Interactive communication apparatus and system
First Claim
1. A television network, comprising:
- a transceiver structured to transmit a plurality of television signals;
a plurality of user devices structured to receive the plurality of television signals from the transceiver;
an access device located between the transceiver and the plurality of user devices, the access device structured to receive and transmit a status information.
3 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An apparatus and method for communicating with remote devices found on broadband networks is provided. One embodiment of the present invention obtains information characterizing the status of a device on the broadband network, and may also obtain information relating to communication parameters within the network. In addition, information that may lead to preventative maintenance may be obtained, thereby minimizing, if not eliminating, system failures. For example, remote devices within a multiple service operator'"'"'s system may provide information to the cable head-end to enable it to change, optimize, and/or modify signal transmission characteristics. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
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Citations
18 Claims
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1. A television network, comprising:
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a transceiver structured to transmit a plurality of television signals;
a plurality of user devices structured to receive the plurality of television signals from the transceiver;
an access device located between the transceiver and the plurality of user devices, the access device structured to receive and transmit a status information. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. A method of communication through a television network, the method comprising the steps of:
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providing a television network comprising a transceiver, a plurality of user devices, and an access device located between the transceiver and the plurality of user devices;
transmitting a message from the transceiver to the access device; and
receiving a response message at the transceiver from the access device. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17)
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18. A method of communication through a television network, comprising:
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means for providing a television network comprising a transceiver, a plurality of user devices, and an access device located between the transceiver and the plurality of user devices;
means for transmitting a message from the transceiver to the access device; and
means for receiving a response message at the transceiver from the access device.
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Specification