Multiunit Or Multiroom Structure (e.g., Home, Hospital, Hotel, Office Building, School, Etc.) Patents (Class 725/78)
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Publication number: 20100115563Abstract: The present invention is applied to an audio system for transmitting audio signals and video signals to each room of a house via cables installed within the walls of the house and for reproducing these audio signals and video signals in the each room, and thereby expands the extensibility of this kind of audio system and expands the availability. The present invention separately inputs video signals for monitoring to a main box which selectively outputs video signals and audio signals of a source unit, and selectively outputs these video signals for monitoring to a zone unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2009Publication date: May 6, 2010Applicant: Sony CorporationInventor: Kazuo Nada
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Publication number: 20100100897Abstract: Disclosed is a system for providing live entertainment at home through interactive display electronic devices like television, personal computer. The system includes web interface components, ticket booking module, billing module, validation module and notification module. The web interface component gathers entities from viewer while booking a ticket for movie/event. The entities include viewer's preferred location to watch the event like if they want to see the event at home or in the theatre/auditorium along with event details, date, time and IP address. The validation module obtains identification credentials, which is 6-digit authentication from a viewer's ticket and validates those credentials. If the ticket credentials are valid, the entity that submitted the credentials is considered an authenticated identity. Once authenticated, the authorization process determines whether that identity has access to the event.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2009Publication date: April 22, 2010Inventor: Johnson Manuel-Devadoss ("Johson Smith")
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Patent number: 7702405Abstract: A communication system, network, interface, and port architecture are provided for transporting different types of data across a network. The network can be arranged by connecting the ports in a daisy chain fashion to achieve a ring architecture or topology. The network forwards data according to a specific network protocol, and any incoming data that follows that protocol will be sent onto the network. If the incoming data protocol does not match the network protocol, then the incoming data is not sent immediately to the network, but instead is sent to an input pin of a device upon the network specifically designed to receive that incoming data. The network, therefore, has ports that support both compliant and non-compliant incoming data, and the devices that produce such data.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2004Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Standard Microsystems CorporationInventors: Herbert Hetzel, David J. Knapp
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Publication number: 20100088732Abstract: Provided are a method and apparatus for generating a plurality of objects for implementing different functions related to a service provided via a home network; and using the service based on the plurality of objects.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2009Publication date: April 8, 2010Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jung-shin PARK, Young-soo KANG, Kwang-hyuk KIM
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Patent number: 7690949Abstract: In conjunction with a wiring in a house carrying data network signal, a modular outlet comprising of a base module and interface module. The base module connects to the wiring and attached to a wall. The interface module provides a data unit connection. The interface module is mechanically attached to the base module and electrically connected thereto. The wiring may also carry basic service signal such as telephone, electrical power and cable television (CATV). In such a case, the outlet will provide the relevant connectivity either as part of the base module or as part of the interface module. Both proprietary and industry standard interfaces can be used to interconnect the module. Furthermore, a standard computer expansion card (such as PCI, PCMCIA and alike) may be used as interface module.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2006Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Mosaid Technologies IncorporatedInventor: Yehuda Binder
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Patent number: 7690015Abstract: A PSI converter includes: a protocol data extractor, a protocol data converter, a protocol data inserter, and a system controller. The protocol data extractor is configured for demultiplexing a terrestrial broadcasting TS or a satellite broadcasting TS, and extracting audio/video data and PSIP/PSI data or audio/video data and SI/PSI data from the terrestrial broadcasting TS or the satellite broadcasting TS, respectively. The protocol data converter is configured for converting the PSIP/PSI data or the SI/PSI data into PSIP/PSI data of a corresponding digital cable television broadcasting standard. The protocol data inserter is configured for inserting the digital cable television broadcasting standard PSIP/PSI data into the audio/video data extracted by the protocol data extractor though TS multiplexing, and generating a digital cable broadcasting TS.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research InstituteInventors: Joon-Young Jung, Joon-Young Choi, Byung-Jun Bae, O-Hyung Kwon, Chieteuk Ahn
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Patent number: 7690017Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2002Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America, Inc.Inventors: Polly Stecyk, Brian Peterson, Brian Maxon, Pavel Houda, George E. Palmer, Shenta T. Pu, Martin Zanfino, Robert A. Perry
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Patent number: 7690022Abstract: A cable distribution system with distributed architecture that can accommodate both digital and analog subscribers. Each home has at least one Room Interface Unit (RIU), one for each television. There is a local service module associated with a group of RIUs (e.g., one for every ten RIUs). There is also a local headend in the vicinity. The local headend has a block of integrated tuner/receiver/decoders that can be controlled to tune in a selected video channel. The selected video channels and a group of standard channels are multiplexed and sent to the local service modules where a group of programmable converters (one for each RIU) place the channel selected by its corresponding RIU at a predetermined frequency. Each of the RIUs associated with a particular local service module receive the corresponding channel. Depending upon whether the subscriber has subscribed to digital or analog service, they will have either a digital or an analog RIU.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2003Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Inventors: Ganesh Basawapatna, Varalakshmi Basawapatna
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Patent number: 7686653Abstract: In conjunction with a wiring in a house carrying data network signal, a modular outlet comprising of a base module and interface module. The base module connects to the wiring and attached to a wall. The interface module provides a data unit connection. The interface module is mechanically attached to the base module and electrically connected thereto. The wiring may also carry basic service signal such as telephone, electrical power and cable television (CATV). In such a case, the outlet will provide the relevant connectivity either as part of the base module or as part of the interface module. Both proprietary and industry standard interfaces can be used to interconnect the module. Furthermore, a standard computer expansion card (such as PCI, PCMCIA and alike) may be used as interface module.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2006Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Mosaid Technologies IncorporatedInventor: Yehuda Binder
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Patent number: 7685622Abstract: A television signal receiving system is operative to optimally tune to one or a plurality of television channels and provide one or plurality of optimum television channel signals to one or a plurality of television signal receivers. The television signal receivers are operative to request a particular channel of a television signal processor. The television signal processor is coupled to an antenna array. Television signals from the antenna array are processed in accordance with the principles of the subject invention to provide optimum television channel signals. The optimum television channel signals are demodulated then remodulated before being distributed to the various television signal receivers.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2001Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Thomson LicensingInventor: John Sidney Stewart
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Patent number: 7685623Abstract: The invention concerns an audio/video signal distribution system, comprising audio/video signal sources (MGT, DVD, C, HIFI) and audio/video signal receivers (TV1, TV2, TV3, TV4), and a central processing and multiplexing unit (MDS, MDS?). The invention is characterized in that it comprises a twisted pair service network (PS) for routing said audio/video signals from the sources to the processing and multiplexing unit and a twisted pair distribution network (P, D) for routing the processed multiplexed audio/video signals from the processing and multiplexing unit to the receivers.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: CasanovaInventor: Henri Lee
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Patent number: 7676824Abstract: Processing signals from a remote control device within a home audiovisual network comprising a plurality of nodes for interconnecting a plurality of terminals, wherein, within the network, at least two types of remote-control signals are used, including first type remote-control signals specific to the nodes and sent by at least one first remote control device associated with the nodes, and second type remote-control signals specific to the terminals and sent by at least one second remote control device associated with at least one of said terminals.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Canon Europa NVInventors: Jean-Paul Accarie, Yacine El Kolli
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Publication number: 20100043032Abstract: The invention discloses an electronic device for supporting a multimedia over coax alliance (MoCA) standard. The electronic device is coupled with a coaxial cable. The electronic device includes an input terminal, a back stage processing unit, and a band pass filter. The input terminal is coupled with the coaxial cable. The band pass filter is coupled between the input terminal and the back stage processing unit, and it receives an input signal from the input terminal. The band pass filter allows a plurality of television channel signals in a predetermined frequency range to pass through and transmits them to the back stage processing unit to be processed. The band pass filter rejects a MoCA standard system signal to prevent it from entering the back stage processing unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2009Publication date: February 18, 2010Applicant: UNIHAN CORPORATIONInventors: Wei-Chun Tsao, Chien-Ru Lin
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Publication number: 20100031297Abstract: Systems and methods for performing a method for reducing power consumption in MoCA devices that are connected via a coax network are provided. One method according to the invention includes, in a home network having a plurality of network modules, one of said plurality of network modules being a network controller, each of said plurality of network modules being connected to a coax backbone, communicating over the coax backbone between the plurality of network modules. The method further includes using the master module to receive requests sent over the coax backbone from the plurality of network modules for bandwidth to transmit bursts. The master module may establish an order of transmission opportunities for the plurality of network modules to follow when transmitting bursts directly to other network modules via the coax backbone. The method may also include using the master module to toggle each of the networked modules between a running power state and a standby power state.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2009Publication date: February 4, 2010Applicant: Broadcom CorporationInventors: Philippe Klein, Avraham Kliger, Yitshak Ohana
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Patent number: 7653926Abstract: A system including a remote control device. The remote control device includes a processor, a remote control receiver in communication with the processor, an input device in communication with the processor, and an output device in communication with the processor. The system also includes an electronic device. The electronic device includes a receiver for receiving signals from the remote control device, a telephonic device, and a transmitter in communication with the telephonic device, the transmitter for transmitting data from the telephonic device to the remote control device.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2000Date of Patent: January 26, 2010Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.Inventor: John R. Stefanik
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Publication number: 20090320058Abstract: A method for distributing video programs in a multiple dwelling unit from a receiver device associated with the unit to a plurality of client devices located in the multiple dwelling unit, including: receiving a plurality of video programs associated with a plurality of television channels from a signal source; receiving a request for a particular video program associated with a particular television channel from a selected one of the plurality of client devices; confirming that an account associated with the selected client device is authorized to receive the particular video program on the particular television channel; descrambling the particular video program using account data associated with the selected client device in response to the confirmation; scrambling the descrambled particular video program using a local key associated with the selected client device and transmitting the re-scrambled video program to the selected client device; and maintaining account data associated with each of the client dType: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2005Publication date: December 24, 2009Applicant: Thomson LicensingInventors: Keith Reynolds Wehmeyer, Terry Wayne Lockridge, Mike Arthur Derrenberger
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Publication number: 20090313659Abstract: A method and system for distributing audio, visual, data, annunciator and other information within an educational facility utilizes a bit-wise addressing scheme to route UDP message packets to individual classrooms. The audio/video network system includes a central processor that controls a plurality of audio/video sources (e.g., DVD players, cable TV receivers, etc.). Output from audio/video sources is encoded by audio/video encoders for transmission via a local area network. Classroom control hubs within each classroom recognize data packets addressed with the bit-wise addressing scheme and in combination with a video decoder, recover the encoded audio/video signal for presentation within the classroom, such as by a video projector and classroom speakers. Transmitting audio/video information in UDP packets addressed with the bit-wise addressing scheme enables near simultaneous presentation of audio and video programs throughout the educational facility.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2008Publication date: December 17, 2009Applicant: SCHOOLVIEW TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventor: Sheldon M. Samuels
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Publication number: 20090313660Abstract: A home entertainment system includes a first audio/video device and a remote controller. The first audio/video device has a wireless signal receiver. The remote controller includes a main body, a motion-sensing unit, a microprocessor, and wireless transmission unit. The main body is held by a user. The motion-sensing unit is disposed within the main body for generating a sensing signal in response to a motion of the main body by the user. The microprocessor is disposed within the main body and communicates with the motion-sensing unit for processing the sensing signal, thereby generating a control signal. The wireless transmission unit communicates with the microprocessor for receiving the control signal and wirelessly transmitting the control signal to the wireless signal receiver. A first selective item of an electronic menu shown on the first audio/video device is highlighted according to the control signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2009Publication date: December 17, 2009Applicant: IMU SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventors: Tsang-Der Ni, Deng-Huei Hwang, Ruey-Der Lou
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Patent number: 7634795Abstract: A method and mechanism for configuring a receiver as a proxy to transcode data and provide for intercommunication among secondary devices. In one embodiment, a proxy receiver in a viewer's home is configured to perform transcoding and other processing to enable use of services by secondary devices which would otherwise not be able to utilize such services. In addition, the proxy receiver may be configured to provide communication between devices which would otherwise not be able to communicate with one another. In one embodiment, the proxy receiver includes a receiver configured to receive programming signals, an I/O interface configured to communicate with a secondary device, and a transcode subsystem. The transcode subsystem is configured to detect received data, determine a target secondary device of the received data, determine a target data format corresponding to the target secondary device, and initiate transcoding of the received data to the target data format.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: OpenTV, Inc.Inventor: Vincent Dureau
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Patent number: 7631328Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, systems, and arrangements enable the dynamic manipulation and utilization of electronic program guide (EPG) data. The EPG data can be dynamically manipulated and utilized while in a displayable format. In an exemplary implementation, EPG data is received from an external source, the received EPG data being in a displayable format. The received EPG data is added to previous EPG data to form current EPG data, the previous EPG data and the current EPG data being in the displayable format while the received EPG data and the previous EPG data are added together. At least a portion of the current EPG data is then displayed. In described implementation(s), the receiving, adding, and displaying are effectuated by a node that is coupled to a gateway in a local network system. The gateway may store and provide EPG data, and the local network may be operable in a television-based entertainment environment.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2002Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: David Clancy, Steven Falkenburg, Tantek Celik
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Patent number: 7623507Abstract: The present invention relates in general to video communication networks and more specifically to a method for interworking between a number of video communication terminals, to a video communication system, and to a video interactive gateway unit. The solution according to the present invention makes it possible to interwork between different terminals e.g. between a low bit-rate multimedia terminal and a packet based multimedia terminal.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2003Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (Publ)Inventors: Marko Hocevar, Keijo Laiho
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Patent number: 7624419Abstract: Information indicating which of channels is selected in a digital broadcasting receiver 17 is fed from a control signal transmitter 16 to a retransmitter 14. A terrestrial wave digital broadcasting wave from a transmitting station is inputted to a channel selection filter 6 through an indoor receiving antenna 1 and an automatic gain controller 4 in the retransmitter 14, and only a signal having a frequency component corresponding to the channel selected by the digital broadcasting receiver 17 is extracted, and is transmitted toward the digital broadcasting receiver 17 by a retransmission indoor antenna 13 through a variable gain amplifier 7.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2002Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toru Shibusawa
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Patent number: 7617510Abstract: Subject matter includes methods of using conventional set-top boxes that receive streaming video modulated on coaxial cable rather than over an IP-based LAN as nodes in a media network. In one implementation, an exemplary adapter is used to integrate a conventional set-top box into a media network. In one implementation, an exemplary filter is used to reserve frequencies for communications between a conventional set-top box and a hub and to prevent communications from leaving a media network. In one implementation, an exemplary content protection method provides a way of encrypting program content on the media network in a manner that a conventional set-top box can decode.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2003Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Daniel J. Zigmond, James Armand Baldwin, Peter T. Barrett, Steven Wasserman
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Patent number: 7617515Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing resources within a multimedia system includes processing that begins by receiving a client request for a multimedia system service from one of a plurality of clients. The processing continues by determining whether the client's request is valid for this particular client. The processing continues when the request is valid by determining whether the multimedia system has sufficient resources to fulfill the client request. The processing continues when the multimedia system has sufficient resources to fulfill the client request by allocating at least some of the sufficient resources to fulfill the client request based on a multimedia system resource allocation procedure, which insures that the resources of the system are allocated in an efficient manner.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2001Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: VIXS Systems, Inc.Inventor: Indra Laksono
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Patent number: 7603022Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2003Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Macrovision CorporationInventors: Daniel Putterman, Brad Dietrich, Jeremy Toeman, Pedro Freitas, Ludovic Legrand, Shawn McCaffrey, James Grimm, Lijia Jin, Paul Novaes
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Patent number: 7600249Abstract: Systems and methods for providing goods and services from one or more service providers to consumers, such as multiple dwelling unit (MDU) tenants are provided. In a first aspect, the invention provides a system for facilitating the provision of goods and services to a tenant of an MDU operated by an MDU operator. In one implementation, the system of the invention comprises at least one service provider that is configured to provide goods and services; an MDU tenant interface configured to communicate MDU tenant requests for goods and services to one of the MDU operator and the service provider; and a coordinating site configured to provide a provision interface operably connected to the service provider and the MDU tenant interface.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Inventor: Garry D. Blevins
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Patent number: 7596798Abstract: An apparatus and method are presented to allow the extension of a DOCSIS cable modem service over a wireless link. According to the invention a wireless hub transceiver is connected to a distribution coax cable of a DOCSIS based system. The downstream data are transferred over a wireless link to a remote subscriber radio frequency (RF) unit connected to a cable modem that provides the downstream data to the subscriber. Similarly, upstream data are sent from the subscriber cable modem over the wireless link to the wireless hub transceiver where such data are inserted back to the distribution coax cable.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2003Date of Patent: September 29, 2009Inventors: James G. Bertonis, Terry R. Nash, Alfred R. Melzig
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Patent number: 7592719Abstract: An electrical connection box for wall mounting provides a recessed external plug for receiving or transmitting power to electronic components. The connection box is configured to receive a variety of signal connection modules for interconnecting associated audio/visual electronics such as DVD players, displays and the like in adjacent apertures. The signal connection modules are inserted or extracted from the face of the connection box; replacing blanking plates, and is optionally recessed from the face of the box into the wall cut-out. The configuration and mating features of the box and modules also provides for a common and isolated ground reference for surge protection of the connected components. A signal connection module includes circuitry for surge protection of the connected A/V components receiving electrical power from an adjacent wall socket.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2004Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignee: PanamaxInventor: Gerald B. Hoopes
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Patent number: 7594249Abstract: A local area network uses coaxial cable wiring for interconnection of terminal devices. A frequency selective network interface device is placed at the building point of entry or another point in the wiring to reflect network signals transmitted by terminal devices back into the building distribution to be received by other terminal devices. By reflecting network upstream signals back into the building as downstream signals, the network interface provides a path for terminal devices to transmit to and receive from other terminal devices.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2001Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignee: Entropic Communications, Inc.Inventors: Itzhak Gurantz, Ladd ElWardani, Anton Monk, Brett Bernath, Magnus Berggren
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Patent number: 7587731Abstract: A program guide information providing device is arranged so that reference information corresponding to identification information transmitted from a communication terminal device is read from preference information storage, programs matching the preferences of the user are searched from the program guide information based on the read preference information, searched program guide information is generated from the searched programs, and the searched program guide information is transmitted to the communication terminal device, thereby allowing the user to be provided with program guide information matching the preferences of the user, regardless of the location of the user using the communication terminal device.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2000Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Tomoko Oyabu, Mitsuru Nagasaka, Aki Koyabu, Tomoyuki Hanai
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Publication number: 20090217325Abstract: A home network, in one embodiment including a home wiring system; a demarcation point unit in electrical communication with the home wiring system; and a home network module in electrical communication with the home wiring system. The home network module is adapted for connection to a home electronic device. The demarcation point unit passes data to and receives data from the home electronic device through the home network module.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2009Publication date: August 27, 2009Applicant: Broadcom CorporationInventors: Avi Kliger, Rami Kopelman, Nachum Avishay, Alon Shtern, Amir Wasserman
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Publication number: 20090204479Abstract: A system and method for selling advertising may include operating an electronic display network operating in a retail store. The network may include electronic displays interspersed among product displays and arranged to present a shopper with each advertisement among multiple repeating advertisements a predicted number of multiple times as a function of shopper metrics and a configuration of the electronic display network during a shopping trip in the retail store. Airtime may be sold to an advertiser for an advertisement to be displayed on the electronic display network.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2009Publication date: August 13, 2009Inventors: Robert I. Wolinsky, John Lunghi
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Patent number: 7574723Abstract: According to one embodiment, a method is described. The method includes receiving a request at a control module from a first remote device to access media data from a storage management module and determining that a first user is requesting access to the data based upon a first remote identification (ID). The method further includes opening a second stream between the playback module and the storage management module and receiving the data at the playback module.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2001Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Macrovision CorporationInventors: Daniel Putterman, Brad Dietrich, David Williams, Jeremy Toeman, Michael Shiloh, Keith Craigie, John Doornbos, Paul Novaes, Song Huang, Terry Barsoom, Pedro Freitas
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Publication number: 20090199245Abstract: A computer-readable medium is disclosed and includes processor-readable instructions executable by a processor to perform a method. The method includes sending a request for television content from a first device that is not equipped with a television tuner to a second device that is equipped with at least one television tuner via a wireless local area network (WLAN). The method also includes receiving the television content at the first device directly from the second device via the WLAN. The television content is received at the second device via the at least one television tuner. Further, the method includes outputting the television content at the first device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2008Publication date: August 6, 2009Applicant: AT&T KNOWLEDGE VENTURES, LPInventors: Scott White, James L. Cansler, Ian C. Schmehl
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Patent number: 7562379Abstract: A system for sending multimedia data between a first High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) component and a second HDMI component that is engaged with a displayer of multimedia data includes a first Digital Visual Interface (DVI) component receiving HDCP-encrypted multimedia data from the first HDMI component over a wire. A wireless transmitter sends data from the first DVI component to a wireless receiver, preferably at 60 GHz, and the receiver in turn sends the data to a second DVI component. Neither DVI component encrypts or decrypts data. The second DVI component sends the multimedia data to a second HDMI component for decryption and display on, e.g., an LCD or plasma display.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2003Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Hardacker, Mark Champion
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Patent number: 7558525Abstract: A video repository unit includes a plurality of disk drives arranged in a redundant array and circuitry to control writing/reading of video programs to/from the redundant array. A wireless transceiver receives video programs and transmits a selected video program to a remote viewer responsive to a request received by the wireless transceiver. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2002Date of Patent: July 7, 2009Assignee: OnLive, Inc.Inventor: Stephen G. Perlman
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Publication number: 20090172749Abstract: A remodulating interface is designed to receive control data such as frequency information from a power line data interface, and to use this information to control a remodulator that frequency shifts an input TV video signal from a first frequency (or television channel) to a second frequency (or television channel) for display on a television.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2007Publication date: July 2, 2009Applicant: EchoStar Technologies CorporationInventor: Henry Gregg Martch
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Publication number: 20090172750Abstract: An apparatus and method of distributing media content from a plurality of source devices to a plurality of remotely located display devices within a home network. A first management unit is assigned to control a first source stream and first display stream. A second management unit is assigned to control a second source stream and a second display stream. The first source stream and the first display stream are subsequently assigned to the second management unit if the first management unit fails. Alternatively, the second source stream and the second display stream are subsequently assigned to the first management unit if the second management unit fails. The apparatus and method can include a plurality of management units, each unit assigned to control at least one of the source streams and one of the display streams.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2009Publication date: July 2, 2009Inventor: Erik Scheelke
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Patent number: 7542715Abstract: In a satellite receiving system, program channels are selected from one or more broadband signals and combined with other selected channels and transmitted from a first unit, for example an outdoor unit, to a second unit, for example a gateway, server, or set-top box, using a single cable. Channels can be selected by digitizing the broadband signal then digitally filtering to isolate the desired channels. The outputs of several LNBs can be selected and combined into one signal. Multiple set-top boxes can receive independent signals over a single cable from the outdoor unit.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2006Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Entropic Communications Inc.Inventors: Itzhak Gurantz, Ladd El Wardani, Michael Landry
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Patent number: 7533401Abstract: The invention relates to a system and method for the generation of television channels and which allows the generation of the same by the processing and selection of designated packets of data from multiple data transport streams, which each transport stream including numerous packets of data. In each transport stream the packet of data is identified by the allocations of a packet identification code (PID) and each is held in the transport packet which is transmitted as part of each transport stream. In accordance with the invention, and in order to prevent errors and inaccurate packet selection, a Transport Stream Identification Code (TSID) is allocated to each of the transport streams of data received. Typically the TSID is located in the transport packet for each transport stream of data. In the selection of a packet of data, the appropriate TSID is referred to identify the appropriate transport stream and the PID then referred to identify the packet of data from that transport stream.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2001Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Inventor: Rahul Mehra
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Patent number: 7526789Abstract: A system for the transmission of audiovisual signals between at least one source node and at least one destination node comprises: at least one central switch to which at least one source node is connected and at least two home audiovisual networks, each comprising a plurality of nodes each capable of playing the role of a destination node to which said audiovisual signals are transmitted from said at least one source node. Each home audiovisual network is connected to said at least one central switch by means of said at least one of its nodes. Said at least one central switch comprises interconnection management means. These means themselves comprise means for the selective authorisation of a first type of transmission of audiovisual signals through said at least one central switch from said at least one source node to at least one of the destination nodes of one of the home audiovisual networks.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2003Date of Patent: April 28, 2009Assignee: Canon Europa NVInventor: Stephane Bizet
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Patent number: 7522875Abstract: In a satellite receiving system, program channels are selected from one or more broadband signals and combined with other selected channels and transmitted from a first unit, for example an outdoor unit, to a second unit, for example a gateway, server, or set-top box, using a single cable. Channels can be selected by digitizing the broadband signal then digitally filtering to isolate the desired channels. The outputs of several LNBs can be selected and combined into one signal. Multiple set-top boxes can receive independent signals over a single cable from the outdoor unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2004Date of Patent: April 21, 2009Assignee: Entropic Communications Inc.Inventors: Itzhak Gurantz, Ladd El Wardani, Michael Landry
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Publication number: 20090089842Abstract: A high definition video transmitter and receiver are disclosed. The transmitter provides high definition video to a one-point receiver or to multipoint receivers. The transmission network is asynchronous and the receiver re-synchronizes the video. The transmission can be wired or wireless.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2007Publication date: April 2, 2009Applicant: Avocent Huntsville CorporationInventors: Jedd Perry, James Pursel, Lawrence Lo, Phil Kent, Bob Seifert, Luis Reyes, Jeff Fore, Wes Wirth, Doug Collins, John Hoskyn, Edwin Wong, Mike Straub, John Reed, Keith Schuettpelz, Karl Mills
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Patent number: 7512137Abstract: A system and method for distributing data, including television, video and audio data. One embodiment of the system includes a first media processing unit coupled to a data bus, the first media processing unit comprising a first decoder and a first interface unit; a second media processing unit coupled to a data bus, the second media processing unit comprising a second decoder and a second interface unit; and a communications processing unit connected to the first media processing unit and the second media processing unit, the communications processing unit configured to receive data from a telephone network and provide the received data to at least one of the first media processing unit and the second media processing unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2004Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Assignee: Entone Technologies, Ltd.Inventors: Mark Clifford Evensen, Timothy John Michael Warren
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Publication number: 20090077586Abstract: DVD playback over Multi-room by copying to the hard drive of a primary device in a networked multi-room system (NMS). The DVD content is saved to a hard drive and can then be retrieved by any of the remote devices in the NMS by accessing the program guide or the recorded programs list. The DVD menu can be altered to include previews, contests, products, etc.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2008Publication date: March 19, 2009Applicant: SCIENTIFIC-ATLANTA, INC.Inventors: William E. Wall, Samuel H. Russ
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Publication number: 20090070831Abstract: A hospitality system, has a media distribution system with a selection to access information and configured to direct information to a display within a guest room, and a link connecting the media distribution system and a services platform to transmit information between the services platform and the media distribution system, wherein the media distribution system has an interface configured to be connected with a mobile electronic appliance and for exchanging data with the appliance. The hospitality system can be used by a guest, wherein the guest brought the mobile electronic appliance.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2007Publication date: March 12, 2009Inventors: Lutz Bardehle, Wolfgang Bruggemeier, Dieter Klaus, Thorsten Laux, Bernd Solow, Jurgen Totzke
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Patent number: 7478416Abstract: The present invention utilizes a gateway providing an open software interface to control in-home communications and to enable in-home devices of various divergent technologies to selectively access external communication features. An in-home communication network utilizes any one or more of several available in-home digital networking media to connect the gateway to device interfaces. The gateway comprises interfaces to a plurality of external communication networks, and one or more in-home communication media, a router coupled to the various interfaces and a controller. Each device specific accessing the in-home network connects to media through a device interface. There will be different interfaces for enabling access by different types of customer premises devices. Each device interface provides physical access to the media as well as functional interfacing, to enable operation with the particular type of customer premises device.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2003Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Ucentric Systems, Inc.Inventor: Richard Edson
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Patent number: 7477871Abstract: In a satellite receiving system, program channels are selected from one or more broadband signals and combined with other selected channels and transmitted from a first unit, for example an outdoor unit, to a second unit, for example a gateway, server, or set-top box, using a single cable. Channels can be selected by digitizing the broadband signal then digitally filtering to isolate the desired channels. The outputs of several LNBs can be selected and combined into one signal. Multiple set-top boxes can receive independent signals over a single cable from the outdoor unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2004Date of Patent: January 13, 2009Assignee: Entropic Communications Inc.Inventors: Itzhak Gurantz, Ladd El Wardani, Michael Landry
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Patent number: 7457511Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2003Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Macrovision CorporationInventors: Daniel Putterman, Brad Dietrich, Jeremy Toeman, Pedro Freitas, Ludovic Legrand, Shawn McCaffrey, James Grimm, Lijia Jin, Paul Novaes
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Patent number: 7458092Abstract: A centralized gateway connects to a broadband digital network for receiving various types of video feeds. The gateway provides output television signals directly to conventional inputs of standard television receivers. Port extenders connected to the gateway via a local-area network allow users to select a video feed sent by the gateway to a television associated with each port extender. The port extenders each provide a convenient and low cost termination point for keyboards, mice, joysticks, digital cameras, and other peripheral devices to interact with computer-based network services via the centralized gateway. The capabilities of the port extenders and the gateway provide a substitute for a personal computer in basic Internet access activities as well as a lower cost system for providing network based video programming to multiple televisions.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.Inventors: Benjamin J. Parker, Shane W. Werner, Charles Diaz, Terry M. Frederick