System and method for searching a database of television schedule information

Abstract

Compressed codes of as few as 1 to 8 digits, which are decoded by a decoder to convert the compressed code into channel, date, time and length information, identify single TV programs or a category of programs and are stored at a central location accessible over telephone lines through pay-per-use, toll free or regular toll numbers from remote locations. The channel, date, time and length information is used to select channels, start recording, and stop recording at the appropriate time or to control viewing on a TV.

Description

[0001]This is a continuation in part of a pending patent application, which has not yet been assigned a Serial No., filed Mar. 5, 1993, which is a continuation in part of patent application Ser. No. 08 / 000,934 filed Jan. 5, 1993, which is a continuation in part of pending patent application Ser. No. 07 / 965,075 filed Oct. 22, 1992, which is a continuation of pending patent application Ser. No. 07 / 877,687 filed May 1, 1992, now abandoned, which is a continuation in part of patent application Ser. No. 07 / 829,412 filed Feb. 3, 1992, which is a continuation in part of Ser. No. 07 / 767,323 filed Sep. 30, 1991, which is a continuation in part of Ser. No. 07 / 676,934 filed Mar. 27, 1991, which is: a continuation in part of Ser. No. 07 / 371,054 filed Jun. 26, 1989, now abandoned, which itself is a continuation in part of Ser. No. 07 / 289,369, filed Dec. 23, 1988, now abandoned. Each of the referenced applications is incorporated herein by this reference as though-set forth in full.BACKGROUND OF ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a system for programming a timer preprogramming feature on a video recorder. The system uses encoded video recorder / player timer preprogramming information to simplify the process of setting up the recorder. The invention provides an improved method for entering the necessary information, allowing for faster and more accurate programming. The invention also includes an embedded capability for timer preprogramming control in televisions, making it easier for users to control the timer preprogramming feature on their televisions. Additionally, the invention allows for the downloading of initial setup data from a remote site to the video recorder, eliminating the need for manual entry. The invention also includes the ability to distribute the proper commands to a VCR and cable box to record the desired program, making the programming process easier and more user-friendly."

Problems solved by technology

First, the procedure for setting the VCR to record in advance can be quite complex and confusing and difficult to learn; in fact, because of this many VCR owners shun using the timer preprogramming record feature.

Second, the transcription of the CDTL information to the VCR is hardly ever error-free; in fact, many users of VCR's timer preprogramming features express concern over the high incidence of programming errors.

Third, even for experienced users, the process of entering a lengthy sequence of information on the channel, date, time and length of desired program can become tedious.

Fourth, techniques such as reading in bar-code information or using a computer require special equipment.

These drawbacks have created a serious impedance in the use of a VCR as a recording device for television programs.

The effect is that time shifting of programs has not become as popular as it once was thought it would be.

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