The present invention is directed to a non-intrusive
data transmission network for use in a healthcare facility and method for implementing such network. Each individual patient's room is equipped with a set-top control device, a separate camera,
microphone, control module
camera control device. The SCD allows for a non-intrusive installation within a minimum amount of time. By utilizing the existing
cable television infrastructure, the device creates a high-speed data network throughout the facility. The interface between the SCD and the CCD is accomplished through a standard interface for universally connecting auxiliary devices, such as
USB, for enabling expandable, hot-pluggable
Plug and Play serial device interfaces. These ports allow external devices such as the camera,
microphone,
infrared keyboard and privacy
control unit to communicate with the SCD. Additional
USB ports on the SCD allow for other devices to be connected to the network at a future time. Such devices include those for instrument monitoring, doctor
information access or pharmaceutical prescription ordering. Visual information such as e-mail, web browsing, video and audio communications via web camera applications from family members, friends or other parties may be viewed by the patient from the in-room TV set by way of the internal
RF modulator (and connecting to
the Internet via the patient Internet
server). The SCD switches from the standard cable TV channels to the SCD by way of an internal switch controlled by the patient from an
infrared control. This control also enables or disables the camera to allow for privacy at times when such privacy is required from external
Internet access. The
system is configurable to offer this privacy to be layered from specific Internet or external users to the nurses, doctors or security department as the hospital desires.