US20130091516A1 - Software conditional access system for a media delivery network - Google Patents
Software conditional access system for a media delivery network Download PDFInfo
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- US20130091516A1 US20130091516A1 US13/686,010 US201213686010A US2013091516A1 US 20130091516 A1 US20130091516 A1 US 20130091516A1 US 201213686010 A US201213686010 A US 201213686010A US 2013091516 A1 US2013091516 A1 US 2013091516A1
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- media
- service provider
- distribution device
- delivery service
- media delivery
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
- H04N21/25—Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
- H04N21/266—Channel or content management, e.g. generation and management of keys and entitlement messages in a conditional access system, merging a VOD unicast channel into a multicast channel
- H04N21/26613—Channel or content management, e.g. generation and management of keys and entitlement messages in a conditional access system, merging a VOD unicast channel into a multicast channel for generating or managing keys in general
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/20—Servers specifically adapted for the distribution of content, e.g. VOD servers; Operations thereof
- H04N21/25—Management operations performed by the server for facilitating the content distribution or administrating data related to end-users or client devices, e.g. end-user or client device authentication, learning user preferences for recommending movies
- H04N21/258—Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics, processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
- H04N21/25808—Management of client data
- H04N21/25816—Management of client data involving client authentication
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/426—Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof
- H04N21/42676—Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof for modulating an analogue carrier signal to encode digital information or demodulating it to decode digital information, e.g. ADSL or cable modem
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/426—Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof
- H04N21/42684—Client identification by a unique number or address, e.g. serial number, MAC address, socket ID
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
- H04N21/44—Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream, rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs
- H04N21/4405—Processing of video elementary streams, e.g. splicing a video clip retrieved from local storage with an incoming video stream, rendering scenes according to MPEG-4 scene graphs involving video stream decryption
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client
- H04N21/63—Control signaling related to video distribution between client, server and network components; Network processes for video distribution between server and clients or between remote clients, e.g. transmitting basic layer and enhancement layers over different transmission paths, setting up a peer-to-peer communication via Internet between remote STB's; Communication protocols; Addressing
- H04N21/633—Control signals issued by server directed to the network components or client
- H04N21/6332—Control signals issued by server directed to the network components or client directed to client
- H04N21/6334—Control signals issued by server directed to the network components or client directed to client for authorisation, e.g. by transmitting a key
- H04N21/63345—Control signals issued by server directed to the network components or client directed to client for authorisation, e.g. by transmitting a key by transmitting keys
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client
- H04N21/65—Transmission of management data between client and server
- H04N21/654—Transmission by server directed to the client
- H04N21/6547—Transmission by server directed to the client comprising parameters, e.g. for client setup
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to a media delivery network. More particularly, the present invention relates to a software conditional access system for a media delivery network.
- Satellite communications, asymmetric digital subscriber lines (ADSL), and broadband cable are providing new high-throughput connections to media delivery services.
- Media services consumers are commonly establishing wireless connections to satellites, telephony-based connections to ADSL, and broadband cable connections to the media service providers.
- these connections are processed by a Media Distribution Device that processes media content and data and routes the media and/or data to media presentation devices, such as a television or personal computer.
- a conventional Set-top Box (STB) is an example of a Media Distribution Device.
- a Conditional Access System may be used to restrict the delivery or viewing of media services.
- a CAS may be used to prohibit a cable television (CATV) or satellite television viewer from viewing a certain pay-per-view event unless the viewer has paid to view the event.
- CATV cable television
- the CAS has required hardware smartcard technology.
- One such CAS has an access-enabling card (a smartcard) that is inserted into a Media Distribution Device and is able to decrypt data to view an event when the user has paid to view the event.
- the smartcard also includes account and billing information that is periodically uploaded via a phone line to the media service provider. For example, when a user purchases a pay-per-view event, a flash memory of the smartcard may be updated to reflect that the user purchased the event.
- the smartcard may provide decryption of the pay-per-view event and allow the user to view the purchased event.
- the Media Distribution Device may connect via a phoneline to a billing system to update the billing system with the billing information from the smartcard.
- This type of CAS may be referred to as a hardware CAS because it includes a piece of hardware (smartcard) at the Media Distribution Device that is used to provide conditional access.
- a hardware CAS works fairly well, it does have some problems.
- a hardware CAS costs a great deal of money to implement, maintain and update.
- a smartcard may cost around ten dollars.
- updated smartcards need to be provided to all customers.
- a CATV or satellite service provider may have millions of customers.
- customer support must be provided to help users who have difficulty installing their new smartcards.
- some customers may become frustrated and cancel their service, resulting in lost revenues.
- the cost of smartcard readers, smartcard media and the administration process for managing smartcard distribution is high on a per device basis.
- a hardware CAS is expensive to implement and maintain.
- Smartcards may be cloned, hacked, stolen, duplicated, moved, etc. and these cards may be used to receive media services without paying the proper revenue to the media service providers. Even if a smartcard is not tampered with, the billing system is only periodically updated by a user's Media Distribution Device. Thus, a clever and devious user may view a pay-per-view event, but then disconnect the telephone line from their Media Distribution Device before the Media Distribution Device dials the service provider. Thus, a user may be able to delay or circumvent payment for media services due to deficiencies in the hardware CAS technology.
- a method for purchasing a media service from a media delivery service provider includes sending a request, by an application executing on a computer processor of a media distribution device, to the media delivery service provider requesting the media service.
- the method also includes authenticating, by the application, the media distribution device by comparing a permanent virtual circuit established between the media distribution device and the media delivery service provider with a predetermined permanent virtual circuit defined and programmed by the media delivery service provider.
- the method includes downloading a software key from the media delivery service provider to the media distribution device and automatically deleting the software key after a predetermined amount of time.
- the method includes downloading displayable data to the media distribution device from the media delivery service provider.
- a computer program product for purchasing a media service from a media delivery service provider includes a non-transitory storage medium containing instructions that when executed by a processing circuit perform a method.
- the method includes sending a request to the media delivery service provider for the media service and authenticating a media distribution device by comparing a permanent virtual circuit established between the media distribution device and the media delivery service provider with a predetermined permanent virtual circuit defined and programmed by the media delivery service provider.
- the method includes downloading a software key from the media delivery service provider to the media distribution device and automatically deleting the software key after a predetermined amount of time.
- the method includes downloading displayable data to the media distribution device from the media delivery service provider.
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary operating environment in which embodiments of the present invention may be implemented.
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram depicting some of the primary components of an exemplary Media Distribution Device.
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting a media delivery system with a software conditional access system (CAS) in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- CAS software conditional access system
- FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting an exemplary method for purchasing media services using a software conditional access system (CAS) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
- the invention is a software conditional access system (CAS) for media services provided to a Media Distribution Device, such as a set top box (STB).
- a Media Distribution Device such as a set top box (STB).
- STB may be connected to a Media Delivery Service Provider via a broadband connection.
- a CAS application may be downloaded to the STB, maintained and dynamically updated. Because the CAS is implemented by software on the STB, it is inexpensive to install, maintain and update.
- a part of the request may be identifying information of the STB. For example, the MAC address of the STB or the hardware serial number of the STB may be sent with the request.
- the service provider then cross-references the identifying information with a user's account to determine whether to allow the user to view the media service requested. If the service provider determines to allow the user to view the media service, the user's account (typically maintained by the service provider) is charged and a key is downloaded via the broadband connection to the STB. Thus, there is no lag time between a user purchasing the media service and the user being charged for the media service.
- the key allows the user to view the requested media service.
- the key may be software that is programmed to decrypt the requested media service for viewing. After the requested media service ends, after a predetermined amount of time, etc., the CAS application may delete the key.
- the invention is a software conditional access system (CAS) for media services provided to a Media Distribution Device, such as a set top box (STB).
- a Media Distribution Device such as a set top box (STB).
- STB may be connected to a Media Delivery Service Provider via a broadband connection.
- a CAS application may be downloaded to the STB, maintained and dynamically updated. Because the CAS is implemented by software on the STB, it is inexpensive to install, maintain and update.
- a request is sent to the Media Delivery Service Provider via the broadband connection.
- a part of the request may be identifying information of the STB. For example, the MAC address of the STB or the hardware serial number of the STB may be sent with the request.
- the service provider then cross-references the identifying information with a user's account to determine whether to allow the user to view the media service requested. If the service provider determines to allow the user to view the media service, the user's account (typically maintained by the service provider) is charged and a key is downloaded via the broadband connection to the STB. Thus, there is no lag time between a user purchasing the media service and the user being charged for the media service.
- the key allows the user to view the requested media service.
- the key may be software that is programmed to decrypt the requested media service for viewing. After the requested media service ends, after a predetermined amount of time, etc., the CAS application may delete the key.
- FIG. 1 a block diagram of an exemplary operating environment will be described below in reference to FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary operating environment in which embodiments of the present invention may be implemented.
- Media content is typically delivered to a customer by means of a Media Distribution Device 100 .
- the most common Media Distribution Devices are conventional Set-Top Boxes (STBs).
- the Media Distribution Device (MDD) 100 can provide media content and/or data to a media presentation device 101 over a communication link 102 .
- the most common example of a media presentation device 101 is a conventional television, although a stereo or home theater system would also represent a media presentation device if audio content is to be purchased and played via an implementation of the invention.
- the MDD 100 will deliver media content only to media presentation device 101 .
- newer-generation media presentation devices 101 have the ability to process data received from the Media Distribution Device 100 . Such data may include information pertaining to the presentation of the media content on the media presentation device 101 .
- a media presentation device 101 is a conventional personal computer.
- the personal computer can receive media content, such as Internet content from the Media Distribution Device 180 and present it to a customer/user.
- a personal computer can also process data received from the Media Distribution Device 100 to format the presentation of the delivered media content.
- the MDD 100 can receive media content and data from one or more sources.
- the MDD 100 is depicted receiving media and data from a Media Delivery Service Provider 103 .
- Examples of a Media Delivery Service Provider are a cable T.V. provider, a satellite T.V. provider, an Internet service provider, and a telephone service provider.
- the media content and data may be delivered over a single communication link or may be delivered over separate communication links.
- the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 can provide media content and data to the MDD 100 via an Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) modem 106 .
- the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 may also provide media content and data to the MDD 100 via a satellite 104 .
- the satellite can deliver media content and data directly to the MDD 100 over a communications link 122 .
- Such a direct link usually involves the use of a small satellite dish in conjunction with the MDD 100
- the satellite 104 can also deliver the media content and data to the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 via another communication link 120 . This media content and data may be rerouted to the MDD 100 from the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 over a separate communication link.
- the MDD 100 may also have a direct communication link 108 with the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 .
- a link might be a conventional 2400-baud modem connection to the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 .
- This communication link 108 may also be a direct hardwire connection or a network connection, such as an Ethernet connection.
- the MDD 100 receives media content and data from a Media Delivery Service Provider 103 and delivers the media content and/or data to the media presentation device 101 for presentation to the customer.
- the MDD 100 can communicate in two-directions over the communication links 108 and 124 . That is, the MDD 100 can respond to queries and/or commands received from the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 and return data and for messages, in response to the receipt of a query or command.
- the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a standard that has been developed to standardize such two-way communication between the MDD 100 and the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 .
- an SNMP agent will be installed in the MDD 100 and will coordinate all SNMP communications between the WD 100 and the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 .
- Applications operating on either servers within the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 , or within the Media Distribution Device 100 may also communicate directly via TCP/IP or other proprietary protocol as appropriate for the applications needs.
- the specific protocol of communication is not material to the implementation of the invention. Notably, such two-way communications are not currently available over communications link 122 with the satellite 104 .
- the Media Delivery Service Provider 103 may also use an exemplary embodiment of the present invention to upload software, media content, and/or data to the Media Distribution Device 100 or the media presentation device 101 . This upload can be automatic or in response to a customer request.
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram depicting some of the primary components of an exemplary Media Distribution Device.
- the conventional Media Distribution Device 200 includes a processing unit 221 , a system memory 222 , and a system bus 223 that couples the system memory to the processing unit.
- the system memory 222 includes read-only memory (ROM) 224 , flash memory (not shown) and random access memory (RAM) 225 .
- ROM read-only memory
- RAM random access memory
- a basic input/output system 226 (BIOS) contains rudimentary code to execute basic functions, such as system start-up.
- the BIOS 226 is stored in the ROM 224 .
- Various program modules may be stored in the RAM 225 . Such program modules might include an operating system 235 , a conditional access system software module 236 including a key 250 , and data and media content 238 .
- the MDD 200 could also include a hard drive, flash memory or other non-volatile memory for long-term storage of program modules such as billing information, the operating system 235 , the conditional access system 236 , and the data and media content 238 .
- the hard drive may be connected to the MDD 200 via a hard drive interface.
- other peripheral devices could be connected to the MDD with other interfaces not depicted in FIG. 2 .
- the MDD could also be equipped with an input device, such as keyboard and/or mouse.
- the MDD 200 can also include a video adapter 248 or other adapter for delivery of media content and/or data to a media presentation device 247 .
- the MDD 200 also includes a Media In Adapter 246 and a Data In Adapter 253 . These adapters permit connection of the MDD 200 to a communication link for one-way and/or two-way communication with a Media Delivery Service Provider.
- the Media In Adapter 246 and the Data In Adapter 253 may incorporate a modem and/or other communication device.
- the MDD 200 receives media content and data and makes the media content and data available to other internal components by way of internal interfaces such as the system bus 223 .
- the processing unit 221 can route the media content and/or data in accordance with the instructions of the operating system 235 and/or other applications executed in the RAM. 225 .
- the processing unit 221 may store the media content and data in the RAM 225 for subsequent use.
- the processing unit 221 may also direct the media content and/or data to the media presentation device 247 via the presentation device adapter 248 .
- the conditional access system 236 may be executed by the processing unit 221 in response to a command received from the Media Delivery Service Provider or any other source.
- the command may be formatted in accordance with the SNMP protocol.
- the conditional access system 236 may also be executed in response to a command received from user input, such as a user selecting to view a pay-per-view event, for example.
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting a Media Delivery System with a software conditional access system that is an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As described above in connection with FIG. 2 , the MDD 300 has a resident conditional access system 312 .
- the Media Delivery Service Provider 302 is operative to communicate with the MDD 300 via the satellite 304 , a direct link 308 , and/or a DSL modem 306 .
- a broadband connection between the Media Delivery Service Provider 302 and the MDD 300 is preferable, because it permits the Media Delivery Service Provider 310 to communicate with the MDD 300 in real-time and can support an “always-on” connection.
- the Media Delivery Service Provider can query for and obtain information related to the MDD 300 within a very short time frame. Because a broadband connection can maintain an always-on status, the Media Delivery Service Provider can autonomously query the MDD 300 during off-peak hours of operation, thereby reducing the impact on system resources.
- broadband connection depicted in FIG. 3 is supported by means of an ADSL modem 306
- any broadband technology can be used to implement an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- a conventional broadband cable-T.V. connection between the Media Delivery Service Provider 302 and the MDD 300 can be used.
- current broadband cable-T.V. connection between the Media Delivery Service Provider 302 and the MDD 300 can be used.
- T.V. protocols are not as secure as an ADSL broadband communication link.
- Broadband cable-T.V. signals can be intercepted and deciphered, while the communication link between the ADSL modem 306 and the Media Delivery Service Provider 302 can be implemented as a Private Virtual Network that is not shared by other users.
- an ADSL broadband connection between the MDD 300 and the Media Delivery Service Provider 302 is preferred to other available broadband connections.
- the broadband connection 324 may be an xDSL connection, a Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications (DOCSIS) cable modem connection, a residential gateway connected to an Ethernet port, an IEEE 802.11b (wireless) connection, a Bluetooth connection, or another well-known broadband connection,
- DOCSIS Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications
- the broadband connection 324 is an ADSL connection and the Media Distribution Device 300 and Media Delivery Service Provider 302 are connected via a permanent virtual circuit (PVC).
- Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a high speed transmission technology originally developed by Bellcore and standardized by ANSI as T 1.413.
- ADSL typically uses existing unshielded twisted pair (UTP) copper wires from the telephone central office to the user's premises.
- ADSL modems may be used at the central office and the user's premises to transmit and receive information.
- a permanent virtual circuit (PVC), or Private Virtual Network (PVN) is a permanent association between two pieces of data equipment established by configuration.
- a PVC uses a fixed logical channel to maintain a permanent association between two pieces of equipment. Once defined and programmed by the carrier into the network routing logic, all data transmitted between any two points across the network follows a predetermined physical path, making use of a virtual circuit.
- the Media Distribution Device may be identified based on the PVC. Thus, if the Media Distribution Device is moved to another location, then the service provider will know that it has been moved or cloned and will be able to take appropriate action, such as disconnecting service to prevent fraud.
- the Media Distribution Device is connected to a broadband infrastructure using a technology such as XDSL at the transport layer.
- a PVC managed by a device such as a Service Gateway
- a secured connection is established over a private network to authenticate and authorize Media Distribution Device transactions.
- Applications may be loaded on the Media Distribution Device as an OSGi bundle.
- OSGi is the Open Services Gateway Initiative which is an independent, non-profit corporation working to define specifications for the delivery of multiple services over wide-area networks to local networks and devices.
- An OSGi specification defines an open framework that enables multiple software services to be loaded and run on a services gateway such as a Media Distribution Device, cable modem, DSL modem, PC or dedicated residential gateway.
- Media Distribution Devices can be authorized in a consumer network by a Residential Gateway (RG).
- the RG in this implementation becomes a physical layer security device.
- IPsec is a secure version of the Internet Protocol (IP) that provides authentication and encryption at the packet level.
- IP Internet Protocol
- the CAS 312 may be used as an access system to determine the media content that may be viewed. For example, a user who has purchased premium movie channels may have a CAS 312 downloaded to their Media Distribution Device.
- the CAS 312 may include one or more keys 326 that provide decryption for the premium channels, The keys 326 may also be downloaded to provide access to pay-per-view events and the like,
- the CAS 312 and keys 326 may be updated at any time by the Media Delivery Service Provider via the broadband connection 324 .
- the Media Distribution Device may also upload billing information to the Media Delivery Service Provider in real-time to prevent fraud.
- the present invention is a software-driven application that eliminates the cost of the hardware CAS and forces immediate billing of all services requested by a consumer on a broadband connected Media Distribution Device.
- the present invention provides greater security than the prior art because it is less likely to be able to hack the software as it was for the smartcards. Also, fixes and updates may be downloaded to the software CAS of the present invention. The present invention eliminates the smartcard required by the prior art, and the replacement of the smart card if conditional access is compromised.
- FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting an exemplary method for purchasing media services using a software conditional access system (CAS) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the method of FIG. 4 is simply one embodiment of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the method may be used for other communication systems and may be modified to accommodate the various policies of communication system providers.
- CAS software conditional access system
- the method begins and a request for media services is sent to the Media Delivery Service Provider via a broadband connection at step 402 .
- the request may be a request to view a pay-per-view event sent from a user's Media Distribution Device via a broadband connection after the user has selected to view the event using the Media Distribution Device or a remote control connected to the Media Distribution Device.
- a part of the request may be identifying information of the Media Distribution Device. For example, the MAC address of the Media Distribution Device or the hardware serial number of the Media Distribution Device may be sent with the request.
- the Media Delivery Service Provider cross-references the identifying information with a user's account to determine whether to allow the user to 15 view the media service requested,
- the identifying information matches a valid customer account and whether to allow the customer to view the requested program. If the Media Delivery Service Provider determines to allow the user to view the requested media service, the user's account (typically maintained by the service provider) is charged and a key is uploaded via the broadband connection to the Media Distribution Device at step 410 , Thus, there is no lag time between a user purchasing the media service and the user being charged for the media service.
- the key may be a software application that allows the user to view the requested media service.
- the key may be software that is programmed to decrypt the requested media service for viewing.
- the conditional access system of the Media Distribution Device may delete the key. For example, at step 412 , it is determined whether the time limit for the media service has expired and if so then the method proceeds to step 414 where the key is deleted and the method ends.
- a request for the customer to call a service representative is uploaded to the Media Distribution Device and displayed to the user at step 408 .
- the method then ends at step 499 .
Abstract
A method for purchasing a media service from a media delivery service provider includes sending a request to the media delivery service provider requesting the media service and authenticating a media distribution device by comparing a permanent virtual circuit established between the media distribution device and the media delivery service provider with a predetermined permanent virtual circuit defined and programmed by the media delivery service provider. Upon determining the media distribution device is successfully authenticated, the method includes downloading a software key from the media delivery service provider to the media distribution device and automatically deleting the software key after a predetermined amount of time. Upon determining the media distribution device is not successfully authenticated, the method includes downloading displayable data to the media distribution device from the media delivery service provider.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/281,207 filed Apr. 2, 2001 and U.S. Non Provisional application Ser. No. 09/963,779, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
- The present invention generally relates to a media delivery network. More particularly, the present invention relates to a software conditional access system for a media delivery network.
- More than ever before, residential consumers are being provided with a wealth of media resources. While cable television, the Internet, and on-demand media have been available for years, recently developed high-speed broadband technologies are enhancing the delivery of these media services. These technologies have made it possible to increase the variety of available media services and to enhance the ability of the user to interact with the media delivery system to tailor media delivery to the user's preferences. Satellite communications, asymmetric digital subscriber lines (ADSL), and broadband cable are providing new high-throughput connections to media delivery services. Media services consumers are commonly establishing wireless connections to satellites, telephony-based connections to ADSL, and broadband cable connections to the media service providers. Typically, these connections are processed by a Media Distribution Device that processes media content and data and routes the media and/or data to media presentation devices, such as a television or personal computer. A conventional Set-top Box (STB) is an example of a Media Distribution Device.
- A Conditional Access System (CAS) may be used to restrict the delivery or viewing of media services. For example, a CAS may be used to prohibit a cable television (CATV) or satellite television viewer from viewing a certain pay-per-view event unless the viewer has paid to view the event. Traditionally, the CAS has required hardware smartcard technology. One such CAS has an access-enabling card (a smartcard) that is inserted into a Media Distribution Device and is able to decrypt data to view an event when the user has paid to view the event. The smartcard also includes account and billing information that is periodically uploaded via a phone line to the media service provider. For example, when a user purchases a pay-per-view event, a flash memory of the smartcard may be updated to reflect that the user purchased the event. The smartcard may provide decryption of the pay-per-view event and allow the user to view the purchased event. At a later time, such as during the early morning, the Media Distribution Device may connect via a phoneline to a billing system to update the billing system with the billing information from the smartcard. This type of CAS may be referred to as a hardware CAS because it includes a piece of hardware (smartcard) at the Media Distribution Device that is used to provide conditional access.
- Although a hardware CAS works fairly well, it does have some problems. One problem is that a hardware CAS costs a great deal of money to implement, maintain and update. For example, a smartcard may cost around ten dollars. Periodically, updated smartcards need to be provided to all customers. A CATV or satellite service provider may have millions of customers. Thus, the costs of providing updated smartcards are great, Moreover, customer support must be provided to help users who have difficulty installing their new smartcards. Also, some customers may become frustrated and cancel their service, resulting in lost revenues. Moreover, the cost of smartcard readers, smartcard media and the administration process for managing smartcard distribution is high on a per device basis. Thus, a hardware CAS is expensive to implement and maintain.
- Another problem with a hardware CAS is fraud. Smartcards may be cloned, hacked, stolen, duplicated, moved, etc. and these cards may be used to receive media services without paying the proper revenue to the media service providers. Even if a smartcard is not tampered with, the billing system is only periodically updated by a user's Media Distribution Device. Thus, a clever and devious user may view a pay-per-view event, but then disconnect the telephone line from their Media Distribution Device before the Media Distribution Device dials the service provider. Thus, a user may be able to delay or circumvent payment for media services due to deficiencies in the hardware CAS technology.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for purchasing a media service from a media delivery service provider is provided. The method includes sending a request, by an application executing on a computer processor of a media distribution device, to the media delivery service provider requesting the media service. The method also includes authenticating, by the application, the media distribution device by comparing a permanent virtual circuit established between the media distribution device and the media delivery service provider with a predetermined permanent virtual circuit defined and programmed by the media delivery service provider. Upon determining the media distribution device is successfully authenticated, the method includes downloading a software key from the media delivery service provider to the media distribution device and automatically deleting the software key after a predetermined amount of time. Upon determining the media distribution device is not successfully authenticated, the method includes downloading displayable data to the media distribution device from the media delivery service provider.
- According to another embodiment of the present invention, a computer program product for purchasing a media service from a media delivery service provider is provided. The computer program product includes a non-transitory storage medium containing instructions that when executed by a processing circuit perform a method. The method includes sending a request to the media delivery service provider for the media service and authenticating a media distribution device by comparing a permanent virtual circuit established between the media distribution device and the media delivery service provider with a predetermined permanent virtual circuit defined and programmed by the media delivery service provider. Upon determining the media distribution device is successfully authenticated, the method includes downloading a software key from the media delivery service provider to the media distribution device and automatically deleting the software key after a predetermined amount of time. Upon determining the media distribution device is not successfully authenticated, the method includes downloading displayable data to the media distribution device from the media delivery service provider.
- The various aspects of the present invention may be more clearly understood and appreciated from a review of the following detailed description of the disclosed embodiments and by reference to the drawings and claims.
-
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary operating environment in which embodiments of the present invention may be implemented. -
FIG. 2 is a block diagram depicting some of the primary components of an exemplary Media Distribution Device. -
FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting a media delivery system with a software conditional access system (CAS) in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting an exemplary method for purchasing media services using a software conditional access system (CAS) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, - In one embodiment, the invention is a software conditional access system (CAS) for media services provided to a Media Distribution Device, such as a set top box (STB). The STB may be connected to a Media Delivery Service Provider via a broadband connection. Over the broadband connection, a CAS application may be downloaded to the STB, maintained and dynamically updated. Because the CAS is implemented by software on the STB, it is inexpensive to install, maintain and update.
- When a user desires to purchase media services through the STB, a request is sent to the Media Delivery Service Provider via the broadband connection, A part of the request may be identifying information of the STB. For example, the MAC address of the STB or the hardware serial number of the STB may be sent with the request. The service provider then cross-references the identifying information with a user's account to determine whether to allow the user to view the media service requested. If the service provider determines to allow the user to view the media service, the user's account (typically maintained by the service provider) is charged and a key is downloaded via the broadband connection to the STB. Thus, there is no lag time between a user purchasing the media service and the user being charged for the media service.
- The key allows the user to view the requested media service. For example, the key may be software that is programmed to decrypt the requested media service for viewing. After the requested media service ends, after a predetermined amount of time, etc., the CAS application may delete the key.
- In one embodiment, the invention is a software conditional access system (CAS) for media services provided to a Media Distribution Device, such as a set top box (STB). The STB may be connected to a Media Delivery Service Provider via a broadband connection. Over the broadband connection, a CAS application may be downloaded to the STB, maintained and dynamically updated. Because the CAS is implemented by software on the STB, it is inexpensive to install, maintain and update.
- When a user desires to purchase media services through the STB, a request is sent to the Media Delivery Service Provider via the broadband connection. A part of the request may be identifying information of the STB. For example, the MAC address of the STB or the hardware serial number of the STB may be sent with the request. The service provider then cross-references the identifying information with a user's account to determine whether to allow the user to view the media service requested. If the service provider determines to allow the user to view the media service, the user's account (typically maintained by the service provider) is charged and a key is downloaded via the broadband connection to the STB. Thus, there is no lag time between a user purchasing the media service and the user being charged for the media service.
- The key allows the user to view the requested media service. For example, the key may be software that is programmed to decrypt the requested media service for viewing. After the requested media service ends, after a predetermined amount of time, etc., the CAS application may delete the key.
- Having briefly described embodiments of the present invention above, a block diagram of an exemplary operating environment will be described below in reference to
FIG. 1 . -
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary operating environment in which embodiments of the present invention may be implemented. Media content is typically delivered to a customer by means of aMedia Distribution Device 100. The most common Media Distribution Devices are conventional Set-Top Boxes (STBs). The Media Distribution Device (MDD) 100 can provide media content and/or data to amedia presentation device 101 over acommunication link 102. The most common example of amedia presentation device 101 is a conventional television, although a stereo or home theater system would also represent a media presentation device if audio content is to be purchased and played via an implementation of the invention. Typically, theMDD 100 will deliver media content only tomedia presentation device 101. However, newer-generationmedia presentation devices 101 have the ability to process data received from theMedia Distribution Device 100. Such data may include information pertaining to the presentation of the media content on themedia presentation device 101. - Another example of a
media presentation device 101 is a conventional personal computer. The personal computer can receive media content, such as Internet content from the Media Distribution Device 180 and present it to a customer/user. As is well known, a personal computer can also process data received from theMedia Distribution Device 100 to format the presentation of the delivered media content. TheMDD 100 can receive media content and data from one or more sources. In the example ofFIG. 1 , theMDD 100 is depicted receiving media and data from a MediaDelivery Service Provider 103. Examples of a Media Delivery Service Provider are a cable T.V. provider, a satellite T.V. provider, an Internet service provider, and a telephone service provider. Notably, the media content and data may be delivered over a single communication link or may be delivered over separate communication links. - In the example of
FIG. 1 , the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103 can provide media content and data to theMDD 100 via an Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL)modem 106. The MediaDelivery Service Provider 103 may also provide media content and data to theMDD 100 via asatellite 104. The satellite can deliver media content and data directly to theMDD 100 over acommunications link 122. Such a direct link usually involves the use of a small satellite dish in conjunction with theMDD 100, Thesatellite 104 can also deliver the media content and data to the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103 via anothercommunication link 120. This media content and data may be rerouted to theMDD 100 from the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103 over a separate communication link. - The
MDD 100 may also have adirect communication link 108 with the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103. Such a link might be a conventional 2400-baud modem connection to the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103. Thiscommunication link 108 may also be a direct hardwire connection or a network connection, such as an Ethernet connection. - In any event, the
MDD 100 receives media content and data from a MediaDelivery Service Provider 103 and delivers the media content and/or data to themedia presentation device 101 for presentation to the customer. Typically, theMDD 100 can communicate in two-directions over thecommunication links MDD 100 can respond to queries and/or commands received from the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103 and return data and for messages, in response to the receipt of a query or command. The Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a standard that has been developed to standardize such two-way communication between theMDD 100 and the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103. Typically, an SNMP agent will be installed in theMDD 100 and will coordinate all SNMP communications between theWD 100 and the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103. Applications operating on either servers within the MediaDelivery Service Provider 103, or within theMedia Distribution Device 100, may also communicate directly via TCP/IP or other proprietary protocol as appropriate for the applications needs. The specific protocol of communication is not material to the implementation of the invention. Notably, such two-way communications are not currently available over communications link 122 with thesatellite 104. - The Media
Delivery Service Provider 103 may also use an exemplary embodiment of the present invention to upload software, media content, and/or data to theMedia Distribution Device 100 or themedia presentation device 101. This upload can be automatic or in response to a customer request. -
FIG. 2 is a block diagram depicting some of the primary components of an exemplary Media Distribution Device. The conventionalMedia Distribution Device 200 includes aprocessing unit 221, asystem memory 222, and asystem bus 223 that couples the system memory to the processing unit. Thesystem memory 222 includes read-only memory (ROM) 224, flash memory (not shown) and random access memory (RAM) 225. A basic input/output system 226 (BIOS) contains rudimentary code to execute basic functions, such as system start-up. TheBIOS 226 is stored in theROM 224. Various program modules may be stored in theRAM 225. Such program modules might include anoperating system 235, a conditional accesssystem software module 236 including a key 250, and data andmedia content 238. - Although not depicted in
FIG. 2 , theMDD 200 could also include a hard drive, flash memory or other non-volatile memory for long-term storage of program modules such as billing information, theoperating system 235, theconditional access system 236, and the data andmedia content 238. The hard drive may be connected to theMDD 200 via a hard drive interface. Similarly, other peripheral devices could be connected to the MDD with other interfaces not depicted inFIG. 2 . Moreover, the MDD could also be equipped with an input device, such as keyboard and/or mouse. - The
MDD 200 can also include avideo adapter 248 or other adapter for delivery of media content and/or data to amedia presentation device 247. TheMDD 200 also includes a Media InAdapter 246 and a Data InAdapter 253. These adapters permit connection of theMDD 200 to a communication link for one-way and/or two-way communication with a Media Delivery Service Provider. The Media InAdapter 246 and the Data InAdapter 253 may incorporate a modem and/or other communication device. - The
MDD 200 receives media content and data and makes the media content and data available to other internal components by way of internal interfaces such as thesystem bus 223. Theprocessing unit 221 can route the media content and/or data in accordance with the instructions of theoperating system 235 and/or other applications executed in the RAM.225. In addition, theprocessing unit 221 may store the media content and data in theRAM 225 for subsequent use. Theprocessing unit 221 may also direct the media content and/or data to themedia presentation device 247 via thepresentation device adapter 248. - The
conditional access system 236 may be executed by theprocessing unit 221 in response to a command received from the Media Delivery Service Provider or any other source. The command may be formatted in accordance with the SNMP protocol. Theconditional access system 236 may also be executed in response to a command received from user input, such as a user selecting to view a pay-per-view event, for example. -
FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting a Media Delivery System with a software conditional access system that is an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As described above in connection withFIG. 2 , theMDD 300 has a residentconditional access system 312. - The Media
Delivery Service Provider 302 is operative to communicate with theMDD 300 via thesatellite 304, adirect link 308, and/or aDSL modem 306. A broadband connection between the MediaDelivery Service Provider 302 and theMDD 300 is preferable, because it permits the Media Delivery Service Provider 310 to communicate with theMDD 300 in real-time and can support an “always-on” connection. Thus, the Media Delivery Service Provider can query for and obtain information related to theMDD 300 within a very short time frame. Because a broadband connection can maintain an always-on status, the Media Delivery Service Provider can autonomously query theMDD 300 during off-peak hours of operation, thereby reducing the impact on system resources. - Although the broadband connection depicted in
FIG. 3 is supported by means of anADSL modem 306, virtually any broadband technology can be used to implement an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. For example, a conventional broadband cable-T.V. connection between the MediaDelivery Service Provider 302 and theMDD 300 can be used. Unfortunately, current broadband cable- - T.V. protocols are not as secure as an ADSL broadband communication link. Broadband cable-T.V. signals can be intercepted and deciphered, while the communication link between the
ADSL modem 306 and the MediaDelivery Service Provider 302 can be implemented as a Private Virtual Network that is not shared by other users. Thus, an ADSL broadband connection between theMDD 300 and the MediaDelivery Service Provider 302 is preferred to other available broadband connections. - In different embodiments of the invention, the
broadband connection 324 may be an xDSL connection, a Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications (DOCSIS) cable modem connection, a residential gateway connected to an Ethernet port, an IEEE 802.11b (wireless) connection, a Bluetooth connection, or another well-known broadband connection, - In a preferred embodiment, the
broadband connection 324 is an ADSL connection and theMedia Distribution Device 300 and MediaDelivery Service Provider 302 are connected via a permanent virtual circuit (PVC). Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a high speed transmission technology originally developed by Bellcore and standardized by ANSI as T 1.413. ADSL typically uses existing unshielded twisted pair (UTP) copper wires from the telephone central office to the user's premises. ADSL modems may be used at the central office and the user's premises to transmit and receive information. A permanent virtual circuit (PVC), or Private Virtual Network (PVN), is a permanent association between two pieces of data equipment established by configuration. A PVC uses a fixed logical channel to maintain a permanent association between two pieces of equipment. Once defined and programmed by the carrier into the network routing logic, all data transmitted between any two points across the network follows a predetermined physical path, making use of a virtual circuit. - One of the advantages of using a PVC is that the Media Distribution Device may be identified based on the PVC. Thus, if the Media Distribution Device is moved to another location, then the service provider will know that it has been moved or cloned and will be able to take appropriate action, such as disconnecting service to prevent fraud.
- In another embodiment of the invention, the Media Distribution Device is connected to a broadband infrastructure using a technology such as XDSL at the transport layer. Using a PVC managed by a device such as a Service Gateway, a secured connection is established over a private network to authenticate and authorize Media Distribution Device transactions. Applications may be loaded on the Media Distribution Device as an OSGi bundle. OSGi is the Open Services Gateway Initiative which is an independent, non-profit corporation working to define specifications for the delivery of multiple services over wide-area networks to local networks and devices. An OSGi specification defines an open framework that enables multiple software services to be loaded and run on a services gateway such as a Media Distribution Device, cable modem, DSL modem, PC or dedicated residential gateway. Media Distribution Devices can be authorized in a consumer network by a Residential Gateway (RG). The RG in this implementation becomes a physical layer security device.
- In a CATV environment, an IPsec connection may be used rather than a PVC connection. IPsec is a secure version of the Internet Protocol (IP) that provides authentication and encryption at the packet level.
- In one embodiment of the invention, the
CAS 312 may be used as an access system to determine the media content that may be viewed. For example, a user who has purchased premium movie channels may have aCAS 312 downloaded to their Media Distribution Device. TheCAS 312 may include one ormore keys 326 that provide decryption for the premium channels, Thekeys 326 may also be downloaded to provide access to pay-per-view events and the like, TheCAS 312 andkeys 326 may be updated at any time by the Media Delivery Service Provider via thebroadband connection 324. The Media Distribution Device may also upload billing information to the Media Delivery Service Provider in real-time to prevent fraud. - Thus, as should be understood from the foregoing description, the present invention is a software-driven application that eliminates the cost of the hardware CAS and forces immediate billing of all services requested by a consumer on a broadband connected Media Distribution Device.
- It should be understood from the foregoing description that the present invention provides greater security than the prior art because it is less likely to be able to hack the software as it was for the smartcards. Also, fixes and updates may be downloaded to the software CAS of the present invention. The present invention eliminates the smartcard required by the prior art, and the replacement of the smart card if conditional access is compromised.
-
FIG. 4 is a flow chart depicting an exemplary method for purchasing media services using a software conditional access system (CAS) in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. It will be appreciated that the method ofFIG. 4 is simply one embodiment of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the method may be used for other communication systems and may be modified to accommodate the various policies of communication system providers. - At
step 400, the method begins and a request for media services is sent to the Media Delivery Service Provider via a broadband connection atstep 402. For example, the request may be a request to view a pay-per-view event sent from a user's Media Distribution Device via a broadband connection after the user has selected to view the event using the Media Distribution Device or a remote control connected to the Media Distribution Device. A part of the request may be identifying information of the Media Distribution Device. For example, the MAC address of the Media Distribution Device or the hardware serial number of the Media Distribution Device may be sent with the request. - At
step 404, the Media Delivery Service Provider cross-references the identifying information with a user's account to determine whether to allow the user to 15 view the media service requested, - At
step 406, it is determined whether the identifying information matches a valid customer account and whether to allow the customer to view the requested program. If the Media Delivery Service Provider determines to allow the user to view the requested media service, the user's account (typically maintained by the service provider) is charged and a key is uploaded via the broadband connection to the Media Distribution Device atstep 410, Thus, there is no lag time between a user purchasing the media service and the user being charged for the media service. The key may be a software application that allows the user to view the requested media service. For example, the key may be software that is programmed to decrypt the requested media service for viewing. After the requested media service ends, after a predetermined amount of time, etc., the conditional access system of the Media Distribution Device may delete the key. For example, atstep 412, it is determined whether the time limit for the media service has expired and if so then the method proceeds to step 414 where the key is deleted and the method ends. - Referring back to step 406, if the identifying information is rejected by the Media Delivery Service Provider, then a request for the customer to call a service representative is uploaded to the Media Distribution Device and displayed to the user at
step 408. The method then ends atstep 499. - Although the present invention has been described in connection with various exemplary embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that many modifications can be made thereto within the scope of the claims that follow. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the invention in any way be limited by the above description, but instead be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.
Claims (14)
1. A method for purchasing a media service from a media delivery service provider, the method comprising:
sending a request, by an application executing on a computer processor of a media distribution device, to the media delivery service provider requesting the media service;
authenticating, by the application, the media distribution device by comparing a permanent virtual circuit established between the media distribution device and the media delivery service provider with a predetermined permanent virtual circuit defined and programmed by the media delivery service provider;
upon determining the media distribution device is successfully authenticated, downloading a software key from the media delivery service provider to the media distribution device and automatically deleting the software key after a predetermined amount of time; and
upon determining the media distribution device is not successfully authenticated, downloading displayable data to the media distribution device from the media delivery service provider.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the displayable data includes an instruction to contact a service representative of the media delivery service provider.
3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:
identifying information of the media distribution device; and
comparing the information to a customer record at the media delivery service provider;
determining whether the customer record indicates a customer associated with the customer record is in good standing; and
upon determining the customer is in good standing, permitting the media distribution device to purchase the media service.
4. The method of claim 3 , wherein comparing the information to the customer record further includes matching a hardware serial number of the media distribution device with a registered hardware serial number of the customer record.
5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the permanent virtual circuit comprises a predetermined physical communications path between the media distribution device and a communications component of the media delivery service provider.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the permanent virtual circuit comprises a communications link utilizing a broadband connection with the media delivery service provider.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the permanent virtual circuit comprises a communications link utilizing an asymmetric digital subscriber line with the media delivery service provider.
8. A computer program product for purchasing a media service from a media delivery service provider, the computer program product comprising a non-transitory storage medium containing instructions that when executed by a processing circuit perform a method, the method includes:
sending a request to the media delivery service provider for the media service;
authenticating a media distribution device by comparing a permanent virtual circuit established between the media distribution device and the media delivery service provider with a predetermined permanent virtual circuit defined and programmed by the media delivery service provider;
upon determining the media distribution device is successfully authenticated, downloading a software key from the media delivery service provider to the media distribution device and automatically deleting the software key after a predetermined amount of time; and
upon determining the media distribution device is not successfully authenticated, downloading displayable data to the media distribution device from the media delivery service provider.
9. The computer program product of claim 8 , wherein the displayable data includes an instruction to contact a service representative of the media delivery service provider.
10. The computer program product of claim 8 , wherein the method further comprises:
identifying information of the media distribution device; and
comparing the information to a customer record at the media delivery service provider;
determining whether the customer record indicates a customer associated with the customer record is in good standing; and
upon determining the customer is in good standing, permitting the media distribution device to purchase the media service.
11. The computer program product of claim 10 , wherein comparing the information to the customer record further includes matching a hardware serial number of the media distribution device with a registered hardware serial number of the customer record.
12. The computer program product of claim 8 , wherein the permanent virtual circuit comprises a predetermined physical communications path between the media distribution device and a communications component of the media delivery service provider.
13. The computer program product of claim 8 , wherein the permanent virtual circuit comprises a communications link utilizing a broadband connection with the media delivery service provider.
14. The computer program product of claim 8 , wherein the permanent virtual circuit comprises a communications link utilizing an asymmetric digital subscriber line with the media delivery service provider.
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US11019375B2 (en) | 2016-08-11 | 2021-05-25 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Method and apparatus for installing conditional access system information |
KR102590165B1 (en) * | 2016-08-11 | 2023-10-17 | 삼성전자 주식회사 | Method and apparatus for installing cas information |
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US8352372B1 (en) | 2013-01-08 |
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