Shared Key Code Across Media Gateway Subsystems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of media gateway appliances (MGAs) face inconvenience due to the need to enter separate key codes for video and router modules to restrict access to content, requiring double entry even when the same key code is used for both modules.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows a single key code to be shared and used across multiple MGA subsystems, such as video and router modules, eliminating the need for duplicate entries by enabling the key code to be entered once and utilized by both subsystems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate key codes are used for video module and router module, then each subsystem can operate independently with its own security, but users must enter the key code twice even when the same code is used for both modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal key code storage mechanism where a single key code entered by the user is stored in both the video module memory and router module memory. This allows the same key code to serve multiple functions (restricting access in both video and router subsystems) without requiring duplicate entries, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining security through independent storage in each subsystem.
2Productivity
If separate processors and memories are used in each subsystem, then each module can operate independently with improved performance, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains the segmented architecture where the video module and router module each have their own processor and memory, allowing independent operation and improved performance for each subsystem. The key code is stored separately in each subsystem's memory (video module memory and router module memory), enabling independent processing while achieving the desired functionality without requiring a unified shared memory architecture.
3Reliability
If key codes are entered via handheld remote-control device using on-screen menu, then access restriction can be implemented, but the process is tedious and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by storing the key code in both video module memory and router module memory after a single entry. This pre-stores the key code in the appropriate locations within each subsystem, eliminating the need for users to re-enter the key code when accessing restricted content in either subsystem, thereby reducing time loss and minimizing errors.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for enabling and supporting the use of a shared key code among multiple media gateway appliance subsystems. The system enables a user to specify the particular key code to be utilized, as well as the specific subsystems it will be associated with. The system and method will require a user to enter the shared key code as a prerequisite for accessing certain restricted content, functionality or information.