, guest services, and guest-selected recording of television programs for time-shifted viewing. Through the use of an interactive program guide, the guest may select programs being aired during the guest's stay at the hotel for later viewing, or may elect to record a television program while watching the same or another program.

Abstract: A healthcare communication system can include a patient terminal having a keyboard unit with message keys for transmitting different ones of one or more programmed messages, and alphanumeric keys for composing messages. The patient terminal can be communicatively linked to a patient terminal display for presenting the programmed messages and composed messages. Each of the message keys can include identifying indicia associated with a programmed message transmitted upon selection of the message key. The patient terminal keyboard also can include one or more destination keys for specifying one of multiple destination addresses within the healthcare communication system for delivering individual ones of the messages.

Abstract: Each of a plurality of remote control devices receives user-initiated video selections of any of direct broadcast satellite (DBS) channels, digital subscriber line (DSL) video content, and combinations of DBS channels and DSL video content. Based on the selections, each of a plurality of video processing modules is responsive to a corresponding one of the remote control devices to request any of a DBS channel, DSL video content, and a combination of a DBS channel and DSL video content, and to generate a television signal based thereon. A DBS distribution module simultaneously receives and distributes all DBS channels requested by the video processing modules. A DSL modem receives any DSL video content requested by the video processing modules. A networking module distributes the DSL video content to those of the video processing modules requesting same.

Abstract: A mobile electronic apparatus functions as an image medium reproducer, and, in particular, a moving image, such as a DVD reproducer. The mobile electronic apparatus has a mobile body, and a mobile stand detachably connectable with the mobile body. While the mobile apparatus body is connected to the mobile apparatus stand, the mobile apparatus body performs auralization and visualization of at least one A/V (Audio/Video) signal based on at least one input A/V signal from an A/V storage medium and at least one input body control signal output from the mobile apparatus stand, and outputs at least one stand control signal controlling the A/V signal output by the mobile apparatus stand. When the mobile apparatus body is disconnected from the mobile apparatus stand, the mobile apparatus body operates as an independent mobile electronic apparatus.

Abstract: A method for managing the applications related to data broadcasting, a class/interface structure for controlling the same, and a broadcasting receiver for controlling the class/interface receiver can prevent data broadcast-associated application from conflicting with a Native application. The method comprising the steps of: pausing an application associated with a cable mode if a current input mode is not in cable mode; and controlling a broadcast receiver by using an application that is native to the broadcast receiver.

Abstract: A communication gateway can provide a residence or a premises with access to multiple communication services, including reception of TV signals and bidirectional data communication. The gateway can reformat incoming TV signals to provide compatibility with an onsite TV. The incoming TV signals may be digital or may provide a higher level of pixel definition or screen resolution than the onsite TV is configured to handle. The gateway can convert the incoming TV signals into an analog form or can reduce the pixel definition for reception by the onsite TV. To support bidirectional data communications, the gateway can comprise a wireless interface to a LAN and an interface to broader network, such as a WAN. The gateway can process data signals flowing between the LAN and the WAN to provide format compatibility and can track media exposure. In one exemplary embodiment, the WAN can transmit television signals as packets.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of distributing media content from a hardware input device to a hardware output device, located remotely from each other, in a home network, is disclosed. A control unit receives a user input and converts it to a control signal. An encoder device is coupled to the input device and a decoder device is coupled to the output device. The encoder device and the decoder device each receive the control signal. The encoder device digitally encodes an analog signal from the input device and transmits the encoded signal over the network to the decoder device. The decoder device translates the encoded signal into a decoded signal suitable for the output device.

Abstract: A content retransmission system comprises a content providing server for providing, through external networks, information content purchased and an associated purchase breakdown, a smart communicator for remotely controlling the purchase process, and for wirelessly transmitting, short-range, a transfer request for the information content and a current location reference, a home server for receiving the information content and associated purchase breakdown and storing it and the associated purchase breakdown, and for receiving the transfer request and current location reference and transmitting information content corresponding to the transfer request through a power line, and a communication apparatus for receiving the information content through the power line and transmitting, by infrared, the received information content to the smart communicator.

Abstract: An art distribution system for distributing art to multiple display devices within an environment. The art distribution system provides a technique for specifying images to be displayed in an environment. The art distribution system provides a hierarchical representation of spaces within the environment. Each space may be further subdivided into subspaces. The art distribution system allows a user to select a space within the hierarchy and then to select an image that is to be displayed at the display devices within the selected space. The art distribution system then displays the selected image within the space including within all subspaces of the selected space. The art distribution system may allow a subsequent assignment of the image to a subspace to override within that subspace the previous selection of an image for the space.

Abstract: The invention relates to a receiving station for satellite television signals. The inventive system comprises an external unit, satellite receivers and television units for receiving both satellite signals and VHF/UHF signals under control of a common channel selection unit and a control module assigned to each television receiver. The control module is provided for generating control signals for the satellite receiver, so that satellite image signals can be received when selecting certain channels that would otherwise be available for VHF and UHF reception.

Abstract: An information signal transmission system and a remote control device for such a system for allowing a viewer to continuously watch, for example, in a bedroom a program the viewer has watched in a living room. A recipient of information is detected referring to identification information set in a remote command device, and monitor devices are alternately switched for continuously providing the viewer with an information signal.

Abstract: A system for distributing electronic information signals throughout a structure, particularly a residential dwelling, is disclosed. The system adapts a plurality of electronic information signals to be received by one or more information utilizing devices which are located throughout a structure. The system provides for adapting a multi-line telephone signal distribution hub for use with a one or two telephone lines allows the wiring for an internal telephone system to be installed immediately with a single telephone line interfaced to the multi-line telephone signal distribution hub while a control box and additional telephone lines from the telephone service utility can be readily connected at a later date. Further, the system distributes electronic signals within a room equipped for audio and video presentations and having a plurality of speaker connection locations for use in home theater applications, thus allowing home theater components to be easily and properly set up or changed.

Abstract: A wireless link provides an extension to cable television signals for a television receiver that does not have access to a coaxial cable. Analog and digital cable channels are processed and transmitted over the wireless link. Security of the signal is provided by transmitting encrypted data and decrypting at the receiving node. The conditional access encryption inherent in the data can insure communication security or encryption may be performed at the transmitting node.

Abstract: Various kinds of broadcast TV signals can be watched on display devices at desirable places (rooms). High-frequency signals of CS broadcast, BS broadcast and terrestrial broadcast are received and inputted via a lead wire to a retransmission device. A high-frequency signal of a cable television broadcast is directly inputted to the retransmission device. The retransmission device subsequently converts high-frequency signals of incoming different broadcasts into common high-frequency signals and transmits them in time-series. Then, the common high-frequency signals are transmitted by wired or wireless means to a plurality of display devices that may be installed in different rooms or are portable.

Abstract: An amenity accessing system is provided that includes an access telephone (10) with a plurality of access keys. The telephone includes a line powered card reader (62) that interfaces with a CPU (60). Information stored in a memory (70) can then be output in response to a good card received by the card reader (62), this information being in the form of a calling string. The calling string is output to a switched network (22) and a store-and-forward switch (20). The store-and-forward switch (20) is operable to receive the calling string containing information as to the user's ID, credit card information, location of the access phone (10) and other relevant data. This billing information is validated at the store-and-forward switch (20) and, upon validation, an authorization code is then transmitted through a switched network (22) to one of various amenities (24)-(40).