Audio program reception terminal for television delivery system
US7017178B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 1998 |
| Grant date | Mar 21, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N21/426
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The invention relates to apparatus and methods for upgrading a set top terminal for use with a cable television program delivery system. A hardware upgrade or expansion card is connected to a set top terminal to enhance the functionality of the set top terminal and to allow the set top terminal to receive digital audio programs. The hardware upgrade includes audio signal processing circuitry such as a tuner, demodulator, demultiplexor, decryptor, and decompressor. A microprocessor in the hardware upgrade enables the upgrade to accept subscriber inputs so as to select a particular digital audio program for listening. Subscriber inputs may be generated from a remote control and a menu system of the set top terminal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.