Media server and network for coaxial cable supporting legacy set top boxes
US8181208B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 7, 2003 |
| Grant date | May 15, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 12, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04N7/106
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A media server located in the home has video processing and storage capability. The media server receives video programming and control data from the cable plant head-end and receives status and control data from set top boxes (STBs). The media server can also receive locally generated video programming. The media server transmits signals that implement head-end functions to set top boxes within the home, including video programming and control data. The media server receives status data from the STBs. A point of entry distribution device provides signal coupling and blocking to allow signals to propagate within the home and to the head-end but block certain signals from leaving the home to maintain isolation. The server communicates to legacy STBs and to new STBs and devices that do not use the legacy waveform. Legacy STBs can communicate with the server or with the cable head-end. New devices can communicate with the server and with each other over the in-home coaxial cable wiring. A network is formed using the in-home coaxial cable wiring.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.