Dual Function Device

Abstract

A communication system for accessing media items via a display device. A receiver is coupled to the display device and a transmitter is coupled to a computer system. Media items stored locally on the computer system and/or remotely on a remote server may be wirelessly transferred from the transmitter to the receiver for display on the display device. In addition, the transmitter and the receiver may be pre-paired prior to delivery to the user, allowing for the network to be configured without any user input. Advantageously, embodiments provide a user with the ability to conveniently view content stored on a computer or a web server without the user having to perform any wireless network setup procedures.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61 / 179,688 filed on May 19, 2009, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Digital video cameras enable a user to capture video footage, which can be viewed on a computer or television, uploaded to video sharing websites, or recorded onto a recording medium such as a DVD. Typically, transferring video footage from a digital video camera to an external device such as a television or computer requires the use of a video cable and software to connect the digital video camera to the external device. Some models of digital video cameras provide a built-in Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector to facilitate transfer of video footage from / to the digital video camera and the external device. In order to view video footage on a television, a user typically uses a cable (e.g., a cable with both video and audio connectors) to conne...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]Many benefits are achieved by way of embodiments of the present invention over conventional techniques. For example, embodiments of the present invention provide an enhanced user experience in comparison with conventional wireless communications networks. Additionally, embodiments provide a user with the ability to conveniently view video footage stored on a computer or a web server on a television without having to perform any wireless network setup procedures. As an example, embodiments of the present invention provide a simple and reliable way for viewing videos, movies, photos, and other media on a home television. Utilizing the embodiments described herein, consumers can effectively bring their multimedia content onto their primary viewing device (i.e., the TV) and enjoy this media in a comfortable setting such as a living room. These and other embodiments of the invention along with many of its advantages and features are described in more detail in conjunction with the text below and attached figures.

Problems solved by technology

This method of viewing video footage on a television presents several difficulties, including either using the batteries in the digital video camera or providing external power to the digital video camera during playback, positioning of the digital video camera close to the television while the user is typically sitting farther from the television during video playback, and the like.

However, burning a DVD is a complicated operation for some users and requires use of DVD media.

Using 802.11-based wireless networks is a challenging endeavor for many users.

Setting up the network is a complicated process that many users find difficult and frustrating, including issues related to firewalls, port forwarding, dynamic Domain Name System (DNS), etc.

Despite the capabilities of currently available systems, the viewing experience of digital video for many users is less than desirable.

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