Methods and systems for controlling consumer electronics external devices via data delivered to a device
First Claim
1. A method of distributing tagged programming, the method comprising:
- receiving programming;
receiving a data tag with Electronic Programming Guide data, the data tag comprising control data relating to the programming, the data tag added to an end of a program description field in the Electronic Programming Guide data, the data tag comprises a command to mute a ringer on a telephony device;
stripping the data tag from the Electronic Programming Guide data; and
communicating the control data to a consumer electronics device.
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Abstract
This document discloses systems and methods for enabling viewers to control and manage programming and to control external consumer electronic devices through the use of a STB or other device. This invention provides command information that is embedded into an EPG signal and transmitted from a headend or transmission facility through a distribution network to the end user. By way of example, the program data includes volume, lighting, internet or environmental tag information for controlling external devices, such as a surround sound entertainment system, home environment system, personal computer, etc. A set top box or other properly configured consumer electronics device either receives data from the external device to effect programming or transmits data to the external device to optimize the viewing experience or to supplement information produced by the EPG.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A method of distributing tagged programming, the method comprising:
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receiving programming; receiving a data tag with Electronic Programming Guide data, the data tag comprising control data relating to the programming, the data tag added to an end of a program description field in the Electronic Programming Guide data, the data tag comprises a command to mute a ringer on a telephony device; stripping the data tag from the Electronic Programming Guide data; and communicating the control data to a consumer electronics device. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A method of receiving tagged programming, comprising:
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receiving electronic program guide data; receiving a data tag that has been added to an end of a program description in the electronic program guide data, the data tag comprising a command and a parameter to mute a ringer on a telephony device; stripping the data tag from the electronic program guide data; and communicating the command and the parameter to a consumer electronics device. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification