Abstract:
A remote control for one or more appliances and a telephone handset are combined into a single unit. A common keypad is used for both remote control and telephone functions. An appliance control signal is generated in response to the actuation of at least one of the keypad keys. The appliance control signal is transmitted via an infrared communication link. A telephone control signal is generated in response to the actuation of at least one of the keypad keys, and transmitted via an infrared or radio frequency communication link. Telephone audio signals from a microphone and to an earphone are communicated via a radio frequency communication link. The remote control/telephone handset is particularly advantageous for use in combination with a cable television converter/descrambler or satellite television receiver.
Abstract:
A video distribution system (e.g., CATV or MATV) employs at least one channel having a reception-defeating jamming signal which changes frequency periodically or, preferably, randomly. The signal originating head end distributes information characterizing the operative frequency of the jamming wave.At controller apparatus for authorized viewers, the jamming frequency specifying data is employed on a frequency agile basis of heterodyne the protected channel into a proper (fixed) frequency relationship with a notch band suppression filter to remove the jamming signal. The secure channel with the jamming wave removed is then again shifted to its original or other intended frequency to permit normal reception either directly by a standard television receiver, or via a frequency converter.
Abstract:
In one embodiment, an intelligent fishing system is provided to enable more accurate fishing in different water types and conditions. The system includes a fishing rod having a reel, the reel comprising at least a portion of a fiber optic cable, and a first device connected at or near a first end of the fiber optic cable, the first device having a controller and at least one camera. The system further includes a fiber optic receiver located at or near the fishing rod, the fiber optic receiver coupled to a second end the fiber optic cable and configured to receive optical signals from the first device through the fiber optic cable. Further, the system includes and a processor operably coupled to the fiber optic receiver and to a display.
Abstract:
A videophone system providing high resolution video transmission between videophones utilizes compressed video signals and audio signals which may be transmitted through any communications network, with the system providing real time adaptive error recovery and synchronization between the audio and video signals to produce high quality video images and sound. The system is highly resilient, adapting in real time to changing conditions in a network or to network errors due to data corruption or loss that can be produced, for example, by noise or line losses, thereby substantially eliminating fitter, signal packet loss or delay, or other errors which produce signal degradation.
Abstract:
System and method for providing personal videotelephony in which a plurality of videophones are connected to a communications network that is configured for transmitted video and audio communications. Each of the videophones typically includes a camera, display device, telephone keypad, speaker and microphone all of which are operatively connected. The videophones further include means for selectably receiving and transmitting signals over the communications network, which signals represent images and/or sound, and for selectably displaying the signals representing any received signals representing the images on the display screen, and for playing any received signals representing the sounds on said speaker. Means are also provided for selectably accessing a remote location, such as, but not limited to, another videophone, using information entered or selected by a user of the videophone, and to retrieve the signals representing the images and sounds being transmitted from the remote location. In one or more embodiments the present invention further includes at least one networks operation center to store information related to the operation of the videophones and to facilitate the operation of the videophones.
Abstract:
A method and provides for transmitting a time reference throughout a residence or other facility for use by appliances operating within the facility. A time reference is received from the headend of a cable television (CATV) system at the subscriber converter and is retransmitted to set the internal clock timers of residential appliances throughout the house. The time reference is received by the CATV converter, then encoded and modulated for transmission on the residential AC wiring system which also carries AC power to all of the appliances in the house. Individual appliances receive the encoded time reference from the AC power line, demodulate the received signal and use the received time reference to set its internal clock timer. In such manner, a residential appliance does not need to have its internal clock set by the consumer.
Abstract:
Subscriber apparatus for a cable television system or the like comprises a converter/descrambler and a programmable remote control. All authorization data for premium services and features a subscriber is entitled to receive are stored in the remote control. Program/interface apparatus is provided to enable a subscriber to request additional premium services or features, such as pay-per-view programming. Authorization data for the requested services or features are transmitted by the program/interface apparatus to the remote control via an infrared signal path. A similar signal path is used by the remote control in controlling the converter/descrambler to provide the authorized services and features, such as the descrambling of a premium television channel.
Abstract:
Remotely switchable signal source modules are mounted to a cable television converter to enable a viewer to select between alternate television signal sources. Power for the module is provided via the converter's RF input terminal, which mates with a corresponding terminal on the module. An RF bypass module enables the viewer to utilize the features of a cable ready television when connected to a cable television network. Simultaneous viewing and recording of different channels can also be accommodated. An input A/B switch module enables the viewer to select between alternate cable system inputs. An output A/B switch module provides compliance with FCC requirements permitting viewing of off-the-air channels not carried on a cable system.