Electronic device and control method thereof

Abstract

An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device includes a communication interface and a processor that controls the communication interface to transmit an audio signal to an external audio output device, identifies a frequency band to transmit a test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in the audio signal, transmits information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the audio output device, and controls the communication interface to transmit a test pattern signal to the audio output device through the identified frequency band.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device and a method for controlling the same, and more specifically, to an electronic device that outputs an audio signal to an external audio output device and a method for controlling the same. Background Technology

[0002] Driven by advancements in electronic technology, various types of electronic devices are being developed and distributed. In particular, systems in which a source device provides content and a sink device plays the received content have been developing rapidly over the past few years.

[0003] According to one example, multimedia data input into a source device is separated and extracted into a video signal and an audio signal, the video signal is processed by a device with a display such as a TV, and the audio signal is provided to an audio playback device through a wired or wireless communication channel. In this case, while the source device can verify whether the audio signal has been successfully transmitted to the sink device, there was a problem in that it was difficult to verify whether the audio signal output from the sink device was normal without using a separate hardware configuration (such as a microphone). The problem to be solved

[0004] The present disclosure is in accordance with the aforementioned necessity, and the purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an electronic device and a control method thereof that transmit a test signal for analyzing an audio signal provided to an audio output device to check for an output error of the audio output device. means of solving the problem

[0005] An electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure for achieving the above objectives may include a communication interface and a processor that controls the communication interface to transmit an audio signal to an external audio output device, identifies a frequency band to transmit a test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in the audio signal, transmits information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the audio output device, and controls the communication interface to transmit the test pattern signal to the audio output device through the identified frequency band.

[0006] Additionally, the processor may control the communication interface to transmit reference pattern information corresponding to the test pattern signal, along with information corresponding to the identified frequency band, to the audio output device. Here, the reference pattern information may be information for verifying an output error of the audio output device based on the test pattern signal.

[0007] Additionally, the processor may vary the pattern of the test pattern signal or at least one of the identified frequency bands based on at least one of the device information of the audio output device or the communication method between the electronic device and the audio output device.

[0008] In addition, the processor can identify frequency band information included in the audio signal based on multi-channel information of the audio signal.

[0009] Additionally, the communication interface includes a first communication interface and a second communication interface, and the processor can control the first communication interface to transmit an audio signal including the test pattern signal to the audio output device through the identified frequency band, and control the second communication interface to transmit information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the audio output device.

[0010] In addition, the processor transmits a signal for checking the output status of the audio output device and the test pattern signal to the audio output device through the communication interface, and when output error information is received from the audio output device, it can control the output of the audio output device based on the received output error information.

[0011] Additionally, the processor may transmit the test pattern signal for checking the output error of the audio output device when the connection error of the communication interface, the input error of the audio output device, and the playback error of the audio output device are not identified.

[0012] Additionally, the device further includes a display, and the processor can acquire a video signal and an audio signal from content data, control the display to display the video signal, and control the communication interface to transmit the audio signal to the audio output device.

[0013] Meanwhile, an electronic system including an electronic device and an audio output device may include an electronic device that identifies a frequency band to transmit a test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in an audio signal transmitted to the audio output device, transmits information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the audio output device, and transmits the test pattern signal to the audio output device through the identified frequency band; and an audio output device that acquires the test pattern signal from the audio signal based on information corresponding to the frequency band received from the electronic device, and checks for output errors by comparing pattern information included in the test pattern signal with reference pattern information.

[0014] Here, the reference pattern information may be received from the electronic device or stored in the audio output device.

[0015] In addition, the audio output device stores sub-identification information mapped to each of a plurality of sub-patterns, and when the test pattern signal is received from the electronic device, it acquires pattern information corresponding to the test pattern signal based on the stored information, and can check for output errors by comparing the acquired pattern information with the reference pattern information.

[0016] In addition, the audio output device can check at least one of a communication connection error with the electronic device, an input error of the audio output device, or a playback error of the audio output device, and if no error is identified, check the output error based on the test pattern signal.

[0017] Additionally, a control method for an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes the steps of transmitting an audio signal to an external audio output device, identifying a frequency band to transmit a test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in the audio signal, and transmitting information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the audio output device and transmitting the test pattern signal to the audio output device through the identified frequency band.

[0018] Additionally, the step of transmitting the test pattern signal to the audio output device may involve transmitting reference pattern information corresponding to the test pattern signal to the audio output device along with information corresponding to the identified frequency band. Here, the reference pattern information may be information for verifying output errors of the audio output device based on the test pattern signal.

[0019] Additionally, the method may further include a step of varying the pattern of the test pattern signal or at least one of the identified frequency bands based on at least one of the device information of the audio output device or the communication method between the electronic device and the audio output device.

[0020] In addition, the step of identifying the frequency band can identify frequency band information included in the audio signal based on multi-channel information of the audio signal.

[0021] Additionally, the step of transmitting the test pattern signal to the audio output device may involve transmitting an audio signal including the test pattern signal to the audio output device via the identified frequency band using a first communication method, and transmitting information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the audio output device using a second communication method.

[0022] Additionally, the step of transmitting the test pattern signal to the audio output device involves transmitting a signal for checking the output status of the audio output device to the audio output device along with the test pattern signal, and the control method can restore the output error of the audio output device based on the received output error information when output error information is received from the audio output device.

[0023] Additionally, the step of transmitting the test pattern signal to the audio output device may transmit the test pattern signal for checking the output error of the audio output device when a communication connection error, an input error of the audio output device, and a playback error of the audio output device are not identified.

[0024] Additionally, the method may further include the steps of acquiring a video signal and an audio signal from content data, and displaying the video signal and outputting the audio signal to the audio output device. Effects of the invention

[0025] As described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the audio output status of the sink device is checked periodically or as needed from the source device to proactively detect audio playback errors and restore the device when an error occurs. Accordingly, the reliability and continuity of the user service can be improved. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0026] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an electronic system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 2a and 2b are block diagrams showing the configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 3a and 3b are drawings for explaining the operation of a data communication channel and a control communication channel according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an audio output device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an example of sub-pattern information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an output error checking method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the process of outputting an audio signal according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the detailed configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0027] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0028] The terms used in this specification will be briefly explained, and the present disclosure will be described in detail.

[0029] The terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure have been selected to be as widely used as possible, taking into account their functions within this disclosure; however, these terms may vary depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in specific cases, terms have been arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant explanatory section of this disclosure. Therefore, terms used in this disclosure should be defined not merely by their names, but based on their meanings and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0030] The embodiments of the present disclosure are subject to various modifications and may have various embodiments; therefore, specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. However, this is not intended to limit the scope of specific embodiments, and it should be understood that it includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the scope of the disclosed spirit and technology. In describing the embodiments, if it is determined that a detailed description of related prior art may obscure the essence, such detailed description is omitted.

[0031] Terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but components should not be limited by these terms. Terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0032] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "comprising" or "consisting of" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0033] The expression "at least one of A and B" should be understood as representing either "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0034] In the present disclosure, a "module" or "part" performs at least one function or operation and may be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software. Additionally, a plurality of "modules" or a plurality of "parts" may be integrated into at least one module and implemented by at least one processor (not shown), except for a "module" or "part" that needs to be implemented in specific hardware.

[0035] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present disclosure in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0036] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an electronic system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the electronic system includes an electronic device (100) and an audio output device (200).

[0039] The electronic device (100) operates as a source device that provides an audio signal to an audio output device (200). Accordingly, the audio output device (200) can operate as a sink device.

[0040] The electronic device (100) can be implemented as various types of electronic devices capable of providing audio signals, such as a set-top box, digital TV, DVD player, Blu-ray disc player, game console, network TV, smart TV, internet TV, web TV, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television), signage, PC, HMD (Head mounted Display, wearable device), etc. Additionally, the audio output device (200) can be implemented as a speaker device capable of outputting audio signals, such as a soundbar, speaker, wireless speaker, room speaker, etc.

[0041] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (100) and an audio output device (200) may communicate via at least one of wired communication or wireless communication. For example, the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200) may be implemented as devices that support HDMI (High-speed Multimedia Interface). In this case, the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200) may have an HDMI port and may communicate with each other through the port. Here, the electronic device (100) operating as a source device may provide a corresponding audio signal to the audio output device (200) based on information (e.g., EDID information) received from the audio output device (200) operating as a sink device. The exchange of such prior information, e.g., device information, may be carried out via HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronic Control).

[0042] However, the connection of the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200) via HDMI is merely an example, and it is understood that other communication methods such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can be used. In this case, the electronic device (100) can receive prior information from the audio output device (200) through a router connected together with the audio output device (200), a probe request packet or probe response packet according to the Wi-Fi standard, or an inquiry packet or inquiry response packet according to the Bluetooth standard.

[0043] Hereinafter, various embodiments will be described in which it is possible to verify whether the audio signal output from the audio output device (200) is normally performed through the exchange of information between the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200).

[0044] FIGS. 2a and 2b are block diagrams showing the configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 2a, the electronic device (100) includes a communication interface (110) and a processor (120). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may be implemented in a form that directly outputs a video signal (or image signal) by having a display (not shown), but it is also possible to implement it in a form that plays the video signal and provides it to the display (not shown) when the display (not shown) is provided separately. When the electronic device (100) has a display, it may have a general display that displays a video signal, or it may have a simple display that displays only notifications, etc.

[0046] The communication interface (110) is configured to communicate with various types of external devices according to various types of communication methods.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the communication interface (110) may be implemented as at least one input / output interface among HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), AV, Composite, MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), USB (Universal Serial Bus), DP (Display Port), Thunderbolt, VGA (Video Graphics Array) port, RGB port, D-SUB (D-subminiature), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), optical port, and component.

[0048] According to another embodiment, the communication interface (110) includes at least one of a Wi-Fi module, a Bluetooth module, an Ethernet communication module, or an infrared communication module. Here, each communication module may be implemented in the form of at least one hardware chip. The Wi-Fi module and the Bluetooth module perform communication using the Wi-Fi method and the Bluetooth method, respectively. When using the Wi-Fi module or the Bluetooth module, various connection information such as SSID and session key is first transmitted and received, and then various information is transmitted and received after establishing a communication connection using this information. The infrared communication module performs communication according to infrared communication (IrDA, infrared Data Association) technology, which transmits data wirelessly over short distances using infrared rays that are between visual rays and millimeter waves.

[0049] In addition to the communication method described above, the wireless communication module may include at least one communication chip that performs communication according to various wireless communication standards such as Zigbee, 3G (3rd Generation), 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (LTE Advanced), 4G (4th Generation), and 5G (5th Generation).

[0050] In addition, the communication interface (110) may include at least one of a LAN (Local Area Network) module, an Ethernet module, or a wired communication module that performs communication using a pair cable, a coaxial cable, or a fiber optic cable.

[0051] The processor (120) may include or be defined by one or more of the following terms: a digital signal processor (DSP) that processes digital signals, a microprocessor, a time controller (TCON), a central processing unit (CPU), a micro controller unit (MCU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a controller, an application processor (AP), a graphics-processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), or an ARM processor. Additionally, the processor (120) may be implemented as a System on Chip (SoC) or a large-scale integration (LSI) with a built-in processing algorithm, or as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The processor (120) can perform various functions by executing computer executable instructions stored in memory (not shown).

[0052] The processor (120) can control the communication interface (110) to communicate with the audio output device (200).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) can establish a communication connection with an audio output device (200) through a communication interface (110). Here, a communication connection may refer to all operations related to a communication connection, such as a communication initialization operation, a network formation operation, and a device pairing operation, according to a predefined communication method.

[0054] In one example, the communication interface (110) is implemented as an HDMI interface, and the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200) can communicate with each other through the said HDMI interface. In another example, the communication interface (110) is implemented as a Wi-Fi module or a Bluetooth module, and the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200) can communicate with each other through said communication module.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) can control the communication interface (110) to transmit an audio signal to an audio output device (200). Here, the audio signal may be received from an external server, an external device, or an external storage medium, or may be a signal separated from a multimedia signal stored in an internal memory, etc. However, it is not limited thereto, and may be an audio signal included in audio content.

[0056] For example, if the communication interface (110) is implemented as an HDMI interface, it can transmit audio signals to an audio output device (200) via an ARC (Audio Return Channel) or an eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel). However, if the communication interface (110) is implemented as a different communication method such as a Wi-Fi module or a Bluetooth module, it is obvious that it can transmit audio signals to an audio output device (200) via a corresponding communication method.

[0057] In this case, the processor (120) can identify the frequency band to transmit the test pattern signal based on the frequency band information included in the audio signal transmitted to the audio output device (200).

[0058] According to one example, the processor (120) can identify frequency band information included in the audio signal based on multi-channel information of the audio signal. For example, if the audio signal is a multi-channel signal that does not include high-frequency band signals of a threshold band, the processor (120) can identify the high-frequency band as a band to transmit a test pattern signal. For example, if the audio signal is a 5.1 channel signal including 20 / 40Hz to 150Hz (woofer), 40Hz to 20KHz (front), 60Hz to 35KHz (center), and 70Hz to 35KHz (rear), the frequency band not included in the signal can be identified as a band to transmit a test pattern signal.

[0059] According to another example, the processor (120) can analyze the frequency band of an audio signal transmitted to an audio output device (200) to identify the band to transmit a test pattern signal. For example, the processor (120) can identify the frequency band included in the audio signal based on the frequency distribution included in each frame signal in the frequency domain after performing an FFT transformation on the audio signal.

[0060] According to another example, the processor (120) may identify a band to transmit a test pattern signal based on device information of the audio output device (200). For example, if the audio output device (200) is a soundbar that supports 5.1 channels, the frequency band of the audio signal to be provided by the electronic device (100) can be predicted based on frequency band information of the signal playable from the speakers included in the audio output device (200).

[0061] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) can control the communication interface (110) to transmit information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the audio output device (200) and to transmit a test pattern signal to the audio output device (200) through the identified frequency band. For example, the processor (120) can mix the test pattern signal with the audio signal and transmit it to the audio output device (200). Here, the test pattern signal is a signal for checking the output status error of the audio output device (200), and according to one example, the processor (120) can transmit a signal (e.g., a request signal) for checking the output status of the audio output device together.

[0062] Here, the information corresponding to the frequency band may be numerical information representing the frequency band, but is not limited to information that can identify the corresponding frequency band in the audio output device (200). For example, the electronic device (100) may transmit identification information "a" that has been agreed upon with the audio output device (200) (for example, if a is agreed upon as 0 to 20 Hz).

[0063] However, when periodically transmitting a test pattern signal, unless there are special circumstances, the frequency band identified during the first output error check may be maintained, so it is possible not to transmit frequency band information during subsequent error checks. For example, if the multi-channel information supported by the audio output device (200) does not change, the maximum number of multi-channels of the audio signal may be maintained, so the frequency band information identified once based on that information may not change. Accordingly, the processor (120) may not transmit frequency band information during the second output error check.

[0064] The test pattern signal may be a signal having a specific pattern as a test signal for checking output errors of the audio output device (200). In particular, the test pattern signal may include pattern information that can be converted into a specific sequence when decoded by the audio output device (200). For example, the specific sequence may be a sequence of numbers, but is not limited thereto, and may be a sequence of characters such as an alphabet sequence.

[0065] According to one example, reference pattern information corresponding to a test pattern signal may be stored in an audio output device (200). The reference pattern information may be information for checking output errors of the audio output device (200). For example, the reference pattern information may be information in the form of a sequence agreed upon between the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200).

[0066] Meanwhile, the audio output device (200) can convert a received test pattern signal into pattern information based on sub-pattern information. Here, the sub-pattern information may be stored in the audio output device (200) as information for converting the test pattern signal into pattern information. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the sub-pattern information may include various sub-patterns constituting the test pattern signal and corresponding identification information. In this case, the audio output device (200) can convert the received test pattern signal into a sequence of identification information based on the sub-pattern information and compare the converted sequence with a sequence included in the reference pattern information.

[0067] According to another example, reference pattern information corresponding to a test pattern signal can be transmitted from an electronic device (100) to an audio output device (200). For example, the electronic device (100) can transmit reference pattern information corresponding to a test pattern signal to the audio output device (200) along with information corresponding to an identified frequency band.

[0068] Meanwhile, the processor (120) can vary the pattern of the test pattern signal or at least one of the identified frequency bands based on at least one of the device information, update information, or communication method between the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200) of the audio output device (200).

[0069] For example, assume that after the transmission frequency band is identified, the device information of the audio output device (200) is changed, the software or hardware is updated, or the communication method is changed. In this case, the processor (120) may vary the transmission frequency band based on the updated information or the changed communication method. For example, this is because, depending on the communication method, there may be loss of a signal in a specific frequency band, or specific software or hardware may cause interference to a signal in a specific frequency band.

[0070] As another example, assume that after the pattern of the test pattern signal is determined (including cases where it has been agreed upon with the audio output device (200)), the device information of the audio output device (200) is changed, the software or hardware is updated, or the communication method is changed. In this case, the processor (120) may vary the pattern of the test pattern signal based on the updated information or the changed communication method. For example, this is because there may be a loss of the signal of a specific pattern depending on the communication method, or interference with the signal of a specific pattern may occur in specific software or specific hardware.

[0071] In this way, when at least one of the pattern of the test pattern signal and the transmission frequency band is varied, the processor (120) can transmit information corresponding to the varied information to the audio output device (200).

[0072] The audio output device (200) may determine that there is an error in the output state if the converted pattern information and the reference pattern information do not match. In this case, the audio output device (200) may transmit output error information, that is, information indicating that an output error exists, to the electronic device (100). In this case, when the processor (120) receives output error information from the audio output device (200), it may control the output of the audio output device (200) based on the received output error information.

[0073] However, in the above-described embodiment, the electronic device (100) is described assuming that it transmits frequency band information to the audio output device (200), but in some cases, the frequency band information may not be transmitted to the audio output device (200). For example, the frequency band information may not be transmitted to the audio output device (200) when the audio output device (200) knows the frequency band information to which the test pattern signal is transmitted, when the test pattern signal is transmitted to the same frequency band as the previous test pattern signal was sent, or when the audio output device (200) knows the corresponding frequency band information as the test pattern signal is transmitted to the audio output device (200) based on the device information of the audio output device (200).

[0074] Meanwhile, according to one embodiment, the electronic device (100) may transmit frequency band information using the same communication method (e.g., HDMI) as the communication method for transmitting audio signals. However, according to another embodiment, the electronic device (100) may transmit frequency band information using a communication method different from the communication method for transmitting audio signals (e.g., HDMI) (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth).

[0075] In the latter case, the electronic device (100) can transmit an audio signal including a test pattern signal through a first communication interface (111) as shown in FIG. 2b, and transmit various control information including frequency band information through a second communication interface (112). That is, the first communication interface (111) can operate as a data communication channel, and the second communication interface (112) can operate as a control communication channel.

[0076] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3a, HDMI communication (310) may operate as a data communication channel for transmitting and receiving data, and Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communication (320) may operate as a control communication channel for transmitting and receiving control information. According to one example, as illustrated in FIG. 3b, an audio signal including an audio signal, particularly a test pattern signal (410), may be transmitted via HDMI communication (310), and frequency band information (420) may be transmitted via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communication (320). Additionally, although not illustrated in the drawings, reference pattern information may be further transmitted via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communication (320).

[0077] Additionally, the processor (120) can transmit information related to audio data, such as audio codec, sample rate, and channel information, as well as frequency band information, to the audio output device (200) through a control communication channel.

[0078] According to one example, the processor (120) may obtain video signals and audio signals from content data (e.g., multimedia data). For example, the processor (120) may demux the content data to separate it into video signals and audio signals, and if necessary, decode the separated signals. Afterward, if the electronic device (100) does not have a display, the processor (120) may control the communication interface (110) to transmit the video signal to an external display (not shown) and transmit the audio signal to an audio output device (200). However, if the audio output device (200) is equipped with a display, it is obvious that the video signals and audio signals can be transmitted to the device. For example, if the audio output device (200) is implemented to output video signals or to transmit video signals to an external device, the video signals and audio signals may be transmitted together to the audio output device (200) using DMI, DP, Thunderbolt, etc., which can transmit video signals and audio signals simultaneously. However, video signals and audio signals may be transmitted to audio output devices (200) respectively through ports of different types or separate ports of the same type.

[0079] Meanwhile, although not illustrated in FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b, the electronic device (100) may further include a display (not shown) according to an embodiment. In this case, the processor (120) may acquire a video signal and an audio signal from content data, control the display (not shown) to display the video signal, and control the communication interface (110) to transmit the audio signal to an audio output device (200).

[0080] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an audio output device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] According to FIG. 4, the audio output device (200) includes a communication interface (210), a processor (220), and an output unit (230).

[0082] The implementation form of the communication interface (210) and processor (220) is identical / similar to the implementation form of the communication interface (110) and processor (120) of the electronic device (100) shown in FIG. 2, so a detailed description is omitted.

[0083] The output unit (230) may include a speaker that outputs an audio signal. The speaker may include at least one speaker unit according to an embodiment of the audio output device (200). For example, it may include an L channel speaker and an R channel speaker that respectively play an L channel and an R channel. However, it is not limited thereto, and it is also possible to implement it in the form of a soundbar that plays an L channel, an R channel, and a Center channel. According to one embodiment, the output unit (230) may be implemented as a full-range speaker designed to play almost all frequency ranges of the household frequency range. For example, the full-range speaker may play a frequency range of 0 to 22 kHz. According to another embodiment, the output unit (230) may be implemented in a form that includes at least one of a tweeter speaker for playing high-frequency ranges, a midrange speaker for playing mid-frequency ranges, or a woofer speaker for playing low-frequency ranges.

[0084] When the processor (220) receives audio signals and frequency band information from the electronic device (100), it can extract a test pattern signal from the received audio signal based on the frequency band information. In this case, a signal requesting an output error check of the audio output device (200) may be received together from the electronic device (100). For example, the electronic device (100) may transmit the signal periodically or according to a user command. However, in some cases, it is also possible for the electronic device (100) to transmit the test pattern signal according to a request from the audio output device (200). For example, a user command for output error check is received through the audio output device (200), and the audio output device (200) may request the electronic device (100) to transmit the test pattern signal.

[0085] Next, the processor (220) can check for output errors based on the test pattern signal. Additionally, the processor (220) can control the output unit (230) to output the received audio signal. In this case, the output unit (230) can be controlled to output the signal after removing the test pattern signal from the received audio signal. This is because the test pattern signal can act as noise.

[0086] Specifically, when a test pattern signal is extracted, the processor (220) can decode the test pattern signal and convert it into sequence information. In this case, the processor (220) can convert the test pattern signal into sequence information based on sub-pattern information (sub-identification information mapped to each of a plurality of sub-patterns), for example, as shown in FIG. 5. For example, a sequence having a specific pattern such as 123451234512345.. can be obtained. Here, the sub-pattern information can be stored in a memory (not shown) provided in an audio output device, or in external memory or an external server, etc.

[0087] The processor (220) can check for output errors by comparing the sequence obtained based on the test pattern signal with reference pattern information, i.e., a reference sequence. Here, the reference pattern information may be pattern information corresponding to the test pattern signal, received from an electronic device (100), or stored in an audio output device (200). Alternatively, it may be received from other external devices, such as an external server or external memory.

[0088] Specifically, the processor (220) may determine that there is an error in the output state if the acquired sequence does not match the reference sequence. In this case, the audio output device (200) may transmit output error information to the electronic device (100).

[0089] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) can check for various types of errors when an event for checking output errors occurs. According to one embodiment, the processor (220) checks for at least one of a connection error, an input error, or a playback error, and if at least one of a connection error, an input error, or a playback error is not identified, it can check for an output error based on a test pattern signal.

[0090] According to one example, the processor (220) may sequentially check for connection errors, input errors, and playback errors, and if no error is identified, check for output errors based on a test pattern signal. However, this is not limited thereto, and some error checks may be omitted or added, and the order of error checks may be changed. However, below, with reference to FIG. 6, the case of sequentially checking for communication connection errors, input errors, playback errors, and output errors will be described.

[0091] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an output error checking method according to one embodiment.

[0092] According to FIG. 6, when the processor (220) of the audio output device (200) receives a signal for checking audio output errors from the electronic device (100) (S605), it can sequentially check for communication connection errors, input errors, playback errors, and output errors.

[0093] Specifically, the processor (220) can first check for connection errors (S610). Here, the connection error check checks whether the communication channel between the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200) functions normally, and can check whether the communication interface (210) that communicates with the electronic device (100) communicates normally. For example, this may include HDMI cable connection errors, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth communication connection errors. As an example, an HDMI cable connection error can be identified by a hot plug detect signal. Here, the hot plug detect signal is a signal specification that determines whether an HDMI cable is connected or disconnected according to the HDMI specification. As another example, there may be cases where the electronic device (100) and the audio output device (200) are connected via eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), and while the electronic device (100) is transmitting an audio signal via eARC, the audio output device (200) switches to ARC (Audio Return Channel) without notifying the electronic device (100).

[0094] If it is identified that a communication connection error exists (S610:Y), the processor (220) can transmit information indicating that a communication connection error exists to the electronic device (100) (S615). For example, the processor (220) can transmit such information to the electronic device (100) via a control communication channel. In this case, the electronic device (100) can recover the communication connection error by reconnecting communication with the audio output device (200) or by providing a UI that guides the reconnection of communication (S620). If the electronic device (100) is equipped with a display, it can directly display the UI, but if it is not equipped with a display, it can provide the UI information to an external display device.

[0095] Meanwhile, if it is identified that no communication connection error exists (S610:N), the processor (220) can check whether an input error (or reception error) exists (S625). Here, the input error check is to check whether data input (or data reception) is properly performed at the audio output device (200). For example, the processor (220) can check for input errors by checking the presence or absence of data and the increase / decrease status in the input buffer (or reception buffer).

[0096] For example, the process of outputting audio data (or audio signal) received from an electronic device (100) is illustrated in FIG. 7. The audio data (or audio signal) received from the electronic device (100) is stored in an input buffer (710). The data stored in the input buffer (710) is provided to a decoder (720) to be decoded, and the decoded content is provided to a renderer (730) to be rendered. Here, the decoder (720) and the renderer (730) may be implemented in the form of a type of DSP. Subsequently, the content rendered by the renderer (730) may be buffered in an output buffer (or playback buffer) (740) and output through an AMP (750). For example, the input buffer (710) may be implemented as a component of the communication interface (210), the decoder (720) and renderer (730) may be implemented as components of the processor (220), and the output buffer (740) and AMP (750) may be implemented as components of the output unit (230). However, this is merely one embodiment, and it is possible to implement it in a different form depending on the embodiment.

[0097] In this process, the processor (220) can check for input errors by checking the state of the input buffer (710).

[0098] If it is identified that a pressure error exists (S625:Y), the processor (220) can transmit information indicating that an input error exists to the electronic device (100) (S630). For example, the processor (220) can transmit such information to the electronic device (100) via a control communication channel. In this case, the electronic device (100) can recover the error by checking the transmission status of audio data transmitted to the audio output device (200) (S635).

[0099] Meanwhile, if it is identified that no input error exists (S625:N), the processor (220) can check whether a playback error exists (S640). Here, the playback error check is to check whether the playback operation of the audio data received from the audio output device (200) is being performed properly. For example, the processor (220) can check whether decoding is proceeding, whether normal decoding is being performed based on the audio information obtained through decoding, and whether the audio information is the same when compared with the audio information received from the electronic device (100). Here, the audio information may be information related to audio data, such as audio codec information, sample rate information, and audio channel information received from the electronic device (100). For example, the processor (220) can check the decoding status by comparing the audio codec information and the decoding value obtained through decoding.

[0100] If it is identified that a playback error exists (S640:Y), the processor (220) can reset the setting value of the decoder (720) or reset it to recover the error (S645). In some cases, information indicating that a communication connection error exists may be transmitted to the electronic device (100).

[0101] If it is identified that no playback error exists (S640:N), the processor (220) can check whether an output error exists (S650). Here, the output error check is to check whether the output of the decoded data from the audio output device (200) is being properly performed. For example, the processor (220) can determine that an output error exists by comparing pattern information obtained from the test pattern signal and reference pattern information as described above, and if the pattern information does not match. As another example, the processor (220) can check for an output error by checking the presence or absence of data and the increase / decrease status in the output buffer (740).

[0102] If it is identified that an output error exists (S650:Y), the processor (220) can control the output (or recover the output error) by initializing various parameters and playback-related operations included in the audio playback path (e.g., the path of FIG. 7). For example, the processor (220) can reset or reset rendering parameters used by the renderer (730) based on at least one of the device information of the electronic device (100) or the communication type with the electronic device (100). For example, this is because various parameters included in the audio playback path may change when the previously connected electronic device (100) is changed to another electronic device, and also because the parameters may differ depending on the communication method.

[0103] Meanwhile, if it is identified that no output error exists (S650:N), the processor (220) may determine that there is no error related to the output of the audio signal. In this case, the processor (220) may transmit information indicating that there is no error in the output of the audio signal to the electronic device (100). Alternatively, the audio output device (200) may directly output audio feedback indicating that there is no error in the audio output.

[0104] According to one embodiment, when the electronic device (100) receives information indicating that there is no error in the output of an audio signal from an audio output device (200), it can provide various feedback according to an event for checking audio output errors.

[0105] For example, when an audio output error check is performed as a certain period arrives, the electronic device (100) can adjust the period for the audio output error check when it receives information from the audio output device (200) indicating that there are no errors. For example, the electronic device (100) can increase the period for the audio output error check compared to before.

[0106] As another example, when an audio output error check is performed according to a user command, if the electronic device (100) receives information indicating that there is no error from the audio output device (200), it may provide a UI containing information indicating that there is no error (or that it is normal) in the output of the audio output device (200). For example, the electronic device (100) may directly display the UI or transmit a control signal to an external device (e.g., a user terminal) to display the UI. However, according to the embodiment, even if an audio output error check is performed upon the arrival of a certain period, a UI may be provided if necessary, and even if an audio output error check is performed according to a user command, the period for the audio output error check may be adjusted if necessary.

[0107] However, although the above-described embodiment describes performing four types of error checks sequentially, at least two types of error checks can be performed simultaneously. Additionally, although it was described that the error is recovered before checking another type of error when each type of error is identified, error recovery can also be performed after checking at least two types of errors and when the error type is defined.

[0108] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the detailed configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] According to FIG. 8, the electronic device (100') may include a communication interface (110), a processor (120), a memory (130), a display (140), and a user interface (150). Although the electronic device (100') is illustrated as having a display (140), it is understood that it may not have a display (140) depending on the implementation example.

[0110] The memory (130) can store data necessary for various embodiments of the present disclosure. Depending on the purpose of data storage, the memory (130) may be implemented in the form of a memory embedded in the electronic device (100') or in the form of a memory that can be attached to and detached from the electronic device (100'). For example, data for operating the electronic device (100') may be stored in a memory embedded in the electronic device (100'), and data for the expansion function of the electronic device (100') may be stored in a memory that can be attached to and detached from the electronic device (100'). Meanwhile, the memory embedded in the electronic device (100') may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), or SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM), etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., OTPROM (one-time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash, etc.), a hard drive, or a solid-state drive (SSD). Additionally, the memory that is detachable from the electronic device (100') may be in the form of a memory card (e.g., CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), MMC (multi-media card), etc.), or external memory connectable to a USB port (e.g., USB memory). It can be implemented.

[0111] According to one embodiment, the memory (130) may store various data, programs, or applications for driving / controlling the electronic device (100'). The memory (130) may store control programs for controlling the electronic device (100') and the processor (120), applications originally provided by the manufacturer or downloaded from an external source, databases, or related data.

[0112] The display (140) may be implemented as a display including a self-emissive element or as a display including a non-emissive element and a backlight. For example, it may be implemented as various types of displays such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) display, an LED (Light Emitting Diodes), a micro LED, a Mini LED, a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), a QD (Quantum dot) display, or a QLED (Quantum dot light-emitting diodes). The display (140) may also include a driving circuit, a backlight unit, etc., which can be implemented in the form of an a-si TFT, an LTPS (low temperature poly silicon) TFT, an OTFT (organic TFT), etc. Meanwhile, the display (140) may be implemented as a touch screen combined with a touch sensor, a flexible display, a rollable display, a 3D display, a display in which a plurality of display modules are physically connected, etc.

[0113] The user interface (150) may be implemented as a device such as a button, touchpad, mouse, and keyboard, or as a touch screen capable of performing the aforementioned display function and operation input function. Here, the button may be a various type of button, such as a mechanical button, touchpad, or wheel, formed in any area such as the front, side, or back of the main body exterior of the electronic device (100').

[0114] Additionally, the user interface (150) may be implemented with a microphone, camera, motion sensor, etc., that enables voice recognition or motion recognition.

[0115] Additionally, the user interface (150) may be implemented to receive a signal corresponding to user input (e.g., touch, press, touch gesture, voice, or motion) from an external control device. Of course, when receiving user voice or user motion from an external control device (not shown), the external control device (not shown) may be implemented with a microphone, camera, motion sensor, etc.

[0116] According to one example, an external control device (not shown) may be implemented as a remote control including a microphone. When the remote control receives a user's analog voice signal through the microphone, the remote control converts the analog voice signal into a digital voice signal and transmits the converted digital voice signal to an electronic device (100') using at least one of infrared, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth communication methods. When the electronic device (100') receives the digital voice signal from the external control device (not shown), it performs voice recognition based on the received digital voice signal and performs a control operation based on the voice recognition result information.

[0117] According to another example, an external control device (not shown) may be implemented as a smartphone including a microphone. In this case, the smartphone can remotely control the electronic device (100') using a remote control application that performs a remote control function. When the user's analog voice signal is received through the microphone, the smartphone can convert the analog voice signal into a digital voice signal and perform voice recognition on the digital voice signal using a voice recognition application. Here, the voice recognition application may be the same as or different from the remote control application described above. When voice recognition is performed on the digital voice signal, the smartphone can remotely control the smartphone using the remote control application based on the voice recognition result information. However, according to another embodiment, the smartphone may transmit the converted digital voice signal to the electronic device (100') using at least one of infrared, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth communication methods. In this case, when the digital voice signal is received from the external control device, the electronic device (100') can perform voice recognition based on the received digital voice signal and perform a control operation based on the voice recognition result information.

[0118] According to one example, the electronic device (100') may communicate with a server for various operations including voice recognition, and the communication interface communicating with the server and the communication interface communicating with the remote control may be different (e.g., Ethernet modem (Wi-Fi module vs. BT module)) or the same (Wi-Fi module).

[0119] Meanwhile, if the electronic device (100') is implemented as a TV, it may further include a tuner (not shown), and the tuner (not shown) can select only the frequency of the channel to be received by the electronic device (100') among many radio wave components by tuning through amplification, mixing, resonance, etc. of the broadcast signal received via wired or wireless.

[0120] In addition, the electronic device (100') may additionally include various configurations depending on the implementation example of the electronic device (100'), such as a camera, microphone, speaker, motion sensor, position sensor, touch sensor, proximity sensor, etc.

[0121] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling an electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] According to the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 9, the electronic device (100, 100') identifies the frequency band to transmit the test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in the audio signal transmitted to the audio output device (200) (S910).

[0123] Next, information corresponding to the identified frequency band is transmitted to the audio output device (200) (S920), and a test pattern signal is transmitted to the audio output device (200) through the identified frequency band (S930). Here, the transmission in steps S920 and S930 may be performed simultaneously or sequentially. Additionally, the pattern and frequency band of the test pattern signal may vary according to at least one of the device information of the audio output device or the communication method between the electronic device (100, 100') and the audio output device (200).

[0124] In step S930, reference pattern information corresponding to the test pattern signal can be transmitted to the audio output device (200) along with information corresponding to the identified frequency band. Here, the reference pattern information may be information for verifying output errors of the audio output device (200) based on the test pattern signal.

[0125] The control method may further include the step of varying at least one of the pattern of a test pattern signal or an identified frequency band based on at least one of device information of an audio output device (200) or a communication method between an electronic device (100, 100') and an audio output device (200).

[0126] In step S910, frequency band information included in the audio signal can be identified based on the multi-channel information of the audio signal.

[0127] In step S930, an audio signal including a test pattern signal is transmitted to an audio output device (200) through a frequency band identified by a first communication method, and information corresponding to the identified frequency band can be transmitted to an audio output device (200) through a second communication method.

[0128] In step S930, a signal for checking the output status of the audio output device (200) is transmitted to the audio output device (200) along with a test pattern signal, and when output error information is received from the audio output device (200), the output of the audio output device (200) can be controlled based on the received output error information.

[0129] In step S930, if a communication connection error, an input error of the audio output device (200), and a playback error of the audio output device (200) are not identified, a test pattern signal for checking the output error of the audio output device (200) can be transmitted.

[0130] Additionally, the control method may further include the steps of acquiring a video signal and an audio signal from content data, displaying the video signal, and outputting the audio signal to an audio output device (200).

[0131] As described above, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, audio output errors of a sink device are checked periodically or as needed at a source device to proactively detect audio playback errors and restore the device when an error occurs. Accordingly, the reliability and continuity of user services can be improved.

[0132] Meanwhile, the methods according to the various embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be implemented in the form of an application that can be installed on an existing electronic device or audio output device.

[0133] In addition, the methods according to the various embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be implemented by software upgrades or hardware upgrades alone for existing electronic devices or audio output devices.

[0134] In addition, various embodiments of the present disclosure described above may also be performed through an embedded server provided in an electronic device (100, 100') or an audio output device (200), or through an external server of the electronic device (100, 100') or the audio output device (200).

[0135] Meanwhile, the various embodiments described above may be implemented in a recording medium readable by a computer or a similar device using software, hardware, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the embodiments described herein may be implemented as the processor itself. According to software implementation, embodiments such as the procedures and functions described herein may be implemented as separate software modules. Each of the software modules may perform one or more functions and operations described herein.

[0136] Meanwhile, computer instructions for performing processing operations of an electronic device (100, 100') or an audio output device (200) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. When computer instructions stored in such a non-transitory computer-readable medium are executed by a processor of a specific device, they cause the specific device to perform processing operations in the electronic device (100, 100') according to various embodiments described above.

[0137] A non-transient computer-readable medium refers to a medium that stores data semi-permanently and can be read by a device, unlike media that store data for a short period of time such as registers, caches, and memory. Specific examples of non-transient computer-readable media include CDs, DVDs, hard disks, Blu-ray discs, USBs, memory cards, and ROMs.

[0138] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. It is understood that various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the essence of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present disclosure. Explanation of the symbols

[0139] 100, 100': Electronic device 110: Communication interface 120: Processor 130: Memory 140: Display 150: User Interface

Claims

Claim 1 In an electronic device, a communication interface; and a method for controlling the communication interface to transmit an audio signal to an external audio output device, identifying a frequency band to transmit a test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in the audio signal, and providing information corresponding to the identified frequency band. external An electronic device comprising: a processor that controls a communication interface to transmit to an audio output device and to mix the test pattern signal with the audio signal through the identified frequency band and transmit to the external audio output device; wherein the processor controls the communication interface to transmit reference pattern information corresponding to the test pattern signal together with information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the external audio output device, and the reference pattern information is information for verifying an output error of the external audio output device based on the test pattern signal. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 In an electronic device, a communication interface; and a method for controlling the communication interface to transmit an audio signal to an external audio output device, identifying a frequency band to transmit a test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in the audio signal, and providing information corresponding to the identified frequency band. external An electronic device comprising: a processor that controls the communication interface to transmit to an audio output device and to mix the test pattern signal with the audio signal through the identified frequency band and transmit to the external audio output device; wherein the processor varies the pattern of the test pattern signal or at least one of the identified frequency band based on at least one of device information of the external audio output device or a communication method between the electronic device and the external audio output device. Claim 4 In claim 1, the processor is an electronic device that identifies frequency band information included in the audio signal based on multi-channel information of the audio signal. Claim 5 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the communication interface comprises a first communication interface and a second communication interface, and the processor controls the first communication interface to transmit an audio signal including the test pattern signal to the external audio output device through the identified frequency band, and controls the second communication interface to transmit information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the external audio output device. Claim 6 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the processor transmits a signal for checking the output status of the external audio output device and the test pattern signal to the external audio output device through the communication interface, and when output error information is received from the external audio output device, controls the output of the external audio output device based on the received output error information. Claim 7 An electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the processor identifies a connection error of the communication interface, an input error of the external audio output device, and a playback error of the external audio output device, and transmits a test pattern signal for checking an output error of the external audio output device when the connection error of the communication interface, the input error of the external audio output device, and the playback error of the external audio output device are not identified. Claim 8 An electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising a display; wherein the processor acquires a video signal and an audio signal from content data, controls the display to display the video signal, and controls the communication interface to transmit the audio signal to the external audio output device. Claim 9 An electronic system comprising an electronic device and an audio output device, wherein the electronic device identifies a frequency band to transmit a test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in an audio signal transmitted to the audio output device, transmits information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the audio output device, and mixes the test pattern signal with the audio signal through the identified frequency band and transmits it to the audio output device; and the audio output device acquires the test pattern signal from the audio signal based on information corresponding to the frequency band received from the electronic device, and checks for output errors by comparing pattern information included in the test pattern signal with reference pattern information. Claim 10 In claim 9, the above reference pattern information is an electronic system that is received from the electronic device or is already stored in the audio output device. Claim 11 ◈Claim 11 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ In claim 9, the audio output device stores sub-identification information mapped to each of a plurality of sub-patterns, and when the test pattern signal is received from the electronic device, acquires pattern information corresponding to the test pattern signal based on the stored information, and checks for output errors by comparing the acquired pattern information with the reference pattern information. Claim 12 ◈Claim 12 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ In claim 9, the audio output device is an electronic system that checks at least one of a communication connection error with the electronic device, an input error of the audio output device, or a playback error of the audio output device, and checks the output error based on the test pattern signal when no error is identified. Claim 13 A control method for an electronic device comprises: a step of transmitting an audio signal to an external audio output device; a step of identifying a frequency band to transmit a test pattern signal based on frequency band information included in the audio signal; and a step of transmitting information corresponding to the identified frequency band to the external audio output device and mixing the test pattern signal with the audio signal through the identified frequency band and transmitting it to the external audio output device; wherein the step of transmitting the test pattern signal to the external audio output device comprises transmitting reference pattern information corresponding to the test pattern signal to the external audio output device together with information corresponding to the identified frequency band, and the reference pattern information is information for verifying an output error of the audio output device based on the test pattern signal. Claim 14 delete Claim 15 ◈Claim 15 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ A control method further comprising the step of varying the pattern of the test pattern signal or at least one of the identified frequency bands based on at least one of the device information of the external audio output device or the communication method between the electronic device and the external audio output device in claim 13. Claim 16 ◈Claim 16 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ In claim 13, the step of identifying the frequency band is a control method that identifies frequency band information included in the audio signal based on multi-channel information of the audio signal. Claim 17 ◈Claim 17 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ In claim 13, the step of transmitting the test pattern signal to the external audio output device comprises a control method in which an audio signal including the test pattern signal is transmitted to the external audio output device through the identified frequency band using a first communication method, and information corresponding to the identified frequency band is transmitted to the external audio output device using a second communication method. Claim 18 ◈Claim 18 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ In claim 13, the step of transmitting the test pattern signal to the external audio output device comprises transmitting a signal for checking the output status of the external audio output device together with the test pattern signal to the external audio output device, and the control method comprises, when output error information is received from the external audio output device, restoring the output error of the external audio output device based on the received output error information. Claim 19 ◈Claim 19 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ In claim 13, the step of transmitting the test pattern signal to the external audio output device comprises: a step of identifying a communication connection error, an input error of the external audio output device, and a playback error of the external audio output device; and a control method of transmitting the test pattern signal for checking an output error of the external audio output device when a communication connection error, an input error of the external audio output device, and a playback error of the external audio output device are not identified. Claim 20 ◈Claim 20 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ A control method according to Claim 13, further comprising: a step of acquiring a video signal and an audio signal from content data; and a step of displaying the video signal and outputting the audio signal to the external audio output device.

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