Abstract: Multiple video streams, or other image information, from a DVD or other single source are selectively directed among two or more display screens. The video streams can be directed automatically, manually or by a combination of automatic and manual techniques. This allows the streams to be viewed simultaneously on different display screens to, e.g., increase the viewing area, provide selectable enhancement and control of video viewing, or for other purposes.

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

Abstract: The present invention provides for transferring user interface information from a host computing device to an electronic device that typically has limited resources. A request to display a user interface on an electronic device is received. Further, information about the electronic device is received for determining the capabilities of the electronic device. Based on the determination, a video codec is utilized for dynamically generating a video data stream that includes user interface information corresponding to at least a portion of the user interface. The video data stream is then transmitted to the electronic device for rendering the user interface on a display of the electronic device.

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a controller operable to receive signaling information from a local resource manager (LRM) identifying a recipient media processor (RMP) and describing at least one media characteristic of media content selected by an initiating media processor (IMP) to be presented at the RMP, determine a location of the RMP and a media capability of the RMP, compare the media capability of the RMP to the at least one media characteristic of the media content, determine a media configuration of at least one network element in an interactive television network based on the comparison, configure at least one network element of a virtual private network (VPN) based on the media configuration, and transmit signaling information to the LRM to enable the IMP to present the media content at the RMP over the VPN. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: Technologies are disclosed to transfer responsibility and control over security from player makers to content authors by enabling integration of security logic and content. An exemplary optical disc carries an encrypted digital video title combined with data processing operations that implement the title's security policies and decryption processes. Player devices include a processing environment (e.g., a real-time virtual machine), which plays content by interpreting its processing operations. Players also provide procedure calls to enable content code to load data from media, perform network communications, determine playback environment configurations, access secure nonvolatile storage, submit data to CODECs for output, and/or perform cryptographic operations. Content can insert forensic watermarks in decoded output for tracing pirate copies.

Abstract: An access/edge network node (300) according to the invention includes a single proxy function (301) to terminate on the subscriber side a single requesting protocol for a plurality of streaming video services.

Abstract: A method performed by a user device connected to a content server, via a public network, that includes sending, to a digital video recorder (DVR) server and via the public network, a request to display images on a display device associated with a local server; receiving, from the DVR server and via the public network, a notification to upload the images, the notification including an address for the content server; selecting a group of images stored on the user device; sending, to the content server and based on the address, the group of images; and sending, to the local server and via a local network, a notification to retrieve the group of images from the content server for display on the display device.

Abstract: A lodging entertainment apparatus and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment of the lodging entertainment apparatus, a memory is located within a housing and configured to store hospitality content which includes events, channel guide, and amenities relative the lodging establishment. An input is configured to receive an existing video signal that originates independently of the lodging entertainment apparatus and including content differing from hospitality content. An output is configured to independently transmit the hospitality content and the existing video signal. A user interface is configured to receive instructions from a user. A processor is located within the housing and communicatively coupled to the input, the output, the memory, and the user interface. The processor selectively provides the hospitality content in response to a power ON condition of the lodging entertainment apparatus.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for remote control of a media server computer from a controller device, typically a laptop computer, where remote operation of the media server, including the selection of videos and other digital media may be performed from the controller while normal TV programming (cable, satellite, or broadcast) is viewed on the TV. Other embodiments describe background operations performed on the controller device, the media server, or both, such that new videos may be located on the web or locally on the LAN while a current video is playing on the media server and viewed on the TV. Methods are also described for more reliably establishing network connections between the controller and media server, and systems and methods are described for implementing a multi-video display on the media server where videos to be displayed on the media server are displayed on and selected by a controller device.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and a system for implementing a video on demand service and a home streaming media server. When the home streaming media server is incapable of providing a media service for the client device, the home streaming media server obtains, from the dispatching server, information of a streaming media server capable of providing service, and the streaming media server provides media service for the client device, thereby achieving redirection during video on demand service and remedying the defects of traditional video on demand systems in terms of redirection function.

Abstract: A user-profile server for providing a user-tailored entertainment experience across different entertainment devices includes a network connection for coupling the user-profile server to a network. The user-profile server is configured for storing a user profile corresponding to a user identifier, and receiving via the network an electronic bookmark, the electronic bookmark being associated with the user identifier and pertaining to content that was not finished by a user at a first entertainment device. The user-profile server is further configured for updating the user profile to include the electronic bookmark, and communicating via the network at least the electronic bookmark to a controller of a second entertainment device to thereby allow the second entertainment device to play the content automatically starting from a position in the content corresponding to a position indicated by the electronic bookmark. The first entertainment device and the second entertainment device are different devices.

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a computer-readable storage medium having computer instructions to present a plurality of unassociated media programs from a single presentation device having overlapping presentation periods, and cause the single presentation device to present a user interface for one of the plurality of unassociated media programs responsive to detecting a request for the user interface. Each of the plurality of unassociated media programs can be viewable only with a viewing apparatus. The viewing apparatus can be configured for viewing one of the unassociated media programs at a time. Other embodiments are disclosed and contemplated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an image display method and system thereof. When displaying an image, a picture is captured. A calculated number of human eyes is determined from the picture to quantify the attraction of the image for the crowd. And then, a reasonable charged fee is calculated.

Abstract: A system for providing television (TV) service including high definition television (HDTV) service, and for providing verification that a subscriber has connected an HDTV to the system includes a TV service provider headend and a set top box (STB). The HDTV may have an HDTV digital video interface (DVI) interconnect. The STB may be electrically coupled to the headend and have an STB DVI interconnect. When the HDTV DVI interconnect is initially electrically coupled to the STB DVI interconnect, the HDTV generally presents a data signal to the STB and the STB generally presents the data signal to the headend.

Abstract: A hospitality media system includes a plurality of entertainment devices installed at a hospitality location and a content selector. The content selector is configured to retrieve a plurality of user profiles corresponding to current users of the hospitality location, and automatically adjust content made available on each of the entertainment devices at the hospitality location according to information stored in the user profiles.

Abstract: Aspects of a method and system for content filtering in a broadband gateway are provided. In this regard, a broadband gateway may be operable to determine whether to allow access to content based on attributes of the content and based on one or more of: which of a plurality of electronic devices is attempting to access the content, sensor information identifying a user attempting to access the content, and a time at which a user is attempting to access the information. Attributes of the content may be determined by analyzing the content utilizing one or more pattern recognition techniques. The gateway may be operable to allow a first subset of the electronic devices to access the content during a first period of time, and allow a second subset of the electronic devices to access the content during a second period of time.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wireless car digital AV system to be applied in a car, and the wireless car digital AV system comprises an AV Host and at least one or multiple display devices. The AV Host includes a storage device and a wireless network interface, and the storage has at least one digital AV file. The display device includes a wireless network interface and a display panel. The display device is connected to the AV Host by the wireless network interface, such that the display device can receive and play the digital AV file transmitted from the AV Host through the wireless network interface. Furthermore, the present invention also discloses a method for an automobile AV Host to wirelessly transmit a video file to a display device.

Abstract: A system and method supplies internet protocol television (IPTV) services to a subscriber. A content management subsystem processes and executes integrated workflow functionality for content management of video data to be delivered from a video headend to a subscriber premises. An infrastructure subsystem performs signal processing and routing of the video data from the video headend across the network to subscriber premises based on subscriber requirements at the subscriber premises. A network management, test and monitoring subsystem is coupled with the content management and infrastructure subsystems and includes test and management equipment and control and monitoring systems equipment for monitoring network performance and controlling the infrastructure subsystem and optimizing network performance and video delivery to the subscriber premises.

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

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing downstream signals to a plurality of receiver networks. A receiver network (i.e., a networked multimedia system) includes a splitter/isolation module (SIM), a primary set-top terminal (STT), and at least one point of deployment module. The point of deployment module communicates with the primary STT via the SIM over coaxial cable. Accordingly, the point of deployment module and connected television utilize some or all of the features including hardware and software that are included in the primary STT via the networked multimedia system.

Abstract: A method for routing TV content including using a personal TV gateway STB/router to route a first TV content to a first TV receiver located in a first location in a home, while simultaneously routing a second TV content to a second TV receiver located in a second location in the home, and commanding the personal TV gateway STB/router to transfer the first TV content from the first TV receiver in the first location to a mobile personal communication device, while still controlling routing the second TV content to the second TV receiver located in the second location.

Abstract: Methods and systems for presenting media content (e.g., scrolling text) on a mobile device are provided. A broadcast may be received from a network via a wireless communication link, the broadcast may include media content (e.g., a text feed) and information (e.g., metadata) associated with characteristics of the media content. The media content may be extracted, and at least one characteristic associated with presenting the media content on the mobile device may be identified. The media content may be presented on the mobile device in accordance with the at least one identified characteristic.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed to enable switched video service on a host media server using a component within the media server to relay messages between a set of one or more tuners coupled with the media server and an interpreter device connected to a network source node that allocates switched video channels.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and products describe a video overlay processor connected to a system data bus and to a media bus. The video overlay processor superimposes a first audio-visual signal over a second audio-visual signal to produce a superimposed signal and sends the superimposed signal to the system data bus. A network bus connects to the system data bus and receives the superimposed signal. A data switch connects to the network bus, receives the superimposed signal, and sends the superimposed signal to one or more switch ports of the data switch.

Abstract: Communication methods between networked cable services system devices are provided. Two or more cable services system set-top boxes may be networked together in a house, business or other facility. Alternatively, two or more set-top boxes may be networked together where the two or more set-top boxes are located remotely from each other and are networked via a cable services system. A first set-top box may be designated and equipped as a proxy server for managing communications between networked set-top boxes and one or more other set-top boxes may be designated and equipped as client devices for communicating with other networked set-top boxes via the proxy server set-top box. One or more communication applications may be deployed on each of the networked set-top boxes for allowing user-to-user communications via the networked set-top boxes, as well as, user-to-set-top box communication via the networked set-top boxes.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for effectively implementing a wireless television system may include a communications processor and a transmitter device that combine at least one of a local-area network interface, a wide-area network interface, and one or more television data interfaces for effectively performing a wireless network transmission process. A transmitted stream from the wireless television system may be received via wireless network processing for viewing local-area network data, wide-area network data (such as Internet data), or television data by flexibly utilizing various electronic devices such as a notepad personal computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or a handheld TV remote control device.

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

Abstract: When selecting a television program for recording, a user may configure the delivery of the selected television program and associated data and interactive applications to different user equipment devices in a home network, which may have different capabilities. Because the user equipment devices in the home network may have different capabilities, the user may wish to deliver different types and amount of content, different amounts of data, and different versions of interactive applications to the user equipment devices in the home network.

Abstract: A media content manager residing at a user premises having a tuner coupled to at least one media source operable to selectively receive at least one media stream of at least one type of media content. The media content manager also including a media processor coupled to the tuner and operable to receive the at least one media stream and convert the media stream to a predetermined data format, the at least one media stream comprising metadata. Additionally, the media content manages has a media manager coupled to the media processor and operable to receive the at least one media stream in the predetermined data format and direct the media stream to a selected media player device coupled to the media processor. Furthermore, the media content manager includes a storage device coupled to the media manager and operable to receive and store the at least one media stream in the predetermined data format.

Abstract: In a home network a number of receiving devices are connected to receive streamed audio visual content from one or more sources by way of a network hub. One source is a set top box, having a hard disc drive, which provides a real time broadcast stream, stream 1, as well as a recorded output stream, stream 2. Another source is local storage which is capable of outputting its stored content, stream 3, at x32 normal speed, that is, fast forward. If there are bandwidth limitations on the network then the receiver (receiving the fast forward stream 3 will experience errors. When errors are detected, the receiver sends a message back to the source which then takes action to reduce the bit rate of its output stream.

Abstract: A cost-efficient digital CATV network to improve signal quality, provide reliability, and offer the ability to meet demands for interactive services is described. Analog or digital video downstream channels are converted to a digital format by a digital headend transmitter. Relatively costly error-encoding for digital video channels is also part of the digital headend transmitter. Downstream analog and digital video channels in the digital format are transmitted using time-division multiplex technology from a headend to nodes using standard network protocols, such as SONET. Standard network protocols provide error-monitoring and status indication of transmit data, thus ensuring high signal quality and reliability. Time-division multiplexing facilitates easy adding or dropping of information to a transmit path. Flexibility to add or drop information is critical in providing interactive services. Data from interactive services can be added or dropped at points of presence throughout the digital CATV network.

Abstract: A system and method for allocating tuner resources in a multi-room digital video recording system, wherein the system includes a server device having a plurality of tuners therein and a first client device in communication with the server device and allocated at least a first tuner from the plurality of tuners. A second client in communication client device generates a tuner request. The server device allocates the first tuner to the second user device and communicates a content signal through the first tuner to the second client device.

Abstract: A residential gateway includes an Internet Protocol television (IPTV) network communication port and a first isolation transformer circuit. The IPTV network communication port is configured to receive a signal from an ITPV network. The first isolation transformer circuit is in communication with the IPTV network communication port. The isolation transformer is configured to receive the signal from the IPTV network communication port, and to transform a ground of the signal to float at a ground potential of a power source of the residential gateway.

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

Abstract: A content reproduction apparatus, which is capable of reproducing, in accordance with an instruction from a controller, content provided from a content output apparatus via a network, includes: a first communication unit which receives a first search request; a second communication unit which receives a second search request from the controller and has a shorter communication distance that allows communication with the controller than the communication distance of the first communication unit; and a control unit which transmits to the controller, using the first communication unit, a first response including identification information of the content reproduction apparatus when the first communication unit receives the first search request, and which transmits to the controller, using one of the first and second communication units, a second response to specify the identification information included in the first response that has been transmitted, when the second communication unit receives the second search

Abstract: Systems and methods for establishing Parameterized QoS flows in a managed network can include a Designated Network Node (like a Network Controller or any network node) discovering a plurality of network nodes.

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

Abstract: A 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: 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 computer-implemented method includes receiving a data stream at a set-top box device from a residential gateway. The data stream includes first data having a first content type, second data having a second content type, and third data having a third content type. The method includes assigning the first data for processing at a first machine of the set-top box device. The method also includes assigning the second data for processing at a second machine of the set-top box device. The method further includes assigning the third data for processing at a third machine of the set-top box device. The set-top box device is configured to selectively output at least one of the first data, the second data, and the third data for display at a display device.

Abstract: A system, method, and article of manufacture for controlling home network devices using a multicast enabled remote control. The system includes a plurality of home network devices capable of receiving and/or transmitting multicast input and/or output signals and a home gateway to receive audio/video signals generated outside of the home and to transform the audio/video signals into multicast output signals. The system also includes a multicast enabled remote control to detect, aggregate, store and display all audio/video multicast output signals on the multicast enabled remote control, to enable a user to redirect an audio/video multicast output signal to one or more of the plurality of home network devices capable of receiving multicast input signals, and to control the plurality of home network devices capable of receiving and/or transmitting multicast input and/or output signals. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

Abstract: A distribution system and method. The distribution system comprises a computing apparatus and a plurality of projection systems connected to the computing apparatus. The computing apparatus comprises a scheduler software tool and a plurality of audio/video data files stored on a computer readable medium. Each projection system of the plurality of projection systems comprises a cache storage device connected to an associated projection apparatus. Each cache storage device is adapted to dynamically receive and store an associated audio/video data file from the plurality of audio/video data files for transmission to each associated projection apparatus according to a schedule generated by the scheduler software tool.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods that overcome deficiencies in the prior art. One embodiment of the invention comprises an integrated system for providing video and data services to a customer premises. The integrated system comprises a digital broadcast satellite receiver, a data source, and an integrated network interface device. The integrated network interface device can be coupled to a receiver and/or the data source, and the integrated network interface device can be configured to receive video information from the receiver and data (e.g. Internet Protocol data) from the data source. In certain embodiments, the integrated network interface device can further be configured to distribute the data to the customer premises via a first internal transport medium and/or distribute the video information to the customer premises via a second internal transport medium. In one aspect, network interference devices can be attached to an external wall of customer premises.

Abstract: The present invention provides for methods, systems, and devices for simultaneously receiving and processing multimedia asset packages transmitted by a plurality of multimedia content providers. The methods and systems of the present invention implement a multiport catcher appliance configured to receive a plurality of transmissions, simultaneously, from multiple content providers in a multimedia asset distribution system. The multimedia catcher receiver includes a multimedia network interface unit configured to simultaneously receive multimedia data segments from content providers, a multimedia network interface unit that provides the multimedia data segments to a receive unit, a receive unit configured to reconstruct and validate a multimedia asset package using multimedia data segments transmitted by a content provider, and a content management system to manage multimedia asset packages and provide multimedia asset packages to a multimedia server.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing downstream signals to a plurality of receiver networks. A receiver network (i.e., a networked multimedia system) includes a splitter/isolation module (SIM), a primary set-top terminal (STT), and at least one remote device. The remote devices communicate with the primary STT via the SIM over coaxial cable. Accordingly, the remote devices utilize some or all of the features including hardware and software that are included in the primary STT via the networked multimedia system.

Abstract: A reflector apparatus improves signal quality within video home networks. According to an exemplary embodiment, the reflector apparatus includes a first terminal (A) for receiving a broadcast signal from a signal source, and a second terminal (B) for outputting the broadcast signal to a plurality of external devices coupled to the reflector apparatus via a signal splitter. The reflector apparatus further includes circuitry for receiving a network signal from a first one of the plurality of external devices and controlling a gain of said network signal responsive to a control signal from a second one of the plurality of external devices to thereby generate a reflected network signal. The reflected network signal is output to the second one of said plurality of external devices.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method includes determining, at a set-top box device, positioning data associated with a location of the set-top box device. The computer-implemented method includes determining whether the set-top box device is authorized to receive media content at the location. The computer-implemented method also includes receiving the media content via a wireless transmission from a residential gateway when the set-top box device is authorized to receive the media content at the location.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method and system that configures a first DSG capable computing device that is connected to a home network, and includes a conditional access system that communicates data with the home network, and commits the first DSG capable computing device as a DSG proxy server. The method advertises DSG services to a second DSG capable computing device connected to the home network. The method establishes a tunnel for the second DSG capable computing device to filter DSG data for the second DSG capable computing device from the data, and forwards the DSG data to the second DSG capable computing device via the tunnel.