The DIRECTV Group, Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160080821 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PREPOSITIONING CONTENT AND DISTRIBUTING CONTENT IN A LOCAL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - A system for viewing on-demand content includes a user receiving device and a local head end in communication with the receiving device that communicates metadata and material identifiers for on-demand content. Each on-demand content is associated with one of the material identifiers. The user receiving device stores the metadata and the material identifiers for the on-demand content. The local head end receives content. Each content is associated with one of the material identifiers. The user receiving device communicates a request for on-demand content data signal to the local head end. The local head end communicates a manifest comprising material identifiers for content stored at the head end. The user receiving device, after receiving the manifest, displays metadata from the memory of the user receiving device corresponding to the material identifiers. | 03-17-2016 |
20160079665 | ROTATION POINTED ANTENNA FOR FIXED WIRELESS WIDE AREA NETWORKS - An apparatus and method for combining signals received from a direct broadcast satellite system with signals received from a wireless network, includes a satellite antenna for receiving the signals from the direct broadcast satellite system; and a wireless network antenna, co-located with the satellite antenna, for receiving the signals from the wireless network. The wireless network antenna includes an antenna assembly that is rotated by a controller based on characteristics of the signals received from the wireless network. The controller energizes and de-energizes a motor to mechanically rotate the antenna assembly to properly align the wireless network antenna to communicate with the wireless network. The wireless network antenna comprises a closed cylinder, wherein the antenna assembly is rotatably mounted within the closed cylinder, such that, upon command from the controller, the motor engages the antenna assembly to mechanically rotate the antenna assembly about a central axis of the closed cylinder. | 03-17-2016 |
20160007081 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO DETECT GARBLED CLOSED CAPTIONING - A garbled closed captioning detector analyzes closed captioning data at predetermined intervals to determine whether a metric derived from the closed-captioning data exceeds a threshold. If the metric exceeds the predetermined threshold, the closed captioning data is presumed to be garbled. For example, the metric may be the percentage of words in the closed captioning data having a desired word length observed in a particular interval compared to all words in the closed captioning data observed in the interval. If the percentage of words having a desired word length exceeds a predetermined threshold, the closed captioning data is presumed to be garbled. | 01-07-2016 |
20150334444 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRAWING ANTI-ALIASED LINES IN ANY DIRECTION - A prerendered line texture stored in memory is used to generate an anti-aliased destination line in any direction to be displayed on a screen. A combination of tiling, stretching, and/or mirroring is used to generate the anti-aliased destination line. A blitter blits a rectangle in the prerendered line texture to a destination rectangle in the frame buffer that is displayed on the screen. | 11-19-2015 |
20150286369 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRANSFERRING THE DISPLAY OF CONTENT FROM A FIRST DEVICE TO A SECOND DEVICE - A system and method for moving displayed content between a first device and a second device includes a first display displaying video content having a first content identifier. A first device forms a transfer signal by a gesture or a user interface. The first device communicates a query command signal comprising the first content identifier to a separate web service. The first device receives an asset data signal comprising at least a second content identifier from the web service in response to the query command signal. The second content identifier relates to the first content identifier. One of the first device and the second device requests the video content based on the second identifier and a resume point. The resume point corresponds to a playback position of the video content being displayed at about a time of generating the transfer signal and a second display displays the video content. | 10-08-2015 |
20150245080 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO DETECT GARBLED CLOSED CAPTIONING - A garbled closed captioning detector analyzes closed captioning data at predetermined intervals to determine whether a metric derived from the closed-captioning data exceeds a threshold. If the metric exceeds the predetermined threshold, the closed captioning data is presumed to be garbled. For example, the metric may be the percentage of words in the closed captioning data having a desired word length observed in a particular interval compared to all words in the closed captioning data observed in the interval. If the percentage of words having a desired word length exceeds a predetermined threshold, the closed captioning data is presumed to be garbled. | 08-27-2015 |
20150215663 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE FOR INTERACTING WITH A SET TOP BOX TO ENHANCE A USER EXPERIENCE - A system and method for displaying data related to a content displayed through a set top box includes a second screen device generating a content information request signal requesting data corresponding to the content, communicates the content information request signal to the set top box. The set top box communicates a content information signal to the second screen device comprising a content identifier. The second screen device generates a request for related data signal corresponding to the content using the content identifier, communicates the request for related data signal through a network, receives aggregated related content data corresponding to the content from a data services center and displays the aggregated related content data. | 07-30-2015 |
20150181177 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING AND SIMULTANEOUSLY DISPLAYING A PLURALITY OF SIGNAL CHANNELS IN A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system includes a ground segment and a monitoring system displaying first thread view for a first channel and displaying a second thread view for a second channel. | 06-25-2015 |
20150181002 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING FROM A CLIENT DEVICE TO A SERVER DEVICE IN A CENTRALIZED CONTENT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - A system for controlling a communication system includes a local area network, a client device and a server device in communication with the client device through the local area network. The server device communicates an audio-video stream and a remote user interface to the client device through the local area network. The client receives an input signal and communicates an allocate memory signal requesting the server device to allocate memory in response to the input signal. the server device allocates memory for receiving data corresponding to the input signal in response to the allocate memory signal to form allocated memory. The client device communicates the data signal corresponding to the input signal to the server device. The server device stores data from the data signal in the allocated memory and communicates a response to the client device based on the data signal. | 06-25-2015 |
20150106843 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR POSITIONING ROW ADVERTISING IN A PROGRAM GUIDE - A method of arranging row ads system within a program guide includes communicating row ad metadata to a user device and communicating program guide information to a user device. The program guide information defines a plurality of rows, wherein at least a first row is associated with a first channel. The method includes associating positioning information with the row ad relative to the first row, populating a second row from the plurality of rows in response to the metadata and displaying the row ad and displaying the first row associated with the first channel within a program guide structure on a display associated with the user device in response to the positioning information. | 04-16-2015 |
20150052559 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING HIERARCHICAL METADATA FOR SEARCHING AND RECORDING CONTENT - A user device for storing or displaying content recommendations includes a search session manager receiving metadata associated with content. The metadata includes a received hierarchical identifier including a primary level and a secondary level unique to the primary level. A memory stores selected hierarchical identifiers. A search module compares the received hierarchical identifiers with the selected hierarchical identifiers. A screen display displays content from at least one of the primary level and secondary level based on comparing. | 02-19-2015 |
20150049438 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE COOLING SYSTEMS - An electronic device includes: a housing having one or more interior surfaces; an electronic circuit that is disposed within the housing, that does not directly contact any of the one or more interior surfaces of the housing, and that includes at least one electrical component that consumes electrical power; and a thermally conductive material that surrounds the electronic circuit within the housing, that directly contacts both the at least one electrical component and the one or more interior surfaces of the housing, that absorbs heat from the at least one electrical component, and that transfers heat to the housing. | 02-19-2015 |
20150048978 | ANTENNA SYSTEMS FOR WIRELESS DEVICES - A wireless communication device includes: heat transfer fins; first and second antennas; a wireless transmitter; and a wireless receiver. The heat transfer fins project outwardly from the wireless communication device, receive heat produced by electric components of the wireless communication device, and transfer heat to air passing the heat transfer fins. The first antenna is disposed at least partially within a first recess formed in a first exterior surface of one of the heat transfer fins and contacts at least a portion of the first recess. The second antenna is disposed at least partially within a second recess formed in a second exterior surface of another one of the heat transfer fins and contacts at least a portion of the second recess. The wireless transmitter applies first signals to the first antenna to wirelessly transmit signals. The wireless receiver receives second signals generated by the second antenna. | 02-19-2015 |
20150040150 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REMOTELY TRANSCODING CONTENT - A system and method for remotely transcoding content includes a set top box generating a playlist corresponding to content titles stored in a memory of the set top box. A user device is in communication with the cloud location and the set top box through a network. The user device reviews the playlist and selects a first content title from the playlist to form a selection. The cloud location includes a transcoder device transcoding content corresponding to the selection to form transcoded content. One of the cloud location and the set top box communicates the transcoded content to the user device. | 02-05-2015 |
20140373066 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PREORDERING CONTENT IN A USER DEVICE ASSOCIATED WITH A CONTENT PROCESSING SYSTEM - A system and method for preordering content includes a content processing system and a user device in communication with the content processing system. The content processing system receives program guide data for linear channels and receives future available content data at the user device. The future available content data comprises an availability window having an availability start time and an availability end time. The user device stores the program guide data in the user device storing the future available content data in a memory of the user device, forms a future content selection, and stores the future content selection in a queue until the availability window is reached. When within the availability window, the user device communicates a material identification to the content processing system. The content processing system communicates the content corresponding to the material identification to the user device. | 12-18-2014 |
20140310737 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTHORIZING PLAYBACK FROM MULTIPLE DEVICES - A system and method for using content on multiple devices includes a head end associating a first user device and a second user device with a user account and authorizing the first user device and the second user device to receive content. The first user device forms a selection signal corresponding to a first content. The head end communicates the first content to the first user device corresponding to the selection signal. The first user device displays the first content on a first display associated therewith. The second user device receives the first content and displays the first content on a second display associated with the second user device. | 10-16-2014 |
20140289772 | DYNAMIC DETERMINATION OF PRESENTATION OF MULTIPLE VIDEO CELLS IN AN ON-SCREEN DISPLAY - A mosaic video channel displayed on a monitor, with a plurality of individual video feeds being presented at a given time. A mosaic video channel in accordance with the present invention comprises a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell associated with one of the plurality of individual video feeds, a cursor, which can be moved between the plurality of video cells, for selecting at least one characteristic associated with a selected video cell, such that the user can then directly select a video program associated with the selected video cell, and a receiver, coupled to the monitor and receiving the plurality of video feeds and mosaic video channel, wherein a blackout criteria is dynamically programmed into the receiver such that when at least one of the video cells is selected by the cursor, the receiver tunes to a channel other than the individual video feed associated with that video cell. | 09-25-2014 |
20140282807 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRANSFERRING USER SETTINGS TO ANOTHER USER RECEIVING DEVICE USING A MOBILE USER DEVICE - A system and method for operating a user receiving device includes a first user device that receives first user settings and stores the first user settings therein. The first user device communicates first user settings to a second user receiving device. The second user receiving device operates with the first user settings. | 09-18-2014 |
20140282749 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRANSFERRING USER SETTINGS TO ANOTHER USER RECEIVING DEVICE - A system and method for operating a user receiving device includes a head end associating a first user device with a user account having first user settings. A first user device communicates a device identifier associated with the user receiving device to the head end. The head end communicates the first user settings associated with the user account to the user receiving device. The user receiving device operates with the first user settings. | 09-18-2014 |
20140280587 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING USER RECEIVING DEVICES WITH USER PROFILES - A system and method for operating with profiles includes a head end associating a first account profile having first profile settings and a first identifier and a second account profile having second profile settings and a second identifier with a user account. A first user receiving device operates with the first profile settings. The head end communicates second profile settings to the first user receiving device and the first user receiving device operates with the second profile settings. | 09-18-2014 |
20140280140 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING RECOMMENDED CONTENT SUCH AS MOVIES ASSOCIATED WITH A CLUSTER - A method and system for recommending content includes a user device having a memory storing a taxonomy table having content cluster identifiers therein. The user device receives an external recommendations list for the content cluster at the user device. The recommendations list has a plurality of content identifiers each having one content cluster identifier. A viewer tracking module generates a viewed content history for content relative to the content clusters identifiers that correspond to viewed content at the user device. A recommendation module generates an internal recommendations list by comparing the external recommendations list to the viewed content history at the user device. The internal recommendation list also presents recommendations capturing the distinct user tastes in a family viewing device. A display displays the internal recommendations list, with section headers of different granularity describing the nature of the recommended content at cluster, sub-genre and genre levels. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279781 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RECORDING RECOMMENDED CONTENT USING CLUSTERING - A method and system for storing push content includes a user device having a memory and a viewer tracking module generating a viewed content history for content corresponding to viewed content at the user device. A recommendation recording module compares the viewed content history and push content and stores at least one push content at the user device in response comparing to form a recorded content push list. A display displays the recorded content push list corresponding to the content stored in the user device. | 09-18-2014 |
20140244686 | METHOD FOR COMBINING VOICE SIGNALS TO FORM A CONTINUOUS CONVERSATION IN PERFORMING A VOICE SEARCH - A system and method for operating the same includes a conversation manager that receives a receiving a first search request and, after receiving the first search request, receives a second search request. The system also includes a classifier module within the conversation manager classifying the first search request relative to the second search request as related or not related. A context merger module within the classifier module combines the first search request and the second search request to form a merged search request. A search module performs a second search based on the merged search request. | 08-28-2014 |
20140244270 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IMPROVING RESPONSIVENESS OF A VOICE RECOGNITION SYSTEM - A system includes a voice converter converting a first voice command into a first electrical command and a command library having library contents. A language responsiveness module (LRM) stores the first electrical command in a temporary set when a first control command cannot be determined from the library contents. A voice prompt module receives a second voice command when the first control command cannot be determined from the library contents. The voice converter converts a second voice command into a second electrical command corresponding to the second voice command. The LRM compares the second electrical command to the command library. The LRM determines a second control command corresponding to the second electrical command in response to comparing the second voice command to the command library and stores the first voice command in the command library after determining the control command corresponding to the second voice command. | 08-28-2014 |
20140244263 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING A USER RECEIVING DEVICE USING VOICE COMMANDS - A system and method includes a language processing module converting an electrical signal corresponding to an audible signal into a textual signal. The system further includes a command generation module converting the textual signal into a user receiving device control signal. A controller controls a function of a user receiving device in response to the user receiving device control signal. | 08-28-2014 |
20140215018 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SECURING CONTENT COMMUNICATION IN CHUNKS FROM A CONTENT DELIVERY NETWORK TO A USER RECEIVING DEVICE - A user receiving device and method includes a contest delivery network manager interaction module communicating a request for a content delivery network address for a content to a content delivery network manager and receiving the content delivery network address for a content delivery network and a content delivery network token from the content delivery network manager. The user receiving device also includes a manifest interaction module communicating a manifest request to tire content delivery network address of the content delivery network and receiving a manifest from the content delivery network comprising a plurality of chunk addresses. The user receiving device also includes a content delivery network interaction module generating requests tor chunks of the content from the content delivery network using the content delivery network token and a respective chunk address and receiving the chunks from the content delivery network. | 07-31-2014 |
20140208344 | INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER CALLBACK FOR SATELLITE SYSTEMS - A receiver and method for operating the same includes a memory storing purchase information therein and a communication module. A controller is in communication with the memory and the communication module. The controller determines whether an existing Internet connection is present at the communication module when the existing Internet connection is present and communicates purchase information to a service provider through the existing Internet connection. The controller determines whether a subscriber-initiated Internet connection has occurred within a mandatory callback time period, when purchase information has been communicated within the mandatory callback time period and advances the mandatory callback time period. The controller initiates the communication module to initiate a new Internet connection when there is no existing Internet connection present or no subscriber-initiated Internet connection has occurred within the mandatory callback time period. | 07-24-2014 |
20140189741 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE FOR INTERACTING WITH A SET TOP BOX TO ENHANCE A USER EXPERIENCE - A system and method for displaying data related to a content displayed through a set top box includes a second screen device generating a content information request signal requesting data corresponding to the content, communicates the content information request signal to the set top box. The set top box communicates a content information signal to the second screen device comprising a content identifier. The second screen device generates a request for related data signal corresponding to the content using the content identifier, communicates the request for related data signal through a network, receives aggregated related content data corresponding to the content from a data services center and displays the aggregated related content data. | 07-03-2014 |
20140189740 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE FOR INTERACTING WITH A SET TOP BOX TO ENHANCE A USER EXPERIENCE - A system and method for displaying data related to a content displayed through a set top box includes a second screen device generating a content information request signal requesting data corresponding to the content, communicates the content information request signal to the set top box. The set top box communicates a content information signal to the second screen device comprising a content identifier. The second screen device generates a request for related data signal corresponding to the content using the content identifier, communicates the request for related data signal through a network, receives aggregated related content data corresponding to the content from a data services center and displays the aggregated related content data. | 07-03-2014 |
20140181874 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ORDERING VIDEO CONTENT FROM A FIRST DEVICE - A method and system for ordering content includes a first device having an ordering interactive interface having available content. The first device forms a content selection corresponding to the available content from the ordering interactive interface and communicates the content selection to a content processing system. The content processing system generates an unencrypted control word comprising instructions for locating the available content from a user device and communicates the unencrypted control word to the user device. The user device receives the unencrypted control word to enable storing the available content corresponding to the content selection in response to the instructions contained in the unencrypted control word and stores the available content in a storage device of the user device. | 06-26-2014 |
20140165110 | DIGITAL OVER-THE-AIR ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE SAME - A system and method of distributing electronic content includes a network operations center communicating national feeds to an over-the-air broadcast center through a satellite. The over-the-air broadcast center receives the national feeds from the satellite and broadcasts the national feeds to a user device through a cellular tower wireless transmitter. | 06-12-2014 |
20140143423 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DATA TRAFFIC DISTRIBUTION AMONG INDEPENDENT PROCESSING CENTERS - A method and apparatus for assigning processing requests is disclosed. The method is typically used in a processing system comprising a first processing center and one or more second processing centers remote from the first processing center, a. A method of assigning a processing request may comprise the steps of: determining at a traffic distribution controller a capacity of each of the processing centers to process the processing request, accepting a processing request in the first processing center, and assigning the processing request to at least one of the second processing centers according to the determined current capacity of each of the processing centers. The processing request is initially addressed to a first global address of the first processing center, then the processing request is readdressed to a second global address of one of the second processing centers. | 05-22-2014 |
20140140259 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING HIGH BANDWIDTH SIGNALS WITH LOW BANDWIDTH TRANSPONDERS - A method and apparatus for transmitting a plurality of elementary data streams to a plurality of receivers is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of generating M data streams comprising K multiplexed elementary data streams in a first entity, transmitting the M data streams to a second entity, generating N transmitter streams from the M data streams in the second entity; and transmitting each of the N transmitter streams to the plurality of receivers using an associated one of N broadcast sub-transmitters. | 05-22-2014 |
20140130107 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING SERVICE TO A MULTI-DWELLING UNIT - A system and method for distributing television signals includes a multi-switch module multiplexing television signals therethrough. The system further includes a plurality of unit configurations having respective power sources therein. The plurality of unit configurations receives the television signals. The system also includes a splitting module in communication with the multi-switch module and the plurality of unit configurations whereby at least one of the plurality of unit configurations powers the multi-switch module. | 05-08-2014 |
20140130106 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REMOTELY TRANSCODING CONTENT - A system and method for remotely transcoding content includes a set top box generating a playlist corresponding to content titles stored in a memory of the set top box. A user device is in communication with the cloud location and the set top box through a network. The user device reviews the playlist and selects a first content title from the playlist to form a selection. The cloud location includes a transcoder device transcoding content corresponding to the selection to form transcoded content. One of the cloud location and the set top box communicates the transcoded content to the user device. | 05-08-2014 |
20140109154 | DIGITAL STORAGE MEDIA COMMAND AND CONTROL DATA INDEXING - A system for receiving satellite signals for display on a monitor. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises an antenna, a server receiver, coupled to the antenna, and at least one client receiver, coupled to the server receiver, wherein the server receiver maintains a list of satellite video signals to be recorded by the server receiver, the satellite video signals including network recorded data and metadata associated with the network recorded data, and wherein the list can be accessed by the server receiver and the at least one client receiver. | 04-17-2014 |
20140109131 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE TO TUNE A SET TOP BOX TO DISPLAY CONTENT PLAYING ON THE SECOND SCREEN DEVICE - A system and method for displaying operating a receiving device includes a second screen device in communication with the receiving device. The second screen device displays streamed content having an identifier associated therewith having a touch screen, forms a tune command comprising the identifier and a receiving device identifier in response to a gesture on the touch screen and communicates the tune command to the receiving device from the second screen device. The receiving device is tuned to receive a channel corresponding to the streamed content in response to the tune command. The receiving device displays the channel. | 04-17-2014 |
20140108138 | Method and system for dynamic ad placement - A system and method for placing ads on a client-side video replay system. The described embodiments of the present invention allow a client to make a determination of ad placement priority separately from the function of serving ads to a requesting application. A described dynamic ad placement engine reorders ads when the context of the system is changed to yield a next ad to be placed. Thus, at a later time, when an application sends an ad request, the dynamic ad placement engine can quickly respond with the ad to be placed. The ads also are preferably reordered after an ad is placed. Placement of ads is controlled in the described embodiment by interpreted rules for each ad. | 04-17-2014 |
20140105330 | CODE DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION IMPROVEMENTS FOR LOW DENSITY PARITY CHECK CODES FOR WIRELESS ROUTERS USING 802.11n PROTOCOL - Method and apparatus for implementing LDPC codes in an IEEE 802.11 standard system configured to operate in a Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MIMO) schema. A method in accordance with the present invention comprises defining a base LDPC code, having a length equal to an integer number of data carriers in an ODFM symbol, transmitting the base LDPC code over a plurality of sub-carriers, wherein the base code is transmitted at an expected phase on sub-carriers specified by the IEEE 802.11 standard system, and transmitting the base LDPC code on other sub-carriers than those specified by the IEEE 802.11 standard system, wherein the base LDPC code on the other sub-carriers is transmit offset in phase from the base LDPC code on the specified sub-carriers. | 04-17-2014 |
20140075576 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTHORIZING PLAYBACK FROM MULTIPLE DEVICES - A system and method for using content on multiple devices includes a head end associating a first user device and a second user device with a user account and authorizing the first user device and the second user device to receive content. The first user device forms a selection signal corresponding to a first content. The head end communicates the first content to the first user device corresponding to the selection signal. The first user device displays the first content on a first display associated therewith. The second user device receives the first content and displays the first content on a second display associated with the second user device. | 03-13-2014 |
20140075486 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN A HOST DEVICE AND USER DEVICE THROUGH AN INTERMEDIATE DEVICE USING SYNTAX TRANSLATION - A system and method includes a host device, an intermediate device and a user device having a device type associated therewith. A network is in communication with the host device, the intermediate device and the user device. The host device communicates a first graphics command to the intermediate device. The intermediate device converts the first graphics command to a second graphics command in response to the device type. The user device generates a screen display in response to the second graphics command. | 03-13-2014 |
20140075485 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN A HOST DEVICE AND A USER DEVICE THROUGH AN INTERMEDIATE DEVICE USING A COMPOSITE GRAPHICS SIGNAL - A system and method includes a host device, an intermediate device and a user device. A network is in communication with the host device, the intermediate device and the user device. The host device communicates a first graphics command and a second graphics command to the intermediate device. The intermediate device composites the first graphics command and the second graphics command to form a composite graphics command and communicating the composite graphics command to the user device. The user device generates a screen display in response to the composite graphics command. | 03-13-2014 |
20140071231 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISTRIBUTING HIGH-QUALITY 3D VIDEO IN A 2D FORMAT - A checkerboard subsampled image is packed in a format to remove shifts that would otherwise result in jagged edges where edges that were not jagged used to exist when checkerboard subsampling is used to reduce video bandwidth. The packing format places alternate rows of a checkerboard subsampled image row by row or places alternate columns of a checkerboard image line by line. By removing the shift and jagged edges, high frequency components that are difficult compress and display as annoying artifacts are eliminated. | 03-13-2014 |
20140071161 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN A HOST DEVICE AND USER DEVICE THROUGH AN INTERMEDIATE DEVICE USING A COMPOSITE VIDEO SIGNAL - A system and method includes a host device using a first format, an intermediate device, a user device using a second format and a network in communication with the host device, the intermediate device and the user device. The user device communicates a first user generated signal having the second format to the intermediate device. The intermediate device converts the second format of the first user generated signal to the first format to form a second user generated signal. The intermediate device communicates the second user generated signal to the host device. | 03-13-2014 |
20140068657 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INSERTING ADVERTISING INTO A VIDEO SIGNAL AT A RECEIVING DEVICE NOT HAVING A DIGITAL VIDEO RECORDER (NON-DVR) RECEIVER - A system and method of operating a non-recordable receiving device comprises a video storage device and a network. The non-DVR receiving device is separate from the video storage device and communicates with the video storage device through the network. The non-DVR receiving device receives a video signal, monitors the television signal for an insert indicator and proximate the insert indicator, communicates an advertisement request signal from the non-DVR receiving device to the video storage device through the network. The video storage device communicates an advertisement to the non-DVR receiving device in response to the advertisement request signal. The non-DVR receiving device displays the advertisement on a display associated with the non-DVR receiving device. | 03-06-2014 |
20140056294 | AAS Direct Signaling Framing Methodologies to Support High Capacity Wireless Links - A new frame structure applicable to the IEEE 802.16 OFDMA wireless waveform is described, for the purposes of increasing base station capacity, increasing subscriber link rates and extending base station range. The frame structure provides the necessary constructs so that advance signal processing technologies such as Stacked Carrier Spread Spectrum and adaptive antenna technology may be used in combination with these constructs in order to realize these gains. These concepts are equally applicable in other advanced wireless waveforms based on OFDM or OFDMA such as LTE or UMB. | 02-27-2014 |
20140036819 | RECONFIGURABLE NOTCHED SPECTRUM FOR WIRELESS DATA TRANSMISSION - Systems and methods for communication are disclosed. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises a communications system, comprising at least one transmitter station and at least one receiver station, the transmitter station and receiver station communicating using an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) schema, wherein OFDM signals are transmitted in a notched frequency band arrangement such that at least one other transmission within a notch of the notched frequency band is used outside of the communications system. | 02-06-2014 |
20140033236 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING ON-DEMAND AND PAY-PER-VIEW CONTENT THROUGH A HOSPITALITY SYSTEM - A method and system for providing content to a receiving device from a local headend is set forth. The local headend communicates channel data for content stored at a video server to a receiving device, receives a selection of the channel data to form selected content from the receiving device and communicates content corresponding to the selection to the receiving device. The local headend stores a purchase record corresponding to the selection at the local headend, associates the purchase record with the receiving device within the local headend and communicates a request for a callback from the local headend to the receiving device. The receiving device communicates a callback signal from the receiving device to an external headend comprising purchase data corresponding to the purchase record. | 01-30-2014 |
20140020030 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ORDERING VIDEO CONTENT FROM A MOBILE DEVICE - A method and system for ordering content includes a mobile device having an ordering interactive interface having available content including linear content and on-demand content. The interactive interface receives a content selection corresponding to the on-demand content from the interactive interface and communicates the selection to a content processing system. The content processing system communicates a control word to the user device. A user device receives the on-demand content corresponding to the selection in response to the control word. | 01-16-2014 |
20130332570 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SECURELY PROVIDING AND STORING CONTENT IN A MULTIPLE DWELLING UNIT SYSTEM - A communication system | 12-12-2013 |
20130331025 | FREQUENCY DRIFT ESTIMATION FOR LOW COST OUTDOOR UNIT FREQUENCY CONVERSIONS AND SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS - Systems and devices for controlling frequency drift in satellite broadcast systems. A receiver antenna system for a direct broadcast satellite signal communications system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises an oscillator, a mixer, coupled to the oscillator, for converting satellite signals at a first frequency to signals at an intermediate frequency, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter, coupled to the mixer, for receiving the signals at the intermediate frequency and for converting the signals at the intermediate frequency at near-real-time to a digital data stream, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), coupled to the A/D converter, for processing the digital data stream, and a drift estimator, coupled to the DSP, the drift estimator determining a frequency drift of the oscillator, wherein the receiver antenna system corrects the frequency drift of the oscillator using the determined frequency drift. | 12-12-2013 |
20130330063 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING CONTENT OR CONFLICTS FROM MULTIPLE RECEIVING DEVICES ON A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE - A system and method is set forth for displaying schedule recording events on a second screen device that includes a controller and a display. The controller includes a hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) engine and a calendar display module. The HTTP engine receives scheduled recording data from a first receiving device. The scheduled recording data comprising a plurality of scheduled recording events. The HTTP engine receives conflict data corresponding to a conflict between at least two scheduled recording events based on the scheduled recording data. The calendar display module displays the scheduled recording events on a calendar screen display and displays a screen indicator at the second screen device indicative of a conflict. | 12-12-2013 |
20130251349 | Method and system for displaying a series of recordable events - A method and system for displaying identifiers for one or more series of recordable events is described. A system, such as the system of a digital video recorder, may receive a set of recordable events data, such as a listing of all television shows to be broadcast over a two-week period. The system analyzes the set of recordable events data for determining one or more sets of recordable events, where each set includes recordable events having the same title. The system analyzes each set of recordable events to determine sub-sets of recordable events based on relationships between the recordable events of each sub-set. The system displays an identifier for each sub-set of a given set of recordable events when the given set of recordable events is selected for display. A user may select to record a sub-set of recordable events by selecting the identifier that represents the sub-set. | 09-26-2013 |
20130212616 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONFIGURING A USER INTERFACE OF A RECEIVING UNIT FOR AN AUXILIARY REMOTE CONTROL DEVICE - A system and method for controlling a user interface comprises an auxiliary remote control device having an auxiliary remote control device identifier associated therewith and a receiving unit comprising a filter module having a filter feature for filtering content data from a set of available content data in response to an auxiliary remote control device identifier received at the receiving unit. The filter module forms filtered available content data less than the set of available content data. The receiving unit displays the user interface having the filtered available content data associated with the auxiliary remote control device on a display associated with the receiving unit. | 08-15-2013 |
20130198404 | PRESENTATION MODES FOR VARIOUS FORMAT BIT STREAMS - A system, method, and apparatus for processing media content for display on a monitor. A home media center (HMC), that includes a server receiver, acts as a central location for recording, distribution, and scheduling of tasks and system resources. The HMC receives a client request from a first client receiver and a legacy request or informs the receiver that the request cannot be fulfilled. Different coding technologies are used to provide video, audio, and data services to the client receiver and the legacy receiver. | 08-01-2013 |
20130174192 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A SET TOP BOX USING WEATHER PROFILES - A system and method for determining unauthorized use of a set top box includes a set top box that receives a profile of weather conditions in a geographic area, generating a weather log, comparing the weather log and the profile and disabling the set top box from receiving signals in response to comparing. A head end and a plurality of other set top boxes may be used to gather the weather data to form the profile. | 07-04-2013 |
20130172029 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR MOBILE USERS USING ADAPTIVE ANTENNA WITH AUXILIARY ELEMENTS - A communication system communications system for communicating with mobile user terminals includes a base station having an adaptive antenna with a plurality of panels. Each of the plurality of panels are arranged to have a different field of view. Each panel has a plurality of main array antenna elements for simultaneously generating a plurality of dynamic communication beams that move with the mobile terminals and a plurality of auxiliary elements separate from the plurality of main array antenna elements used for interference cancelling signals cancelling interference between the plurality of dynamic communication beams generated by the plurality of main array elements. A gateway station is coupled to the base station. The gateway station forms a plurality of beams commands for each of the plurality of panels by communicating a plurality of control signals to the base station to form the plurality of dynamic communication beams. | 07-04-2013 |
20130149958 | LAN BASED SATELLITE ANTENNA/SATELLITE MULTISWITCH - A satellite communication system including an interface device for distributing satellite signals received from an outdoor unit (ODU) to a plurality of indoor units (IDUs) connected to a local area network (LAN), at a particular site. Only two cables, a power cable and a cable connected to the LAN, must be installed between the interface device and the site containing the IDUs. Accordingly, the installation of IDUs at a site is simplified and has the flexibility of allowing future satellite based services to be added without requiring the installation of new cables between the ODU and the IDUs. The satellite communication system also permits flexibility among connected devices, including to which other devices they are connected, how they are connected to other devices and what types of connections are used. | 06-13-2013 |
20130139202 | ACTIVE CHANNEL FOR INTERACTIVE TELEVISION SERVICES - An interactive home video channel displayed on a monitor is enclosed. A channel in accordance with the present invention comprises a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, a text box, a menu comprising menu choices, each menu choice and each video cell associated with a programming subject, and a cursor, which can be moved between the plurality of video cells and the menu, for selecting at least one of the video cells and the menu choices, which presents additional information about the programming subject associated with the selected video cell or menu choice upon selection with the cursor. | 05-30-2013 |
20130125176 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A WEBSITE TO PERFORM A REMOTE ACTION ON A SET TOP BOX WITH A SECURE AUTHORIZATION - A conditional access system generating a permission packet in response to the content request. The permission packet has information for a user device to access content through a connection of a content delivery network so that in response to the permission packet, a first connection from the content delivery network to the user device may be opened by the user device. | 05-16-2013 |
20130121430 | FEEDER LINK CONFIGURATIONS TO SUPPORT LAYERED MODULATION FOR DIGITAL SIGNALS - Systems and methods are disclosed for feeder link configurations to layered modulation. One feeder link system employs feeder link spot beam to antennas in distinct coverage areas to enable frequency reuse. Another system employs narrow beam width feeder link antenna to illuminate individual satellites also enabling frequency reuse. Yet another system uses layered modulation in the feeder link. Another feeder link system employs a higher order synchronous modulation for the satellite feeder link than is used in the layered modulation downlink signals. | 05-16-2013 |
20130120657 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RENDERING ANTI-ALIASED TEXT TO A VIDEO SCREEN - Text is rendered to a television screen using only the alpha channel. This is accomplished by delaying blending with underlying video until the end of the process to thereby preserve the alpha channel information. Glyphs are used to graphically represent character data in the text to be rendered. Glyphs can be stored in a character texture. In addition, the glyphs can be contained in rectangles having identifiable locations in the character texture. The rectangles can have sizes dependent upon the glyph the rectangle contains. | 05-16-2013 |
20130120423 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DRAWING ANTI-ALIASED LINES IN ANY DIRECTION - A prerendered line texture stored in memory is used to generate an anti-aliased destination line in any direction to be displayed on a screen. A combination of tiling, stretching, and/or mirroring is used to generate the anti-aliased destination line. A blitter blits a rectangle in the prerendered line texture to a destination rectangle in the frame buffer that is displayed on the screen. | 05-16-2013 |
20130117379 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FILE SHARING OF MISSING CONTENT BETWEEN A GROUP OF USER DEVICES IN A PEER-TO-PEER NETWORK - A communication system includes a first user device and a group of user devices. A peer-to-peer network is formed from the group of user devices and the first user device. A content request is communicated to the group of user devices through a terrestrial network. At least one of the group of user devices communicates the media content file corresponding to the content request to the first user device through the peer-to-peer network. The media content file communicated to the first user device from at least one of the group of user devices comprises a missing portion of the media content file. | 05-09-2013 |
20130111522 | AGGREGATED CONTENT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE SAME | 05-02-2013 |
20130104160 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE TO TUNE A SET TOP BOX TO DISPLAY CONTENT PLAYING ON THE SECOND SCREEN DEVICE - A system and method for displaying operating a receiving device includes a second screen device in communication with the receiving device. The second screen device displays streamed content having an identifier associated therewith having a touch screen, forms a tune command comprising the identifier and a receiving device identifier in response to a gesture on the touch screen and communicates the tune command to the receiving device from the second screen device. The receiving device is tuned to receive a channel corresponding to the streamed content in response to the tune command. The receiving device displays the channel. | 04-25-2013 |
20130091406 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ROUTING IN LOW DENSITY PARITY CHECK (LDPC) DECODERS - An approach is provided for decoding a low density parity check (LDPC) coded signal. Edge values associated with a structured parity check matrix used to generate the LDPC coded signal are retrieved from memory. The edge values specify the relationship of bit nodes and check nodes, and are stored within memory according to a predetermined scheme that permits concurrent retrieval of a set of the edge values. A decoded signal corresponding to the LDPC coded signal is output based on the retrieved edge values. | 04-11-2013 |
20130080778 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING PROGRAM GUIDE DATA FROM A CONTENT PROVIDER TO A USER DEVICE THROUGH A PARTNER SERVICE PROVIDER BASED UPON USER ATTRIBUTES - A method and system for providing program guide data to a user network device associated with a user identifier includes a partner service provider in communication with the user network device and a primary service provider in communication with the partner service provider authenticating the user network device provider using the user identifier. The user network device generates a request for program guide data and communicates the user identifier and the request to the partner service provider. The partner service provider or the primary service provider communicates program guide data to the user network device based on the identifier data. The user network device displays the program guide data on a display device. | 03-28-2013 |
20130061267 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR USING A SECOND SCREEN DEVICE FOR INTERACTING WITH A SET TOP BOX TO ENHANCE A USER EXPERIENCE - A system and method for displaying data related to a content displayed through a set top box includes a second screen device generating a content information request signal requesting data corresponding to the content, communicates the content information request signal to the set top box. The set top box communicates a content information signal to the second screen device comprising a content identifier. The second screen device generates a request for related data signal corresponding to the content using the content identifier, communicates the request for related data signal through a network, receives aggregated related content data corresponding to the content from a data services center and displays the aggregated related content data. | 03-07-2013 |
20130061109 | TURBO CODE INTERLEAVER WITH NEAR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE - A method of interleaving blocks of indexed data of varying lengths is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: providing a set of basic Interleavers comprising a family of one or more permutations of the indexed data and having a variable length; selecting one of the basic Interleavers based upon a desired Interleaver length L; and adapting the selected basic Interleaver to produce an Interleaver having the desired Interleaver length L. | 03-07-2013 |
20130053057 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING A LOCATION OF A MOBILE DEVICE AND UTILIZING THE LOCATION IN CONTENT SERVICES - A system and method for controlling a mobile device at a headend includes the mobile device communicating a request for content to the headend. The headend requests geographic coordinate location data from the mobile device and, when geographic coordinate data is available, determines a first geographic region associated with the mobile device in response to the geographic coordinate location data. When geographic coordinate data is not available from the mobile device, the headend extracts an IP address from the request and determines a second geographic region based on the IP address and a confidence level. When the confidence level is below a threshold, the headend determines a third geographic region based on subscriber data for the mobile device. The headend controls the mobile device in response to one of the first geographic region, the second geographic region and the third geographic region. | 02-28-2013 |
20130042264 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UTILIZING MULTIPLE CONTENT DELIVERY NETWORKS FOR DISTRIBUTING CONTENT - A system includes a content management system having a first set of business rules for a first content including a first target and a second set of business rules for a second content including a second target. The system also includes a workflow system that receives the first and second targets. The work flow system obtains first content with a first business rule identification and second content with a second business rule identification. The content management system associates the first content with the first set of business rules and associates the second content with the second set of business rules. A processing system processes the first content to form first processed content in response to the first business rules and processes the second content to form second processed content in response to the second business rules. A content repository stores the first and second processed content. | 02-14-2013 |
20120331494 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OBTAINING VIEWING DATA AND PROVIDING CONTENT RECOMMENDATIONS AT A SET TOP BOX - A system and method for generating television recommendations includes a viewer tracking module that tracks viewer events to form a viewer tracking log. A recommendation module that determines a timeslot, generates a timeslot viewing profile based on the timeslot. The viewer tracking log corresponds to television programs watched previously at the user device during the timeslot. The recommendation module compares the timeslot viewing profile with available content for the timeslot and generates a content recommendation list. | 12-27-2012 |
20120320834 | Adaptive Communications Methods for Multiple User Packet Radio Wireless Networks - An exemplary wireless communication network that includes a base that communicates with remote units located in a cell of the network. The base concatenates information symbols with a preamble corresponding to a destination remote unit. One or more remote units communicating with the base each concatenates information symbols with a preamble corresponding to that remote unit. An adaptive receiver system for a base unit rapidly adapts optimal despreading weights for reproducing information symbols transmitted from multiple remote units. A transmitter system for a base unit concatenates information symbols with a preamble associated with a remote unit in the cell. An adaptive receiver system for a remote unit in a communication network rapidly adapts optimal weights for reproducing a signal transmitted to it by a specific base unit in the network. | 12-20-2012 |
20120294266 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING MULTI-INPUT-MULTI-OUTPUT (MIMO) DOWNLINK TRANSMISSION - An approach is provided for supporting transmission in a multi-input-multi-output (MIMO) communication system including a plurality of terminals. A preamble portion of a frame is transmitted by a multiple transmit antennas of a hub using Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) to the terminals over a channel, wherein each of the terminals determines a characteristic of the channel with respect to the transmit antennas as feedback information. The hub receives the feedback information from the terminals. The hub selects, according to the feedback information, a subset of the antennas for transmission of a remaining portion of the frame to the terminal. | 11-22-2012 |
20120281745 | FREQUENCY DRIFT ESTIMATION FOR LOW COST OUTDOOR UNIT FREQUENCY CONVERSIONS AND SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS - Systems and devices for controlling frequency drift in satellite broadcast systems. A receiver antenna system for a direct broadcast satellite signal communications system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises an oscillator, a mixer, coupled to the oscillator, for converting satellite signals at a first frequency to signals at an intermediate frequency, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter, coupled to the mixer, for receiving the signals at the intermediate frequency and for converting the signals at the intermediate frequency at near-real-time to a digital data stream, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), coupled to the A/D converter, for processing the digital data stream, and a drift estimator, coupled to the DSP, the drift estimator determining a frequency drift of the oscillator, wherein the receiver antenna system corrects the frequency drift of the oscillator using the determined frequency drift. | 11-08-2012 |
20120275766 | Methods and Apparatus for Sending Content between Client Devices - Sending content between client devices connected to a computer network is described. According to one described aspect, a server maintains a database correlating unique identifiers for client devices to their network address information. A first client device may query the server for network address information of a second client device by sending the unique identifier to the server. The server returns the network address of the second client device, which is used to send a message directly from the first client device to the second client device, indicating the availability of content. Also, the message is preferably formatted such that it automatically populates a content guide of the second client device, with an entry used to initiate a transmission of the content from the first client device to the second client device. | 11-01-2012 |
20120257697 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IDENTIFYING CO-CHANNEL INTERFERENCE - Methods and apparatuses identifying a co-channel interference signal in communications systems are disclosed. An exemplary method comprises generating an interference signal by subtracting a reconstructed desired signal from an at least partially demodulated composite signal, and generating synchronization statistics of interference signal using different scrambling codes. The interference signal is identified as the signal associated with the scrambling code that was used to generate an interference signal having a desired synchronization statistic. | 10-11-2012 |
20120240164 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR POSITIONING ROW ADVERTISING IN A PROGRAM GUIDE - A method of arranging row ads system within a program guide includes communicating row ad metadata to a user device and communicating program guide information to a user device. The program guide information defines a plurality of rows, wherein at least a first row is associated with a first channel. The method includes associating positioning information with the row ad relative to the first row, populating a second row from the plurality of rows in response to the metadata and displaying the row ad and displaying the first row associated with the first channel within a program guide structure on a display associated with the user device in response to the positioning information. | 09-20-2012 |
20120233519 | METHOD FOR A GENERAL NEAR OPTIMAL TURBO CODE TRELLIS TERMINATION - A method of terminating two or more constituent encoders of a turbo encoder employing a turbo code, comprising the steps of: generating tail input bits at each of two or more constituent encoders, including deriving the tail input bits from each of the two or more constituent encoders separately from a contents of shift registers within each of the two or more constituent encoders, after an encoding of information bits by the two or more constituent encoders; puncturing one or more tail output bits such that 1/R output tail bits are transmitted for each of a plurality of trellis branches, wherein R is a turbo code rate employed by the turbo encoder during an information bit transmission. In yet another variation, the step of puncturing the tail output bits further comprises the step of: transmitting, during trellis termination, the tail output bits, only if they are sent from an output branch of one of the two or more constituent encoders that are used during information bit transmission. | 09-13-2012 |
20120213367 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING CONTENT TO A CONTENT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM SUITABLE FOR A MULTIPLE DWELLING UNIT USING AN ENCRYPTION - A communication system includes a head end. The head end communicates with a system gateway. A plurality of user devices is coupled to the gateway. The gateway receives the plurality of first encrypted signals, decrypts the plurality of first encrypted signals to form unencrypted signals and encrypts the unencrypted signals with a second encryption to form a plurality of second encrypted signals and communicates the second encrypted signals to the plurality of user devices. The signals may also be super-encrypted signals. That is, rather than un-encrypting at the gateway, the first encrypted signals may be again encrypted. | 08-23-2012 |
20120192237 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING PREAUTHORIZATION FOR A MOBILE RECEIVING DEVICE TO ACCESS WIRELESS NETWORKS - A mobile wireless system includes a transmitter such as a satellite that broadcasts wireless signals such as boundaries for wireless networks to a mobile receiving device. Mobile receiving device may include an antenna. A locating receiver is used to generate locating signals so that a determination may be made to the location of the mobile receiving device. Preauthorizations may be obtained to allow the mobile receiving device to communicate back to business controller to enable functions such as pay-per-view or on-demand, interactive television, gaming, and the like. The preauthorizations enable access to various wireless networks as the mobile receiving device moves. | 07-26-2012 |
20120162440 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING AN AUTOMATED SET TOP BOX TEST - A system and method for testing a set top box includes a test manager module in communication with the set top box having a test script including a bitstream. A bitstream player in communication with the test manager module receives the bitstream and communicates the bitstream to the set top box. The test manager module receives a screen image from the set top box that is generated in response to the bitstream. An optical character recognition module performs optical character recognition to obtain a test text string from the screen image. The test manager module compares the test text string with an expected text string. A report module generates a report in response to comparing. | 06-28-2012 |
20120155837 | SECURE STORAGE AND REPLAY OF MEDIA PROGRAMS USING A HARD-PAIRED RECEIVER AND STORAGE DEVICE - A method and apparatus for storing and retrieving program material for subsequent replay is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of receiving a data stream comprising the program material encrypted according to a first (CW) encryption key, decrypting the program material; re-encrypting the program material according to a second encryption key, and storing the re-encrypted material in a media storage device. The program material is played back by retrieving the re-encrypted material from the media storage device and decrypting the re-encrypted program material. In one embodiment, the media storage device also stores the second encryption key which has been further encrypted by a key that is unique to the device used to receive the program material. | 06-21-2012 |
20120077595 | TELEVISION INTERACTIVE GAMING HAVING A LOCAL STORAGE OF GAME PORTAL - A system and method for interactive gaming includes a central broadcast center transmitting signals over a first communications network, a gaming system residing within the central broadcast center, and users who access the gaming system via the first communication network. The gaming system provides a plurality of games that incorporate a scoring protocol that provides real time scoring data transmitting from the plurality of users back to the gaming system via a second communication network. The plurality of users may review the real time scoring data via the first communications network. | 03-29-2012 |
20120072960 | Method and system for pause ads - A system and method for placing ads on a client-side video replay system during a pause mode. | 03-22-2012 |
20120060184 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATING ADVERTISING INSERTION AND RECONCILIATION - A system and method for operating an ad extraction and reconciliation system for a broadcast system includes an extraction manager module that receives an advertisement schedule for an advertisement from an ad sales module. The system also includes a controller module that receives broadcast channel schedule data for broadcast channel signal from a broadcast channel system and generating an advertising content data request signal for advertising content data including an advertisement content identifier for the advertisement. The ad extraction manager module forms an advertisement insertion schedule having advertisement content identifier and an advertising insertion spot associated with the advertising content identifier. The controller communicates the advertisement insertion schedule to a broadcast scheduling system. The system also includes an as-run manager module that receives as-run data including the advertising identifier and a run time of the advertisement after the advertisement was inserted into the broadcast channel signal according to the broadcast scheduling system at an automation system. | 03-08-2012 |
20120042342 | MOSAIC CHANNEL VIDEO STREAM WITH INTERACTIVE SERVICES - An interactive mosaic channel video stream with indicators as to the action on a given video stream. The interactive mosaic channel is displayed on a video monitor, with a plurality of individual video feeds being presented at a given time, comprising a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell associated with one of the plurality of individual video feeds, each video cell further comprising an area within the video cell reporting data related to the video feed, and a cursor, which can be moved between the plurality of video cells, for selecting at least one characteristic associated with a selected video cell, such that the user can then directly select a video program associated with the selected video cell. | 02-16-2012 |
20120039580 | Method and System for Remote Television Replay Control - A method, system, computer medium, and other embodiments for integrating unrelated web hosted services with stand-alone media-based devices are provided. Users can access and control the media-based device conveniently with a web-browser through various portals on the Internet. In one embodiment, users access the media-based device through one or more unrelated web portals, so as to control and to program the media-based device in a single web session, and to see information both stored on the media-based device and originating from third-party online sources of information and services in a single integrated presentation. | 02-16-2012 |
20120019724 | METHOD FOR CREATING INTERACTIVE APPLICATIONS FOR TELEVISION - Methods, apparatuses, and systems for creating an overlay application for use within a broadcast communications system are disclosed. A method in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises collecting image data from a computer network, generating at least one selectable area within the image data, associating a function with the at least one selectable area, and selectively displaying the image data on a monitor simultaneously with a broadcast data stream, wherein selection of the at least one selectable area executes the associated function. | 01-26-2012 |
20110317683 | AAS DIRECT SIGNALING FRAMING METHODOLOGIES TO SUPPORT HIGH CAPACITY WIRELESS LINKS - A new frame structure applicable to the IEEE 802.16 OFDMA wireless waveform is described, for the purposes of increasing base station capacity, increasing subscriber link rates and extending base station range. The frame structure provides the necessary constructs so that advance signal processing technologies such as Stacked Carrier Spread Spectrum and adaptive antenna technology may be used in combination with these constructs in order to realize these gains. These concepts are equally applicable in other advanced wireless waveforms based on OFDM or OFDMA such as LTE or UMB. | 12-29-2011 |
20110307916 | BACKWARDS-COMPATIBLE FREQUENCY TRANSLATION MODULE FOR SATELLITE VIDEO DELIVERY - A frequency translation module for delivering satellite signals to Integrated Receiver Decoders (IRDs). The module comprises at least one input for receiving polarized satellite signals, wherein at least one input is coupled to at least one low noise block amplifier (LNB), at least one legacy output, the legacy output coupled to the input through a multiswitch, wherein each legacy output selects a polarization of a satellite signal based on a Legacy IRD command directly to the multiswitch, and at least one combined output, the combined output coupled to the multiswitch through an interface, wherein at least one new IRD selectively commands the frequency translation module such that each new IRD receives a portion of a satellite signal based on commands received from each IRD. | 12-15-2011 |
20110289522 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF BUILDING A WANTED LIST QUEUE FOR A USER IN A CONTENT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - A system and method for communicating content to a user device includes a head end that communicates metadata for a plurality of content including the content titles. The system also includes the user device that generates a screen display comprising the plurality of content titles from the metadata and generates a selection corresponding to a first content title from a user interface, the user device adds metadata for the first content title to a queue and displays the queue in a priority order on the screen display. The user device is tuned to receive content corresponding to the first content title and stores the content in a storage device. | 11-24-2011 |
20110276998 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING A QUEUE FOR COMMUNICATING CONTENT IN A BROADCAST COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system for scheduling content includes a scheduling system having a plurality of queues each having a priority level and a block type. The scheduling system assigns content to one of the plurality of queues. The scheduling system obtains a channel block from a schedule manager and assigns the plurality of queues to the channel block based on the priority level and block type. A communication system communicates the plurality of channel blocks to a user device through a channel using the channel blocks. | 11-10-2011 |
20110276997 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PUSHING CONTENT IN A BROADCAST COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A push scheduler for communicating push and carousel content and method for operating the same includes a block manager that receives content channel data from the channel listing system and forming a channel block having a channel and a time period associated therewith based on the channel data. The scheduler further includes a schedule manager that forms an assignment by assigning push and carousel content data to the channel block with a predetermined recurrence rate within the block and a material manager that controls the communication of push and carousel content based on the channel block. | 11-10-2011 |
20110271306 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO PROVIDE CONTENT ON DEMAND IN CONTENT BROADCAST SYSTEMS - Methods and apparatus to provide content on demand in content broadcast systems are disclosed. An example method comprises receiving a first portion of a program via broadcast signal and receiving a second portion of the program via an Internet protocol (IP) based signal. The example method may further comprise combining the first and the second portions and at least one of store the combined first and second portions in a file or playback the combined first and second portions. | 11-03-2011 |
20110261959 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOTELY INSERTING WATERMARK INTO ENCRYPTED COMPRESSED VIDEO BITSTREAM - A method and apparatus for remote watermarking of a media program is disclosed. The method inserts a pattern of substituted second versions of media program portions that are invisible to the viewer, into reproduced copies of the media program. The method permits the watermarking of encrypted media programs. | 10-27-2011 |
20110255003 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PRESENTING ON-SCREEN GRAPHICS IN A FRAME-COMPATIBLE 3D FORMAT - A method and apparatus for rendering an OSD on a background frame having a plurality of background subframes together defining a 3D image is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of generating a first background subframe describing a first perspective and having an overlaid OSD, generating a second background subframe describing the first perspective and having the overlaid OSD, and providing the first background subframe describing the first perspective and having the overlaid OSD and the second background subframe having the overlaid OSD to a display. | 10-20-2011 |
20110231881 | DIRECT BROADCAST SIGNAL DISTRIBUTION METHODS - A direct broadcast system having a high altitude communication device that transmits broadcast signals, which are received by an antenna, is provided. The system includes an outdoor unit (ODU) electrically coupled to the antenna. The ODU includes a low noise block converter (LNB) that receives and amplifies the broadcast signals. An ODU receiver is electrically coupled to the ODU and selects a desired frequency of the broadcast signals. Integrated receiver and decoders (IRD(s) are electrically coupled to the ODU receiver via a single distribution cable. The IRD(s) convert the broadcast signals into IRD output signals. Methods of performing the same are also provided, herein, including a transport select method and a service select method for receiving the broadcast signals. A direct broadcast system installation method and wireless communication between the ODU and the IRD(s) are also provided. | 09-22-2011 |
20110214149 | TELEPHONE ORDERING OF TELEVISION SHOWS - A method and system for controlling the digital consumption of media and information such as the recording of television programs, real world, or electronic merchandise from a plurality of a customer's Unique Identifiers (such as telephone numbers). The television programs are identified by specific identifiers, such as alpha-numeric indicia. Customers can register several Unique Identifier(s) with the service provider and can secure recording of specific programs from any of said registered Unique Identifier(s). Customers can also register Unique Identifier(s) such as the set top boxes at one or more locations and at the same time direct where the content will immediately or later be delivered, so that the recorded TV program can be accessed and viewed. | 09-01-2011 |
20110213858 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF USING IDLE RECEIVING UNIT RESOURCES FOR RECEIVING CONTENT AND COMMUNICATING THE CONTENT TO OTHER RECEIVING UNITS IN THE NETWORK - A method and system for providing content includes a network having a plurality of receiving units. The system further includes a first receiving unit of the plurality of receiving units that forms a recording request, when the first receiving unit includes unavailable resources and communicates the recording request through the network. A second receiving unit receives the request and stores content in a second memory corresponding to the request and communicates the content to the first receiving unit. | 09-01-2011 |
20110202952 | NETWORK FRAUD PREVENTION VIA REGISTRATION AND VERIFICATION - An apparatus for controlling fraud in a satellite signal delivery system. An apparatus in accordance with the present invention comprises a receive antenna for receiving at least one satellite signal, and a module, coupled to the receive antenna, for selectively delivering the at least one satellite signal to at least one receiver via an output of the module, wherein the module creates an association between the module and the at least one receiver upon installation of the at least one receiver to the output, such that the module delivers the at least one satellite signal to the at least one receiver only when the association is present. | 08-18-2011 |
20110197228 | Digital Over-The-Air Entertainment And Information - A system of distributing electronic content includes a satellite and a network operations center uplinking electronic content to the satellite. The electronic content may contain advertising and various other information including television, movies, and music. An over-the-air broadcast center receives the electronic content from the satellite and generates over-the-air electronic content. A user device is used to receive the over-the-air electronic content. The user device may filter the electronic content broadcast by the over-the-air broadcast center and store various information in a memory cache therein. When the user desires, the information in the memory cache may be used by the user at his convenience. | 08-11-2011 |
20110185168 | Method and Apparatus for File Sharing Between a Group of User Devices with Separately Sent Crucial Portions and Non-Crucial Portions - A communication system and method for operating the same includes a group of user devices and a content delivery network in communication with the group of user devices. The content delivery network selects a plurality user devices from the group of user devices, divides the content into a crucial portion and a non-crucial portions, and encrypts the crucial portions differently for each of the user devices in the group using conditional access encryption. The content delivery network communicates the non-crucial portions to the plurality of user devices, communicates the encrypted crucial portion to the plurality of user devices separately from the non-crucial. The plurality of user devices assembles the crucial portion and the non-crucial portions to form the content. | 07-28-2011 |
20110173653 | VIRTUAL VIDEO ON DEMAND USING MULTIPLE ENCRYPTED VIDEO SEGMENTS - A method and apparatus for providing a virtual video on demand services is disclosed. The method and apparatus disclose the storing of a segment of the video program in advance for VOD viewing at a later time. When the subscriber selects VOD service, a pre-stored video segment is retrieved for presentation to the subscriber. Remaining video program segments simultaneously broadcast on a plurality of channels are recorded in parallel while the pre-stored video program segment is retrieved and presented to the user. | 07-14-2011 |
20110161396 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REGISTERING A CLIENT DEVICE IN A MULTI-ROOM DIGITAL VIDEO RECORDING SYSTEM - A system and method for registering a client device with a server device includes the server device having a display. The display displays a first identifier in response to entering a registration mode. A client device is in communication with the server device. The client device detects that the server device is in registration mode and communicates a second identifier to the client device. The server device compares the first identifier and the second identifier and, after comparing, registers the client device at the server device. | 06-30-2011 |
20110154412 | Maximizing Power and Spectral Efficiencies for Layered and Conventional Modulations - Methods and apparatuses for maximizing power and spectral efficiencies in a wireless communication system are disclosed. The invention is particularly useful for layered modulation applications because power levels for such applications are relatively high. A layered modulation signal comprises an upper and a lower layer signal that interfere with each other within the same frequency band such that the upper layer signal can be demodulated directly from the layered modulation signal, and the lower layer signal can be demodulated after subtracting the first layer signal from the layered modulation signal. The invention applies one or more of the following four signal schemes in a communication signal including varying the symbol rate (rather than the code rate), reducing or eliminating the guard band, reducing excess signal bandwidth and employing layered modulation within the guard band of the legacy signal. | 06-23-2011 |
20110087754 | SESSION MANAGER - Methods, apparatuses, and systems for managing signal delivery to a plurality of display platforms are disclosed. A system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises a centralized database, and a plurality of points of presence, each point of presence in the plurality of points of presence coupled to the centralized database, each point of presence comprising a management service and a data cache, wherein the management service maintains a data session with a client based on a comparison of information stored in the data cache and a current client request, the management service further comparing the current client request with the centralized database when the client is denied signal delivery from the system. | 04-14-2011 |
20110080983 | METHOD FOR SUPPRESSION OF OFDM ENERGY SPECTRAL DENSITY FOR MINIMIZATION OF OUT OF BAND EMISSION OR UTILIZATION OF FRACTURED SPECTRUM - The Energy spectral density of OFDM signals inherently rolls off slowly. Slow OFDM spectral rolloff has system level implications traditionally mitigated by some combination of the following: addition of bandlimiting filtering; use of significant guard bands of zeroed tones; and, guard time shaping. Each of these techniques negatively impact system performance and/or flexibility. This application presents a methodology for active cancellation of out of band spectral energy. The technique can be used by itself or in conjunction with above traditional methods to help control out of band emission. Examples of the use of the new technique are provided. Computational cost of the new technique is also discussed. | 04-07-2011 |
20110080517 | PHASE NOISE AND FREQUENCY ERROR RESILIENT DEMODULATION SCHEME FOR MOCA - Systems and methods for demodulating signals are disclosed. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises a frequency estimator, a tuner, coupled to the frequency estimator, for tuning to a frequency based on an estimate from the frequency estimator, a phase offset estimator for determining an average phase offset, and a demodulator, coupled to the tuner and the phase offset estimator, for demodulating the plurality of symbols, wherein the demodulator corrects a phase offset for a given symbol in the plurality of the symbols based on the average phase offset of symbols prior to the given symbol. | 04-07-2011 |
20110067022 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UPDATING A SOFTWARE IMAGE AT A CLIENT DEVICE - A system and method for communicating software images includes a server device that stores a software image therein and a client device that communicates a client device identifier to the server device through a network. The server communicates the software image to the client device through the network. The client device operates based on the software image. | 03-17-2011 |
20110066679 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISTRIBUTING CONTENT - A system and method for controlling a communication system includes a local area network, a first client device and a first server device in communication with the first client device through the local area network. The first server device communicates an audio-visual stream and remote user interface data to the first client device through the local area network. The first client device renders a display using the audio-video stream and the remote user interface. The first client device generates a key command and communicates the key command to the first server device in response to the remote user interface data. | 03-17-2011 |
20110055159 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PERSISTENT STORAGE OF COMMON USER INFORMATION FOR INTERACTIVE TELEVISION USING A CENTRALLY LOCATED REPOSITORY - For interactive television subscribers, a system ( | 03-03-2011 |
20110047576 | INTUITIVE ELECTRONIC PROGRAM GUIDE DISPLAY - A method and system for generating an electronic program guide includes a receiving unit | 02-24-2011 |
20110047435 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING SHORT BLOCK LENGTH LOW DENSITY PARITY CHECK (LDPC) CODES - An approach is provided for generating Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) codes. An LDPC encoder generates a short LDPC code by shortening longer mother codes. The short LDPC code has an outer Bose Chaudhuri Hocquenghem (BCH) code. According to another aspect, for an LDPC code with code rate of ⅗ utilizing 8-PSK (Phase Shift Keying) modulation, an interleaver provides for interleaving bits of the output LDPC code by serially writing data associated with the LDPC code column-wise into a table and reading the data row-wise from right to left. The above approach has particular application in digital video broadcast services over satellite. | 02-24-2011 |
20110037669 | APPARATUS FOR MOUNTING A SATELLITE ANTENNA IN A VEHICLE | 02-17-2011 |
20110033016 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING CARRIER SYNCHRONIZATION IN DIGITAL BROADCAST AND INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS - An approach is provided for supporting carrier synchronization in a digital broadcast and interactive system. A carrier synchronization module receives one or more signals representing a frame that includes one or more overhead fields (e.g., preamble and optional pilot blocks and one or multiple segments separated by pilot blocks). The module estimates carrier frequency and phase on a segment by segment basis and tracks frequency between segments. Carrier phase of the signal is estimated based upon the overhead field. Estimates carrier phase of random data field are determined based upon the estimated phase values from the overhead fields, and upon both the past and future data signals. Further, the frequency of the signal is estimated based upon the overhead fields and/or the random data field. The above arrangement is particularly suited to a digital satellite broadcast and interactive system. | 02-10-2011 |
20110030023 | INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER CALLBACK FOR SATELLITE SYSTEMS - A method, apparatus, article of manufacture, and a memory structure for delivering purchase information comprising storing purchase information for a purchase of a user in a set top box. The set top box (STB) is configured to receive and display the broadcast signals through a tuner onto a display device. The STB establishes a connection to the Internet through a user initiated action (e.g., when the user accesses the Internet using the STB). A new transmission control/Internet protocol (TCP/IP) connection is obtained using the established user-initiated Internet connection without the user requesting the connection. A secure electronic connection is established with a server through the new TCP/IP connection. The purchase information is then transmitted from the STB through the secure electronic connection to the server. | 02-03-2011 |
20100319035 | MULTIPLE DWELLING UNIT SATELLITE TELEVISION DELIVERY SYSTEM - Systems for delivering satellite signals to multiple dwelling units (MDUs). A system in accordance with the present invention comprises an antenna for receiving the satellite signals, a conversion unit, coupled to the antenna, for stacking the satellite signals onto a single cable, a distribution unit, coupled to the conversion unit, wherein the distribution unit distributes the stacked satellite signal to a plurality of outputs, and at least one customer device, coupled to an output of the plurality of outputs, wherein each unit in the MDU uses the customer device to destack the stacked satellite signals for delivery to a receiver. | 12-16-2010 |
20100313232 | INTEGRATED SATELLITE-TV BROADBAND WIRELESS SYSTEM - Systems and methods for combining a satellite broadcast system with a wireless system are described. The system comprises a satellite receive antenna and a wireless system device coupled thereto, the wireless system device comprising a wireless network antenna, a wireless radio system coupled to the antenna, a networking bridge coupled to the radio system, and a coaxial networking bridge for coupling a satellite signal on the satellite broadcast system with a wireless signal on the wireless network, wherein the coaxial network bridge enables a device to receive the satellite signal and the wireless signal. | 12-09-2010 |
20100311321 | OMNIDIRECTIONAL SWITCHABLE BROADBAND WIRELESS ANTENNA SYSTEM - Systems and methods for increasing coverage and throughput in a wireless communication system. An antenna for use in a wireless communications system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises a plurality of antenna elements, an antenna selection switch, coupled to the plurality of antenna elements, and a control system, coupled to the antenna selection switch, wherein the control system selectively energizes the plurality of antenna elements to create a communications link to a device in the wireless communications system through the antenna. | 12-09-2010 |
20100284671 | Method and system for reconfiguring a selection system based on layers of categories descriptive of recordable events - A method and system for selection of recordable events from among a set of recordable events, based on categories and sub-categories, that cumulatively describe a substantial portion of the entire set of recordable events. After receiving a first set of categories, and first sets of sub-categories corresponding to the first set of categories, at a device, the device is configured to use the first set of categories and the first set of sub-categories, to guide a user in selecting a series of recordable events to experience and/or record. Thereafter, the device receives a second set of categories and respective second sets of sub-categories that correspond to the categories of the second set of categories, and the device responsively configures itself to use the second set of categories and the second sets of sub-categories, to guide a user in selecting a series of recordable events to experience and/or record. | 11-11-2010 |
20100266261 | Video Data Recorder With Personal Channels - A video data recordable having integrated channel guides allowing a user to control recording and storage of television signals into personal channels for later playback and viewing. In the described embodiment, the user may specify criteria for recording of shows from an input source such as a broadcast signal and shows are then selected based on the user specified criteria and recorded for later playback. Storage of the shows may be organized into personal channels in order to facilitate later playback, e.g., the user may specify a channel of action movies, a channel of nature programming, a channel for sports, etc. The shows to be recorded may also have a predefined format which may be used to ease playback of recorded programming by allowing the user to easily locate and playback sections of programming of interest. | 10-21-2010 |
20100266260 | Video Data Recorder With Personal Channels - A video data recordable having integrated channel guides allowing a user to control recording and storage of television signals into personal channels for later playback and viewing. In the described embodiment, the user may specify criteria for recording of shows from an input source such as a broadcast signal and shows are then selected based on the user specified criteria and recorded for later playback. Storage of the shows may be organized into personal channels in order to facilitate later playback, e.g., the user may specify a channel of action movies, a channel of nature programming, a channel for sports, etc. The shows to be recorded may also have a predefined format which may be used to ease playback of recorded programming by allowing the user to easily locate and playback sections of programming of interest. | 10-21-2010 |
20100205647 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING A TRANSPORT PROCESSING SYSTEM IN A SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD BROADCAST COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system and method for a system for communicating with a user device includes a first transport processing system and a second transport processing system. The system also includes a software download manager that monitors a first transport processing system communicating a software image, generates a first announcement for the software image, communicates the first announcement to the user device, determines a failure of the first transport processing system, discontinues the first announcement for the software image in response to the failure and communicating the software image through the second transport processing system. | 08-12-2010 |
20100205275 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANAGING DEVELOPMENTAL SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD IMAGES IN A BROADCAST COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system and method for a system for communicating with a user device includes a transport processing system and a software download manger communicating first software images from a first queue to the transport processing system. The transport processing system communicates the first software images to a user device. The software download manager communicates development software images to a second queue, suspends communicating first software images from the first queue and thereafter, communicates development software images from the second queue to the processing system. The transport processing system communicates the development software images to the user device. | 08-12-2010 |
20100201571 | COMMAND, CONTROL AND COMMUNICATIONS WITH INTELLIGENT ANTENNAS - A system and method to provide a means of communication, command and control between a mobile antenna and a satellite receiver that allows the receiver to send tuning information to the antenna and the antenna to provide feedback to the receiver when a signal has been acquired. The antenna and the receiver can share the appropriate states and stats such as diagnostics, test, GPS coordinates, etc. | 08-12-2010 |
20100180291 | CONTENT DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO OPERATE THE SAME - Content delivery systems and methods to operate the same are disclosed. A disclosed example content delivery system comprises: a receiver station; a content server to transfer a file to a receiver via a point-to-point communication signal; and a transmission source that includes a computer readable medium to store the file containing pre-packetized content data and a controller to send the file containing the pre-packetized content data to a broadcast transmitter and to the content server. | 07-15-2010 |
20100180271 | AUTOMATIC SOFTWARE UPDATE DETECTION AND FLEXIBLE INSTALLER FOR SET-TOP BOXES - A method and apparatus for updating set top box software from a resident software version stored in a memory of the set-top box to a current software version is disclosed. The method comprises the step of automatically checking to determine if the resident software version is the current software version, and downloading data comprising at least a portion of the current software version if the resident software version is not the current software version. | 07-15-2010 |
20100172446 | FREQUENCY DRIFT ESTIMATION FOR LOW COST OUTDOOR UNIT FREQUENCY CONVERSIONS AND SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS - Systems and devices for controlling frequency drift in satellite broadcast systems. A receiver antenna system for a direct broadcast satellite signal communications system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises an oscillator, a mixer, coupled to the oscillator, for converting satellite signals at a first frequency to signals at an intermediate frequency, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter, coupled to the mixer, for receiving the signals at the intermediate frequency and for converting the signals at the intermediate frequency at near-real-time to a digital data stream, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), coupled to the A/D converter, for processing the digital data stream, and a drift estimator, coupled to the DSP, the drift estimator determining a frequency drift of the oscillator, wherein the receiver antenna system corrects the frequency drift of the oscillator using the determined frequency drift. | 07-08-2010 |
20100157881 | BLIND IDENTIFICATION OF ADVANCED MODULATION AND CODING MODES - Methods and apparatuses for acquiring and demodulating a data stream transmitted in a communication system. A method in accordance with the present invention comprises finding a boundary of a physical layer frame (PLFrame) in the data stream, finding a first 26 bits of a Unique Word (UW) associated with the data stream, finding a scrambling code utilizing the UW, and using a decoding procedure to determine a modulation type and code rate used for desired signals within the data stream. | 06-24-2010 |
20100141526 | NOVEL ALIGNMENT METHOD FOR MULTI-SATELLITE CONSUMER RECEIVER ANTENNAS - A method, apparatus and system for aligning an antenna reflector with satellites in a satellite configuration. A method in accordance with the present invention comprises aligning the reflector in azimuth and elevation with a first signal transmitted by a first satellite in the satellite configuration, and aligning the reflector in tilt with a second signal transmitted by a second satellite in the satellite configuration, wherein aligning the reflector in azimuth and elevation with the first signal and in tilt with the second signal aligns the reflector with at least a third signal transmitted from a third satellite. | 06-10-2010 |
20100138860 | Method and system for displaying a series of recordable events - A method and system for displaying identifiers for one or more series of recordable events is described. A system, such as the system of a digital video recorder, may receive a set of recordable events data, such as a listing of all television shows to be broadcast over a two-week period. The system analyzes the set of recordable events data for determining one or more sets of recordable events, where each set includes recordable events having the same title. The system analyzes each set of recordable events to determine sub-sets of recordable events based on relationships between the recordable events of each sub-set. The system displays an identifier for each sub-set of a given set of recordable events when the given set of recordable events is selected for display. A user may select to record a sub-set of recordable events by selecting the identifier that represents the sub-set. | 06-03-2010 |
20100128816 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MINIMIZING CO-CHANNEL INTERFERENCE BY SCRAMBLING - An approach is provided for minimizing co-channel interference in a communication system is disclosed. Non-header portions of frames, which are transmitted over the communication system, are scrambled according to respective different scrambling sequences. The above arrangement is particularly suited to a digital satellite broadcast and interactive system. | 05-27-2010 |
20100115561 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A RECEIVING CIRCUIT FOR MULTIPLE TYPES OF INPUT CHANNEL SIGNALS - A receiving circuit module and method for operating the same includes a housing receiving a first signal, a first encoder disposed within the housing encoding the first signal to form a first encoded signal and a second encoder disposed within the housing encoding the first signal to form a second encoded signal having a different format than the first signal. | 05-06-2010 |
20100111147 | Variable PHY Margin to Combat Ingress Noise - A method includes determining a first aggregate received power level of an orthogonal frequency division multiplexed (OFDM) signal received at a first network node, adjusting a nominal PHY Margin an amount that is dependent upon a measurement of an aggregate received power level of the OFDM signal, determining a data transmission rate based on the adjusted nominal PHY Margin, and receiving data being transmitted in accordance with the data transmission rate at the first node. | 05-06-2010 |
20100107032 | BIT LABELING FOR AMPLITUDE PHASE SHIFT CONSTELLATION USED WITH LOW DENSITY PARITY CHECK (LDPC) CODES - An approach is provided for bit labeling of a signal constellation. A transmitter generates encoded signals using, according to one embodiment, a structured parity check matrix of a Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) code. The transmitter includes an encoder for transforming an input message into a codeword represented by a plurality of set of bits. The transmitter includes logic for mapping non-sequentially (e.g., interleaving) one set of bits into a higher order constellation (Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK), 8-PSK, 16-APSK (Amplitude Phase Shift Keying), 32-APSK, etc.), wherein a symbol of the higher order constellation corresponding to the one set of bits is output based on the mapping. | 04-29-2010 |
20100100909 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONDITIONALLY PROCESSING, STORING, AND DISPLAYING DIGITAL CHANNEL CONTENT IN A TELEVISION RECEPTION SYSTEM - Content used in creating an electronic program guide and/or channels for a television reception system is delivered to a local receiving device, such as a direct to home satellite receiver, as individual digital objects. Rules (i.e., conditional expressions) may be embedded in the digital objects to allow different actions in different situations. These rules can be used to determine whether an object should be stored, which objects should be included in an electronic program guide, and/or what content should be used to create a particular channel. | 04-22-2010 |
20100085256 | KA/KU ANTENNA ALIGNMENT - A method, apparatus and system for aligning an antenna reflector with satellites in a satellite configuration. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises an alignment mechanism, coupled to the reflector, wherein the alignment mechanism comprises adjustments in azimuth, elevation, and skew, wherein the alignment mechanism is used to provide a first alignment to the satellite configuration, and a tool, used to access a database, wherein the database, comprises data related to satellite configuration positional data, including a position of at least one satellite in the satellite configuration at a given point in time, data related to the antenna, including at least data related to an alignment mechanism coupled to the antenna, data related to polarizations and frequencies of signals being transmitted by the satellite configuration, and data related to the geoposition of the antenna being aligned, wherein the database calculates at least one offset for the alignment of the reflector, wherein the at least one offset is used to reposition the antenna using the alignment mechanism. | 04-08-2010 |
20100057583 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ORDERING VIDEO CONTENT USING A LINK - A method and system for ordering content includes a content processing system and a device in communication with the content ordering system. The device displaying a link corresponding to content and accessing a content ordering system by selecting the link. The content processing system enables a content recording request. A user receiving device receives the content associated with the link in response to the content recording request and stores the content in a memory. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057469 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ORDERING CONTENT USING A VOICE MENU SYSTEM - A method and system for ordering content includes a voice menu system and a phone device communicating a phone signal to the voice menu system. The voice menu system determines the phone number associated with the phone device through the phone signal and generates a voice prompt for recording a content selection from the voice menu system. The phone device selects a recording content option. The voice menu system generates prompts for determining a content title. The phone device selects a content title by communicating a selection signal to the voice menu system. The voice menu system enables a content recording at a recording device in response to the selection signal. | 03-04-2010 |
20100037263 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SCHEDULING INTERACTIVE CONTENT IN A BROADCAST COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system and method for communicating with a user device includes an interactive head end and a broadcast channel management system communicating content channel data to the interactive head end. The interactive head end forms a streaming service in response to the content channel data and communicates interactive content to the user device in response to the streaming service. | 02-11-2010 |
20100005363 | CODE DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION IMPROVEMENTS FOR LOW DENSITY PARITY CHECK CODES FOR WIRELESS ROUTERS USING 802.11N PROTOCOL - Method and apparatus for implementing LDPC codes in an IEEE 802.11 standard system configured to operate in a Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MIMO) schema. A method in accordance with the present invention comprises defining a base LDPC code, having a length equal to an integer number of data carriers in an ODFM symbol, transmitting the base LDPC code over a plurality of sub-carriers, wherein the base code is transmitted at an expected phase on sub-carriers specified by the IEEE 802.11 standard system, and transmitting the base LDPC code on other sub-carriers than those specified by the IEEE 802.11 standard system, wherein the base LDPC code on the other sub-carriers is transmit offset in phase from the base LDPC code on the specified sub-carriers. | 01-07-2010 |
20090327451 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR AIRCRAFT MULTIMEDIA DISTRIBUTION - A method, system and computer program product for aircraft multimedia distribution, including a multimedia server provided within an aircraft of an airline and a multimedia communications network within the aircraft coupled to the multimedia server. The multimedia server is configured to distribute, over the aircraft multimedia communications network, multimedia in-flight to a device of a passenger for at least one of viewing, listening and purchasing by the passenger. | 12-31-2009 |
20090320069 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ELECTRONIC PROGRAM GUIDE TEMPORAL CONTENT ORGANIZATION - A method and system which temporally sorts data such as program guide data for example, to ensure that near-term data (i.e. most likely to be used, or “now data”) is always available for rapid access from a physical memory location such as a high-speed temporal cache. The method incorporates two low-priority background processes or algorithms, termed “event horizons” into the storage and manipulation of the data so that applications using the data may be run without having to always access a mass storage device. The method and system are highly applicable to all set top boxes (STBs) used in various communication systems such as satellite communication, Cable-TV and DVB systems. The method and system are economical in that superior STB and/or system performance may be obtained with the inclusion of lesser amounts of expensive high-speed RAM. | 12-24-2009 |
20090319896 | VISUAL INDICATORS ASSOCIATED WITH A MEDIA PRESENTATION SYSTEM - Visual indicators associated with a media presentation system are described. An example apparatus includes a media presentation system in which one or more events may occur; an event controller to detect an event that causes the media presentation system to generate a sound to inform a user of a condition and to determine if the user is able to audibly receive the sound; and a visual indicator corresponding to the condition to be displayed in response to a determination that the user is unable to audibly receive the sound. | 12-24-2009 |
20090300684 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF MARKING AND RECORDING CONTENT OF INTEREST IN A BROADCAST STREAM - A system and method for marking and recording content includes a network operation center receiving an incoming programming stream, monitoring the incoming programming stream, generating descriptive data corresponding to the programming stream, combining the descriptive data with the programming stream to form a composite signal and broadcasting the composite signal to a receiving unit. The system may also include a receiving unit having a monitoring term stored therein. The receiving unit monitors the composite signal for the monitoring term within the descriptive data and storing content or sub-content in a memory of the receiving unit when a monitoring term corresponds to the descriptive data. | 12-03-2009 |
20090299968 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO SAVE SEARCH DATA - Methods and apparatus to save search data are described. An example method for use in media presentation system includes receiving one or more characters to form a search string to be used in a first type of search; converting the search string to one or more keywords to be used in a second type of search; and storing the one or more keywords in a collection of keyword search data to enable a selection of stored keyword search data to perform a search of the second type. | 12-03-2009 |
20090293087 | BACKWARDS COMPATIBLE REAL-TIME PROGRAM GUIDE CAPACITY INCREASE - A system and method for transmitting program guide information describing a second set of programs to subscribers is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method is implemented in a network broadcasting a first signal having a first set of programs and a second signal having a second set of programs. The method comprises the steps of broadcasting first program guide information describing the first set of programs to the subscribers on a first service channel on a first signal and broadcasting second program guide information describing the second set of programs to a subset of the subscribers on the first service channel on a second signal, wherein a fundamental signal characteristic of the second signal differs from the fundamental signal characteristic of the first signal. In another embodiment, the method comprises the steps of receiving first program guide information describing the first set of programs on a first service channel on a first signal; and receiving second program guide information describing the second set of programs on the first service channel on a second signal, wherein a fundamental signal characteristic of the second signal differs from the fundamental signal characteristic of the first signal. | 11-26-2009 |
20090288129 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ADAPTIVE TRANSCODING AND TRANSRATING IN A VIDEO NETWORK - A video server adaptively selects an appropriate video encoding standard and an appropriate video encoding rate for encoding video content to be downloaded to one or more video client devices over a communication network. The video server adaptively selects the video encoding standard and the video encoding rate based upon factors such as the data transmission rate of the communication network, the processing speed of the video client device, or the type of the video content to be downloaded. Once the video encoding standard and the video encoding rate are selected, video content can be transcoded prior to downloading to one or more video client devices. During the download, the video content may be adaptively transrated, such as in response to a change in the data transmission rate of the communication network. | 11-19-2009 |
20090282449 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INTERFACING CONTENT BETWEEN DEVICES - A communication interface device and method for operating the same includes a communication module receiving a request for a content list from a first user device and a list module generating a content list. The communication module communicates the content list device to the first user device and receives a content selection from the user device. A control module initiates a transfer of content corresponding to the content selection from a content storage device. The communication module receives the content at the communication interface device from the content storage device and communicates the content to the first user device. | 11-12-2009 |
20090271399 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SEARCHING CONTENT AT A PRIMARY SERVICE PROVIDER THROUGH A PARTNER SERVICE PROVIDER - A method and system for generating a search includes a user device, a partner service provider in communication with the user network device, and a primary service provider in communication with the partner service provider. The user device generates a search request for search data at the user device and communicates the search request to a partner service provider. The partner service provider communicates the search request to a primary service provider. The primary service provider generates search results data and communicates search results data to the user device. The user device displays the search results on a display device associated with the user device. | 10-29-2009 |
20090259957 | CONFIGURABLE ICONS FOR CONTENT PRESENTATION - Overlay applications for use in a media presentation system are described. An example method for use with broadcast media includes maintaining a collection of overlay applications to be displayed in connection with the broadcast media; enabling a user to select and configure one or more of the overlay applications for presentation on a media presentation system; executing one or more selected overlay applications to display periodically updated information associated with the overlay applications. | 10-15-2009 |
20090213904 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ORTHOGONALLY OVERLAYING VARIABLE CHIP RATE SPREAD SPECTRUM SIGNALS - A system and method for transmitting wideband signals via a radio communication system adapted for transmitting narrow-band signals is described. A base station is used to transmit and receive a plurality of relatively narrow-band and a plurality of relatively wideband signals. The electromagnetic spectrum available to the plurality of narrow-band signals is selectively shared with the electromagnetic spectrum available to the wideband signals by systematically separating the orthogonal codes and the carrier frequencies used for transmission. The prefixes of the orthogonal codes are preferably mutually exclusive and the carrier frequencies are preferably separated by an offset. The offset may be substantially equal to an integer multiple of the narrow-band signal's chip rate. Alternatively, the offset may be substantially equal to an odd multiple of one half the narrow-band signal's chip rate in which case every other bit of the orthogonally encoded data is inverted. | 08-27-2009 |
20090209348 | LIVE IN-GAME SPECTATOR FOR USE IN TELEVISION PRODUCTION - Systems, methods, and devices for presenting video game contests via television are presented. A system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises a network of gaming platforms, wherein the network of gaming platforms comprise at least one player platform and at least one spectator platform, the at least one spectator platform having a viewing perspective different from that of the at least one player platform, each gaming platform in the network of gaming platforms having a video output, a plurality of converters, each converter in the plurality of converters respectively coupled to the video outputs of the gaming platforms, a production facility, coupled to the plurality of converters, for viewing the video outputs of the gaming platforms via the plurality of converters and for selecting a chosen video output to be broadcast, and a broadcast system, coupled to the production facility, for distributing the chosen video output. | 08-20-2009 |
20090209347 | START OF GAME DELAY VIA SPECTATOR FUNCTION FOR USE IN TELEVISION PRODUCTION - Systems, methods, and apparatuses for presenting video game contests via television. A system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention comprises a network of gaming platforms, wherein the network of gaming platforms comprise at least one player platform and at least one spectator platform, each gaming platform in the network of gaming platforms having a video output, wherein the at least one spectator platform has a delayed start in the video game contest, a plurality of converters, each converter in the plurality of converters respectively coupled to the video outputs of the gaming platforms, a production facility, coupled to the plurality of converters, for viewing the video outputs of the gaming platforms via the plurality of converters and for selecting a chosen video output to be broadcast, and a broadcast system, coupled to the production facility, for distributing the chosen video output. | 08-20-2009 |
20090193458 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMISSION, RECEIPT AND DISPLAY OF ADVERTISEMENTS - An apparatus for the intelligent display of advertisements to a television services user includes a transmitter, a receiver and a display on which an electronic television program guide, television programs, and advertisements are displayed. Advertising and electronic program guide data are transmitted to a receiver used by one or more television service users. The electronic program guide data includes information characterizing television programs listed in an electronic program guide. Similarly, the advertising data includes advertisements and information characterizing the transmitted advertisements. A selection history contains information characterizing those programs selected by a user for viewing. Received advertisements are displayed to the user based upon a comparison between the information characterizing each of the plurality of advertisements and the information in the selection history. | 07-30-2009 |
20090187811 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING LOW DENSITY PARITY CHECK (LDPC) ENCODING - An approach is provided for a method of encoding structure Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) codes. Memory storing information representing a structured parity check Matrix of Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) codes is accessed during the encoding process. The information is organized in tabular form, wherein each row represents occurrences of one Values within a first column of a group of columns of the parity check matrix. The rows correspond to groups of columns of the parity check matrix, wherein subsequent columns within each of the groups are derived according to a predetermined operation. An LDPC coded signal is output based on the stored information representing the parity check matrix. | 07-23-2009 |
20090183050 | FORWARD ERROR CORRECTION SCHEME FOR DATA CHANNELS USING UNIVERSAL TURBO CODES - A method of providing forward error correction for data services uses a parallel concatenated convolutional code which is a Turbo Code comprising a plurality of eight-state constituent encoders wherein a plurality of data block sizes are used in conjunction with said Turbo Code. A variation uses the method in a cellular radio system. Another variation uses the method in both forward and reverse likes of a cellular radio system. | 07-16-2009 |
20090180487 | ADAPTATION OF DIAL-UP DEVICES TO BROADBAND FACILITIES - A method and system for dial-up device ( | 07-16-2009 |
20090178069 | INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER CALLBACK FOR SATELLITE SYSTEMS - A method, apparatus, article of manufacture, and a memory structure for delivering purchase information comprising storing purchase information for a purchase of a user in a set top box. The set top box (STB) is configured to receive and display the broadcast signals through a tuner onto a display device. The STB establishes a connection to the Internet through a user initiated action (e.g., when the user accesses the Internet using the STB). A new transmission control/Internet protocol (TCP/IP) connection is obtained using the established user-initiated Internet connection without the user requesting the connection. A secure electronic connection is established with a server through the new TCP/IP connection. The purchase information is then transmitted from the STB through the secure electronic connection to the server. | 07-09-2009 |
20090175327 | EQUALIZERS FOR LAYERED MODULATED AND OTHER SIGNALS - A method and apparatus for equalizing digital data signals is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of demodulating and decoding an input signal having input data to produce a data output, remodulating the data output to produce a training sequence including an idealized input signal, wherein the training sequence is comprised of adjacent symbols in the input data, and generating equalizer parameters from the training sequence. The apparatus comprises a demodulator (for demodulating an input signal to produce a data output), a modulator communicatively coupled to the demodulator (for remodulating the data output to produce a training sequence including an idealized input signal wherein the training sequence is comprised of adjacent symbols in the input data), and a parameter generation module communicatively coupled to the modulator (for generating equalizer parameters from the training sequence). | 07-09-2009 |
20090172722 | SERVICE ACTIVATION OF SET-TOP BOX FUNCTIONALITY USING BROADCAST CONDITIONAL ACCESS SYSTEM - A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture provide the ability to activate functionality in a set-top box | 07-02-2009 |
20090168916 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING MULTI-INPUT-MULTI-OUTPUT (MIMO) DOWNLINK TRANSMISSION - An approach is provided for supporting transmission in a multi-input-multi-output (MIMO) communication system including a plurality of terminals. A preamble portion of a frame is transmitted by a multiple transmit antennas of a hub using Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) to the terminals over a channel, wherein each of the terminals determines a characteristic of the channel with respect to the transmit antennas as feedback information. The hub receives the feedback information from the terminals. The hub selects, according to the feedback information, a subset of the antennas for transmission of a remaining portion of the frame to the terminal. | 07-02-2009 |
20090158117 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING LONG AND SHORT BLOCK LENGTH LOW DENSITY PARITY CHECK (LDPC) CODES - An approach is provided for generating Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) codes. An LDPC encoder generates a LDPC code with an outer Bose Chaudhuri Hocquenghem (BCH) code. For 1/3 rate, the relevant parameters are as follows: q=120, n | 06-18-2009 |
20090097589 | LOWER COMPLEXITY LAYERED MODULATION SIGNAL PROCESSOR - A method and apparatus for transmitting and receiving a coded signal having an upper layer signal and a lower layer signal is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of combining the upper layer signal and the lower layer signal, encoding the combined upper layer signal and lower layer signal, delaying the upper layer signal, modulating the delayed upper layer signal, modulating the lower layer signal, transmitting the delayed upper layer signal and transmitting the lower layer signal. The apparatus comprises an encoder, for encoding a combined upper layer signal and lower layer signal, a delay, communicatively coupled to the encoder, for delaying the upper layer signal, a first modulator, for modulating the delayed upper layer signal, a second modulator, for modulating the lower layer signal, a transmitter, communicatively coupled to the first modulator, for transmitting the delayed upper layer signal, and a second transmitter, communicatively coupled to the second modulator. | 04-16-2009 |
20090094501 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO SELECT TORNADO ERROR CORRECTION PARAMETER - Methods and apparatus to select Tornado forward error correction parameters for delivery systems are disclosed. A disclosed example system includes a transmitter station comprising a processor to select a Tornado error correction parameter based on an error correction configuration for a file and to indicate to a receiver the selected Tornado error correction parameter, and a Tornado error correction circuit to encode the file based on the selected Tornado error correction parameter. | 04-09-2009 |
20090073917 | FEEDER LINK CONFIGURATIONS TO SUPPORT LAYERED MODULATION FOR DIGITAL SIGNALS - Systems and methods are disclosed for feeder link configurations to layered modulation. One feeder link system employs feeder link spot beam to antennas in distinct coverage areas to enable frequency reuse. Another system employs narrow beam width feeder link antenna to illuminate individual satellites also enabling frequency reuse. Yet another system uses layered modulation in the feeder link. Another feeder link system employs a higher order synchronous modulation for the satellite feeder link than is used in the layered modulation downlink signals. | 03-19-2009 |
20090073318 | MOSAIC CHANNEL VIDEO STREAM WITH INTERACTIVE SERVICES - An interactive mosaic channel video stream with indicators as to the action on a given video stream. The interactive mosaic channel is displayed on a video monitor, with a plurality of individual video feeds being presented at a given time, comprising a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell associated with one of the plurality of individual video feeds, each video cell further comprising an area within the video cell reporting data related to the video feed, and a cursor, which can be moved between the plurality of video cells, for selecting at least one characteristic associated with a selected video cell, such that the user can then directly select a video program associated with the selected video cell. | 03-19-2009 |
20090070846 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING AND CONTROLLING A LOCAL COLLECTION FACILITY FROM A REMOTE FACILITY USING AN ASYNCHRONOUS TRANSFER MODE (ATM) NETWORK - A system of local television signals includes a plurality of local collection facilities. Each a local collection facilities includes a plurality of primary receiver decoder circuit modules comprising a first receiver decoder circuit module. The first receiver decoder circuit module receives a first channel signal and forms a first decoded signal. The local collection facility also includes an encoder in communication with the first receiver decoder circuit module forming an encoded signal. A multiplexer multiplexing the first encoded signal into a multiplexed signal and a network switch communicating the multiplexed signal through a network. Collectively, the plurality of local collection facilities communicates a plurality of multiplexed signals through the network. The system also includes a remote collection facility in communication with the plurality of local collection facilities that generate an output signal in response to the plurality of multiplexed signals. The multiplexed signal may be formed into ATM signals before communication through the network. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070838 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING BETWEEN A LOCAL COLLECTION FACILITY AND A REMOTE FACILITY - A system and method for operating the same includes an IP network, a remote facility and a local collection facility in communication with the local collection facility through the IP network. The local collection facility receives local channel signals at a local collection facility and encodes the local channel signals into respective IP signals. The local collection facility includes a router routing the respective IP signals through an IP network to a remote facility. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070837 | Method and System for Forming a Countdown Clock Channel Output - A system and method includes an automation system and a scheduling system generating a schedule having a countdown time for a countdown clock assembly and communicating the schedule to an automation system. The system also includes a content repository storing promotional content and a clock background in the content repository. The automation system retrieves the promotional content and the clock background from the content repository, stores the promotional content and the clock background, forms a countdown clock assembly from the promotional content and the clock background and inserts the countdown clock assembly into a channel signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070830 | Method and System for Monitoring a Receiving Circuit Module and Controlling Switching to a Back-up Receiving Circuit Module at a Local Collection Facility from a Remote Facility - A system and method for remotely collecting signals includes a local collection facility comprising a plurality of primary receiving circuit modules comprising a first receiving circuit module. The first receiving circuit module receives a first channel signal and forms a first encoded signal. The system further includes a remote facility having a multiplexer, and a router routing the first encoded signal to the multiplexer. The remote facility generates an output signal in response to the first encoded signal. A monitoring system receives an error signal from the first receiving circuit module. The router routes the error signal of the first receiving circuit module to the monitoring system. The system also includes a back-up receiving circuit module. The router routes the first channel signal to the back-up receiving circuit module to form a second encoded signal. The monitoring system monitors the second encoded signal. The router routes the second encoded signal at the local collection facility to the multiplexer at the remote facility in response to monitoring the second encoded signal. The remote facility forms the output signal in response to the second encoded signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070829 | RECEIVING CIRCUIT MODULE FOR RECEIVING AND ENCODING CHANNEL SIGNALS AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE SAME - A receiving circuit module and method for operating the same includes a housing having a first receiver, a second receiver, a serial digital interface and an input-output port disposed therein. The receiving circuit module includes an encoder disposed within the housing and in communication with the first receiver, the second receiver and the serial digital interface. The receiver circuit module also includes a controller disposed within the housing receiving a control signal, switching between the first receiver, the second receiver and serial digital interface in response to the control signal and generating an encoded output signal corresponding to the first receiver, the second receiver and serial digital interface. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070827 | Method and System for Monitoring and Switching Between Primary and Back-up Receiver Decoder Circuits in a Communication System - A system and method for switching between receiver and decoder circuits includes a first receiver receiving a first channel signal and forming a first channel signal, a second receiver receiving the first channel signal and forming a second channel signal and a monitoring system monitoring the first channel signal and the second channel signal and generating a monitoring signal. The system also includes a transfer switch in communication with the first channel signal and the second channel signal. The monitoring system controls the switching of the transfer switch from the first signal to the second signal in response to the monitoring signal. The transfer switch forms a switch output signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070826 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING SIGNALS FROM A LOCAL COLLECTION FACILITY AT A SIGNAL PROCESSING FACILITY - A system and method for processing signal in a remote facility includes an IP network and a first local collection facility that includes a first plurality of receiving circuit modules receiving a first plurality of channel signals and generating a first plurality of IP encoded signals from the first plurality of channel signals and a first router routing the first plurality of encoded signals to the IP network. The system also includes a second local collection facility comprising a second plurality of receiving circuit modules receiving a second plurality of channel signals and generating a second plurality of IP encoded signals from the second plurality of channel signals and a second router routing the second plurality of encoded signals to the IP network. The system also includes a remote facility having a statistical multiplexer in communication with the IP network. The remote facility includes a compression system controller configuring the statistical multiplexer and at least one of the first plurality of receiving circuit modules and at least one of the second plurality of receiving circuit modules to form a multicast group so that at least one of the first plurality of encoded signals and at least one of the second plurality of encoded signals are multiplexed together with the statistical multiplexer to form an output signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070825 | Method and System for Monitoring and Controlling Receiving Circuit Modules at a Local Collection Facility From a Remote Facility - A system and method for controlling receiving circuit module includes a remote facility, an IP network and a local collection facility in communication with the remote facility through the IP network. The local collection facility includes a plurality of primary receiving circuit modules having a first encoder. The local collection facility generates a receiving circuit module monitoring signal. The local collection facility communicates the monitoring signal to the remote facility through the IP network. The monitoring system generates a receiving circuit module control signal in response to the monitoring signal communicates the receiving circuit module control signal to the receiving circuit module through the IP network. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070824 | Method and System for Monitoring and Switching Between Primary and Back-up Uplink Signal Processing Circuits in a Satellite Communication System - A system and method includes a first uplink signal processing circuit, a second uplink signal processing circuit and an IP network communicating the plurality of channel signals to the first uplink signal processing circuit to form a first output signal. A monitoring system monitors the first uplink signal processing circuit and generates a monitoring signal. The monitoring system redirects the channel signals to the second uplink signal processing circuit to form a second plurality of output signal signals. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070823 | Method and System for Monitoring and Switching Between a Primary and Diverse Site in a Satellite Communication System - A system and method for generating an output signal includes a diverse site, a communication network and a primary site in communication with the diverse site through the communication network. A transport processing system at the primary site communicates a first signal to the diverse site through the communication network. The diverse site generates a first diverse modulator signal at a first diverse modulator and a second diverse modulator signal at a second diverse modulator. The diverse site having a switch coupled to the first diverse modulator and the second diverse modulator and generating a switch output signal corresponding to the first diverse modulator signal and the second diverse modulator signal. The primary site monitors first diverse modulator signal and the second diverse modulator signal and controls the switch in response thereto. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070822 | Method and System for Monitoring and Simultaneously Displaying a Plurality of Signal Channels in a Communication System - A system includes a ground segment and a monitoring system displaying first thread view for a first channel and displaying a second thread view for a second channel. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070821 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A MONITORING SYSTEM FOR A SATELLITE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system and method of monitoring a signals include an occasional router generating a first output signal, a first service access processing system generating a second output signal and a second service access processing system generating a third output signal. A secondary service access processing system router receives the first output signal, the second output signal and the third output signal. A monitoring system selects at least one of the first output signal, the second output signal and the third output signal for monitoring and generates a video output signal. A monitoring display displays the output signal on a first display. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070808 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRACKING ACTUAL CHANNEL CONTENT OUTPUT - A system and method includes a first automation system generating a first run log a first on air status and a second automation system generating a second run log having a second on-air status. A billing module receives a consolidated run log corresponding to the first on-air status from the first run log and the second on-air status from the second run log. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070807 | Method and System for Placing Inserts into a Broadcast Television Signal - A system and method includes a content repository storing insert material therein and a scheduling system assigning an insert material identification to the insert material and generating an insertion schedule having an insertion time corresponding to the insert material identification. The system also includes an automation server in communication with the scheduling system. The automation server receives the insertion schedule, retrieves the insertion material from the content repository, stores the content therein in response to the insertion time, receives a content signal with a trigger and inserts the insert material into the content signal in response to the trigger and the trigger time to form a modified content signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070803 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REAL-TIME RECONCILIATION FOR UNUSED CONTENT - A method and system includes a scheduling system generating a pre-break window and a post-break window and an automation system in communication with the scheduling system receiving a content signal and generating a deviation signal when an expected trigger for an insert material is not within the pre-break window or post-break window. The scheduling system reschedules the insert material in response to the deviation signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070802 | Method and System for Interrupting Inserted Material in a Content Signal - A system and method includes an automation system generating a modified content signal from a content signal by inserting insertion material into the content signal during a break and a monitoring system monitoring the content signal. The automation system controls the automation system to return to the content signal in response to monitoring the content signal when the break ends on the content signal before an end of the insertion material. | 03-12-2009 |
20090070799 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRACKING ACTUAL CHANNEL CONTENT PLAYOUT IN THE EVENT OF AN ENCODER FAILURE - A system and method includes an automation system receiving a content signal and generating a run log in response to the content signal, an encoder and a monitoring system monitoring an encoder and generating an encoder status signal. The automation system updates the run log in response to the encoder status signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090069021 | Method and System for Monitoring and Switching Between a First Uplink Signal Processing Circuit and a Second Uplink Signal Processing Circuit - An uplink signal processing system and method of operating the same includes a primary signal processing circuit generating a primary output signal and a secondary signal processing circuit generating a secondary output signal. The uplink signal processing system includes a switch communicating with the primary signal processing circuit and the secondary signal processing circuit. A monitoring and control system monitors the primary signal processing circuit and the secondary signal processing circuit and generates a monitoring signal and controlling the switch to switch from the primary signal processing circuit to the secondary signal processing circuit in response to the monitoring signal. The switch forms an output signal in response to switching. | 03-12-2009 |
20090068959 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A RECEIVING CIRCUIT FOR MULTIPLE TYPES OF INPUT CHANNEL SIGNALS - A receiving circuit module for receiving different types of channel signals includes a housing having a first input, a second input and an input-output port disposed therein and a controller receiving a control signal. The controller switches between the first input and second output and generates an output signal corresponding to the first input or the second input in response to the control signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090068953 | METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR MINIMIZING CO-CHANNEL INTERFERENCE - Methods and apparatuses for minimizing co-channel interference in communications systems are disclosed. A method in accordance with the present invention comprises scrambling a first frame using a first scrambling code, attaching a first header to the first frame to create the first signal, scrambling a second frame using a second scrambling code, attaching a second header to the second frame to create the second signal, and transmitting the first signal and the second signal over different channels of the communication system. | 03-12-2009 |
20090068941 | Method and System for Monitoring and Displaying Signals Corresponding to a Transponder of a Satellite in a Satellite Communication System - A method and system for monitoring signals corresponding to a satellite having a first transponder generating a first plurality of channel signals, a plurality of integrated receiver decoders receiving the first plurality of signals and generating a first plurality of received channel signals corresponding to the first plurality of channel signals and a monitoring system displaying all of the first plurality of received channel signals corresponding to the first transponder. | 03-12-2009 |
20090067490 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING AND SWITCHING BETWEEN A PRIMARY ENCODER AND A BACK-UP ENCODER IN A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system and method for switching to a back-up encoder includes a first encoder processing a first channel signal to form a first encoded signal, a second encoder an uplink signal processing system generating a first uplink signal from the first encoded signal. A monitoring system previews the first channel signal encoded through the second encoder while the uplink signal processing system generates the first broadcast signal using the first channel signal encoded through the first encoder. The monitoring system redirects the first channel signal through the second encoder to form a second encoded signal. The uplink signal processing system generates a second broadcast signal with the first channel signal through the second encoder. | 03-12-2009 |
20090067489 | Method and System for Monitoring a Content Signal - A system and method for monitoring a signal includes a monitoring display and an automation system receiving the content signal and either captures an I-frame of the content signal or encodes the content signal into an MPEG signal. The automation system communicates the I-frame or MPEG encoded signal to a display. | 03-12-2009 |
20090067480 | Method and System for Monitoring Various Signals in a Continuous Processing Circuit for a Single Channel in a Communication System - A method and system for monitoring includes a transfer switch and a first receiver decoder circuit for a first channel coupled to the first transfer switch. The first receiver decoder circuit generates a first receiver decoder circuit signal. A second receiver decoder circuit for the first channel is coupled to the first transfer switch. The second receiver decoder circuit generates a second receiver decoder circuit signal. A monitoring display is formed in response to the first receiver decoder circuit signal and the second receiver decoder circuit signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090067433 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING A BACK-UP NETWORK ADAPTER IN A LOCAL COLLECTION FACILITY FROM A REMOTE FACILITY - A system and method suitable for processing television signals includes a local collection facility that has a plurality of receivers receiving a plurality of channel signals a plurality of encoders generating a first plurality of encoded signals from the plurality of channel signals, a multiplexer multiplexing the first plurality of encoded signals at a multiplexer to form first multiplexed signals, an ATM switch forming a primary ATM circuit between the local collection facility and the remote facility, and an ATM network adapter forming first ATM signals from the multiplexed signals and communicating the first ATM signals to a remote facility through the primary ATM circuit and the ATM switch. The system also includes a remote facility that includes a monitoring system generating control signals to tear down the primary ATM circuit and communicating the control signal to tear down the primary ATM circuit to the local collection facility. The ATM switch tears down the primary ATM circuit in response thereto. The multiplexer multiplexes a second plurality of encoded signals at the multiplexer to form second multiplexed signals. The ATM network adapter and the ATM switch forms a secondary ATM circuit between the local collection facility and the remote facility and forms secondary ATM signals from the second multiplexed signals. The ATM adapter communicates the secondary ATM signals to the remote facility through the secondary ATM circuit. The remote facility generates an output signal at the remote facility in response to the secondary ATM signals. | 03-12-2009 |
20090067432 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING A BACK-UP MULTIPLEXER IN A LOCAL COLLECTION FACILITY FROM A REMOTE FACILITY - A system and method suitable for processing television signals includes a remote facility and a local collection facility in communication with the remote facility. The local facility has a plurality of receivers receiving a plurality of channel signals and a plurality of encoders generating a plurality of encoded signals from the plurality of channel signals. The local collection facility includes a primary multiplexer multiplexing the plurality of encoded signals to form a first multiplexed signal and communicates the first multiplexed signal to the remote facility. A monitoring system at a remote facility commanding switching to a back-up multiplexer at the local collection facility. The back-up multiplexer multiplexing the plurality of encoded signals to form a second multiplexed signal and communicating the second multiplexed signal to the remote facility. The remote facility generating an output signal in response to the second multiplexed signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090067365 | Method and System for Switching to an Engineering Signal Processing System from a Production Signal Processing System - A system and method for transitioning to a back-up or engineering signal processing system includes a remote facility having multiplexers and a primary signal processing system generating a first output signal, an IP network, and a plurality of local collection facilities generating a plurality of channel signals through a plurality of receiving circuit modules having respective encoders encoding the plurality of channel signals into a plurality of encoded signals. The plurality of local collection facilities communicating the plurality of encoded signals to the remote facility having a first signal processing system through the network. A first compression system controller is associated with the remote facility storing first configuration data for monitoring and controlling the plurality of receiving circuit modules and the multiplexers. An engineering compression system controller has an engineering signal processing system. The first compression system controller communicates the first configuration data to the engineering compression system controller. The engineering compression system controller configures the engineering signal processing system with the first configuration data. A router associated with the plurality of receiving circuit modules routing the plurality of encoded signals to the engineering signal processing system. The engineering signal processing system generates a second output signal from the plurality encoded signal. The first signal processing system discontinues generating the first output signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090066848 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING A BACK-UP RECEIVER AND ENCODER IN A LOCAL COLLECTION FACILITY FROM A REMOTE FACILITY - A system and method suitable for processing television signals includes a local collection facility that has a primary receiver and a primary encoder forming a broadcast signal in response to a first channel signal received at the receiver. The system also includes a remote facility having a monitoring system monitoring the local collection facility at the remote facility. A back-up receiver at the local facility tuning to the first channel, generating a back-up receiver signal for the first channel and communicating the back-up receiver signal to the remote facility from the local collection facility. The monitoring system displays the back-up receiver signal. The remote facility switches the broadcast signal to correspond to the back-up receiver signal. | 03-12-2009 |
20090064237 | USER-SELECTABLE VARIABLE-SIZED CHIP OVERLAY OF VIDEO BROADCAST - The present invention comprises an interactive system and method for displaying a chip (or overlay video) on a video monitor. A system in accordance with the present invention comprises a first video stream presenting at least video information, the first video stream comprising a viewer channel, and an overlay video, displayed simultaneously with the first video stream, wherein the overlay video has a universal functionality with respect to at least one of a plurality of other video streams. | 03-05-2009 |
20090055876 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING AN OVERLAY CODE FOR A SET TOP BOX FROM AN EXTERNAL DEVICE - A communication system | 02-26-2009 |
20090052590 | LAYERED MODULATION FOR DIGITAL SIGNALS - Signals, systems and methods for transmitting and receiving layered modulation for digital signals are presented. A layered signal for transmitting data, comprises a first signal layer including a first carrier and first signal symbols for a first digital signal transmission and a second signal layer including a second carrier and second signal symbols for a second signal transmission disposed on the first signal layer, wherein the layered signal has the first carrier demodulated and first layer decoded to produce the first signal symbols for a first layer transport, the first signal symbols are remodulated and subtracted from the layered signal to produce the second signal layer, and the second signal layer has the second carrier demodulated and decoded to produce the second signal symbols for a second layer transport. | 02-26-2009 |