Abstract:
Backlighting lamps in an LCD are extinguished when they are in regions beyond the area of the demanded image produced by an associated LCD cell matrix that overlays the lamps. In some cases the size of the demanded image may be reduced according to a user-input energy savings mode and then lamps beyond the image region are extinguished. Energy savings are realized.
Abstract:
The present invention makes viewers surely view commercial programs.When a commercial program is broadcasted and displayed on a display (7A), a viewer is requested a response. The viewer operates a prescribed key in the ten key (32) of a remote controller (31) for response. If the viewer responds to the response request of the commercial program, points are added to a smart card (10). The viewer can view a pay program using the points recorded in the smart card (10).
Abstract:
An interceptor detects command signals from a TV remote control and logs the signals. The signals can be correlated not just to channel number but also to programs by accessing a program/channel database. A log of channels/programs that have been viewed by, e.g., a child can thus be obtained and viewed by a parent.
Abstract:
System and method for changing a current input terminal of a user device. In one embodiment of the invention, a method includes receiving an input terminal change request, requesting that a current input terminal be changed from a first input terminal to a second input terminal. The method may further include determining if an external device is connected to the second input terminal. In one embodiment of the invention, the second input terminal includes a connection detection switch. The method may also include switching to the second input terminal when the connection detection switch indicates an external device connection and skipping the second input terminal when the connection detection switch indicates no external device connected according to one embodiment of the invention.
Abstract:
An audio source (TV, stereo) detects, through a wireless signal from a headphone or from its cradle, when the headphone has been disengaged from the cradle. In response the audio device automatically mutes or lowers the volume output by its speakers.
Abstract:
Preferred format parameters including timing that is contained in an extended display information data (EDID) EEPROM in a digital video display system can be dynamically established by a user. In this way, when the video display system engages a source of video in a “plug and play” context, instead of communicating to the source what formats are supported and then accepting a format selected by the source, the preferred format is sent from the EEPROM to the source so that the video display system receives video from the source in the user-desired format.
Abstract:
A network includes an audio signal producing device, a content distributor communicatively coupled to the audio signal producing device, a router, a network communication medium communicatively coupling the content distributor and the router, and a plurality of addressable loudspeakers communicatively coupled to the network communication medium, wherein each of the addressable loudspeakers are configured to function as a network peripheral in the home network.
Abstract:
A system for sharing media content between peers over a communication medium. Content is authenticated prior to being downloaded, or stored, so that only content from designated peers, or based on other user selected criteria, reaches the user. Typically, content is stored at the destination site on a fixed or removable media prior to user content playback. Users are notified of content receipt, such as by an entry within a programming guide through which convenient user access of content may occur without the need to log onto the Internet or other service. The media content is then played back over a virtual channel that is selected by the user. The functionality of the system may be embodied within a separate unit or incorporated within set-top boxes, television sets, audio systems, gaming systems, personal computer system, or other interconnected electronic devices. Content may be communicated between peers on a device back-channel over a telephone system, Internet, cable network, powerline network, wireless connection, or direct wired link.
Abstract:
A television receiver selects an audio signal corresponding to one of a plurality of video signals and a caption signal respectively accompanying one of the plurality of video signals. At least one picture and the selected caption are displayed on a screen, the selected sound is output from a speaker. The video, audio and caption may be independently selected.
Abstract:
A method whereby the frequency of the clock of an internal bus of a sink of High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) data is reduced, and possibly deep color mode of a sink deactivated, in response to an inability of a source of HDMI data to read extended display identification data (EDID) and/or effect High Definition Content Protection (HDCP) authentication with the sink.