Packetization of non-MPEG stream data in systems using advanced multi-stream POD interface

Abstract

Aspects of the present invention may be found in one or more systems and / or methods to encapsulate or packetize non-MPEG and MPEG data. The encapsulation or packetization allows both the non-MPEG and MPEG data to be utilized by a set-top-box that conforms or complies with the OpenCable™ Advanced Multi-Stream POD Interface Specification and / or the OpenCable™ Multi-Stream CableCARD Interface Specification. In one embodiment, a method of processing video data, by a set-top-box that is communicatively coupled to a POD card, comprises receiving video data from a provider, first packetizing the video data using a first header to generate a first packet, wherein the first header comprises a first indicator. In one embodiment, a system for providing MPEG and non-MPEG video to a subscriber comprises a circuitry and a POD card capable of receiving, processing, and facilitating the display of non-MPEG and MPEG data.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS / INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE [0001] This application makes reference to and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 542,589 entitled “Packetization Of Non-MPEG Stream Data In Systems Using Advanced Multi-Stream POD Interface” filed on Feb. 5, 2004, the complete subject matter of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT [0002] [Not Applicable]MICROFICHE / COPYRIGHT REFERENCE [0003] [Not Applicable]BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0004] Modern set-top-boxes are used to process video received from a cable operator, satellite provider, or other telecommunications carrier. The video provided by such carrier may comprise one or more different types of formatted video. For example, terrestrial systems may utilize MPEG formatted video while satellite systems may utilize non-MPEG formatted video. The non-MPEG video may comprise DirecTV video, for example. [0005] When a s...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention relates to a system and method for encapsulating and processing video data. The invention allows non-MPEG and MPEG data to be utilized by a set-top-box that complies with the OpenCable™ Advanced Multi-Stream POD Interface Specification and / or the OpenCable™ Multi-Stream CableCARD Interface Specification. The invention involves first packetizing the video data using a first header to generate a first packet, and then second packetizing the first packet using a second header to generate a second packet. The second packet is transmitted to the POD card, which utilizes the indicators to control processing performed by the POD card. The invention also includes a set-top-box system that receives, processes, and facilitates the display of non-MPEG and MPEG data, conforming with the specifications. The technical effects of the invention include improved compatibility with different video formats and efficient utilization of available resources."

Problems solved by technology

This presents a disadvantage to a subscriber, especially when he wishes to obtain both MPEG and non-MPEG video programming using a single set-top-box.

Images