Method and apparatus for synchronizing the execution of multiple video game systems in a networked environment
US5775996A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 28, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jul 7, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 28, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA63F2300/408
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
The present invention is a means and method for synchronizing the execution of multiple video game systems in a networked environment with no external synchronization signals required. Video games and most computer display controllers are closed free-running systems. Because most such systems have the means to switch between an interlaced and non-interlaced operation, and because interlaced and non-interlaced modes have a relative timing variation, the timing between two or more such closed free-running systems can be synchronized. This method allows synchronization with an imprecise timing reference. The vertical display timing is the free-running oscillator and the interlaced/non-interlaced mode transition is used as the timing adjustment means. The actual arrival time of data in a communication medium connecting two systems being synchronized is used in relation to an expected arrival time to provide the clock reference.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.