Information processing device, program, and information processing system

Abstract

The present technology provides an information processing device, a program, and an information processing system, the information processing device having an HDMI output terminal and capable of detecting erroneous connection with an external device having an HDMI input terminal. An audio device includes an HDMI output terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal. An HDMI control unit of the audio device detects connection between the HDMI output terminal of the audio device and an HDMI input terminal of a television receiver capable of receiving a TMDS signal. The HDMI control unit of the audio device determines whether or not ARC connection is established between the HDMI output terminal of the audio device and the HDMI input terminal of the television receiver, and outputs information based on the result of determination. The present technology can be applied to, for example, an audio device that is HDMI-connected to a television receiver.

Description

Information processing device, program, and information processing system

[0001] The present technology relates to an information processing device, a program, and an information processing system, and in particular to an information processing device, a program, and an information processing system that are capable of detecting an erroneous connection between an information processing device having an HDMI output terminal and an external device having an HDMI input terminal.

[0002] In recent years, a viewing method has become popular in which an audio device is connected to a television receiver via HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) (registered trademark) and the audio input to the television receiver is output from the audio device, thereby enabling viewing with high-quality audio.

[0003] Among the HDMI terminals installed on television receivers, the HDMI terminal capable of transmitting audio signals to audio devices is an HDMI input terminal that supports ARC (Audio Return Channel) / eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel). An HDMI input terminal is an HDMI terminal that can receive image signals, audio signals, etc. as TMDS signals via a TMDS (Transition Minimized Differential Signaling) channel. An ARC / eARC-compatible HDMI input terminal (hereinafter referred to as an ARC / eARC-compatible terminal) is an HDMI input terminal that supports at least one of ARC and eARC and can transmit audio signals in the opposite direction to the TMDS signal.

[0004] Among the HDMI terminals installed on audio devices, the HDMI terminal that can receive audio signals from a television receiver is the HDMI output terminal. An HDMI output terminal is an HDMI terminal that can output image signals, audio signals, etc. as TMDS signals via a TMDS channel. For this reason, users must connect the ARC / eARC compatible terminal on the television receiver to the HDMI output terminal on the audio device.

[0005] However, because ARC / eARC-compatible terminals, ARC / eARC-incompatible HDMI input terminals, and HDMI output terminals all have the same shape, incorrect connections are prone to occur and it is difficult for users to notice them themselves. Meanwhile, if an incorrect connection causes no audio output from the audio device, user satisfaction decreases and the burden on customer service increases. Therefore, a connection guidance method has been devised to encourage users attempting to connect a television receiver and an audio device via HDMI to make the correct connection.

[0006] One such connection guidance method is to clearly state "TV ARC / eARC" on the HDMI output terminal of the audio device and cover the HDMI input terminal with a sticker before shipping the audio device. Another method is to clearly state in the start guide included with the audio device when it is shipped that it must be connected to the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal on the television receiver. However, these connection guidance methods make it difficult to prevent incorrect connections on the television receiver side.

[0007] Another connection guidance method involves the television receiver running a setup wizard specifically for the audio device. In this method, the setup wizard displays a user interface (UI) on the television receiver that emphasizes connection to an ARC / eARC-compatible terminal. An audio signal is then actually output from the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal on the television receiver, and the user checks whether audio is being output from the audio device.

[0008] One connection guidance method involves a television receiver detecting an incorrect connection between itself and an audio device and displaying a message according to the detection result, gradually guiding the user to the correct connection (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0009] In this method, the television receiver first detects an incorrect connection on the audio device side based on the physical address and DDC (Display Data Channel) status notified by the audio device. If an incorrect connection on the audio device side is detected, the television receiver displays a message notifying the user that the television receiver is connected to the HDMI input terminal of the audio device. Next, the television receiver detects an incorrect connection on the television receiver side based on Initiate ARC. If an incorrect connection on the television receiver side is detected, the television receiver displays a message urging the user to connect to an ARC-compatible HDMI input terminal of the television receiver.

[0010] JP 2018-107497 A

[0011] However, the method described in Patent Document 1 does not allow an audio device to detect a misconnection with a television receiver. Therefore, when a user connects an audio device to a television receiver that does not detect a misconnection with the audio device, it is difficult for the user to recognize the misconnection between the television receiver and the audio device and reconnect them correctly.

[0012] Therefore, there is a demand for a method to detect incorrect connection between an information processing device with an HDMI output terminal, such as an audio device, and an external device with an HDMI input terminal, such as a television receiver, but this demand has not yet been fully met.

[0013] The present technology has been made in view of such circumstances, and makes it possible to detect an erroneous connection between an information processing device having an HDMI output terminal and an external device having an HDMI input terminal.

[0014] An information processing device according to a first aspect of the present technology is an information processing device including: an HDMI terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal; a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal; and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device, and outputs information based on the determination result.

[0015] A program according to a first aspect of the present technology is a program for causing a computer that controls an information processing device having an HDMI terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal to function as a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal, and as a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device, and outputs information based on the determination result.

[0016] In a first aspect of the present technology, a connection between an HDMI terminal of the device itself capable of outputting a TMDS signal and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal is detected, and it is determined whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device, and information based on the determination result is output.

[0017] An information processing system according to a second aspect of the present technology is an information processing system including: an information processing device having an HDMI terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal, a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal, and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device and transmits information based on the determination result; and a mobile terminal device having an output unit that receives the information based on the determination result transmitted by the determination unit and displays an image or outputs sound based on the information.

[0018] In a second aspect of the present technology, there is provided an information processing device having an HDMI terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal, a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device that can receive the TMDS signal, and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device and transmits information based on the determination result, and a mobile terminal device having an output unit that receives the information based on the determination result transmitted by the determination unit and displays an image or outputs sound based on the information.

[0019] An information processing system according to a third aspect of the present technology is an information processing system including: an information processing device having an HDMI terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal, a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal, and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device and transmits information based on the determination result; and the external device having the HDMI terminal of the external device and an output unit that receives the information based on the determination result transmitted by the determination unit and displays an image or outputs sound based on the information.

[0020] In a third aspect of the present technology, there is provided an information processing device having an HDMI terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal, a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device that is capable of receiving the TMDS signal, and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device and transmits information based on the determination result, and the external device having the HDMI terminal of the external device and an output unit that receives the information based on the determination result transmitted by the determination unit and displays an image or outputs sound based on the information.

[0021] 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a first embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating configuration examples of the television receiver, audio device, and smartphone of FIG. 1. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the HDMI control unit of FIG. 2. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating communication when an ARC / eARC compatible terminal and an HDMI output terminal are connected via HDMI. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating connection confirmation processing in the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a completion screen. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of an HDMI connection confirmation screen. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a compatible terminal guidance screen. FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a second embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 18 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the HDMI control unit of FIG. 10. FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating connection confirmation processing in the second embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a start screen. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power-on guidance screen. FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a first example of a port designation guidance screen. FIG. 22 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a third embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 23 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a fourth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 24 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a fifth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a sixth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 26 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a seventh embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. FIG. 27 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an eighth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a ninth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied. Fig. 14 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of an audio device.

[0022] Modes for implementing the present technology (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) will be described below. The description will be made in the following order: 1. First embodiment (information processing system in which an audio device performs connection confirmation processing) 2. Second embodiment (information processing system in which an audio device performs other connection confirmation processing) 3. Third embodiment (information processing system in which an audio device and a smartphone connect via Wi-Fi Direct) 4. Fourth embodiment (information processing system in which an audio device and a smartphone connect via a Wi-Fi router) 5. Fifth embodiment (information processing system in which an audio device notifies a user on a screen how to improve an HDMI connection) 6. Sixth embodiment (information processing system in which an audio device notifies a user by voice how to improve an HDMI connection) 7. Seventh embodiment (information processing system in which a television receiver notifies a user on a method to improve an HDMI connection) 8. Eighth embodiment (information processing system in which a television receiver and an audio device connect via Wi-Fi Direct) 9. Ninth embodiment (information processing system in which a television receiver and an audio device connect via a Wi-Fi router) 10. Audio device that executes processing by software

[0023] 1. First Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a first embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0024] 1 includes a television receiver 11, an audio device 12, and a smartphone 13. The audio device 12 outputs sound based on an audio signal of content such as a broadcast program transmitted from the television receiver 11 with which an ARC / eARC connection, which is an ARC or eARC connection, has been established.

[0025] Specifically, the television receiver 11 has an ARC / eARC-compatible terminal, which is an ARC / eARC-incompatible HDMI input terminal, and an ARC / eARC-compatible terminal. The television receiver 11 receives content such as broadcast programs via a network or an antenna. When the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal of the television receiver 11 is connected to the HDMI output terminal of the audio device 12 via an HDMI cable, negotiation is performed in accordance with the HDMI standard, and an ARC connection / eARC connection is established. This allows the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal of the television receiver 11 to transmit audio signals such as received content to the HDMI output terminal of the audio device 12. Note that, hereinafter, a connection via an HDMI cable will be referred to as an HDMI connection.

[0026] The audio device 12 has an HDMI input terminal and an HDMI output terminal. The audio device 12 performs a connection confirmation process to confirm the connection between the audio device 12 and the television receiver 11. Specifically, the audio device 12 detects the connection between the HDMI output terminal of the audio device 12 and the HDMI input terminal of the television receiver 11, and determines whether an ARC / eARC connection has been established between the HDMI output terminal of the audio device 12 and the HDMI input terminal of the connected television receiver 11. The audio device 12 is connected to the smartphone 13 via Bluetooth (registered trademark) so as to be able to communicate with the smartphone 13. The audio device 12 transmits, via Bluetooth communication, detection result information representing a detection result as information based on the detection result and determination result information representing a determination result as information based on the determination result to the smartphone 13.

[0027] When an ARC connection / eARC connection is established, the HDMI output terminal of the audio device 12 receives an audio signal transmitted from the ARC / eARC compatible terminal, and the audio device 12 outputs sound corresponding to the audio signal.

[0028] Smartphone 13 generates and displays a predetermined screen based on the detection result information and determination result information transmitted from audio device 12 via Bluetooth communication.

[0029] <Configuration Examples of Television Receiver, Audio Device, and Smartphone> FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing configuration examples of the television receiver 11, audio device 12, and smartphone 13 shown in FIG.

[0030] 2 illustrates only the configuration of the television receiver 11, the audio device 12, and the smartphone 13 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 11 to the audio device 12.

[0031] The television receiver 11 (external device) includes a content receiving unit 31, a signal processing unit 32, a display 33, a speaker 34, an HDMI port 35, and an HDMI control unit 36.

[0032] The content receiving unit 31 receives content such as a broadcast program via a network, an antenna, etc. For example, the content receiving unit 31 selects a predetermined channel, demodulates the broadcast signal of that channel, and extracts the content of the broadcast program. The content receiving unit 31 supplies the received content to the signal processing unit 32.

[0033] The signal processing unit 32 separates the image signal and audio signal of the content supplied from the content receiving unit 31 or the HDMI control unit 36. The signal processing unit 32 performs predetermined signal processing on each of the image signal and audio signal of the content. The signal processing unit 32 supplies the processed image signal to the display 33, thereby causing the display 33 to display the image of the content. The signal processing unit 32 causes the speaker 34 to output the sound of the content based on the processed audio signal. The signal processing unit 32 also supplies the processed audio signal to the HDMI control unit 36.

[0034] The HDMI port 35 is composed of one ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41 and three ARC / eARC-non-compatible terminals 42-1 to 42-3. Note that, hereinafter, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between the ARC / eARC-compatible terminals 42-1 to 42-3, they will be collectively referred to as the ARC / eARC-non-compatible terminals 42. When there is no need to particularly distinguish between the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41 and the ARC / eARC-non-compatible terminals 42-1 to 42-3, they will be simply referred to as the TV-side HDMI input terminals. The number of ARC / eARC-compatible terminals 41 and ARC / eARC-non-compatible terminals 42 provided in the HDMI port 35 can be any number.

[0035] The HDMI control unit 36 ​​controls communication via the HDMI port 35 in accordance with the HDMI standard. For example, the HDMI control unit 36 ​​transmits an audio signal supplied from the signal processing unit 32 via the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. The HDMI control unit 36 ​​receives content transmitted via the ARC / eARC incompatible terminal 42 and supplies the content to the signal processing unit 32.

[0036] The audio device 12 (information processing device) includes an HDMI port 51 , an HDMI control unit 52 , a signal processing unit 53 , a Bluetooth control unit 54 , and a speaker 55 .

[0037] The HDMI port 51 has an HDMI input terminal 61 and an HDMI output terminal 62. The audio device 12 may have any number of HDMI input terminals 61 and HDMI output terminals 62. The audio device 12 does not necessarily have to have an HDMI input terminal 61.

[0038] The HDMI control unit 52 controls communication via the HDMI port 51 in accordance with the HDMI standard. As a result, the HDMI control unit 52 performs detection processing, determination processing, audio reception processing, etc. The detection processing is processing of detecting a connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the HDMI input terminal on the television side, and supplying detection result information to the signal processing unit 53. The determination processing is processing of determining whether an ARC / eARC connection has been established between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the connected HDMI input terminal on the television side, and supplying determination result information to the signal processing unit 53.

[0039] The audio reception process is a process of supplying an audio signal received by the HDMI input terminal 61 or the HDMI output terminal 62 to the signal processing unit 53. An operation signal indicating the content of an operation by the user of the information processing system 10 is supplied from the signal processing unit 53 to the HDMI control unit 52. This operation signal is used in the detection process and the determination process.

[0040] The signal processing unit 53 supplies the detection result information and determination result information supplied from the HDMI control unit 52 to the Bluetooth control unit 54. The signal processing unit 53 performs predetermined signal processing on the audio signal supplied from the HDMI control unit 52. The signal processing unit 53 outputs sound from the speaker 55 based on the processed audio signal. The signal processing unit 53 supplies the operation signal supplied from the Bluetooth control unit 54 to the HDMI control unit 52.

[0041] The Bluetooth control unit 54 performs Bluetooth communication with the smartphone 13. For example, the Bluetooth control unit 54 transmits (outputs) detection result information and determination result information supplied from the signal processing unit 53 to the smartphone 13 via Bluetooth communication. The Bluetooth control unit 54 receives an operation signal transmitted from the smartphone 13 via Bluetooth communication and supplies the operation signal to the signal processing unit 53.

[0042] The smartphone 13 (portable terminal device) is composed of a Bluetooth control unit 71 , a signal processing unit 72 , a touch panel 73 , and a display 74 .

[0043] The Bluetooth control unit 71 performs Bluetooth communication with the audio device 12. For example, the Bluetooth control unit 71 transmits an operation signal supplied from the signal processing unit 72 to the audio device 12 via Bluetooth communication. The Bluetooth control unit 71 receives detection result information and determination result information transmitted from the audio device 12 via Bluetooth communication, and supplies the information to the signal processing unit 72.

[0044] The signal processing unit 72 generates an operation signal based on operation position information indicating the user's operation position on the display 74, which is supplied from the touch panel 73, and the screen currently being displayed on the display 74, and supplies the operation signal to the Bluetooth control unit 71. The signal processing unit 72 generates an image signal of a predetermined screen based on the detection result information and determination result information supplied from the Bluetooth control unit 71, and performs predetermined signal processing on the image signal. The signal processing unit 72 supplies the image signal after signal processing to the display 74.

[0045] The touch panel 73 is formed on the display 74. The touch panel 73 (operation receiving unit) receives user operations on the screen displayed on the display 74, and supplies operation position information indicating the position of the operation to the signal processing unit 72. The display 74 displays a predetermined screen based on the image signal supplied from the signal processing unit 72.

[0046] <Configuration Example of HDMI Control Unit> FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the HDMI control unit 52 in FIG.

[0047] The HDMI control unit 52 in FIG. 3 is made up of a detection unit 91, a determination unit 92, and a reception processing unit 93.

[0048] The detection unit 91 performs detection processing by controlling communication via the HDMI port 51 based on the operation signal supplied from the signal processing unit 53 in FIG.

[0049] The determination unit 92 performs a determination process by controlling communication via the HDMI port 51 based on the operation signal.

[0050] The reception processing unit 93 performs audio reception processing by controlling communication via the HDMI port 51 .

[0051] <Description of Communication When ARC / eARC Compatible Terminal and HDMI Output Terminal are Connected via HDMI> FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining communication when the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 and the HDMI output terminal 62 in FIG. 3 are connected via HDMI.

[0052] 4, when the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 and the HDMI output terminal 62 are HDMI-connected, the HDMI output terminal 62 transmits TMDS signals to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 via three TMDS channels (TMDS Channel 0 to TMDS Channel 2). The ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 transmits EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) to the HDMI output terminal 62 via DDC. The DDC is also called a power line, and the HDMI output terminal 62 supplies a predetermined voltage (e.g., 5 V) to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 via DDC.

[0053] The HDMI output terminal 62 and the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 exchange CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) messages compliant with the HDMI-CEC standard via a CEC line. The ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 transmits an audio signal to the HDMI output terminal 62 via a Utility line and an HPD (Hot Plug Detect) line. The ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 transmits an HPD signal to the HDMI output terminal 62 via the HPD line. The HPD signal is a signal used by a device on the HDMI output terminal side to detect that an HDMI input terminal has been connected to the HDMI output terminal of the device. Specifically, when the HPD signal is High, the device on the HDMI output terminal side detects that an HDMI input terminal has been connected to the HDMI output terminal of the device.

[0054] 5 is a flowchart illustrating the connection confirmation process performed by audio device 12. This connection confirmation process is started when, for example, the user operates touch panel 73 of smartphone 13 to issue an instruction to start the connection confirmation process.

[0055] 5, the detection unit 91 determines whether or not the physical address of the audio device 12 has been determined. This physical address is determined by the detection unit 91 reading the EDID from the television receiver 11 when the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television-side HDMI input terminal are HDMI-connected.

[0056] Therefore, if it is determined in step S11 that the physical address of the audio device 12 has been determined, the detection unit 91 determines that the television HDMI input terminal and the HDMI output terminal 62 have been connected via HDMI in the past or are currently connected via HDMI. Then, the detection unit 91 proceeds to step S12.

[0057] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S11 that the physical address of audio device 12 has not yet been determined, detection unit 91 determines that the HDMI connection is in an unconnected state. The unconnected state refers to a state in which the television's HDMI input terminal and the HDMI output terminal 62 have never been connected since shipping from the factory. Then, detection unit 91 does not detect an HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television's HDMI input terminal, supplies detection result information indicating non-detection to signal processing unit 53, and the process proceeds to step S18.

[0058] In step S12 , the detection unit 91 transmits an arbitrary CEC message from the HDMI output terminal 62 to the logical address (for example, 0) of the television receiver 11 .

[0059] In step S13, the detection unit 91 determines whether or not the HDMI output terminal 62 has received an acknowledgement (ACK) response to the CEC message transmitted in step S12. The ACK response is a response returned byte by byte when a CEC message of any number of bytes is transmitted to a specific device with an enabled CEC function between devices connected via HDMI.

[0060] Therefore, if it is determined in step S13 that an ACK response has been received, the detection unit 91 determines that the CEC function of the television receiver 11 is enabled and that there is an HDMI connection between the television's HDMI input terminal and the HDMI output terminal 62. The detection unit 91 then detects the HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television's HDMI input terminal, supplies detection result information indicating the detection to the signal processing unit 53, and the process proceeds to step S15.

[0061] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S13 that an ACK response has not been received, the detection unit 91 determines that the HDMI connection state is a non-connected state, an audio side misconnection state, a both-side misconnection state, or a CEC invalid connection state, and proceeds to step S14.

[0062] The non-connected state refers to a state in which the television's HDMI input terminal and HDMI output terminal 62 have been HDMI-connected in the past, but the television's HDMI input terminal is currently not connected to either the HDMI input terminal 61 or the HDMI output terminal 62. In other words, the television's HDMI input terminal and HDMI output terminal 62 have been HDMI-connected in the past, but currently an HDMI cable is not connected to at least one of the television's HDMI input terminal and the HDMI terminals of the HDMI port 51 (HDMI input terminal 61, HDMI output terminal 62).

[0063] The audio-side incorrect connection state is a state in which the television's HDMI input terminal and HDMI output terminal 62 have been connected via HDMI in the past, but the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41 and HDMI input terminal 61 are currently connected via HDMI. The double-side incorrect connection state is a state in which the television's HDMI input terminal and HDMI output terminal 62 have been connected via HDMI in the past, but the ARC / eARC-incompatible terminal 42 and HDMI input terminal 61 are currently connected via HDMI. The CEC-disabled connection state is a state in which the television's HDMI input terminal and HDMI output terminal 62 are currently connected via HDMI, but the CEC function of the television receiver 11 is disabled.

[0064] In step S14, the detection unit 91 determines whether the HPD signal received by the HDMI output terminal 62 is High.

[0065] That is, even if an ACK response is not received, if the HDMI connection state is the CEC invalid connection state, the television HDMI input terminal and the HDMI output terminal 62 are HDMI connected. Therefore, the detection unit 91 determines whether the HDMI connection state is the CEC invalid connection state based on the HPD signal. Specifically, if it is determined in step S14 that the HPD signal is High, the detection unit 91 determines that the HDMI connection state is the CEC invalid connection state. The detection unit 91 then detects the HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television HDMI input terminal, supplies detection result information indicating the detection to the signal processing unit 53, and proceeds to step S15.

[0066] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S14 that the HPD signal is not High, the detection unit 91 determines that the HDMI connection state is a non-connection state, an audio-side erroneous connection state, or a both-side erroneous connection state. The detection unit 91 then does not detect an HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television-side HDMI input terminal, supplies detection result information indicating non-detection to the signal processing unit 53, and the process proceeds to step S18.

[0067] As described above, the detection unit 91 performs the detection process by performing the processes of steps S11 to S14. If an HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television HDMI input terminal is detected, the process proceeds to step S15.

[0068] In step S15, the determination unit 92 determines whether an ARC connection / eARC connection has been established between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television's HDMI input terminal. The ARC connection / eARC connection is established by automatically negotiating in accordance with the HDMI standard when the HDMI output terminal 62 and the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 are HDMI connected.

[0069] Therefore, if it is determined in step S15 that the ARC connection / eARC connection has been established, the determination unit 92 determines that the HDMI connection state is a normal HDMI connection state in which the HDMI output terminal 62 and the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 are HDMI-connected. Then, the determination unit 92 supplies determination result information indicating that the ARC connection / eARC connection has been established to the signal processing unit 53, and the process proceeds to step S16.

[0070] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S15 that the ARC connection / eARC connection has not been established, the determination unit 92 determines that the HDMI connection state is a television receiver-side incorrect connection state in which the ARC / eARC non-compatible terminal 42 and the HDMI output terminal 62 are HDMI-connected. Note that a television receiver-side incorrect connection state is generally the most likely to occur among incorrect connection states between the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12, and it is difficult for the user to notice the television receiver-side incorrect connection state. If the determination unit 92 determines that the HDMI connection state is a television receiver-side incorrect connection state, it supplies determination result information indicating that the ARC connection / eARC connection has not been established to the signal processing unit 53, and the process proceeds to step S21.

[0071] In step S16, the signal processing unit 53 supplies the Bluetooth control unit 54 with the determination result information, which is supplied from the determination unit 92 and indicates that the ARC connection / eARC connection has been established.

[0072] In step S17, the Bluetooth control unit 54 transmits the determination result information, which is provided in the process of step S16 and indicates that the ARC connection / eARC connection has been established, to the smartphone 13. As a result, a completion screen is displayed on the display 74 of the smartphone 13. Then, the connection confirmation process ends.

[0073] On the other hand, as described above, if an HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television HDMI input terminal is not detected, the process proceeds to step S18.

[0074] In step S18, the signal processing unit 53 supplies the detection result information indicating non-detection supplied from the detection unit 91 to the Bluetooth control unit 54.

[0075] In step S19, the Bluetooth control unit 54 transmits the detection result information indicating non-detection, which is supplied by the processing of step S18, to the smartphone 13. As a result, an HDMI connection confirmation screen is displayed on the display 74 of the smartphone 13. As a result, the user can recognize the incorrect connection between the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12.

[0076] When the user recognizes from the HDMI connection confirmation screen that the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12 are incorrectly connected, the user performs an HDMI connection or redoes the HDMI connection and operates the connection completion button on the HDMI connection confirmation screen. As a result, the Bluetooth control unit 71 transmits an operation signal indicating the operation of the connection completion button to the audio device 12. This operation signal is supplied to the detection unit 91 via the Bluetooth control unit 54 and the signal processing unit 53.

[0077] In step S20, the detection unit 91 determines whether the connection completion button has been operated by the user, i.e., whether an operation signal indicating the operation of the connection completion button has been supplied. If it is determined in step S20 that the connection completion button has not yet been operated by the user, the detection unit 91 waits until the connection completion button is operated.

[0078] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S20 that the connection complete button has been operated, the process returns to step S11, and the detection unit 91 performs the detection process again. As a result, the HDMI connection status finally becomes either an incorrect connection status on the television receiver side or a normal connection status.

[0079] In step S21, the signal processing unit 53 supplies the Bluetooth control unit 54 with the determination result information, which is supplied from the determination unit 92 and indicates that the ARC connection / eARC connection has not been established.

[0080] In step S22, the Bluetooth control unit 54 transmits the determination result information, provided by the processing of step S21, indicating that the ARC connection / eARC connection has not been established to the smartphone 13. As a result, a compatible terminal guidance screen is displayed on the display 74 of the smartphone 13, urging the user to connect an HDMI cable to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 in order to correct the incorrect connection. As a result, the user can recognize the incorrect connection caused by not connecting an HDMI cable to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41.

[0081] When the user recognizes from the compatible terminal guidance screen that an HDMI connection has been made incorrectly due to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 not being connected, the user reconnects the HDMI cable that was connected to the ARC / eARC non-compatible terminal 42 to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. The user then operates the connection complete button on the compatible terminal guidance screen. As a result, the Bluetooth control unit 71 transmits an operation signal indicating the operation of the connection complete button to the audio device 12. This operation signal is supplied to the determination unit 92 via the Bluetooth control unit 54 and the signal processing unit 53.

[0082] In step S23, the determination unit 92 determines whether the user has operated the connection completion button, i.e., whether an operation signal indicating the operation of the connection completion button has been supplied. If it is determined in step S23 that the connection completion button has not yet been operated by the user, the determination unit 92 waits until the connection completion button is operated.

[0083] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S23 that the connection completion button has been operated, the process returns to step S15, and the determination unit 92 performs the determination process again. Then, the processes of steps S15 and S21 to S23 are repeated until the ARC connection / eARC connection is established.

[0084] The connection confirmation process of Figure 5 allows the audio device 12 to determine the status of an HDMI connection that complies with the HDMI standard, which does not have a mechanism for accurately determining the connection status in real time, based on information defined by the HDMI standard.

[0085] <Example of Completion Screen> FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the completion screen.

[0086] The completion screen 111 in Fig. 6 is composed of a message "HDMI connection confirmed" and an image 111a, which indicate that the HDMI connection confirmation has been completed. In the example of Fig. 6, the image 111a is an image in which a check mark indicating completion is superimposed on an image showing the connection between the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12. The user can recognize that the HDMI connection confirmation has been completed from this completion screen 111. The completion screen 111 does not necessarily have to include the image 111a.

[0087] <Example of HDMI Connection Confirmation Screen> FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an HDMI connection confirmation screen.

[0088] The HDMI connection confirmation screen 121 in Fig. 7 is composed of a message "Please check the HDMI connection" that prompts the user to check the HDMI connection, an image 121a, and a connection complete button 121b. The image 121a is an image showing a method for connecting the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12. In the example of Fig. 7, the image 121a is an image in which an image showing the connection between the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12 is superimposed with an image showing the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 and the HDMI output terminal 62 to be HDMI connected.

[0089] The user recognizes the incorrect connection between the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12 on the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and operates the connection completion button 121b to make the HDMI connection or to redo the HDMI connection. The HDMI connection confirmation screen 121 does not need to include the image 121a.

[0090] <Example of Corresponding Terminal Guidance Screen> FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a corresponding terminal guidance screen.

[0091] 8 is composed of a message such as "Please connect to the ARC / eARC compatible HDMI input on the TV," an image 131a, and a connection completion button 131b that prompts the user to make an HDMI connection to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. The image 131a is an image that emphasizes the importance of connecting to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. In the example of FIG. 8, the image 131a is an image in which only an image representing the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 to be connected via HDMI is superimposed on an image representing the connection between the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12.

[0092] The user recognizes from this compatible terminal guidance screen 131 that an HDMI connection has not been made to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41, and operates the connection complete button 131b when the HDMI cable is connected to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. Note that the compatible terminal guidance screen 131 does not necessarily have to include the image 131a.

[0093] As described above, in the audio device 12 having the HDMI output terminal 62, the detection unit 91 detects the connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the HDMI input terminal on the television. The determination unit 92 determines whether an ARC connection / eARC connection has been established between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the HDMI input terminal on the television. Therefore, it is possible to detect an erroneous connection between the audio device 12 having the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television receiver 11 having the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41.

[0094] In audio device 12, Bluetooth control unit 54 outputs the determination result information to smartphone 13. Therefore, for example, signal processing unit 72 of smartphone 13 can cause corresponding terminal guidance screen 131 to be displayed on display 74 based on the determination result information, thereby guiding the user to the correct HDMI connection between television receiver 11 and audio device 12.

[0095] As a result, even if the television receiver 11 does not have the function of detecting an incorrect connection with the audio device 12, the user can correctly connect the audio device 12 to the television receiver 11 via HDMI and complete the initial setup.

[0096] The audio device 12 detects an incorrect connection in two stages: detecting the connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television's HDMI input terminal, and determining whether an ARC connection / eARC connection has been established between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television's HDMI input terminal. Therefore, the audio device 12 can display the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121 based on the detection result information, and the corresponding terminal guidance screen 131 based on the determination result information. As a result, the user can recognize a more appropriate method for correcting the incorrect connection and easily make a correct HDMI connection.

[0097] 2. Second Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a second embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0098] In information processing system 140 in Figure 9, parts corresponding to those in information processing system 10 in Figure 2 are assigned the same reference numerals. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on parts that differ from information processing system 10. Information processing system 140 differs from information processing system 10 in that it includes audio device 142 and smartphone 143 instead of audio device 12 and smartphone 13, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 10.

[0099] 9 shows only the configuration of the information processing system 140 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 11 to the audio device 142.

[0100] The audio device 142 differs from the audio device 12 mainly in that it controls the power supply of the television receiver 11 in the connection confirmation process and transmits to the smartphone 143 specific information for identifying the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. In other respects, the audio device 142 is configured similarly to the audio device 12. Specifically, the audio device 142 differs from the audio device 12 in that the audio device 142 includes an HDMI control unit 152, a signal processing unit 153, and a Bluetooth control unit 154 instead of the HDMI control unit 52, the signal processing unit 53, and the Bluetooth control unit 54. In other respects, the audio device 142 is configured similarly to the audio device 12.

[0101] The HDMI control unit 152 controls communication via the HDMI port 51 in accordance with the HDMI standard, thereby performing detection processing, power supply control processing, determination processing, specific information acquisition processing, audio reception processing, etc. The power supply control processing is processing for turning on the power supply of the television receiver 11. The specific information acquisition processing is processing for receiving the port number of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 as specific information from the television receiver 11 and supplying it to the signal processing unit 153. Note that the specific information may be information indicating the position of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 on the HDMI port 35, in addition to the port number.

[0102] The HDMI control unit 152 receives an operation signal of the information processing system 10 from the signal processing unit 153. This operation signal is used in the detection process and the determination process.

[0103] The signal processing unit 153 supplies the detection result information, determination result information, and specification information supplied from the HDMI control unit 152 to the Bluetooth control unit 154. The signal processing unit 153 performs predetermined signal processing on the audio signal supplied from the HDMI control unit 152. The signal processing unit 153 outputs sound from the speaker 55 based on the processed audio signal. The signal processing unit 153 supplies the operation signal supplied from the Bluetooth control unit 154 to the HDMI control unit 152.

[0104] The Bluetooth control unit 154 performs Bluetooth communication with the smartphone 143. For example, the Bluetooth control unit 154 transmits (outputs) detection result information, determination result information, and identification information supplied from the signal processing unit 153 to the smartphone 143 via Bluetooth communication. The Bluetooth control unit 154 receives an operation signal transmitted from the smartphone 143 via Bluetooth communication and supplies the operation signal to the signal processing unit 153.

[0105] Smartphone 143 differs from audio device 12 mainly in that it displays a port designation guidance screen based on specific information, but is otherwise configured similarly to smartphone 143. Specifically, smartphone 143 differs from smartphone 43 in that it includes a Bluetooth control unit 171 and a signal processing unit 172 instead of a Bluetooth control unit 71 and a signal processing unit 72, but is otherwise configured similarly to smartphone 43. The port designation guidance screen is a screen that prompts the user to connect to ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 by designating information corresponding to the port number of ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 in order to prevent incorrect connection.

[0106] The Bluetooth control unit 171 performs Bluetooth communication with the audio device 142. For example, the Bluetooth control unit 171 transmits an operation signal supplied from the signal processing unit 172 to the audio device 142 via Bluetooth communication. The Bluetooth control unit 171 receives detection result information, determination result information, and identification information transmitted from the audio device 142 via Bluetooth communication, and supplies the information to the signal processing unit 172.

[0107] The signal processing unit 172 generates an operation signal based on operation position information indicating the user's operation position on the display 74, which is supplied from the touch panel 73, and the screen currently being displayed on the display 74, and supplies the operation signal to the Bluetooth control unit 171. The signal processing unit 172 generates an image signal of a predetermined screen, such as a port designation guidance screen, based on the detection result information, determination result information, and identification information supplied from the Bluetooth control unit 171, and performs predetermined signal processing on the image signal. The signal processing unit 172 supplies the image signal after signal processing to the display 74.

[0108] <Configuration Example of HDMI Control Unit> FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the HDMI control unit 152 in FIG.

[0109] In the HDMI control unit 152 in Fig. 10, parts corresponding to those in the HDMI control unit 52 in Fig. 3 are assigned the same reference numerals. Therefore, explanation of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the following explanation will focus on parts that differ from the HDMI control unit 52. The HDMI control unit 152 differs from the HDMI control unit 52 in that a power supply determination unit 192 and a power supply control unit 193 are newly provided, and that a determination unit 194 is provided instead of the determination unit 92, but is otherwise configured in the same way as the HDMI control unit 52.

[0110] The power supply determination unit 192 determines the state of the power supply of the television receiver 11 by controlling communication via the HDMI port 51. The power supply determination unit 192 supplies the determination result to the power supply control unit 193.

[0111] The power supply control unit 193 performs power supply control processing based on the determination result supplied from the power supply determination unit 192 .

[0112] The determination unit 194 performs a determination process by controlling communication via the HDMI port 51 based on the operation signal. The determination unit 194 performs a specific information acquisition process by controlling communication via the HDMI port 51 based on the determination result of the determination process.

[0113] <Explanation of Connection Confirmation Process> Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the connection confirmation process performed by the audio device 142 of Fig. 9. This connection confirmation process is started when, for example, the user issues an instruction to start the connection confirmation process by operating the touch panel 73 of the smartphone 143. Note that when the connection confirmation process starts, a start screen indicating the start of confirmation of the HDMI connection is displayed on the display 74 of the smartphone 143.

[0114] In step S111, the detection unit 91 determines whether or not the physical address of the audio device 142 has been determined, similar to the process of step S11 in Fig. 5. If it is determined in step S111 that the physical address of the audio device 142 has been determined, the process proceeds to step S112.

[0115] In step S112, the detection unit 91 detects whether a CEC message is sent from the HDMI output terminal 62 to the logical address (for example, 0) of the television receiver 11.<Give Device Power Status> Send a CEC message<Give Device Power Status> is a standard command defined by HDMI that requests a destination device to notify the power state of that device. As described above, the detection unit 91 detects a CEC message useful for the determination of the power determination unit 192 as a CEC message for detecting the connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the HDMI input terminal of the television.<Give Device Power Status> Send.

[0116] In step S113, the detection unit 91 detects whether the HDMI output terminal 62 receives the CEC message transmitted in step S112.<Give Device Power Status> If it is determined in step S113 that an ACK response has been received, the detection unit 91 determines that the CEC function of the television receiver 11 is enabled and that the television's HDMI input terminal and the HDMI output terminal 62 are HDMI-connected. The detection unit 91 then detects the HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television's HDMI input terminal, supplies detection result information indicating the detection to the signal processing unit 153, and the process proceeds to step S114.

[0117] In step S114, the power supply determination unit 192 determines whether the CEC message transmitted from the television input terminal to the HDMI output terminal 62 is<Report Power Status> Based on the CEC message, it is determined whether the power supply of the television receiver 11 is in the ON state.<Report Power Status> What is CEC Message?<Give Device Power Status> The device that receives the CEC message<Give Device Power Status> This is status notification information defined in the HDMI standard that notifies the power status of the device according to the

[0118] When the CEC message <Report Power Status> is status notification information indicating an on state, in step S114, the power determination unit 192 determines that the power state of the television receiver 11 is on. Then, the power determination unit 192 supplies the determination result to the power control unit 193, and the process proceeds to step S120.

[0119] On the other hand, when the CEC message <Report Power Status> is status notification information indicating an off state, in step S114, the power determination unit 192 determines that the power state of the television receiver 11 is not on, that is, it is in an off state. Then, the power determination unit 192 supplies the determination result to the power control unit 193, and the process proceeds to step S115.

[0120] In step S115, as a power control process, the power control unit 193 turns on the power of the television receiver 11 by transmitting a power-on message to the logical address of the television receiver 11. The power-on message is a CEC message of a command defined in the HDMI standard for turning on the power of the destination device. Examples of the power-on message include CEC messages <Text View On>, <Image View On>, <User Control Pressed>, <Power On Function>, etc.

[0121] After the process of step S115, the process returns to step S114, and the power determination unit 192 checks whether the power state of the television receiver 11 has become on, and subsequent processes are performed.

[0122] On the other hand, when it is determined that an ACK response has not been received in step S113, the detection unit 91 determines that the HDMI connection state is a non-connected state, an audio-side misconnection state, a both-sides misconnection state, or a CEC invalid connection state, and the process proceeds to step S116.

[0123] In step S116, the detection unit 91 determines whether the HPD signal received by the HDMI output terminal 62 is High, similar to the process in step S14. If it is determined in step S112 that the HPD signal is High, that is, if it is determined that the HDMI connection state is a CEC invalid connection state, the process proceeds to step S117.

[0124] In step S117 , the signal processing unit 153 generates power-off information indicating that the power is off, and supplies the power-off information to the Bluetooth control unit 154 .

[0125] In step S118, the Bluetooth control unit 154 transmits the power-off information generated by the processing in step S117 to the smartphone 143. As a result, a power-on prompting screen that prompts the user to turn on the television receiver 11 is displayed on the display 74 of the smartphone 143.

[0126] As described above, if it is determined in step S116 that the HPD signal is High, the CEC function is disabled, and therefore it is not possible to use a CEC message to determine the power state of the television receiver 11 or to turn on the television receiver 11. Therefore, the audio device 142 displays a power-on prompt screen on the display 74 to prompt the user to turn on the television receiver 11.

[0127] The power-on prompt screen allows the user to recognize the need to turn on the television receiver 11, check the on state of the television receiver 11, and turn it on. The user then operates the power-on completion button on the power-on prompt screen. As a result, the Bluetooth control unit 171 transmits an operation signal indicating the operation of the power-on completion button to the audio device 12. This operation signal is supplied to the power control unit 193 via the Bluetooth control unit 154 and the signal processing unit 153.

[0128] In step S119, the power control unit 193 determines whether the user has operated the power-on completion button, i.e., whether an operation signal indicating the operation of the power-on completion button has been supplied. If it is determined in step S119 that the user has not yet operated the power-on completion button, the power control unit 193 waits until the power-on completion button is operated.

[0129] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S119 that the power-on completion button has been operated, the process proceeds to step S120.

[0130] Furthermore, if it is determined in step S116 that the HPD signal is not High, the detection unit 91 does not detect an HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television-side HDMI input terminal, and supplies detection result information indicating non-detection to the signal processing unit 153. Then, the process proceeds to step S124.

[0131] As described above, the detection unit 91 performs the detection process by performing the processes of steps S111 to S113 and S116. Then, if an HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television HDMI input terminal is detected, the power to the television receiver 11 is turned on as necessary by the processes of steps S114, S114 and S115, or S117 and S118. Then, the process proceeds to step S120.

[0132] In step S120, the determination unit 194 determines whether an eARC connection has been established between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television's HDMI input terminal. Specifically, the HDMI standard stipulates that negotiation for an eARC connection is performed with priority over negotiation for an ARC connection. Therefore, the determination unit 194 determines whether an eARC connection has been established before determining whether an ARC connection has been established in step S121, which will be described later.

[0133] If it is determined in step S120 that the eARC connection is established, the determination unit 194 determines that the HDMI connection is in a normal connection state. Then, the determination unit 194 supplies determination result information indicating that the ARC connection / eARC connection is established to the signal processing unit 153, and the process proceeds to step S122.

[0134] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S120 that the eARC connection has not been established, then in step S121 the determination unit 194 determines whether the ARC connection has been established between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television's HDMI input terminal. If it is determined in step S121 that the ARC connection has been established, the determination unit 194 determines that the HDMI connection is in a normal connection state. The determination unit 194 then supplies determination result information indicating that the ARC connection / eARC connection has been established to the signal processing unit 153, and the process proceeds to step S122.

[0135] The processes in steps S122 and S123 are the same as those in steps S114 and S115 in Fig. 5, and therefore will not be described again. Then, the connection confirmation process ends.

[0136] On the other hand, as described above, if an HDMI connection between the HDMI output terminal 62 and the television HDMI input terminal is not detected, the process proceeds to step S124. The processes of steps S124 to S126 are the same as the processes of steps S18 to S20, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0137] If it is determined in step S121 that the ARC connection has not been established, the determination unit 194 determines that the HDMI connection is in a television receiver-side incorrect connection state. The determination unit 194 then supplies determination result information indicating that the ARC connection / eARC connection has not been established to the signal processing unit 153, and the process proceeds to step S127.

[0138] In step S127, the determination unit 194 transmits a port number request message to the logical address of the television receiver 11. The port number request message is a Vendor Unique CEC message that is a command requesting the television receiver 11 to notify the port number of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41.

[0139] In step S128, the determination unit 194 determines whether or not the port number message transmitted from the television receiver 11 in response to the port number request message transmitted in step S127 has been received by the HDMI output terminal 62. The port number message is a CEC message that is returned by the television receiver 11 that has received the port number request message and that notifies the user of the port number of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 of the television receiver 11.

[0140] If it is determined in step S128 that a port number message has been received, the determining unit 194 supplies the port number indicated by the port number message as specific information to the signal processing unit 153, and the process proceeds to step S129.

[0141] In step S129, the signal processing unit 153 supplies the Bluetooth control unit 154 with the determination result information indicating that the ARC connection / eARC connection has not been established and the identification information supplied from the determination unit 194.

[0142] In step S130, the Bluetooth control unit 154 transmits the determination result information indicating that the ARC connection / eARC connection has not been established and the identification information provided in the process of step S129 to the smartphone 143. This causes a port designation guidance screen to be displayed on the display 74 of the smartphone 143. As a result, the user can recognize the incorrect connection due to the HDMI not being connected to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41, and the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 to which the HDMI cable should be connected.

[0143] When the user recognizes from the port designation guidance screen that an HDMI connection has not been made to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 and that the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 is the correct terminal to which the HDMI cable should be connected, the user reconnects the HDMI cable to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. The user then operates the connection completion button on the port designation guidance screen. As a result, the Bluetooth control unit 171 transmits an operation signal indicating the operation of the connection completion button to the audio device 142. This operation signal is supplied to the determination unit 194 via the Bluetooth control unit 154 and the signal processing unit 153. After the processing of step S130, the processing proceeds to step S133.

[0144] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S128 that the port number message has not been received, for example, if the HDMI output terminal 62 has not received any CEC message or if the CEC message<Feature Abort> If the CEC message is received, the process proceeds to step S131.<Feature Abort> is a reply message indicating that the received CEC message is rejected.

[0145] The processes in steps S131 and S132 are the same as those in steps S21 and S22, and therefore will not be described further. After step S132, the process proceeds to step S133.

[0146] In step S133, the determination unit 194 determines whether the user has operated the connection completion button on the port designation guidance screen or the corresponding terminal guidance screen, i.e., whether an operation signal representing the operation of the connection completion button has been supplied. If it is determined in step S121 that the connection completion button has not yet been operated by the user, the determination unit 194 waits until the connection completion button is operated.

[0147] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S121 that the connection complete button has been operated, the process returns to step S120, where it is again determined whether or not an eARC connection has been established. Then, the processes of steps S127 to S133 are repeated until an eARC connection or an ARC connection is established.

[0148] The connection confirmation process of FIG. 11 allows the audio device 142 to determine the state of the HDMI connection based on information defined by the HDMI standard.

[0149] <Example of Start Screen> FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a start screen.

[0150] The start screen 211 (connection confirmation standby screen) of FIG. 12 is composed of a message "Checking HDMI connection... This may take some time," indicating that confirmation of the HDMI connection has begun, and an image 211a. In the example of FIG. 12, the image 211a is an image in which a two-way arrow mark indicating processing is superimposed on an image indicating the connection between the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12. This start screen 211 allows the user to recognize that confirmation of the HDMI connection has begun. The start screen 211 does not necessarily have to include the image 211a. The image indicating processing, superimposed on the image indicating the connection between the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12, may be a spinner.

[0151] <Example of Power-On Prompt Screen> FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a power-on prompt screen.

[0152] The power-on prompting screen 221 in Fig. 12 is composed of a message "Turn on the TV" that prompts the user to turn on the television receiver 11, and a power-on completion button 221a. The power-on prompting screen 221 allows the user to recognize the need to turn on the television receiver 11, and the user checks the on state of the television receiver 11 or turns on the power. The user then operates the power-on completion button 221a. The power-on prompting screen 221 may include an image.

[0153] <First Example of Port Designation Guidance Screen> FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a first example of a port designation guidance screen.

[0154] In the example of FIG. 14, the port number of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 is 1.

[0155] 14 includes a message that reads, "Connect to HDMI 1 on the television." This message specifies port number "1" of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 to prevent a misconnection, and emphasizes the importance of connecting to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41, thereby urging the user to make an HDMI connection to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. The port designation guidance screen 231 also includes an image 231a representing the HDMI port 35 of the television receiver 11 and a connection complete button 231b.

[0156] The user recognizes the incorrect connection due to the HDMI not being connected to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 and the port number of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 through this port designation guidance screen 231, and reconnects the HDMI cable to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. The user then operates the connection completion button 231b. Note that the port designation guidance screen 231 does not necessarily need to include the image 231a.

[0157] <Second Example of Port Designation Guidance Screen> FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a second example of a port designation guidance screen.

[0158] In the example of FIG. 15, the port number of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 is 1, and the position of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 on the HDMI port 35 is the leftmost position.

[0159] In the port designation guidance screen 235 of Fig. 15, parts corresponding to those in the port designation guidance screen 231 of Fig. 14 are assigned the same reference numerals. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the parts that differ from the port designation guidance screen 231. The port designation guidance screen 235 differs from the port designation guidance screen 231 in that it includes a message and an image 235a instead of the image 231a, but is otherwise configured in the same way as the port designation guidance screen 231.

[0160] The message included in the port designation guidance screen 235 in Fig. 15 is a message urging the user to make an HDMI connection to the HDMI terminal designated in image 235a, reading "Please connect to the HDMI terminal located in the position shown in the figure." Image 235a is an image that designates a position on the HDMI port 35 corresponding to port number "1" of the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41 in order to prevent incorrect connection, and emphasizes the importance of connecting to the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41, thereby urging the user to make an HDMI connection to the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41. In the example of Fig. 15, image 235a is an image that highlights the leftmost HDMI input terminal on the television side in an image representing the HDMI port 35 of the television receiver 11.

[0161] The user can recognize the incorrect connection caused by not connecting the HDMI cable to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 and the location of the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 from this port designation guidance screen 235, and can then reconnect the HDMI cable to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41. The user then operates the connection completion button 231b.

[0162] As described above, audio device 142 performs the detection process and determination process in the same manner as audio device 12, and therefore can achieve the same effects as those achieved by audio device 12 described above.

[0163] The determination unit 194 receives a port number message for the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41 by transmitting a port number request message. The signal processing unit 153 then transmits the port number indicated by the port number message as specific information to the smartphone 143 via the Bluetooth control unit 154. Therefore, if the television receiver 11 supports the port number request message, the smartphone 143 displays a port designation guidance screen 231, enabling more thorough support for the HDMI connection to be provided to the user. Even if the start guide or the like emphasizes the importance of connecting to the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41, incorrect connection on the television receiver side still occurs. Therefore, the port designation guidance screen 231 is considered to be more useful than the compatible terminal guidance screen 131.

[0164] In the audio device 142, the power control unit 193 turns on the power of the television receiver 11, and power-off information is generated and transmitted to the smartphone 143. Therefore, even if the television receiver 11 rejects negotiation for an ARC / eARC connection when the power is off, the ARC / eARC connection can be reliably established.

[0165] The port number may be acquired by communication other than communication via an HDMI connection, such as Wi-Fi communication or Bluetooth communication.

[0166] 3. Third Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a third embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0167] In the information processing system 240 of Fig. 16, the same reference numerals are used to designate parts corresponding to those in the information processing system 10 of Fig. 2. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on parts that are different from the information processing system 10.

[0168] Information processing system 240 differs from information processing system 10 in that detection result information and determination result information are transmitted from audio device 242 to smartphone 243 via Wi-Fi (registered trademark) communication, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 10. Specifically, information processing system 240 differs from information processing system 10 in that information processing system 240 includes audio device 242 and smartphone 243 instead of audio device 12 and smartphone 13, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 10.

[0169] 16 shows only the configuration of the information processing system 240 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 11 to the audio device 242.

[0170] The audio device 242 differs from the audio device 12 in that it includes a Wi-Fi control unit 254 instead of the Bluetooth control unit 54, but is otherwise configured in the same manner as the audio device 12.

[0171] The Wi-Fi control unit 254 performs Wi-Fi communication with the smartphone 243. For example, the Wi-Fi control unit 254 transmits (outputs) the detection result information and the determination result information supplied from the signal processing unit 53 to the smartphone 13 via Wi-Fi communication. The Wi-Fi control unit 254 receives an operation signal transmitted from the smartphone 243 via Wi-Fi communication and supplies the operation signal to the signal processing unit 53.

[0172] The smartphone 243 differs from the smartphone 13 in that it includes a Wi-Fi control unit 271 instead of the Bluetooth control unit 71, but is otherwise configured in the same manner as the smartphone 13.

[0173] The Wi-Fi control unit 271 performs Wi-Fi communication with the audio device 242. For example, the Wi-Fi control unit 271 transmits an operation signal supplied from the signal processing unit 72 to the audio device 242 via Wi-Fi communication. The Wi-Fi control unit 271 receives detection result information and determination result information transmitted from the audio device 242 via Wi-Fi communication, and supplies the information to the signal processing unit 72.

[0174] As described above, the information processing system 240 has the same configuration as the information processing system 10, except for the difference in the communication method between the audio device 242 and the smartphone 243, and therefore can obtain the same effects as those obtained by the information processing system 10 described above.

[0175] 4. Fourth Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a fourth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0176] In the information processing system 340 of Fig. 17, the parts corresponding to those in the information processing system 240 of Fig. 16 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the parts that are different from the information processing system 240.

[0177] Information processing system 340 differs from information processing system 240 in that Wi-Fi communication between audio device 242 and smartphone 243 is performed via Wi-Fi router 344, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 240. Specifically, information processing system 340 differs from information processing system 240 in that it further includes Wi-Fi router 344, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 240.

[0178] 17 shows only the configuration of the information processing system 340 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 11 to the audio device 242.

[0179] As described above, the information processing system 340 has the same configuration as the information processing system 10, except for the different communication method between the audio device 242 and the smartphone 243, and therefore can obtain the same effects as those obtained by the information processing system 10 described above.

[0180] The communication method between the audio device 12 and the smartphone 13 (243) may be a communication method other than Bluetooth communication or Wi-Fi communication.

[0181] 5. Fifth Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a fifth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0182] In the information processing system 440 of Fig. 18, the same reference numerals are used to designate parts corresponding to those in the information processing system 10 of Fig. 2. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on parts that are different from the information processing system 10.

[0183] Information processing system 440 differs from information processing system 10 in that audio device 442, rather than smartphone 13, generates an image signal for a predetermined screen and displays that screen, but is otherwise configured in the same manner as information processing system 10. Specifically, information processing system 440 differs from information processing system 10 in that it includes audio device 442 instead of audio device 12 and does not include smartphone 13, but is otherwise configured in the same manner as information processing system 10.

[0184] 18 shows only the configuration of the information processing system 440 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 11 to the audio device 442.

[0185] Audio device 442 differs from audio device 12 in that it does not include Bluetooth control unit 54, it includes signal processing unit 453 instead of signal processing unit 53, and it also includes display 456 and touch panel 457. Otherwise, it is configured similarly to audio device 12.

[0186] 2 , based on the detection result information and determination result information supplied from the HDMI control unit 52. The signal processing unit 453 generates image signals for screens such as the completion screen 111, the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and the compatible terminal guidance screen 131. The signal processing unit 543 then supplies the image signals to the display 456.

[0187] The signal processing unit 453 performs predetermined signal processing on the audio signal supplied from the HDMI control unit 52. The signal processing unit 453 outputs sound from the speaker 55 based on the processed audio signal. The signal processing unit 453 generates an operation signal based on operation position information supplied from the touch panel 457 and the screen currently being displayed on the display 456, and supplies the operation signal to the HDMI control unit 52.

[0188] The display 456 (output unit) displays screens such as the completion screen 111, the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and the compatible terminal guidance screen 131 based on the image signal supplied from the signal processing unit 453.

[0189] The touch panel 457 is formed on the display 456. The touch panel 457 (operation receiving unit) receives a user's operation on the screen displayed on the display 456, and supplies operation position information indicating the position of the operation to the signal processing unit 453.

[0190] As described above, information processing system 440 has the same configuration as information processing system 10, except that audio device 242 generates an image signal for a predetermined screen and displays that screen, rather than smartphone 13. Therefore, information processing system 440 can achieve the same effects as those achieved by information processing system 10 described above.

[0191] 6. Sixth Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a sixth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0192] In the information processing system 540 of Fig. 19, the same reference numerals are used to designate parts corresponding to those in the information processing system 440 of Fig. 18. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the parts that are different from the information processing system 440.

[0193] Information processing system 540 differs from information processing system 440 in that audio device 542 notifies methods for improving HDMI connections, etc., by audio rather than by image, but is otherwise configured in the same manner as information processing system 440. Specifically, information processing system 540 differs from information processing system 440 in that it includes audio device 542 instead of audio device 442, but is otherwise configured in the same manner as information processing system 440.

[0194] 19 shows only the configuration of the information processing system 540 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 11 to the audio device 542.

[0195] Audio device 542 differs from audio device 442 in that it includes signal processing unit 553 instead of signal processing unit 53, does not include display 456 or touch panel 457, and newly includes operation acceptance unit 556. Otherwise, it is configured in the same way as audio device 442.

[0196] The signal processing unit 553 generates an audio signal of a guidance voice, such as a method for improving the HDMI connection, based on the detection result information and determination result information supplied from the HDMI control unit 52. For example, instead of an image signal of a completion screen, the signal processing unit 553 generates an audio signal of a guidance voice notifying the completion of the HDMI connection check. Instead of an image signal of an HDMI connection check screen, the signal processing unit 553 generates an audio signal of a guidance voice urging the user to check the HDMI connection to correct the incorrect connection. Instead of an image signal of a compatible terminal guidance screen, the signal processing unit 553 generates an audio signal of a guidance voice urging the user to connect the HDMI to the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41 to correct the incorrect connection. The signal processing unit 553 causes the speaker 55 (output unit) to output the guidance voice based on the generated audio signal of the guidance voice.

[0197] The signal processing unit 553 performs predetermined signal processing on the audio signal supplied from the HDMI control unit 52. The signal processing unit 553 outputs sound from the speaker 55 based on the processed audio signal. The signal processing unit 553 generates an operation signal based on the input signal supplied from the operation receiving unit 556 and the guidance voice output from the speaker 55 immediately before, and supplies the operation signal to the HDMI control unit 52.

[0198] The operation accepting unit 556 is composed of operation buttons, a voice acquiring unit that accepts voice operations from the user, a touch panel formed on a display (not shown), etc. The operation accepting unit 556 accepts user operations in response to the voice output from the speaker 55, and supplies an input signal representing the operation to the signal processing unit 553.

[0199] As described above, information processing system 540 has the same configuration as information processing system 440, except that audio device 242 outputs voice guidance instead of a screen. Therefore, information processing system 540 can achieve the same effects as those achieved by information processing system 10 described above.

[0200] 7. Seventh Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a seventh embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0201] In the information processing system 610 of Fig. 20, the same reference numerals are used to designate parts corresponding to those of the information processing system 10 of Fig. 2. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on parts that are different from the information processing system 10.

[0202] Information processing system 610 differs from information processing system 10 in that audio device 612 generates an image signal for a predetermined screen, and television receiver 611 displays the screen instead of smartphone 13, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 10. Specifically, information processing system 610 differs from information processing system 10 in that information processing system 610 includes television receiver 611 and audio device 612 instead of television receiver 11 and audio device 12, and does not include smartphone 13. Other aspects are configured similarly to information processing system 10.

[0203] 20 shows only the configuration of the information processing system 610 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 611 to the audio device 612.

[0204] The television receiver 611 differs from the television receiver 11 in that it includes a signal processing unit 632, an HDMI port 635, and an HDMI control unit 636 instead of the signal processing unit 32, the HDMI port 35, and the HDMI control unit 36. The rest of the configuration is the same as that of the television receiver 11.

[0205] Similar to the signal processing unit 32, the signal processing unit 632 displays an image on the display 33 and outputs sound from the speaker 34 based on content supplied from the content receiving unit 31 or the HDMI control unit 636. Similar to the signal processing unit 32, the signal processing unit 632 also supplies the processed audio signal to the HDMI control unit 636.

[0206] Based on the image signal supplied from the HDMI control unit 636, the signal processing unit 632 causes the display 33 to display (output) screens such as the completion screen 111, the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and the compatible terminal guidance screen 131.

[0207] The HDMI port 635 differs from the HDMI port 35 in that it newly includes an HDMI input terminal 643, but otherwise has the same configuration as the HDMI port 35. The HDMI input terminal 643 is an HDMI input terminal that is HDMI-connected to the audio device 612 in order to transmit an image signal of a predetermined screen from the audio device 612 to the television receiver 611. The HDMI input terminal 643 may be an ARC / eARC-compatible terminal or an ARC / eARC-incompatible terminal.

[0208] In the following, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between the ARC / eARC compatible terminal 41, the ARC / eARC non-compatible terminals 42-1 to 42-3, and the HDMI input terminal 643, they will be simply referred to as television-side HDMI input terminals.

[0209] The HDMI control unit 636 controls communication via the television's HDMI input terminal in accordance with the HDMI standard. For example, the HDMI control unit 636 transmits an audio signal supplied from the signal processing unit 632 via the ARC / eARC-compatible terminal 41. The HDMI control unit 636 receives image signals for screens such as the completion screen 111, HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and compatible terminal guidance screen 131 from the audio device 612 via the HDMI input terminal 643, and supplies these to the signal processing unit 632. The HDMI control unit 636 receives content transmitted via the ARC / eARC-incompatible terminal 42, and supplies these to the signal processing unit 632.

[0210] Audio device 612 differs from audio device 12 in that it does not include Bluetooth control unit 54 and newly includes an operation acceptance unit 656. Audio device 612 also differs from audio device 12 in that it includes an HDMI port 651, an HDMI control unit 652, and a signal processing unit 653 instead of HDMI port 51, HDMI control unit 52, and signal processing unit 53. Other than this, audio device 612 is configured similarly to audio device 12.

[0211] The HDMI port 651 differs from the HDMI port 51 in that it newly includes an HDMI output terminal 663, but otherwise has the same configuration as the HDMI port 51. The HDMI output terminal 663 is an HDMI output terminal that is HDMI-connected to the HDMI input terminal 643 in order to transmit image signals for screens such as the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121 and the compatible terminal guidance screen 131 from the audio device 612 to the television receiver 611.

[0212] The HDMI control unit 652 controls communication via the HDMI port 651 in accordance with the HDMI standard. As a result, the HDMI control unit 652 performs detection processing, determination processing, audio reception processing, etc., similar to the HDMI control unit 52. The HDMI control unit 652 also transmits image signals of screens such as the completion screen 111, HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and compatible terminal guidance screen 131, which are supplied from the signal processing unit 653, from the HDMI output terminal 663 to the HDMI input terminal 643. Operation signals are supplied from the signal processing unit 653 to the HDMI control unit 652, and are used in the detection processing and determination processing.

[0213] 2 , based on the detection result information and determination result information supplied from the HDMI control unit 652. The signal processing unit 653 generates image signals for screens such as the completion screen 111, the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and the compatible terminal guidance screen 131. The signal processing unit 653 then supplies the image signals to the HDMI control unit 652. The signal processing unit 653 performs predetermined signal processing on the audio signal supplied from the HDMI control unit 652. The signal processing unit 653 causes the speaker 55 to output sound based on the processed audio signal. The signal processing unit 653 generates an operation signal based on the input signal supplied from the operation reception unit 656 and a screen corresponding to the most recently generated image signal, and supplies the operation signal to the HDMI control unit 652.

[0214] The operation accepting unit 656 is composed of operation buttons, a voice acquiring unit that accepts voice operations from the user, a touch panel formed on a display (not shown), etc. The operation accepting unit 656 accepts user operations on the screen displayed on the display 33, and supplies an input signal representing the operation to the signal processing unit 653.

[0215] As described above, the information processing system 610 has the same configuration as the information processing system 10, except that the audio device 12 generates an image signal for a predetermined screen, and the screen is displayed by the television receiver 611 rather than the smartphone 13. Therefore, the information processing system 610 can obtain the same effects as those obtained by the information processing system 10 described above.

[0216] 8. Eighth Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 21 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an eighth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0217] In the information processing system 710 of Fig. 21, the same reference numerals are used to designate parts corresponding to those in the information processing system 10 of Fig. 2. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on parts that are different from the information processing system 10.

[0218] Information processing system 710 differs from information processing system 610 in that an image signal of a predetermined screen is transmitted from an audio device 712 to a television receiver 711 via Wi-Fi communication, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 610. Specifically, information processing system 710 differs from information processing system 10 in that it includes a television receiver 711 and an audio device 712 instead of the television receiver 11 and the audio device 12. Other aspects are configured similarly to information processing system 10.

[0219] 21 shows only the configuration of the information processing system 710 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 711 to the audio device 712.

[0220] The television receiver 711 differs from the television receiver 11 in that it includes a signal processing unit 732 instead of the signal processing unit 32, and in that it newly includes a Wi-Fi control unit 736 and an operation acceptance unit 737. The rest of the configuration is the same as that of the television receiver 11.

[0221] Similar to the signal processing unit 32, the signal processing unit 732 displays an image on the display 33 and outputs sound from the speaker 34 based on content supplied from the content receiving unit 31 or the HDMI control unit 36. Similar to the signal processing unit 32, the signal processing unit 732 also supplies the processed audio signal to the HDMI control unit 36. Similar to the signal processing unit 32, the signal processing unit 732 displays screens such as the completion screen 111, the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and the compatible terminal guidance screen 131 on the display 33 based on an image signal supplied from the Wi-Fi control unit 736. The signal processing unit 732 generates an operation signal based on the input signal supplied from the operation receiving unit 737 and the screen currently being displayed on the display 33, and supplies the operation signal to the Wi-Fi control unit 736.

[0222] The Wi-Fi control unit 736 communicates with the audio device 712 via Wi-Fi. For example, the Wi-Fi control unit 736 receives image signals for screens such as the completion screen 111, the HDMI connection confirmation screen 121, and the compatible terminal guidance screen 131 from the audio device 712 via Wi-Fi communication, and supplies these signals to the signal processing unit 732. The Wi-Fi control unit 736 transmits operation signals supplied from the signal processing unit 732 to the audio device 712 via Wi-Fi communication.

[0223] The operation accepting unit 737 is composed of a voice acquiring unit that accepts voice operations from the user, a receiving unit of a remote controller (not shown), etc. The operation accepting unit 656 accepts user operations on the screen displayed on the display 33, and supplies an input signal representing the operation to the signal processing unit 732.

[0224] The audio device 712 does not include the Bluetooth control unit 54, but instead includes a Wi-Fi control unit 756.

[0225] The Wi-Fi control unit 756 performs Wi-Fi communication with the television receiver 711. For example, the Wi-Fi control unit 756 transmits (outputs) an image signal generated by the signal processing unit 53 to the television receiver 711 via Wi-Fi communication. The Wi-Fi control unit 756 receives an operation signal transmitted from the television receiver 711 via Wi-Fi communication and supplies the operation signal to the signal processing unit 53.

[0226] As described above, the information processing system 710 has the same configuration as the information processing system 10, except that the screen is displayed by the television receiver 711 instead of the smartphone 13. Therefore, the information processing system 710 can obtain the same effects as those of the information processing system 10 described above.

[0227] 9. Ninth Embodiment Configuration Example of Information Processing System FIG. 22 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a ninth embodiment of an information processing system to which the present technology is applied.

[0228] In the information processing system 810 of Fig. 22, the same reference numerals are used to designate parts corresponding to those in the information processing system 710 of Fig. 21. Therefore, the description of those parts will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the parts that are different from the information processing system 710.

[0229] Information processing system 810 differs from information processing system 710 in that Wi-Fi communication between audio device 712 and smartphone 243 is performed via a Wi-Fi router 813, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 710. Specifically, information processing system 810 differs from information processing system 710 in that it further includes a Wi-Fi router 813, but is otherwise configured similarly to information processing system 710.

[0230] 22 shows only the configuration of the information processing system 810 that is related to the connection confirmation process and the process of transmitting an audio signal from the television receiver 711 to the audio device 712.

[0231] As described above, the information processing system 810 has the same configuration as the information processing system 610, except that the screen is displayed by the television receiver 711 instead of the smartphone 13. Therefore, the information processing system 710 can obtain the same effects as those of the information processing system 610 described above.

[0232] In the information processing system 710 (810), the user may operate the operation reception section of the audio device 712 instead of the operation reception section 737 of the television receiver 711.

[0233] Transmission and reception of image signals between the television receiver 611 (711) and the audio device 612 (712) may be performed by communication via an HDMI connection or communication other than Wi-Fi communication, such as Bluetooth communication.

[0234] 10. Audio Device Executing Processes Using Software Example of Hardware Configuration of Audio Device The above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. For example, the smartphone 13 (243) can execute the above-described processes by executing a predetermined application. When the series of processes are executed by software, the programs that constitute the software are installed on a computer. Here, the term "computer" includes computers built into dedicated hardware and, for example, general-purpose personal computers that can execute various functions by installing various programs.

[0235] FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an audio device that executes the series of processes of the above-mentioned audio device 12 (242, 442, 542, 612, 712) by a program.

[0236] In the audio device 900 , a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 901 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 902 , and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 903 are interconnected by a bus 904 .

[0237] An input unit 906 , an output unit 907 , a storage unit 908 , and a communication unit 909 are further connected to the bus 904 .

[0238] The input unit 906 includes an operation reception unit, a touch panel formed on a display, etc. The output unit 907 includes a display, a speaker, etc. The storage unit 908 includes a hard disk, a non-volatile memory, etc. The communication unit 909 includes an HDMI port, an antenna, etc.

[0239] In the audio device 900 configured as described above, the CPU 901 loads a program stored in the memory unit 908, for example, into the RAM 903 via the bus 904 and executes it, thereby performing a series of processes for the audio device 12 (242, 442, 542, 612, 712) described above.

[0240] The program executed by the CPU 901 can be provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium, such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital satellite broadcasting. In this case, the program can be received by the communication unit 909 via the wired or wireless transmission medium and installed in the storage unit 908. Alternatively, the program can be installed in the ROM 902 or the storage unit 908 in advance.

[0241] The program executed by CPU 901 may be a program that is processed chronologically in the order described in this specification, or may be a program that is processed in parallel or at the required timing, such as when called.

[0242] The television receiver 11 may have an HDMI output terminal.

[0243] This technology can be applied to information processing devices that use HDMI connections.

[0244] The embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present technology.

[0245] For example, a combination of all or part of the above-described embodiments may be adopted. For example, in the third to ninth embodiments, a connection confirmation process may be performed similarly to the second embodiment. In the smartphone 13 (243) of the first to fourth embodiments and the television receiver 611 (711) of the seventh to ninth embodiments, a guidance voice may be output from the speaker 34 instead of a screen, similarly to the sixth embodiment. In the first embodiment and the third to ninth embodiments, a start screen 211 may be displayed similarly to the second embodiment.

[0246] For example, the present technology can be configured as a cloud computing system in which a single function is shared and processed collaboratively by a plurality of devices via a network.

[0247] Furthermore, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device, or can be shared and executed by a plurality of devices.

[0248] Furthermore, when one step includes multiple processes, the multiple processes included in that one step can be executed by one device or can be shared and executed by multiple devices.

[0249] The effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and there may be effects other than those described in this specification.

[0250] The present technology may have the following configurations. (1) An information processing device comprising: an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal; a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal; and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection is established between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device, and outputs information based on the determination result. (2) The information processing device described in (1), wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device when a physical address of the information processing device itself has been determined. (3) The information processing device described in (1), wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device when an HPD signal received by the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself is High. (4) The information processing device described in (3), wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device when a physical address of the information processing device itself has been determined and the HPD signal is High. (5) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the detection unit is configured to transmit a CEC message from the HDMI terminal of the information processing device to the external device, and detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device and the HDMI terminal of the external device when the HDMI terminal of the information processing device receives an affirmative response to the CEC message. (6) The information processing device according to (5), wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the information processing device and the HDMI terminal of the external device when a physical address of the information processing device has been determined and the HDMI terminal of the information processing device receives the affirmative response. (7) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6), further comprising: a power supply determination unit that determines a power supply state of the external device; and a power supply control unit that turns on the power supply when the power supply determination unit determines that the power supply state is off.(8) The information processing device according to (7), wherein the power supply determination unit is configured to transmit a CEC message requesting notification of the power supply state from the HDMI terminal of the device to the HDMI terminal of the external device, and determine the power supply state based on state notification information notifying the power supply state transmitted from the HDMI terminal of the external device to the HDMI terminal of the device in response to the CEC message. (9) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (8), wherein the information based on the determination result that the ARC connection has not been established is information that prompts the user to connect to an ARC-compatible terminal that is an HDMI terminal compatible with the ARC connection among the HDMI terminals of the external device. (10) The information processing device according to (9), wherein the information based on the determination result that the ARC connection has not been established is information that prompts the user to connect to the ARC-compatible terminal by specifying information corresponding to identification information that is information for identifying the ARC-compatible terminal. (11) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (10), further comprising an output unit that displays an image or outputs sound based on the information based on the determination result. (12) The information processing device according to (11), further comprising: an operation accepting unit that accepts a user's operation regarding the display of the image or the output of the audio, wherein the determination unit is configured to re-determine whether the ARC connection has been established based on the operation accepted by the operation accepting unit. (13) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (10), wherein the detection unit is configured to output information based on a detection result of a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device. (14) The information processing device according to (13), wherein the information based on the detection result of non-detection of a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device is information that prompts a user to check the HDMI connection. (15) The information processing device according to (13), further comprising: an output unit that displays an image or outputs audio based on the information based on the detection result and information based on the determination result.(16) The information processing device according to (15), further comprising an operation acceptance unit that accepts a user's operation regarding the display of the image or the output of the audio, wherein the detection unit is configured to re-detect the connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device based on the operation accepted by the operation acceptance unit and corresponding to information based on the detection result, and the determination unit is configured to re-determine whether the ARC connection has been established based on the operation accepted by the operation acceptance unit and corresponding to information based on the determination result. (17) The information processing device according to any of (1) to (16), wherein the ARC connection is a connection using ARC or eARC. (18) A program that causes a computer controlling an information processing device having an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal to function as a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal, and a determination unit that determines whether the ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device, and outputs information based on the determination result. (19) An information processing system comprising: an information processing device having an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal; a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal; and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection is established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device and transmits information based on the determination result; and a mobile terminal device having an output unit that receives the information based on the determination result transmitted by the determination unit and displays an image or outputs sound based on the information based on the determination result.(20) An information processing system comprising: an information processing device having an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal; a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal; and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection is established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device and transmits information based on the determination result; and an external device having an HDMI terminal of the external device; and an output unit that receives the information based on the determination result transmitted by the determination unit and displays an image or outputs sound based on the information based on the determination result.

[0251] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Information processing system, 11 Television receiver, 12 Audio device, 13 Smartphone, 33 Display, 41 ARC / eARC compatible terminal, 53 Signal processing unit, 54 Bluetooth control unit, 55 Speaker, 62 HDMI output terminal, 71 Bluetooth control unit, 74 Display, 91 Detection unit, 92 Determination unit, 131 Compatible terminal guidance screen, 140 Information processing system, 142 Audio device, 153 Signal processing unit, 192 Power supply determination unit, 193 Power supply control unit, 231 Port number designation guidance screen, 240 Information processing system, 242 Audio device, 243 Smartphone, 254, 271 Wi-Fi control unit, 340 Information processing system, 354, 371 Wi-Fi control unit, 442 Audio device, 453 Signal processing unit, 456 Display, 457 Touch panel, 542 Audio device, 553 Signal processing unit, 556 Operation acceptance unit, 610 Information processing system, 611 Television receiver, 612 Audio device, 632 Signal processing unit, 636 HDMI control unit, 652 HDMI control unit, 653 Signal processing unit, 656 Operation acceptance unit, 710 Information processing system, 711 Television receiver, 712 Audio device, 732 Signal processing unit, 736 Wi-Fi control unit, 737 Operation acceptance unit, 753 Signal processing unit, 756 Wi-Fi control unit, 900 Audio device, 901 CPU

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising: an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal; a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal; and a judgment unit that judges whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device, and outputs information based on the judgment result.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of the external device when the physical address of the device itself has been determined.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device when the HPD signal received by the HDMI terminal of the device itself is High.

4. The information processing device according to claim 3, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device when the physical address of the device itself has been determined and the HPD signal is High.

5. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is configured to transmit a CEC message from the HDMI terminal of the device itself to the external device, and detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device when the HDMI terminal of the device itself receives an affirmative response to the CEC message.

6. The information processing device according to claim 5, wherein the detection unit is configured to detect a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device when the physical address of the device itself has been determined and the HDMI terminal of the device itself has received the positive response.

7. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a power supply determination unit that determines a power supply state of the external device; and a power supply control unit that turns on the power supply when the power supply determination unit determines that the power supply state is off.

8. The information processing device according to claim 7, wherein the power supply determination unit is configured to transmit a CEC message from the HDMI terminal of the device itself to the HDMI terminal of the external device, requesting notification of the power supply status, and to determine the power supply status based on status notification information notifying the power supply status transmitted from the HDMI terminal of the external device to the HDMI terminal of the device itself in response to the CEC message.

9. The information processing device of claim 1, wherein the information based on the determination result that the ARC connection has not been established is information that prompts a user to connect to an ARC-compatible terminal, which is an HDMI terminal that supports the ARC connection, among the HDMI terminals of the external device.

10. The information processing device of claim 9, wherein the information based on the determination result that the ARC connection has not been established is information that prompts the user to connect to the ARC-compatible terminal by specifying information corresponding to specific information that is information for identifying the ARC-compatible terminal.

11. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising an output unit that displays an image or outputs sound based on information based on the determination result.

12. The information processing device according to claim 11, further comprising an operation acceptance unit that accepts user operations regarding the display of the image or the output of the audio, wherein the judgment unit is configured to re-judge whether or not the ARC connection has been established based on the operation accepted by the operation acceptance unit.

13. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is configured to output information based on a detection result of a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of the external device.

14. The information processing device according to claim 13, wherein the information based on the detection result that no connection has been detected between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device is information that prompts the user to check the HDMI connection.

15. The information processing device according to claim 13, further comprising an output unit that displays an image or outputs sound based on the information based on the detection result and the information based on the determination result.

16. The information processing device according to claim 15, further comprising an operation acceptance unit that accepts user operations regarding the display of the image or the output of the audio, wherein the detection unit is configured to re-detect the connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device based on the operation corresponding to information based on the detection result accepted by the operation acceptance unit, and the judgment unit is configured to re-judge whether the ARC connection has been established or not based on the operation corresponding to information based on the judgment result accepted by the operation acceptance unit.

17. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the ARC connection is configured to be a connection using ARC or eARC.

18. A program for causing a computer that controls an information processing device equipped with an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal to function as a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal, and a determination unit that determines whether an ARC connection is established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device, and outputs information based on the determination result.

19. An information processing system comprising: an information processing device having an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal; a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal; and a judgment unit that judges whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device and transmits information based on the judgment result; and a portable terminal device having an output unit that receives the information based on the judgment result transmitted by the judgment unit and displays an image or outputs sound based on the information based on the judgment result.

20. An information processing system comprising: an information processing device having an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal capable of outputting a TMDS signal; a detection unit that detects a connection between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and an HDMI terminal of an external device capable of receiving the TMDS signal; and a judgment unit that judges whether an ARC connection has been established between the HDMI terminal of the device itself and the HDMI terminal of the external device and transmits information based on the judgment result; and an external device having an HDMI terminal of the external device and an output unit that receives the information based on the judgment result transmitted by the judgment unit and displays an image or outputs audio based on the information based on the judgment result.

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