Apparatus for distributing subscription and on-demand audio programming
DCFirst Claim
1. A system for distributing subscription and on-demand audio programming, comprising:
- a high-capacity data storage medium;
a base control interface for identifying and accepting program material;
a mobile control interface for displaying the identity of recorded material for playback selection;
a recording mechanism for accepting very high speed digital data from an external source, at rates faster than real time;
a playback mechanism for retrieving stored data from said storage medium and for converting said data into audio signals for playback and;
means for detecting program material resolution and for reproducing said program material in accordance therewith.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A distribution system for audio program materials includes a portable audio storage and retrieval device that is programmable from a high speed data transfer system, and that includes a high-capacity data storage medium, a base control interface for identifying and accepting program material, a mobile control interface for displaying the identity of recorded material for playback selection, a recording mechanism for accepting very high speed digital data from an external source at rates faster than real time, and a playback mechanism for retrieving the stored data from the storage medium and for converting the data into audio signals for playback.
864 Citations
6 Claims
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1. A system for distributing subscription and on-demand audio programming, comprising:
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a high-capacity data storage medium; a base control interface for identifying and accepting program material; a mobile control interface for displaying the identity of recorded material for playback selection; a recording mechanism for accepting very high speed digital data from an external source, at rates faster than real time; a playback mechanism for retrieving stored data from said storage medium and for converting said data into audio signals for playback and; means for detecting program material resolution and for reproducing said program material in accordance therewith. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3)
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4. A method for distributing subscription and on-demand audio programming, comprising the steps of:
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attaching a portable device to a cable television converter; selecting a dedicated data exchange channel; providing a menu display that includes a catalog of available audio program material; selecting desired audio program material; tracking the duration of each selection; determining when the capacity of the storage medium in the portable device has been reached; choosing a payment display; authorizing billing for the program material; returning the cable television to a normal viewing mode of operation; transferring said audio program material to said portable device; providing a visual or audible indication when said portable device has completed reception of the requested audio program material; removing the portable device from the base location; and placing the portable device at mobile location for playback as desired. - View Dependent Claims (5)
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6. A method for distributing subscription and on-demand audio programming comprising the steps of:
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attaching a portable device to a cable television converter; selecting a dedicated data exchange channel; providing a menu display that includes a catalog of available audio program material; selecting desired audio program material; tracking the duration of each selection; determining when the capacity of the storage medium in said portable device has been reached; choosing a payment display; authorizing billing for said program material; returning the cable television to a normal viewing mode of operation; transferring said audio program material to said portable device; providing a visual or audible indication when said portable device has completed reception of the requested audio program material; removing said portable device from the base location; placing said portable device at a mobile location for playback as desired; detecting program material resolution; and reproducing said program material in accordance therewith.
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Specification