A7 34 5 ____B7_____ 五、發明說明（1 ) 發明範圍 本發明通常與雙向寬頻通信的範園有關。比較特別地， 本發明與提供第二通信路徑予上游和下游傳輸的通信網 路有關。 發明背景 有線電視已經變成許多家庭裡的主要產品。現在估計 65%的美國家庭收到有線業者服務。有線業者安裝寬頻網 路，提供有鉍服務給用户。典的寬頻網路包括四個主要 的部份：頭端（headend)、中繼線系統 '配線系統和用户端 。頭端收到的有線節目來自多個._源頭，包括衛星，散布於 空中的地方性電台信號和地面微波鍵路。頭端處理接收到 的有線節目並且經中繼系統傳送，它是宽頻網路的主要傳 輸動脈。 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 中繼系統分枝成多個配線系統。配線系統從中繼系統傳 送有線節目到各個用户區域。配線系統也叫做"饋線"。配 線系統終止在一配線一點的用户區域，例如光學網路單位 ("ONU")。在配線點的分接點回饋用户電壓降，它完成從 配線點到用户位置的連接D用户位置通常是住屋或公寓。 通常’末端使用者裝置，像小黑盒（set_t0p b〇x)是用於用 户内解碼額外付費頻道，收看即付費廣播或其他類似的。 通常’在寬頻網路的訊號是在_5 MHz至750 MHz("頻譜”） 的頻譜上傳送β頻譜的頻寬幾乎被同軸電纜的頻寬所限制 ’輸電線普遍用於現今的寬頻薪路。當光纖電纜深入用户 區域内時，頻譜預期可超過i GHz，以滿足頻寬曰益增加 -4 - ㈤尺度適用中國國家-^------ 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 468345 A7 ____B7_____ 五、發明說明（2 ) 的需求。 寬頻網路本來只设计成分配”下游方向"的訊號（也就是 從頭端到用户位置，也當做是”向前”路徑）。因此許多舊的 寬頻網路的元件設備’包括放大器和補償網路，通常只適 合傳送下游方向的訊號。爲了在下游方向傳輸下游信號， 典型的寬頻網路在頻譜裡提供一組"頻道”，每個頻道的頻 寬是6 MHz。每個波道攜帶特別的傳輸，例如單一電視秀 。頻道是分碱多工到頻譜50 MHz至750 MHz的區域。在此 討論中，頻譜50 MHz至750 MHz的範圍被稱做"向前頻帶" 或"下游頻帶"。 一一 收看即付費服務和其他的交談式電視應用的來到，正加 速雙方或雙向通信網路的發展。雙向通信網路提供"返回 訊號”的傳輸。返回訊號是任何的訊號，從用户位置傳回 到頭端°自用户位置至頭端的傳輸，常被稱爲”上游方向·， 或"返回路徑”。通常，頻譜5 MHz至40 MHz的範固，用來 像上游方向的返弓信鍊。在此討論中，頻譜5 MHz至40 MHz的範圍被稱做”迴轉頻帶”或"上游頻帶"。典型的通信 網路包括在頭端或配線點的解調器，用來從下游頻帶的下 游信號分離上游頻帶的返回信號。這種技術已經允許有線 業者透過寬頻網路提供許多新的交談式用户服務，例如立 即收看即付費（impulse-pay-per-Yiew)(IPPV)。 圖1和1A幫助舉例説明這種雙向寬頻技術圖1是典型的 有線網路1 0 0的一個功能方塊^ ’它提供在單一通信路徑 之上的雙向通信。圖i用來描述從頭端1〇2(在虛線方格内） -5- 本紙張尺錢財關家標準（CNS)A4規格（210 X 297公爱） .I -fc---,Λ----„---丨 f --- ί (靖先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) . *線· A7 4 68 34 5 B7 —_______ 五、發明說明（3) 至用户位置的末端使用者裝置1 04的訊號流程，而反之亦 然0 爲了要繁助想像siL號的流程，圖1 a從已存在的有線網路 100的下游頻帶130(從50 MHz5i750 MHz)和上游頻帶134( 從5 MHz到50 MHz)的訊號，來描述頻譜的—個圖解式表 示法。在圖1A表示每個方塊表示正在特定的頻率範圍内傳 輸訊號，其範圍爲該方塊所包含。 舉例來説_ ’那些廣播訊號128是在下游頻帶130内傳輸。 對於平常的廣播傳輸，連接管理系統（"CMS") 108在頭端 1 02引導影像伺服器1 12傳輸下游内-容，例如電視節目，到 非同步傳輸多工器開關（"ATM") 116。ATM 1 16從影像伺服 器建立路徑到適當的輸出埠’而A傳送下游内容到寬頻閘 道器120。寬頻閘道器120將下游内容轉換成已調變信號 128 ’該已調變信號能在寬頻網路丨24上往下游方向傳輸。 藉著寬頻閘道器120的轉換’包括調變下游内容至下游頻 听1 0内成適當的載波頻率’和分頻多工已調變下游内容 成已調變信號128，以在寬頻網路124上傳輸。 然後寬頻網路12 4讓下游頻帶1 3 0中已調變的訊號12 8， 运到有線網路100的用户。大多數的用户位置，寬頻網路 124在端末使用者裝置1〇4結東，它轉換調變信號128成可 在電視上顯示的電視節目。熟悉〜此技藝的人將會欣賞端末 使用者裝置104，它可以是小黑盒’有線電視’個人電腦 或其他的裝置’有能力的解多茳和解調已調變信號128。 而且，已調變信號128沒被限制在電視節目。已調變信號 -6 - 本紙張尺㈣甲國國家標準（CNS)A4規X 297公g 7 *--Y--— III ί I --- t請先閲讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁> 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 468345 A7 -------B7 _ 五、發明說明（4 ) 128可以是有線網路1〇〇所分配之任何訊息的形式，例如網 際網路通信，音樂傳輸或其他類似的。 如果用户需要購買lppv電影’用户可指示端末使用者裝 置1 04發出請求到頭端1 〇2，以傳輸IPPV電影至用户。端末 使用者裝置104轉換用户的指令成返回信號132，在上游頻 帶134内的寬頻網路124上調變、多工化、並且傳輸返回信 號丨32。通常’返回訊號132包括給端末使用者裝置1〇4的 唯二.識―別器’、它是頭端202用來傳送lppv電影給、特败指定的 用户。 在宽頻網路124内，弯訊器用來從頻譜萃取出返回訊號 + .UX’ .和L傳一輸是回信號132至解調器138。解調器138轉換返 回信號132成基帶信號，並且轉送基帶信號至網路路由器 142。在此討論的術語，，基帶”，表示調變信號沒有分頻， 而直接是以一脈波形式在傳輸媒介上。 然後網路路由器142經由ATM 1 16轉送基帶信號至CMS 108，CMS 108然後引導影像词服器112和ATM 1 16傳送 IPPV電影到寬頻閘道器12〇。在寬頻閘道器120中，IPPV 電影轉換成IPPV信號146於下游頻帶130的一特別頻道。通 常，IPPV訊號146是編碼，以避免未經許可觀賞。然後寬 頻閘道器120轉寄IPPV信號146到寬頻網路丨24，它傳送 IPPV訊號146到端末使用者裝置104。 然後加密訊息通常與IPPV訊號146—起傳輸，使端末使 用者裝置1 04能夠解碼並且顯示IPPV電影於用户的電視上 。在現今的寬頻網路中，加密訊息通常在一般的頻道傳輸 -7- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS)A4規格（210 X 297公餐） I- .^1 n il 1— .^1 I ^n ί {請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) .. 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 A7 468345 B7 五、發明說明（5 ) ，如同IPPV訊號146—樣，它被普遍稱爲"入頻帶（in-band) 訊號”。 入頻帶信號通常在下列各項方式中發生。CMS 108產生 加密訊息152，並且送至調變器156。調變器156調變加密 訊息1 52，使在寬頻網路124上傳輸而且轉送加密訊息152 到寬頻網路124。在CMS 108的控制下，寬頻網路124多工 加密訊息152和IPPV信號146至下游頻帶130的相同頻道内 。結果，一部分用來傳輸IPPV訊號146的頻道被用來傳輸 加密訊息152。頻道的部分使用邊成IPPV訊號146可用的頻 寬減少。 寬頻網路124傳送加密訊息152和IPPV訊號146至端末使 用者裝置104。一旦接收到，端末使用者裝置1〇4會解調， 並且使用加密訊息152來解碼，並轉換加碼的IPPV訊號146 ，使能在用户位置的電視上顯示。最後，用户觀賞電視上 已解碼的IPPV電影。那些熟悉此技藝的人將會欣賞上述系 宜在現今生寬屬雙路名泛地被使用。不幸地，上述的 系統還存在的幾個問題。 現今的寬頻網路所存在的一個問題，就是關於多個用户 共享上游頻帶的需求。宽頻網路拓撲學的分散性質，迫使 那些從特定的配線點收到訊號的用户，當用户發射返回訊 號時，必須共享上游頻帶。換句_話説，相同頻譜用來服務 所有的用户，所以當用户向上游傳輸時，在每一個用户之 中，上游頻帶需更進一步地切#。在那些用户之中分割上 游頻帶，造成每個用户的返回信號之可用的頻寬減少。 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS)A4規格（210 X 297公釐） I-—------------ -裝--- ί {請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 訂，. -線- 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 A7 4 68 34 5 B7 _ 1 _ 丨 一 五、發明說明（6) 現今寬頻網路的另外問題是與入頻帶信號有關。入頻帶 信號是不受歡迎的，因爲它在下游頻帶裡留下較少的頻宽 給下游方向的通信使用。傳輸頻帶外的加密訊息是令人想 要的。傳送加密訊息於頻帶外，森留價値的下游頻寬給下 游通信，它原先必須入頻帶傳輸，例如在上面被討論的 IPPV電影。 問題的存在確認了對雙向通訊網路的需要，它可消除在 上游頻帶，從端末使用者裝置傳輸返回訊號到頭端的需求 。而且，存在爲一雙向通信網4的需要，它提倮頻f外下 游通信路徑給非視頻内容，例如.視頻信號。 一嘗試改良的雙向通訊網路出現在Bodeep et al.，美國 專利编號5,528,582。Bodeep et al描述寬頻網路有主要通 信路徑，和第二通信路徑。Bodeep et al的主要通信路在相 等於現今寬頻網路所使用的單一通信路徑。下游通信’ & 括電視節目和其他類似的，被主要通信路徑上載送至用户 位置。在用户位置的端末使用者單位，往主要通信路德的 下游方向傳輸返回訊號。Bodeep et al所描述的系統’巧"似 發射返回訊號在部分的下游頻帶或上游頻帶，但是總是在 下游方向。因此，每個端末使用者單位傳送回行的訊號’ 消耗頻譜的某一部分。 在Bodeep et al.中，一組"速你纖維節點"（"MFNs")沿著 主要的通信路徑和多個下游用户的幾個位置部署。1 在第二通信路徑上，向上游轉換1以通信·的返回信號。mFN 它是位於用户位置的下游方向，收集由用户位置的端末使 -9- 本紙張尺度適用令國囷家標準（CNS)A4規格（210 X 297公釐） I — ? — L1 I-------1 * I I - f請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 訂_ 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 4 6 8 34 5 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 A7 B7 五、發明說明（7) 用者單位’傳送的返回信號。然後MFN過濾那些返回信號 ’移除所有的下游内容並且傳回返回信號至第二通信路 徑上的湧^.。第二通信路徑可能是在MFN和頭端之間的專 用光纖電纜。A7 34 5 ____B7_____ V. Description of the invention (1) Scope of the invention The invention is generally related to the field of two-way broadband communication. More particularly, the present invention relates to a communication network that provides a second communication path for upstream and downstream transmissions. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Cable television has become a major product in many homes. An estimated 65% of U.S. households now receive cable operator services. Cable operators install broadband networks and provide bismuth services to users. The typical broadband network includes four main parts: the headend, the trunk system, the distribution system, and the customer end. The cable programs received by the headend come from multiple sources, including satellites, local radio signals scattered in the air, and ground microwave links. The headend processes the received cable program and transmits it through the relay system. It is the main transmission artery of the broadband network. Printed by the Consumer Cooperative of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs The relay system is branched into multiple wiring systems. The distribution system transmits cable programs from the relay system to each user area. The wiring system is also called " feeder ". The cabling system terminates in a user area at one wiring point, such as an optical network unit (" ONU "). The tap point at the wiring point feeds back the user's voltage drop. It completes the connection from the wiring point to the user's location. The user's location is usually a house or apartment. Usually, the end-user device, like a small black box (set_t0p box), is used to decode extra paid channels, watch pay-as-you-go broadcasts or the like. Usually 'the signal in a broadband network is transmitted in the spectrum of _5 MHz to 750 MHz (" spectrum'). The bandwidth of the beta spectrum is almost limited by the bandwidth of the coaxial cable. Power lines are commonly used in today's broadband pay. When the optical fiber cable penetrates into the user area, the frequency spectrum is expected to exceed i GHz, in order to meet the increase in bandwidth. System 468345 A7 ____B7_____ 5. The requirements of the invention description (2). The broadband network was originally designed to distribute signals in the "downstream direction" (that is, from the headend to the user's location, which is also regarded as the "forward" path). Therefore, many old broadband network component devices, including amplifiers and compensation networks, are usually only suitable for transmitting signals in the downstream direction. In order to transmit downstream signals in the downstream direction, a typical broadband network provides a set of "channels" in the frequency spectrum. Each channel has a bandwidth of 6 MHz. Each channel carries a special transmission, such as a single TV show. The channel is Alkali multiplexing to the area of the spectrum 50 MHz to 750 MHz. In this discussion, the range of the spectrum 50 MHz to 750 MHz is called " forward band " or " downstream band ". Pay as you watch The advent of services and other chat-type TV applications is accelerating the development of a two-way or two-way communication network. The two-way communication network provides "return signal" transmission. The return signal is any signal that is transmitted from the user's location back to the headend. The transmission from the user's location to the headend is often referred to as the "upstream direction," or "return path." Normally, the spectrum range of 5 MHz to 40 MHz is used to resemble the upstream bow chain. In this discussion, the range of 5 MHz to 40 MHz of the spectrum is referred to as the "swiveling band" or "upstream band". A typical communication network includes a demodulator at the headend or distribution point to separate the return signal from the upstream band from the downstream signal from the downstream band. This technology has allowed cable operators to offer many new conversational user services over broadband networks, such as impulse-pay-per-Yiew (IPPV). Figures 1 and 1A help illustrate this two-way broadband technology. Figure 1 is a functional block of a typical wired network 100. It provides two-way communication over a single communication path. Figure i is used to describe the head end 102 (in the dashed box). -5- The paper ruler of money and wealth (CNS) A4 specification (210 X 297 public love). I -fc ---, Λ-- -„--- 丨 f --- ί (Jing first read the precautions on the back before filling out this page). * Line · A7 4 68 34 5 B7 —_______ 5. Description of the invention (3) Use at the end of the user's location In order to assist in imagining the flow of siL, Figure 1a shows the downstream frequency band 130 (from 50 MHz to 5i750 MHz) and the upstream frequency band 134 (from 50 MHz to 5i750 MHz) of the existing wired network 100. 5 MHz to 50 MHz) to describe the spectrum. A graphical representation of the spectrum. In Figure 1A, each block indicates that the signal is being transmitted in a specific frequency range, and the range is included in the block. For example _ ' Those broadcast signals 128 are transmitted in the downstream frequency band 130. For ordinary broadcast transmission, the connection management system (" CMS ") 108 directs the image server 1 12 at the headend 102 to transmit downstream content, such as television programs, to Asynchronous transmission multiplexer switch (" ATM ") 116. ATM 1 16 establishes a path from the image server to When the output port ', A sends downstream content to the broadband gateway 120. The broadband gateway 120 converts the downstream content into a modulated signal 128' The modulated signal can be transmitted downstream on the broadband network 24 Through the conversion of the broadband gateway 120 'including the modulation of the downstream content to the downstream carrier listening within 10 to an appropriate carrier frequency' and the frequency division multiplexed modulation of the downstream content into a modulated signal 128, in the broadband network Transmission on the road 124. Then the broadband network 12 4 allows the modulated signal 12 8 in the downstream frequency band 130 to be delivered to the users of the wired network 100. Most of the user locations, the broadband network 124 is at the end user device 104, it converts the modulation signal 128 into a TV program that can be displayed on a TV. Those familiar with this technology will appreciate the end-user device 104, which can be a small black box 'cable TV' personal computer or Other devices' have the ability to demultiplex and demodulate the modulated signal 128. Moreover, the modulated signal 128 is not limited to TV programs. Modulated signal-6-National Standard (CNS) of this paper A4 size X 297 g 7 *-Y --— III ί I- -t Please read the notes on the back before filling out this page> Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs 468345 A7 ------- B7 _ V. Invention Description (4) 128 can be a wired network 100 form of any message assigned, such as Internet communications, music transmission or the like. If the user needs to purchase an lppv movie, the user may instruct the end-user device 104 to send a request to the headend 102 to transmit the IPPV movie to the user. The end user device 104 converts the user's instruction into a return signal 132, modulates, multiplexes, and transmits the return signal 32 on the broadband network 124 in the upstream frequency band 134. Generally, the 'return signal 132 includes the unique identifier for the end-user device 104, which is the headend 202 used to transmit the lppv movie to the specified user. In the broadband network 124, the bender is used to extract the return signal + .UX '. And L from the spectrum. The return signal 132 is sent to the demodulator 138. The demodulator 138 converts the return signal 132 into a baseband signal and forwards the baseband signal to the network router 142. The term discussed here, "baseband", means that the modulation signal has no frequency division and is directly in the form of a pulse on the transmission medium. The network router 142 then forwards the baseband signal to the CMS 108 via ATM 1 16 and the CMS 108 then The guide image server 112 and ATM 1 16 transmit the IPPV movie to the broadband gateway 120. In the broadband gateway 120, the IPPV movie is converted into an IPPV signal 146 on a special channel of the downstream band 130. Generally, the IPPV signal 146 Is encoded to avoid unauthorized viewing. The broadband gateway 120 then forwards the IPPV signal 146 to the broadband network 24, which sends the IPPV signal 146 to the end-user device 104. The encrypted message usually starts with the IPPV signal 146. Transmission, enabling end-user device 104 to decode and display IPPV movies on the user ’s TV. In today ’s broadband networks, encrypted messages are usually transmitted on ordinary channels. 7- This paper is compliant with China National Standards (CNS) A4 specification (210 X 297 public meals) I-. ^ 1 n il 1—. ^ 1 I ^ n ί {Please read the notes on the back before filling out this page) .. Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs A7 468345 B7 5. Description of the invention (5). Like the IPPV signal 146, it is commonly called " in-band signal ". In-band signals usually occur in the following ways. The CMS 108 generates an encrypted message 152 and sends it to the modulator 156. The modulator 156 modulates the encrypted message 152 so that it is transmitted over the broadband network 124 and forwards the encrypted message 152 to the broadband network 124. Under the control of the CMS 108, the broadband network 124 multiplexes the encrypted message 152 and the IPPV signal 146 into the same channel of the downstream frequency band 130. As a result, a portion of the channel used to transmit the IPPV signal 146 is used to transmit the encrypted message 152. The portion of the channel uses the available bandwidth of the IPPV signal 146 to be reduced. The broadband network 124 transmits the encrypted message 152 and the IPPV signal 146 to the end-user device 104. Once received, the end-user device 104 will demodulate and use the encrypted message 152 to decode and convert the encoded IPPV signal 146 to enable display on the TV at the user's location. Finally, the user watches the decoded IPPV movie on the TV. Those who are familiar with the art will appreciate the fact that the above system is widely used in today's broad two-way name. Unfortunately, there are several problems with the above-mentioned system. One problem with today's broadband networks is the need for multiple users to share upstream frequency bands. The decentralized nature of broadband network topology forces users who receive signals from specific distribution points to share upstream bands when they transmit return signals. In other words, the same spectrum is used to serve all users, so when a user transmits upstream, among each user, the upstream frequency band needs to be cut even further. Dividing the upstream band among those users results in a decrease in the available bandwidth of the return signal for each user. This paper size applies to China National Standard (CNS) A4 specification (210 X 297 mm) I --------------- -pack --- ί {Please read the precautions on the back before filling (This page),-.-Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs A7 4 68 34 5 B7 _ 1 _ Ⅴ. Description of Inventions (6) Another problem with today's broadband networks is related to the in-band signal . The in-band signal is undesirable because it leaves less bandwidth in the downstream frequency band for communication in the downstream direction. Encrypted messages outside the transmission band are desirable. Send encrypted messages out of the band, and Mori's downstream bandwidth is used for downstream communication. It originally had to be transmitted in the band, such as the IPPV movie discussed above. The existence of the problem confirms the need for a two-way communication network, which can eliminate the need to transmit a return signal from the end-user device to the head-end in the upstream band. Furthermore, there is a need for a two-way communication network 4 which provides a frequency f outbound communication path for non-video content, such as video signals. An attempt to improve the two-way communication network appears in Bodeep et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,528,582. Bodeep et al describe that broadband networks have a primary communication path and a secondary communication path. The main communication path of Bodeep et al is equivalent to the single communication path used in today's broadband networks. Downstream communication '& including television programs and the like are uploaded to the user's location by the main communication path. The end user unit at the user location transmits a return signal downstream of the main communication Luther. The system described by Bodeep et al 'smartly' seems to transmit the return signal in part of the downstream or upstream band, but always in the downstream direction. Therefore, each end-user unit transmits a return signal ’which consumes a portion of the spectrum. In Bodeep et al., A group of "speed fiber nodes" (" MFNs ") are deployed along the main communication path and several locations for multiple downstream users. 1 On the second communication path, 1 is switched upstream for a communication · return signal. mFN It is located in the downstream direction of the user's location. It is collected by the end of the user's location. -9- This paper size is applicable to the national standard (CNS) A4 specification (210 X 297 mm) I —? — L1 I --- ---- 1 * II-f Please read the notes on the back before filling out this page) Order _ Printed by the Employee Consumption Cooperative of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs 4 6 8 34 5 Printed by the Employee Consumption Cooperative of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs A7 B7 5. Description of the invention (7) The return signal transmitted by the user unit. MFN then filters those return signals ′ to remove all downstream content and returns the return signals to the second communication path. The second communication path may be a dedicated fiber optic cable between the MFN and the headend.
Bodeep et al所描述的系統遭受一些問題a首先，來自每 個端末使用者單位的那些返回信號，可能在下游頻帶裡往 下游方向傳輸。結果，Bodeep et al想出下游頻帶裡的一些 可以使用的‘頻寬，來傳輸返回訊號。目前，有線服務者反 對使用下游頻寬做爲返回信號。如此的使用會減少電視頻 道可用的頻寬，因此減少它能提供.的電視頻道數目。在有 線服務供给者之中所競爭的·一個領域是能提供的電视頻 道的數目。The system described by Bodeep et al suffers from some problemsa. First, those return signals from each end-user unit may be transmitted downstream in the downstream frequency band. As a result, Bodeep et al figured out some of the available 'bandwidths' in the downstream frequency band to transmit the return signal. At present, cable service providers oppose the use of downstream bandwidth as a return signal. Such use will reduce the available bandwidth of the video channel and therefore reduce the number of TV channels it can provide. One area that competes with online service providers is the number of TV channels available.
Bodeep et al的另外問題，就是存在個別的MFN需服務多 個用户的事實。所有的用户都能傳輪返回訊號。如果是在 下游頻帶或上游頻帶傳送，每一個用户必須分配到部分可 用的頻譜給返回信號。因此，Bodeep eta]爲了要傳輸返回 訊號，而使用户必須共享頻譜的頻寬的問題繼績存在。 還有Bodeep et al另一個問題，就是上述系統仍然調變返 回訊號成頻語的部份來傳送。Bodeep et al的系統創造兩個 類型的下游通信：（1)返回-訊號和（2)平常的下游通信，例 如廣播電視節目。將平常的下游-通信與返回信號結合，且 需要使用額外的寬頻通信元件，例如在端末使用者單位增 加調變器和解調器。Bodeep et ϋ系統對此元件，保有從平 常的下游通信，結合和區隔返回訊號的需求。因此，Bodeep -10- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS)A4規格（21〇 x 297公爱） ---V-----------裝--- ί (請先閱讀背面之注項#填寫本頁) 訂- 4 6 8 34 5 A7 B7 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 五、發明說明（8 ) et al不提供通訊網路，它減輕傳輪返回訊號時，對調變器 和端末使用者單位裡的解調器的需求3 總而T之，現今雙向通#網路遭受了幾個問題。其中一 個問題就是當傳送返回訊號到頭端時，多個用户需共享頻 譜。i?外的問題是現今雙向通信網路通常傳輸信號入頻帶 具有視頻内容，例如：加密訊息。入孽帶信號減用頻 寬給額外的下游通信。 不幸地，現今改良的雙向通信方法，不發表這些問題， 例如Bodeep et al的系統。因此，需要存在一雙向通訊網路 ，允許返回訊號傳送到頭端，而.沒有減少寬頻通信網路的 可用頻寬。 - 本發明的摘要 本發明克服上述由提供雙向第二通信路徑至具有寬頻 主要通信路徑之通訊網路的問題。主要通信路徑從頭端傳 送下游信號至用户位置。第二通信路徑從用户位置傳送返 回訊號到頭端，並且提供頻帶外的傳輸路徑給下游信號。 本發明藉由在第二通信路徑上，允許返回訊號向上游傳輸 ，以符合技術上 < 需求，避免使用主要通信路徑的頻寬。 而且’特立jl T游訊號，例如：加密訊息，它不需要在下 游頻帶中傳輸，就能傳送到在第二通信路徑上的用户位置 ，藉此進一步地減屮幸_要诵信路徑的頻赏·使用0' 在一方面，本發明提供一系統在通訊網路上’從用户位 置到頭端傳送返回信號。下游光號在主要通信路徑上從頭 端傳輸到用户位置。系統提供第二通信路徑，有上漭方甸 -11 - 本—尺_ _ —準格咖 x 29-7-^7 ~ " {請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 裝 訂_ 線. 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 4 6 8 34 5 A7 ______ B7___________ 五、發明說明（9 > 和下游方向’用以從一里上ϋ傳…送返回訊號到頭端。系統 在用户位置也提供末端使用者裝置。端末使用者裝置具有 連接到主要通信路徑的第一網路介面，用來接收來自頭端 的下游訊號。端末使用者裝置也具有連接到第二通信路徑 的第二網路介面，用來在上游方傳送返回訊號至頭端。在 這種方式下，返回訊號是在第二通信路徑上，從端末使用 者裝置傳輸訊號到頭端，並沒有使用掉主要通信路徑的頻 寬。 在另一方面，本發明提供通訊網路一末端使用者裝置。 通訊網路用來運送下游訊號給.端末使用者裝置包括主要 的通信路徑。端末使用者裝置包括能夠在主要通信路徑上 ，接收下游訊號的第-絪路介面。端末使用者裝置也包括 fl色在弟二通信路徑上，從端末使用者,裝置傳送返回説號至 頭端的第二網路介面。在這種方式中，返回訊號可在篦二 ^ ~~~ —~ ———— 通信路徑上，從端末使用者裝置傳輸到頭端，並且舉免使 用主要通信路徑的#頻赏.。 在另外一方面，本發明提供能夠在第二補彳言；^掉上傳〜缉 返回訊號，和第二通信路徑主要通路徑傳送下游信號 的通訊網路。通訊網路包括一頭端，用來產生下游訊號， 分配到用户位置。通訊網路裡的第一閘道器連結頭端到寬 頻網路’它可能分配到用户位置_的下游訊號。在用户位置 的末端使用者裝置具有連接到寬頻網路的第一網路介面 ，並且可接收下游訊號。端末I用者裝置可轉換下游訊號 成可顯示的格式。端末使用者裝置也具有能夠傳送返回訊 -12- 各紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS)A4規格（210 X 297公釐） • — .Γ I —-*1---II]--裳--- ί {請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) -§J· • L. 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 468345 A7 _B7_ 五、發明說明（1Q) 號或查J^E身紙绛太兩。第二閘埠器連接 至端末使用者裝置的第二觸科介面，並且能夠雙包通信。 '第二閘道器可接收來自端朱j吏用者裝置的返回訊號，並且 傳送返回訊號至頭端，頭端位於連接第二閘道器和頭端之 間的基帶網路上。 本發明的方面、特徵和優點，在連同圖表和申請專利範 園’閲讀下列標準具體實例的描述時，可明顯看出。 圖表的描述· 圖1是在頭端和用户位置之通訊網路的一個功能方 塊圖。 、 «· · · 圖1A是圖1的通訊網路頻譜.之圖解表示法，圖1表示訊號 在下游頻帶和上游頻帶内的關係位置。 圖2是依照本發明的—個標準具體實例，所建構出的通 訊網路之一功能方塊圖。 圖2 A是依照本發明表示訊號在下游頻帶和上游頻帶的 關係位置之一標準具體實例，所建構出一通訊網路的頻譜 圖解表示法。 圖3是運用於圖2通訊網路之一標準端末使用者裝置的 功能方塊圖。 圖4是依照本發明的標準具體實例，在圖2的通訊網路上 的雙向通信的步驟説明流程圖。_ 具體實例的詳細描述 通本發明藉由創造具有”芏要通信路徑"之通訊網路 稃的"第二的通信路徑"給返回信號，克服在背景中所討論 -13- 本紙張尺度適财园园家標準（CNS>A?ii·⑽x 297公‘） --rJIIII — ΙΙΙΙΙΓ — * I I C請先閲讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 訂· A7 468 34 5 B7________ 五、發明說明（11 ) 的限制。主要通信路徑是從頭端延伸到用户位置的末端使 用者裝置。第二的通信路徑是端末使用者装置在用户位置 和頭端之間的雙向通信路徑。有利地，在第二通信路徑上 從端末使用者裝置載送返回信號到頭端，而沒有使用别通 訊網路徑枚頻寬。 現在參考圖表，在本發明的幾個圖形和外觀中，數字所 表示的元件，和標準操作環境都將會被介紹。圖2和2 A舉 例説明本發明的一個標準具體實例。圖2是依照本發明的 一個標準具體實例，所建構的通訊網路之一功能方塊圖。 所舉例的是通訊網路200’它藉著—使-用第二通信路徑（"頻帶 夕卜”路徑）239，在頭端202(在虚線内的方格）和用户位置的 末端使用者裝置204之間，提供雙向通信。 爲了幫助想像訊號的流程，圖2 A描述通訊網路2 00的頻 譜圖解表示法，該通信網路在下游頻帶222(從5〇 乂以到 7:5 0 MHz)表示訊號的關係位置。在圖2a所表示的每個方塊 ，表示訊號正於該方塊所包含的特別頻率範圍内傳輸。舉 例來説’已調變信號218在下游頻帶222内傳輸。 在下游方向’通訊網路200類似圖1的雙向有線網路100 。C M S 2 0 S引導影像伺服器2 12送電視節目或其他的廣播 通k到ATM 2 16。ATM 2 1 6從影像伺服器2丨2至適當的輸出 蜂建互路fe ’並且轉送該廣播通信至寬頻閘道器22〇 ^廣 播通信包括有線電視節目、網際網路傳輸、語音節目，Ippv 電影的表單供用户購買，或任f類型的通信適合於寬頻網 路200的下游方向内傳輸。 [7JIJIII1— { I * I I - (猜先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 訂· _ 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 L . -14-Another problem of Bodeep et al is the fact that an individual MFN needs to serve multiple users. All users can pass the return signal. If transmitting in the downstream or upstream band, each user must allocate part of the available spectrum to the return signal. Therefore, in order to transmit the return signal, the problem that the user must share the bandwidth of the spectrum continues. There is another problem of Bodeep et al. The above system still modulates the part of the return signal into a frequency signal for transmission. Bodeep et al's system creates two types of downstream communications: (1) return-signals and (2) ordinary downstream communications, such as broadcast television programs. Combining ordinary downstream-communication with return signals and requiring the use of additional broadband communication components, such as adding modulators and demodulators to end-user units. The Bodeep et ϋ system maintains the need for this component from the usual downstream communication, combining and segmenting the return signal. Therefore, Bodeep -10- This paper size is applicable to China National Standard (CNS) A4 specification (21〇x 297 public love) --- V ----------- install --- ί (Please read first Note item on the back #Fill in this page) Order-4 6 8 34 5 A7 B7 Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. 5. Description of invention (8) et al does not provide a communication network. Demand for modulators and demodulators in end-user units3 In summary, today bidirectional communication networks suffer from several problems. One problem is that when transmitting the return signal to the headend, multiple users need to share the spectrum. The problem outside i? is that today's two-way communication networks usually transmit signals into the band with video content, such as encrypted messages. Incoming band signals reduce bandwidth for additional downstream communication. Unfortunately, today's improved two-way communication methods do not publish these issues, such as the system of Bodeep et al. Therefore, a two-way communication network is required to allow return signals to be transmitted to the headend without reducing the available bandwidth of the broadband communication network. -Summary of the invention The present invention overcomes the above-mentioned problem of providing a two-way second communication path to a communication network having a broadband main communication path. The main communication path sends downstream signals from the headend to the user's location. The second communication path transmits a return signal from the user's location to the headend, and provides a transmission path out of the band to downstream signals. The invention allows the return signal to be transmitted upstream on the second communication path to meet the technical requirements, and avoids using the bandwidth of the main communication path. And 'Teli jl T travel signals, such as: encrypted messages, it does not need to be transmitted in the downstream frequency band, it can be transmitted to the user's location on the second communication path, thereby further reducing the chance. Reward · Use 0 'In one aspect, the present invention provides a system for transmitting a return signal from a user's location to the headend over a communication network. The downstream optical number is transmitted from the headend to the user location on the main communication path. The system provides a second communication path, including Shangfang Fangdian-11-this — ruler _ _ — Zhungege coffee x 29-7- ^ 7 ~ " {Please read the precautions on the back before filling this page) Binding _ Line Printed by the Consumer Cooperative of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs 4 6 8 34 5 A7 ______ B7___________ V. Description of the invention (9 > and the downstream direction 'used to transmit from one mile ... to send the return signal to the head end. The system is in the user The location also provides an end user device. The end user device has a first network interface connected to the main communication path for receiving downstream signals from the head end. The end user device also has a second network connected to the second communication path Road interface, used to send the return signal to the headend on the upstream side. In this way, the return signal is on the second communication path. The signal is transmitted from the end user device to the headend without using the main communication path. Bandwidth. In another aspect, the present invention provides a communication network for an end-user device. The communication network is used to transport downstream signals to the end-user device including the main communication path. The device includes a first-pass interface capable of receiving downstream signals on the main communication path. The end-user device also includes a fl color on the second communication path. From the end user, the device sends a return message to the second network of the headend. Road interface. In this way, the return signal can be transmitted from the end-user device to the head-end on the communication path ^ ~~~ — ~ ————, and the #frequency reward of using the main communication path is exempted. In another aspect, the present invention provides a communication network capable of adding a second message; uploading a ~ returned signal, and transmitting a downstream signal through a main communication path of the second communication path. The communication network includes a head end for generating The downstream signal is assigned to the user's location. The first gateway in the communication network connects the headend to the broadband network. It may be assigned to the downstream signal at the user's location. The end user device at the user's location has a connection to the broadband network. First network interface, and can receive downstream signals. End-user devices can convert downstream signals into a displayable format. End-user devices also have the ability to transmit Back to News-12- Chinese paper standard (CNS) A4 (210 X 297 mm) applicable to each paper size • — .Γ I —- * 1 --- II]-衣 --- ί {Please read the back first Please note this page before filling in)-§J · • L. Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs 468345 A7 _B7_ V. Invention Description (1Q) No. or check J ^ E body paper. The second port is connected to the second touch interface of the end user device and is capable of dual packet communication. 'The second gateway can receive the return signal from the end user's device and send the return signal to the head end, which is located on the baseband network connected between the second gateway and the head end. Aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent when reading the description of the following specific examples of standards in conjunction with the drawings and patent application park '. Description of the chart. Figure 1 is a functional block diagram of the communication network at the headend and the user's location. Figure 1A is a diagrammatic representation of the frequency spectrum of the communication network in Figure 1. Figure 1 shows the relationship between the signal in the downstream frequency band and the upstream frequency band. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram of a communication network constructed according to a standard specific example of the present invention. FIG. 2A is a diagrammatic representation of the frequency spectrum of a communication network constructed as a standard specific example showing the relationship between signals in the downstream frequency band and the upstream frequency band according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a standard end-user device applied to the communication network of FIG. 2. FIG. Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the steps of two-way communication on the communication network of Fig. 2 according to the standard specific example of the present invention. _ Detailed description of specific examples Through the present invention, by creating a "second communication path" of a "communication network" with a "requested communication path", a return signal is given to overcome the discussion in the background. 13- This paper standard Appropriate Garden Standards (CNS > A? Ii · ⑽x 297 male ') --rJIIII — ΙΙΙΙΙΓ — * IIC Please read the notes on the back before filling out this page) Revision · A7 468 34 5 B7________ 5. Description of the invention ( 11). The main communication path is an end user device that extends from the head end to the user location. The second communication path is a two-way communication path between the end user device and the user location and the head end. Advantageously, in the second The communication path carries the return signal from the end-user device to the head end without using the bandwidth of other communication network paths. Now refer to the diagram. In the several figures and appearances of the present invention, the elements represented by the numbers, and standard operations The environment will be described. Figures 2 and 2 A illustrate a standard specific example of the present invention. Figure 2 is a communication constructed in accordance with a standard specific example of the present invention. A functional block diagram of one of the networks. The communication network 200 'is exemplified by the use of a second communication path (" frequency band path) 239 at the head end 202 (squares in dotted lines) ) And the end-user device 204 at the user location to provide two-way communication. To help imagine the flow of the signal, Figure 2A depicts a graphical representation of the spectrum of a communication network 200, which represents the relationship of the signal in the downstream band 222 (from 50 to 7:50 MHz). Each block shown in Figure 2a indicates that the signal is being transmitted within the particular frequency range contained by the block. For example, the 'modulated signal 218 is transmitted in the downstream frequency band 222. In the downstream direction 'the communication network 200 is similar to the two-way wired network 100 of FIG. C M S 2 0 S guides the video server 2 12 to send TV programs or other broadcasts to the ATM 2 16. ATM 2 1 6 from the video server 2 to the appropriate output to build a mutual channel fe 'and forward the broadcast communication to the broadband gateway 22 0 ^ broadcast communication includes cable TV programs, Internet transmission, voice programs, Ippv Movie forms are available for purchase by the user, or any type of communication is suitable for transmission in the downstream direction of the broadband network 200. [7JIJIII1— {I * I I-(Guess read the notes on the back before filling out this page) Order · _ Printed by the Consumer Consumption Cooperative of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs L. -14-
五、發明說明（12) 苟接收時’寬頻閘道器220轉換該廣播通信成已調變信 號2 1 8 ’它能在寬頻網路224傳輸。轉換過程包括調變，分 頻多工’或其它如同已調變信號2 1 S —樣，來準備傳輸該 廣播通信。 然後寬頻閘道器22〇轉送已調變信號2 1 8至寬頻網路224 ’ i在下游頻帶222傳輸已調變信號2丨8至用户的位置。在 用户位置的端末使用者裝置204接收已調變信號2 1 8，並且 把Έ們轉換闰能在適當終端裝置上顯示。舉例來説，被轉 換的已調變信號2 1 8能在端末使用者裝置204的電视上顯 777 ’電腦監视器，或在用户位置· ·之其他的適當終端裝置。 下列各項討論是利用通訊.網路2〇〇中的第二通信路；^ 239(”領帶外”路徑）典型情況的例子。在這個例子中，在用 户位置的用户需要收到來自頭端202的ippv電影。對這些 平吊的技術，其他例子將會是顯而易見，在此用户從頭端 2〇2能要求收到其他的通信，例如有線電視、網際網路傳 輸、語音節目、或其他類似的。 依照此例子，用户指示端末使用者裝置2〇4要求頭端2〇2 傳1¾ IP PV電影至用户位置，它將與圖3在下面詳細地描述 。用户的指令可能是以遙控輸入或其他類似的形式。在響 應時’端置—204產生返回信號指示用户想要購 買的1PPV電影。返回信號可能是_數位資料封包，包含使頭 端2〇2_|^^1££^_11意端_..本11免裝、置2 04的訊息=訊息 可以是與IPPV電影的端末使用茅裝置204和識別器有關的 窄一識別器。 -15- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS)A4規格<210 X 297公釐） IΓ I 11 I I I ---- —ί I - i — (請先閲讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 訂—. 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 468345 A7 _____B7_ 五、發明說明（13) 端末使用者裝置204支援在端末使用者裝置204和頭端 202之間的第二通信路徑23 9，下面將配合圖3來詳細描述 。第二的通信路徑239允許返回信號從端末使用者裝置 204到頭端202，而沒有對宽頻網路224造成負擔。在標準 具體實例中，連接器228將基帶閘道器232連接至端末使用 者裝置204。基帶網路238將基帶閘道器232連接到頭端202 。端末使用者裝置204，連接器228，基帶閘道器232和基 帶網路238形成第二通信路徑239。這些元件在下面將進一 步的討論。 ， 一一 在標準具體實例，端末使用者裝·置204 <括基帶網路介 面320(圖3)釕支援在端末使用者裝置204和基帶閘道器232 之間的連接器228。連接器228可以是任何的資料傳輸媒介 ’能在端末使用者裝置204和基帶閘道器232之間傳送訊 號’例如同軸電纜，雙絞對銅線，光纖電纜或其他類似的 °基是見違器232可以是屬於用户區域通訊網路200的一 分配元件’或在任何其他可接受的位置。基帶閘道器232 可接受位置之一例子，就是在一電信系統裡的光學網路單 位（"ONU")。 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 I----J---------裝--- . { (請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 基帶閘道器232在連接器228上，收j到來自端末使用者裝 置204的返回信號。基帶閘道器234基帶網路238傳送返 回信號到位於頭端2〇2的主多終趙’攀出6。基帶網路238可 以是任何可接受的網路架構，例如一/乙太網路或其他類似 的5用於基帶網路238之傳輸介可以是任何可接受的傳 輸媒介，例如光纖電纜，同軸電纜或其他類似的。主機終 -16 私紙張尺度適用家標準（CNS)A4規格（2; 297公釐） 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 468345 A7 _______ _B7 五、發明說明（14 ) 域機/236介面基帶網路23 8的傳輸媒介至頭端2〇2的資料網 路電子°然後返回信號被轉送到網路路由器240 <標準實 例的網路路由器240可以跟現今有線網路100的網路路由 器142—樣的裝置，表示於圖1。然後網路路由器24〇轉送 該返回信號’經由ATM 2 16或其他的資料網路接到CMS 208 〇 根據收到的返回信號，CMS 2〇8引導影像伺跟器2 12明始 傳送IPPV電影。同時，CMS 208引導ATM 2 16建立適當的 接法至寬頻閘道器22〇。從ATM 2 Ιό，IPP V電影被轉送到 寬頻閘道器220,轉換IPPV電影成IP-PV訊號248,以在寬頻 網路224上傳輪。然後寬頻網路224分配下游通信，包括 IPPV訊號248 ’至用户位置的端末使用者裝置2〇4。 同時傳輸IPPV信號248時，CMS208產生並傳輸與IPPV 訊號248有關的加密訊息至ATM 216。加密訊息包括加密 鍵和進來的頻道訊息，允許端末使用者裝置2〇4適當地收 到1PPV訊號248。ATM 2〗6轉送加密訊息至網路路由器240 。網路路由器240格式化加密訊息於通當的傳-箱-镇―定裡， 例如：TCP/IP，ATM，或其他類似的，以傳輸到主機終端 機 236。 網路路由器240轉送加密說息到主機终端機236，可準備 加密訊息’ i基免網路2 3 8上傳翰到基帶閘道器2 3 2。爲了 準備加密訊息，主機終端機236可用其他的訊息時間分割 多工加密訊息，並且將加密訊，f從電的訊號轉換到光學的 说喊（如果適當的話）’以在基帶網路2 3 8上傳輸。主機終端 -17- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS>A4規格（210 X 297公爱） • I τ 11* Ί I----— 裝--- (請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) I * 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 468345 A7 _B7____ 五、發明說明（15 ) 機236以轉換成訊號的加密訊息，在基帶網路238上傳送該 訊號到用户區域裡的基帶閛道器232。 基帶閘道器232接收基帶網路238上傳輸的訊號，並且在 用户位置上轉送該訊號至端末使用者裝置204。那些熟悉 此技藝的人將會知道，轉送該訊號包括從光學的訊號轉換 到電的訊號（如果適當的話），並且解多工鼓_電詆號，以竽 取到特定端末使用者裝置204的加密訊息。或者藉著端末 使用者裝置204,讓在基帶網路238傳輸的訊號成爲可用的 。然後端末使用者裝置204使用加密訊息解碼傳輸在下游 頻帶222之上的IPPV訊號248，並..呈-現IPPV電影到用户。 前面的例子討論通訊網路200對IPPV電影的用户請求的 服務運作。然而，本發明沒被限制在IPPV電影的傳輸，而 且那些熟悉此技藝的人將會欣賞該通訊網路200，包括第 二通信路徑239，可以用於傳輸其他的類型通信，例如其 他的有線電視節目，網際網路傳輸，語音節目或其他類似 6勺0 標準具體實例的通訊網路200與圓1所示的有線網路1〇〇 有幾個不同的地方。舉例來説，標準具體實例的第二通信 路徑239不需要有線網路100的解調器138(圖1)和調變器 1 56(圖1)。標準具體實例在頭端202和端末使用者裝置204 之間，使用分離的第二通信路# 23 9給返回信號和加密氣 息。藉著使用第二通信路徑239，標^準具體實例避免調變 和解調向上游方向通信的需要f消除調變和解調向上游通 信的需要，可減少在上游方向通信成本。 -18- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS)A4規格（210 X 297公釐） ii—iy----1----裝— (請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) --β· - 468345 A7 --B7__ 五、發明說明（16 ) 而且，第二通信路徑239允許標準具體實例，避免傳送 返回信號於寬頻網路224的上游頻帶内244。結果，標準具 體實例克服多用户必須共享限制-頻寬上游頻帶244的技 術問題。標準具體實例也藉由提供第二通信路徑239給信 號’除去對入頻帶信號的需要。移除入頻帶信號增加的負 載’使它在下游頻帶222 ’可傳輸額外的下游信號256。 雖然標準具體實例是參考乙太網路標準的通訊網路協 定描述，其他的具體實例對於那些平常技術將會顯而易見 。舉例來説’第二通信路徑可被另外的網路架構支援，例 如非同步傳輸模態、蜂巢式封包資.料，或架框電驛。因此 ，技藝級的網路技術和協定·可以運用在每秒流通量超過 數十億位元的第二通信路徑，它具有充足的頻寬提供非視 頻内容的信號到寬頻網路2 0 0中的每一個用户。 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 -IT.— l· r,-------裝--- (請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 圖3協助説明通訊網路2 00的端末使用者裝置204元件=> 圖3是已揭露的具體實例之標準端末使用者裝置2〇4的一 個功能方塊圖。端末使用者裝置204包括五個主要的功能 元件。寬頻網路介面302、正交調幅（"QAM”）、解調器306 、控制器3 10、視頻顯示終端機3 14和基帶網路介面320。 那些元件以不連續的方格來舉例説明，但是那些熟悉此技 藝的人將會了解一或多個的元件功能可以整合成一個或 多個的印刷電路板或其他的電子_零件内。每—個元件在下 面将被詳細地描述。 控制器3 1 0可以是微處理機f微控制器，用來控制流經 端末使用者裝置204的訊號。控制器3丨0用來控制端末使用 -19- 本紙張尺度適用中囷囷家標準（CNS)A4規格（210 X 297公釐） 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 4 6 8 34 5 A7 _B7_____ 五、發明說明（17 ) 者裝置204，包括軟體，韌體，邏輯陣列或其他的機制。 其他端末使用者裝置204的功能元件，每一個都在控制器 3 10的控制下運作。 寬頻網路介面3 02從寬頻網路224(圖2)接收下游信號3 24 。那些下游訊號3 24可包括廣播電視節目、IPPV電影、網 際網路傳輸、音樂訊號或其他類似的。通常，該下游訊號 324是電的訊號，它是分頻多工且在寬頻網路224(圓2)上調 變傳輸。因此，寬頻網路介面302解多工下游訊號324至多 載波頻率上之訊息的個別頻道或頻帶内。然後已解多工下 游訊號3 2 4被Q A Μ解調器3 0 6解調..，消除載波頻率且準備下 游訊號324，讓端末使用者裝置204在基帶上使用。一旦下 游訊號324被解調時，視頻顯示終端機3 14轉換那些訊號至 輸出訊號3 2 8，它可以顯示於電視上。那些熟悉此技藝的 人將會了解輸出訊號328也可以是傳輸到立體音響的音樂 訊號’傳輸到電腦的數位訊號，或任何其他形式的輸出訊 ?β 。 基帶網路介面320連結端末使用者裝置2〇4至第二通信 路徑239(轉2)i6遑圖2)。基帶網路介面320是雙向 通信介面’它能從頭端202來回地傳送且接收資料信號3 3 2 °那些資料訊號可以是從頭端202收到的下游訊號或加密 讯息（圖2)或返回訊號’傳送到辱端202(圖2)。在具體實例 中’基帶網路介面320包括輔助連接器336，允許用户或技 術人員製作第二個連接器至基脊網路介面3 2 〇。在這個方 法中’用户或技術人員可連接筆記型電腦或桌上型電腦到 -20- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS〉A4規格⑵G x 297公髮） ；--------------裝·-- i (請先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 1 · 468345 A7 五、發明說明（18 ) 端末使用者装置2〇4 ’而且就像閘道器到第二通信路徑up 一樣的利用端末使用者裂置204。 控制器3 10利用基帶網路介面32〇傳輸返回信號，例如： 要求LPPV電影。經由例子，用户可以指示端末使用者裝置 204,經甴遙控、按鈕控制或其他的使用者介面（不顯示），來 要求IPPV電影。控制器3 10根據用户指令，創造並傳輸ίρρ v 電影的要求到頭端202，控制器3 10轉換用户的指令成返回 信號，它包含IPPV電影的要求。控制器3 1 〇然後轉送返回 信號到基帶網路介面320’它傳輸在連接器228(圖2)上的返 回信號當做資料訊號3 3 2，至基-帶閘道器232(圖2)。 控制器3 10也從基帶網路介面320收到資料訊號332。被 接收到的資料信號332包括與用户請求的IPPV電影有關的 加密訊息°控制器3 1 0能萃取來自資料的加密訊息訊號3 3 2 ，允許控制器3 10解碼在那些下游訊號中傳輸的IPPV電影 3 24。在此方法中，端末使用者裝置204能夠傳輸返回信號 和收到來自頭端202的訊號，而且沒有造成寬頻網路224( 圖2)的負擔。 在現今裝置上的標準端末使用者裝置204具有幾種好處 。舉例來説，標準端末使用者装置204消除現今小黑盒和 宽頻網路裡使用的一些元件，例如：用於返回信號之—調 變器/解調器對。標準具體實例所創造的第二通信路徑， 消除現今多個用户爲返回信號，而需共享寬頻頻譜的上游 或下游頻帶。而且，標準具體f例不需要下游方向裡額外 的電子來累積、剖析、而且重新傳送回行訊號到頭端102 -21 私紙張尺度適用中囤國家標準（CNS>A4規格（210 X 297公；g ) -lvilMlllllil — > I I ( (請先閲讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 訂 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 468345 A7 --------- 五、發明說明（扣） ’如同現今某通信網路所使用的。 圖4是舉例説明通訊網路執行的步驟流程圖，舉例來説 ，在圖2所説明的通訊網路2〇〇，具有在服務供給者和末端 使用者裝置之間通信的第二通信路徑。對此討論的目的， 有兩類汛號在寬頻網路上傳輸的，下游信號和返回信號。 術浯下办訊號”與説號有關，例如：電視節目、視頻内容、 加岔矾息，晋樂節目或其他類似的，它從服務提俣者傳輸 到用户。術語"返回信號”所指的訊號，例如傳輸ιρρν電影 或其他類似的電子要求，它從用户傳輸到服務供給者。 現在到圖4的流程圖，一方法_4〇〇從開始步驟4〇丨至方塊 404執行。在方塊404，通訊網路傳輸一包含多樣選擇的第 一下游信號，例如：IPPV電影的表單，可讓用户購買。第 一下游訊號是在第二的通信路桎上到端末使用者裝置的 廣播”頻帶外”=在這個標準具體實例中，第二通信路徑是 雙向通信路徑，在末端使用者裝置和服務提供者之間，從 主要通信路徑分出的。舉例來説，第二的通信路徑在端末 使用者裝置和服務供給者之間可以是資料通信網路，例如 以太網路廣域網路。主要通信路徑可是從服務供给者到端 末使用者裝置的寬頻網路。 經濟部智慧財產局負工消費合作社印製 -- J· ϋ I - n 1 ί t請先聞讀背面之Vi意事項再填寫本頁) 然後此方法進行方塊408。在方塊4〇8中，在第一下游传 號中的一個選擇項在端末使用者裝置上被辨識成被選^ 的選擇項。舉例來説，用户藉由遙控或其他類似的，來選 定選擇項β被選定的選擇項可liT是特定&IPPV電影，特定 的音樂頻道或其他類似的。一旦被選定的選擇項被辨識， -22- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS)A4規格<210 X 297公釐） 4 6 8 34 5 A7 B7 五、發明說明（2〇) 2而末使用者裝置在方塊412產生返回信號。返回信號可以 ir ^-----------裝--- (讀先閱讀背面之注意事項再填寫本頁) 是要求看特定的IPPV電影，或聽與被選定的選擇項有關的 特定音樂頻道。 在方塊416中，返回信號在第二通信路徑上從端末使用 者装置傳輸到服務提供者。如上所述，第二通信路徑是從 主要的通信路徑分開的。因此，從端末使用者裝置傳送返 回信號到服務提供者，不使用主要通信路徑的頻宽。 當接收時，服務提供者在返回信號上採取兩種措施，以 μ权圖中的分枝箭3員説明。在一方面’在方塊4 2 2中，服 務提供者產生第二下游信號，例如用户選擇的特定〖PPV電 影的視頻内容。然後在方塊426中，服務提供者可在主要 通信路徑上，傳輸該第二下游信號到端末使用者裝置。 回到方塊430中，同樣在方塊422和426的步驟中，服務 提供者產生第三下游信號，例如與IPPV電影有關的加密訊 息。在方塊434中’服務提供者在第二通信路徑上，傳輸 第三下游信號到端末使用者裝置。藉由在第二通信路徑上 傳送第三猶下游信號，第三下游信號不會減少主要通信路 徑的頻寬。 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 在方塊43 8，端末使用者裝置使用那第三下游訊號準備 那秒下游訊號被送到用户。舉例來説，如果第二的下游信 號是一編碼的IPPV電影，而且第三個下游信號是與編碼 IPPV電影有關的加密訊息，端末使用者裝置可以使用加密 訊息去解碼和以電視節目的形*9^呈現編碼的IPpv電影到 用户。然後該方法在末端方塊442結東β -23- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS>A4規格（210 X 297公釐） 經濟部智慧財產局員工消費合作社印製 4 6 8 34 5 A7 ----------B7___________ 五、發明說明（21 ) 本發明在具有”主要通信路徑”的通訊網路上提供"第二 通信路徑”給返回信號，這將會被欣賞的。主要通信路徑 延伸在用户位置從頭端到末端使用者裝置奠且傳送到端 末使用者装置的下游信號^第二通信路徑是端末使用者裝 置在用户位置和頡端之間的雙向通信路徑。第二通信路徑 能夠從端末使用者裝置載送返回信號到頭端，而沒有使用 通想nm通信路徑的頻寬。 從閱讀上述說明，那些熟悉此技藝的人對於本發明所發 表的具體實例’修改和變更已清楚了解β因此，本發明的 焦點將局限在下列附加的申請專.利.項目。 -24- 本紙張尺度適用中國國家標準（CNS)A4規格（21〇 * 297公釐）V. Description of the invention (12) When receiving, the 'broadband gateway 220 converts the broadcast communication into a modulated signal 2 1 8', which can be transmitted over the broadband network 224. The conversion process includes modulation, frequency division multiplexing ', or the like as the modulated signal 2 1 S to prepare for transmission of the broadcast communication. Then the broadband gateway 22 transmits the modulated signal 2 1 8 to the broadband network 224 ′ i and transmits the modulated signal 2 丨 8 to the user's position in the downstream frequency band 222. The end-user device 204 at the user's location receives the modulated signal 2 1 8 and converts them to display on the appropriate terminal device. For example, the converted modulated signal 2 1 8 can be displayed on the television of the end-user device 204 as a 777 'computer monitor, or other suitable terminal device at the user's location. The following discussion is an example of a typical situation using the second communication path in Communication.Net 2000; ^ 239 ("out-of-tie" path). In this example, the user at the user location needs to receive an ippv movie from the headend 202. Other examples of these flat-hook techniques will be apparent, where the user can request other communications from the headend 202, such as cable television, Internet transmission, voice programming, or the like. According to this example, the user instructs the end-user device 204 to request the head-end 202 to transmit a 1¾ IP PV movie to the user's location, which will be described in detail with FIG. 3 below. The user's instructions may be remote input or other similar forms. In response, 'terminal-204' generates a return signal indicating the 1PPV movie that the user wants to purchase. The return signal may be a _digital data packet, which contains the headend 002_ | ^^ 1 ££ ^ _11 meaning end_ .. Ben 11 free installation, set 2 04 = the message can be used with the end of the IPPV movie The device 204 is a narrower identifier associated with the identifier. -15- This paper size applies to China National Standard (CNS) A4 specifications < 210 X 297 mm) IΓ I 11 III ---- —ί I-i — (Please read the precautions on the back before filling this page) Order—Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs 468345 A7 _____B7_ V. Description of the invention (13) The end-user device 204 supports the second communication path 23 9 between the end-user device 204 and the headend 202, below This will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 3. The second communication path 239 allows return signals from the end-user device 204 to the head-end 202 without burdening the broadband network 224. In a standard specific example, the connector 228 connects the baseband gateway 232 to the end-user device 204. The baseband network 238 connects the baseband gateway 232 to the headend 202. The end-user device 204, the connector 228, the baseband gateway 232, and the baseband network 238 form a second communication path 239. These elements are discussed further below. In the standard specific example, the end user device 204 < including the baseband network interface 320 (Fig. 3), ruthenium supports a connector 228 between the end user device 204 and the baseband gateway 232. The connector 228 may be any data transmission medium 'capable of transmitting signals between the end-user device 204 and the baseband gateway 232', such as coaxial cables, twisted pair copper wires, fiber optic cables or other similar bases. The device 232 may be a distribution element 'belonging to the user area communication network 200 or at any other acceptable location. An example of an acceptable location for the baseband gateway 232 is an optical network unit (" ONU ") in a telecommunications system. Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs I ---- J --------- install ---. {(Please read the precautions on the back before filling this page) Baseband Gateway 232 on The connector 228 receives a return signal from the end user device 204. The baseband gateway 234 and the baseband network 238 transmit a return signal to the master DAO Zhao ', who is located at the headend 202, and climbs out 6. The baseband network 238 can be any acceptable network architecture, such as Ethernet / Ethernet or other similar 5 transmission media used for the baseband network 238 can be any acceptable transmission medium, such as fiber optic cables, coaxial cables Or something similar. Mainframe end-16 private paper standard applicable home standard (CNS) A4 specifications (2; 297 mm) Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs 468345 A7 _______ _B7 V. Description of the invention (14) Domain machine / 236 interface baseband network The transmission medium of the channel 23 8 is transmitted to the data network electronics of the headend 202, and then the return signal is forwarded to the network router 240. The network router 240 of the standard example can be connected to the network router 142 of the current wired network 100. Such a device is shown in FIG. 1. Then the network router 24o forwards the return signal ′ to the CMS 208 via the ATM 2 16 or other data network. According to the received return signal, the CMS 208 guides the image server 2 to transmit the IPPV movie at 12 tomorrow. At the same time, the CMS 208 guides the ATM 2 16 to establish an appropriate connection to the broadband gateway 22. From ATM 2, the IPP V movie is transferred to the broadband gateway 220, which converts the IPPV movie into an IP-PV signal 248 for uploading on the broadband network 224. The broadband network 224 then distributes downstream communications, including the IPPV signal 248 'to the end-user device 204 at the subscriber location. When the IPPV signal 248 is transmitted at the same time, the CMS208 generates and transmits an encrypted message related to the IPPV signal 248 to the ATM 216. The encrypted message includes the encryption key and the incoming channel information, allowing the end-user device 204 to properly receive the 1PPV signal 248. ATM 2〗 6 forwards the encrypted message to the network router 240. The network router 240 formats the encrypted message in a common transmission-box-town-station, such as TCP / IP, ATM, or the like, for transmission to the host terminal 236. The network router 240 forwards the encrypted message to the host terminal 236, and can prepare the encrypted message ′ i base free network 2 3 8 and upload it to the baseband gateway 2 3 2. In order to prepare the encrypted message, the host terminal 236 may divide the multiplexed encrypted message with other message time, and convert the encrypted signal, f, from the electrical signal to the optical yell (if appropriate) 'in the baseband network. On transmission. Host terminal -17- This paper size applies to Chinese national standard (CNS > A4 specification (210 X 297 public love) • I τ 11 * Ί I ----— equipment --- (Please read the precautions on the back before filling (This page) I * Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs 468345 A7 _B7____ V. Invention Description (15) The machine 236 converts the encrypted message into a signal and transmits the signal to the baseband in the user area on the baseband network 238 Gateway 232. The baseband gateway 232 receives the signal transmitted on the baseband network 238 and forwards the signal at the user's location to the end-user device 204. Those skilled in the art will know that forwarding the signal includes from The optical signal is converted to an electrical signal (if appropriate), and the multiplex drum_electrical signal is decoded to capture the encrypted information of the specific end-user device 204. Or, the end-user device 204 can be used in the baseband The signal transmitted by the network 238 becomes available. Then the end-user device 204 uses the encrypted message to decode the IPPV signal 248 transmitted above the downstream frequency band 222, and presents the IPPV movie to the user. The previous example Discuss the operation of the communication network 200 for services requested by users of IPPV movies. However, the present invention is not limited to the transmission of IPPV movies, and those familiar with this technology will appreciate the communication network 200, including the second communication path 239. It is used to transmit other types of communication, such as other cable TV programs, Internet transmission, voice programs, or other similar communication standards 200. There are several communication networks 200 and the wired network 100 shown in circle 1. Different places. For example, the second communication path 239 of the standard specific example does not require the demodulator 138 (FIG. 1) and the modulator 156 (FIG. 1) of the wired network 100. The standard specific example is at the head end 202 And the end-user device 204, a separate second communication path # 23 9 is used to give a return signal and an encrypted atmosphere. By using the second communication path 239, the standard specific example avoids modulation and demodulation of communication in the upstream direction. The need for f eliminates the need for modulation and demodulation to communicate upstream, which can reduce the cost of communication in the upstream direction. -18- This paper size applies to the Chinese National Standard (CNS) A4 specification (210 X 297 mm) ii—iy ---- 1 ---- install— (please read the precautions on the back before filling this page) --β ·-468345 A7 --B7__ 5. Description of the invention (16) Moreover, the second communication path 239 allows standard specific examples to avoid transmitting return signals in the upstream band 244 of the broadband network 224. As a result, the standard specific examples overcome the technical problem that multiple users must share the restriction-bandwidth upstream band 244. The standard specific examples also provide the first The two communication paths 239 give the signal 'remove the need for incoming band signals. Removing the increased load of the incoming band signal ' allows it to transmit an additional downstream signal 256 in the downstream band 222 '. Although the specific examples of the standard are described with reference to the communication network protocol of the Ethernet standard, other specific examples will be apparent to those ordinary technologies. For example, the 'second communication path may be supported by another network architecture, such as asynchronous transmission mode, honeycomb packet data, or frame relay. Therefore, technical-grade network technologies and protocols can be used in the second communication path with a circulation of more than billions of bits per second. It has sufficient bandwidth to provide non-video content signals to the broadband network 2000. Every user. Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs-IT.— l · r, ----------- (Please read the precautions on the back before filling out this page) Figure 3 Help explain the communication network 2 00 Components of the end-user device 204 => FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a standard end-user device 204 that has been disclosed as a specific example. The end-user device 204 includes five main functional elements. Broadband network interface 302, Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (" QAM "), demodulator 306, controller 3 10, video display terminal 3 14 and baseband network interface 320. Those components are illustrated by discrete grids However, those familiar with the art will understand that one or more component functions can be integrated into one or more printed circuit boards or other electronic components. Each component will be described in detail below. Control The device 3 1 0 may be a microprocessor f microcontroller, which is used to control the signal flowing through the end-user device 204. The controller 3 丨 0 is used to control the end-use -19- This paper standard applies to the Chinese standard ( CNS) A4 specification (210 X 297 mm) Printed by the Consumer Cooperatives of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economy 4 6 8 34 5 A7 _B7_____ V. Description of the invention (17) Device 204, including software, firmware, logic array, or other The functional components of the other end-user devices 204 each operate under the control of the controller 3 10. The broadband network interface 3 02 receives downstream signals 3 24 from the broadband network 224 (Figure 2). Those downstream signals 3 24 may include Broadcast television programs, IPPV movies, Internet transmissions, music signals, or the like. Generally, the downstream signal 324 is a signal of electricity, which is frequency division multiplexed and modulated on a broadband network 224 (circle 2) for transmission. Therefore, the broadband network interface 302 demultiplexes the downstream signals 324 to individual channels or frequency bands of the messages on the multi-carrier frequency. Then the demultiplexed downstream signals 3 2 4 are demodulated by the QA dem demodulator 3 06 .., Eliminate the carrier frequency and prepare the downstream signal 324 for the end-user device 204 to use on the baseband. Once the downstream signal 324 is demodulated, the video display terminal 3 14 converts those signals to the output signal 3 2 8 and it can be displayed on the TV Those who are familiar with this technology will understand that the output signal 328 can also be a music signal transmitted to stereo sound, a digital signal transmitted to a computer, or any other form of output signal? Β. The baseband network interface 320 is used by the terminal The user device 204 is the second communication path 239 (turn 2) i6 (Figure 2). The baseband network interface 320 is a two-way communication interface. It can send and receive data signals from the headend 202 back and forth 3 3 2 ° These data signals can be downstream signals or encrypted messages received from the headend 202 (Figure 2) or return signals 'transmitted to the stigmatizer 202 (Figure 2). In a specific example, the' baseband network interface 320 includes an auxiliary connector 336, Allow users or technicians to make a second connector to the backbone network interface 3 2 0. In this method, 'users or technicians can connect a laptop or desktop computer to -20- This paper size applies to China Standard (CNS> A4 size ⑵G x 297); -------------- install · i (Please read the precautions on the back before filling in this page) 1 · 468345 A7 5 Explanation of the invention (18) The end-user device 204 is used by the end-user split 204 like the gateway to the second communication path up. The controller 3 10 uses the baseband network interface 32 to transmit a return signal, for example: LPPV movie is required. By way of example, the user may instruct the end-user device 204 to request an IPPV movie via remote control, button control, or other user interface (not shown). The controller 3 10 creates and transmits the request for the ρρv movie to the headend 202 according to the user instruction. The controller 3 10 converts the user instruction into a return signal, which contains the IPPV movie request. The controller 3 1 0 then forwards the return signal to the baseband network interface 320 ', which transmits the return signal on the connector 228 (Fig. 2) as a data signal 3 3 2 to the base-band gateway 232 (Fig. 2). The controller 3 10 also receives a data signal 332 from the baseband network interface 320. The received data signal 332 includes the encrypted message related to the IPPV movie requested by the user. The controller 3 1 0 can extract the encrypted message signal 3 3 2 from the data, allowing the controller 3 10 to decode the IPPV transmitted in those downstream signals. Movie 3 24. In this method, the end-user device 204 is able to transmit return signals and receive signals from the head-end 202 without burdening the broadband network 224 (Figure 2). The standard end-user device 204 on today's devices has several benefits. For example, the standard end-user device 204 eliminates some components used in today's small black boxes and broadband networks, such as a modulator / demodulator pair for return signals. The second communication path created by a specific example of the standard eliminates the need for multiple users to share the broadband spectrum upstream or downstream in order to return signals. Moreover, the specific example of the standard does not require additional electrons in the downstream direction to accumulate, analyze, and resend the return signal to the head end. 102 -21 Private paper standards are applicable to national standards (CNS > A4 specifications (210 X 297); g) -lvilMlllllil — > II ((Please read the precautions on the back before filling this page) Order the Intellectual Property Bureau Employee Consumer Cooperatives printed by the Ministry of Economic Affairs 468345 A7 --------- V. Description of the invention (deduction ) 'As used in a communication network today. Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the steps performed by the communication network. For example, the communication network 200 illustrated in Figure 2 has a service provider and an end user. The second communication path for communication between devices. For the purpose of this discussion, there are two types of flood signals transmitted on a broadband network, downstream signals and return signals. The technical signal is related to the signal, such as television programs, Video content, add news, Jinle programs, or the like, which is transmitted from the service provider to the user. The term refers to the signal referred to, such as the transmission of ιρρν movie or other similar The electronic request is transmitted from the user to the service provider. Now to the flowchart of FIG. 4, a method_400 is executed from the beginning of step 40 to block 404. At block 404, the communication network transmits a first packet containing multiple options. A downstream signal, such as an IPPV movie form, can be purchased by the user. The first downstream signal is the broadcast "out-of-band" on the second communication line to the end-user device = In this specific example, the second The communication path is a two-way communication path, which is separated from the main communication path between the end user device and the service provider. For example, the second communication path may be data between the end user device and the service provider. Communication network, such as Ethernet wide area network. The main communication path can be a broadband network from the service provider to the end-user device. Printed by the Consumer Cooperative of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs-J · · I-n 1 ί (Please read the Vi notes on the back before filling out this page) Then this method proceeds to block 408. In block 408, one of the options in the first downstream pass is at the end The user ’s device is identified as the selected option. For example, the user selects the option by remote control or the like. The selected option may be a specific & IPPV movie, a specific music channel. Or other similar. Once the selected options are identified, -22- This paper size applies the Chinese National Standard (CNS) A4 specifications < 210 X 297 mm) 4 6 8 34 5 A7 B7 V. Description of the invention (2 O) 2 and the user device generates a return signal at block 412. The return signal can be ir ^ ----------- install --- (read the precautions on the back before filling out this page) is required to watch a specific IPPV movie, or listen to the selected option Specific music channels. In block 416, the return signal is transmitted on the second communication path from the end-user device to the service provider. As described above, the second communication path is separated from the main communication path. Therefore, the return signal is transmitted from the end user device to the service provider without using the bandwidth of the main communication path. When receiving, the service provider takes two measures on the return signal, illustrated by the three members of the branch arrow in the μ weight graph. In one aspect ', at block 4 2 2, the service provider generates a second downstream signal, such as the video content of a particular PPV movie selected by the user. Then at block 426, the service provider may transmit the second downstream signal to the end user device on the primary communication path. Returning to block 430, also in steps 422 and 426, the service provider generates a third downstream signal, such as encrypted information related to the IPPV movie. In block 434 'the service provider transmits a third downstream signal to the end user device on the second communication path. By transmitting the third downstream signal on the second communication path, the third downstream signal does not reduce the bandwidth of the main communication path. Printed by the Consumer Cooperative of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. At block 43 8 the end-user device uses the third downstream signal to prepare that downstream signal is sent to the user. For example, if the second downstream signal is an encoded IPPV movie and the third downstream signal is an encrypted message related to the encoded IPPV movie, the end-user device can use the encrypted message to decode and decode the TV program * 9 ^ Present the encoded IPpv movie to the user. Then the method is at the end square 442 Jiedong β -23- This paper size applies the Chinese national standard (CNS > A4 size (210 X 297 mm)) Printed by the Consumer Cooperative of the Intellectual Property Bureau of the Ministry of Economic Affairs 4 6 8 34 5 A7- -------- B7___________ V. Description of the invention (21) The present invention provides " second communication path "to the return signal on a communication network having a" main communication path ", which will be appreciated. The main communication path A downstream signal extending from the head end to the end user device at the user position and transmitted to the end user device. The second communication path is a two-way communication path between the end user device and the user end. The second communication path can The return signal is carried from the end-user device to the head-end without using the bandwidth of the general communication path of nm. From reading the above description, those who are familiar with this technology have made clear the specific examples of the present invention 'modifications and changes. Understand β. Therefore, the focus of the present invention will be limited to the following additional applications. Benefits. -24- This paper size applies to China National Standard (CNS) A4 specifications (21 * 297 mm)