A method of simulating use of a television consistent with certain implementations of the present invention involves switching a television remote controller or a television STB to an operational mode in which a simulating function is activated. While in the simulating function is activated, the television receiver device is operated in a manner which to simulates operations that a user performs when using the television receiver device by changing operation at scheduled times, random times or random time intervals. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.