WO1997013359A1

WO1997013359A1 - Improved remote control of a television receiver

Info

Publication number: WO1997013359A1
Application number: PCT/US1996/015839
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Nykerk
Original assignee: Michael Nykerk
Priority date: 1995-10-02
Filing date: 1996-10-02
Publication date: 1997-04-10

Abstract

A remote control in one embodiment has an entry pad including a temporary topic select key (104), a channel selection key (54), and a storage key; a memory (14) for storing a first channel, and a second channel of a temporary topic group; a transmitter (20) for transmitting a first channel select signal and a second channel select signal; and a processor (12) for communicating first and second scanned channels to the memory (14) for storage in the temporary topic group, and for retrieving the second channel in response to a second actuation of the channel group key. The transmitter (20) transmits the first channel select signal in response to the retrieval of the first channel of the temporary topic group (52) and transmits the second channel select signal in response to the retrieval of the second channel of the temporary topic group. In another embodiment, the remote control device has a recall key instead of or in addition to the temporary topic select key (104). A housing of the remote control may further include an arcuate cavity in a bottom surface thereof to facilitate placing it on the arm of a chair or other curved surface and without having it fall off.

Description

IMPROVED REMOTE CONTROL OF A TELEVISION RECEIVER

A portion ofthe disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of this patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to remote control of a television receiver or the like. In the United States and many other locations throughout the world there are a number of major broadcasting networks, and a number of cable service networks, each of which distributes television programs throughout, or over large portions of, a specified area. Many viewers tend to associate television programs with the networks that carry such programs, rather than the particular number assigned to the networks in a particular area. In some areas, the viewer has access to, for example, more than 50 television programs. A common problem, therefore, is that with so many channels available, it is difficult for the viewer to remember which channel number corresponds to which network (and thus to the particular television programs the viewer wishes to view). Thus, tuning by channel number, although widely used, may not be desirable for most viewers.

Furthermore, in a hotel/motel environment, the viewer is typically unfamiliar with local channel numbers. Thus, when the viewer wishes to watch a particular television program on a known network, he/she may have difficulty locating the proper local channel number associated with the desired network and television program.

Compounding this problem is the fact that it is common practice among cable television providers to remodulate broadcast television signals to different channel numbers than those on which they are normally broadcast over airwaves. Unfortunately, because, for instance, UHF Channel 29 may be remodulated to occupy, for example, VHF Channel 9, this also has the effect of confusing the viewer. Thus, even if the viewer knew that a particular broadcasting network broadcasts on UHF Channel 29, the viewer may still have difficulty locating the particular broadcast network on his/her cable television system.

A common solution to this problem is to distribute channel conversion charts to cable subscribers so that they can locate the proper cable channel number, given a particular broadcast channel number from a printed television schedule. The channel conversion chart may also indicate the broadcasting network or cable network associated with each ofthe cable channels provided to the viewer. Unfortunately, such channel conversion charts are easy for the viewer to misplace and require that the user shift his or her attention to the chart whenever he or she wants to locate a network. Efforts have been made by manufacturers to relate channel numbers to network names. For example, as pointed out by Duffield et al., in U.S. Patent No. 4,959,720, the DRUNDIG Television Receiver, Model No. CUC-2400, displays a station identification label (previously entered by a user) on a television screen whenever a particular channel is selected. Problematically, the user must still remember which channel number is assigned to the particular broadcasting or cable network desired, because channel selection in the system is made by channel number.

A tune-by-label system is shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,706,121, issued to Young. However, labels are provided by a broadcaster as part of a television schedule transmitted to an in- home tuner controller. Such a system requires costly and complex circuitry, and furthermore, requires the establishment of infrastructure and bandwidth by broadcasters for the transmission of schedule information.

In U.S. Patent No. 4,959,720, Duffield et al. describe a tuning system that allows a user to enter labels associated with respective channel numbers, and allows the user to subsequently select the channel numbers by entering the associated text label from an alphanumeric key pad. Unfortunately, Duffield et al. require that the user press multiple buttons in order to select a channel, and therefore, while attempting to simplify the selection of channels, in fact increase its complexity.

Another way in which viewers address the above-described problems is by "channel surfing". Channel surfing involves using forward (i.e., up) and/or reverse (i.e., down) channel selection keys that increment or decrement the channel number each time they are depressed. Thus, a user who is unsure of the channel number on which a particular broadcasting or cable network provides programming can simply depress these keys repeatedly until he/she locates the network or programming in which he/she is interested. Problematically, however, the viewer potentially must

"surf through many, e.g., 50 or more, channel numbers to locate a desired network.

Another popular use of channel surfing is for locating a television program to view. In order to locate a television program in this manner, the viewer simply depresses the forward or reverse channel selection key, briefly views the television program provided on the selected channel number, and makes a decision as to whether or not the television program is a television program in which the viewer is interested. In the event the user is not interested in the television program provided on the selected channel number, he/she again depresses the channel selection key in order to increment or decrement the channel number. This process is repeated, sometimes seemingly indefinitely, until the viewer locates a television program in which he/she is interested.

Unfortunately, in the event the viewer is interested in a particular type of television programming, he/she must "surf through a multiplicity of networks that do not carry the type of programs in which he/she is interested, in order to evaluate television programs on the few - j - broadcasting and/or cable networks providing the type of programming in which he/she is interested. Thus, heretofore, there has been no way for the viewer to channel "surf through only those channels or broadcasting and/or cable networks providing the type of television programming in which the viewer is interested. Another circumstance in which users may employ channel "surfing" is in order to momentarily scan other channels during, e.g., commercials or other programming in which the user is disinterested on the channel number that he/she is currently viewing Problematically, however, when the user wishes to return to the channel number he/she is currently viewing, he/she must remember such channel number in order to return to it. Unfortunately, the user frequently will not remember such channel number, and will dien be required to "surf through a multiplicity of television networks in order to relocate such channel number. Further complicating this relocation is the fact that during commercial advertisements, it may be difficult to know whether a given channel number, as the user "surfs" through a series of channel numbers, is the channel number that he/she was viewing, because commercials, being short in duration, change frequently and thus may not be the same as when the user began temporarily "surfing".

Another problem associated with television programming today is the broadcasting of "mature subject matter", i.e., violence, sex and/or profanity, on various channels or networks. This problem is of particular concern to parents with young children whom the parents feel should not be exposed to such programming. However, so far, there has been no effective way for the parents to "lock out" those channels which air such programming. In addition, there has been no effective way, so far, for parents to prevent or discourage their children from watching such programming when the parents are not at home, or for some other reason, cannot monitor what their children are watching.

Another familiar problem associated with remote control devices is their tendency to be misplaced. Thus far, there is no remote control device which effectively and conveniently guides the user to its location.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention advantageously addresses the needs above as well as other needs by providing an improved remote control device and method for use with a television receiver that allows a user to readily select a desired channel from all available channels and remember it for later selection, define particular subsets of all the available channels to thereby allow more rapid surfing through only those channels of interest found in a particular subset, effectuate controls for which channels are selectable and the conditions under which they are selectable, and to provide the user with other controls and options which simplify the manner in which remote control of the television is performed.

In one embodiment, the present invention can be characterized as a remote control for controlling an electronic device. In such embodiment, the remote control employs a keypad including a channel group key; a memory for storing a first channel of a channel group, and for storing a second channel of the channel group; a processor for retrieving the first channel of the channel group from the memory in response to a first actuation of the channel group key, and for retrieving the second channel ofthe channel group from the memory in response to a second actuation ofthe channel group key; and a transmitter for transmitting a first channel select signal indicative of the first channel ofthe channel group in response to the retrieval of the first channel ofthe channel group from the memory and for transmitting a second channel select signal indicative of the second channel ofthe channel group in response to the retrieval ofthe second channel ofthe channel group from the memory.

In another embodiment, the present invention can be characterized as a remote control employing a keypad including a network selection key having a preprinted textual title indicative of a television network; a memory for storing a channel number associated with the network selection key; a processor for retrieving the channel number from the memory in response to an actuation of the network selection key; and a transmitter for transmitting a channel select signal indicative ofthe channel number in response to the retrieval ofthe channel number from the memory. In a variation of this other embodiment, the network selection key may constitute a region on a touch- sensitive LCD membrane display at which a textual title or an "icon" indicative of the television network is displayed.

A further embodiment of the invention can be characterized as a remote control having a keypad including a key; a processor including means for generating electrical signals in response to a depression ofthe key; a transmitter for transmitting a transmit signal in response to the electrical signals; a battery power supply; a low power circuit for detecting whether a voltage supplied by the battery power supply is below a prescribed threshold; and means, coupled to the low power circuit, for signaling a user that the voltage supplied has fallen below the prescribed threshold.

The present invention, in another embodiment, can be characterized as a remote control employing a keypad including a lock key and another key; means for locking the other key in response to a depression of the lock key; and a transmitter for transmitting a channel select signal in response to a depression of the other key only when the other key is not locked.

In another embodiment, the present invention can be characterized as a remote control device having a keypad including a time-lock key and another key; means for locking the other key for a prescribed time period in response to a depression of the time-lock key and a transmitter for transmitting a channel select signal in response to a depression of the other key in the event the other key is not locked.

A further embodiment of the present invention can be characterized as a remote control device having a keypad including a key; a processor, coupled to the keypad, for generating electrical signals in response to a depression of the key; a transmitter, coupled to the processor, for transmitting a transmit signal in response to the electrical signals; a frequency detector for detecting a prescribed frequency band of soundwaves; and an audio signal generator, coupled to the frequency detector, for emitting an audio signal in response to the frequency detector detecting the soundwaves. In an additional embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a remote control device for controlling a television. In such embodiment, the remote control device has an entry pad including a temporary topic select key, a channel selection key, and a storage key; a memory for storing a first channel of a temporary topic select key, and for storing a second channel of the temporary topic select key; a transmitter for transmitting a first channel select signal indicative of a first scanned channel in response to a first actuation of the channel select key, and for transmitting a second channel select signal indicative of a second scanned channel in response to a second actuation ofthe channel select key; and a processor for communicating the first scanned channel to the memory for storage as the first channel of the temporary topic group in response to a first actuation of the storage key, for communicating the second scanned channel to the memory for storage as the second channel ofthe temporary topic group in response to a second actuation ofthe storage key, for retrieving the first channel of the channel group from the memory in response to a first actuation ofthe channel group key. and for retrieving the second channel ofthe channel group from the memory in response to a second actuation o the channel group key. The transmitter also transmits die first channel select signal indicative of the first channel of the temporary topic group in response to the retrieval of the first channel of the temporary topic group from the memory and transmits the second channel select signal indicative of the second channel of the temporary topic group in response to the retrieval of the second channel of the temporary topic group from the memory. The channel select key can be any key capable of selecting a channel on the television, such as a channel number key, a channel up/down key, a pre-labeled network key, a channel group key, or the like. hi another embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a remote control device for controlling a television. The remote control device employs an entry pad including a recall key, a channel selection key, and a storage key; a memory for storing a channel number associated with the recall key; a transmitter for transmitting a channel select signal indicative ofthe scanned channel nu ber in response to an actuation ofthe channel selection key; and a processor for communicating the scanned channel to the memory for storage as the channel associated with the recall key in response to an actuation of the storage key, and for retrieving the channel number associated with the recall key from the memory in response to an actuation of the recall key. The transmitter also transmits the channel select signal indicative ofthe channel associated with the recall key in response to the retrieval ofthe channel associated with the recall key from the memory.

In an additional embodiment, die invention can be characterized as a remote control for controlling an electronic device. The remote control of this embodiment has an entry pad, which may be a conventional keypad, a touch sensitive LCD, a conductive rubber keypad or the like. The entry pad has a network selection key comprising a descriptive character, such as a picture or word, indicative of a television network. The remote control further employs a memory including means for storing a channel number associated with the network selection key; a processor including means for retrieving the channel number from the memory in response to an actuation ofthe network selection key; and a transmitter for transmitting a channel select signal indicative of the channel number in response to the retrieval ofthe channel number from the memory.

In a further additional embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a remote control for controlling an electronic device. The remote control device combines an entry pad including a key; a processor for generating electrical signals in response to an actuation ofthe key; a transmitter for transmitting a transmit signal in response to the electrical signals; a battery power supply coupled to the processor; a housing including a top surface through which the entry pad is accessible, and a bottom surface opposing the top surface that has an arcuate cavity therein. The housing encloses the processor; the transmitter is coupled to the processor; and the processor is coupled to die keypad. The arcuate cavity advantageously allows the remote control to be placed and held on the arm of a chair or a user's leg.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other aspects, features and advantages ofthe present invention will be more apparent from the following more particular description thereof, presented in conjunction with the following drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 A is a block diagram illustrating one remote control device embodying various aspects ofthe present invention;

FIG. IB is a block diagram illustrating a variation ofthe remote control device of FIG. IA with an Alphanumeric Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), an LCD Controller, and a timer; FIG. 2 is one example of a keypad layout usable with the remote control device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is another example of a keypad layout usable with the remote control device of FIG. 1; FIG. 4A is a example of a keypad layout usable with the remote control device of

FIG. IA;

FIG. 4B is another example of a keypad layout usable with the remote control device of FIG. IB;

FIG. 4C is a further example of a keypad layout useable with the remote control device of FIG. IA;

FIG. 5 is a detailed schematic diagram showing one implementation ofthe remote control device of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of the remote control device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram showing the steps traversed in a transmit routine that is called by the control program of FIG. 6 and by a transmit preset routine of FIG. 8;

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram showing the steps traversed in the transmit preset routine that is called by the control program of FIG. 6 and by a transmit list routine of FIG. 9;

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram showing the steps traversed in the transmit list routine that is called by the control program of FIG. 6; FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of the steps traversed in a select personal list routine that is called by the control program of FIG. 6;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a variation of the remote control device including a low frequency detector and an audio signal generator;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary housing useable with the embodiments ofthe remote control device of FIG's IA and IB; and

FIG. 13 is a side view of the exemplary housing of FIG. 12.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The following description ofthe presently contemplated best mode of practicing the invention is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles o the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the claims. Referring first to FIG. 1 A, a block diagram is shown illustrating one remote control device 10 embodying various aspects of die present invention. The remote control device 10 employs a microcontroller 12 coupled to an electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) 14, a low voltage reset circuit 16, a low battery detector 18. an infrared emitter 20, a keypad 22, and one or more light emitting diode (LED) indicators 24.

The microcontroller 12, generally, is modified with an appropriate control program, such as illustrated in FIG. 6, and controls operation of the remote control device 10 by responding to user input made through the keypad 22. The microcontroller responds to such input by initiating appropriate portions ofthe control program. For example, the microcontroller 12 may initiate d e generation of a coded sequence of infrared emissions (coded infrared sequence) through the infrared emitter 20 in response to depression of keys on the keypad 22. Specifically, for example, in response to depression of a channel up key (or button) on the keypad 22. the microcontroller 12 may initiate a transmit routine to generate coded infrared sequences in response to which a television receiver (or otiier controlled device) increments a channel number to which it is tuned. Other specific examples of coded infrared sequences that may be generated in response to a routine in the microcontroller 12 in response to depression of a key on the keypad 22 may cause the channel number to decrement, audio volume to increase or decrease, or a particular channel number to be tuned by die controlled device 26.

The microcontroller 12 may also initiate one of two programming routines. The first of me two programming routines is used to program a channel number into a memory location in the EEPROM 14 associated with a pre-labeled network key on the keypad 22. The second of die two programming routines is used to program one or more channel numbers into memory locations in the EEPROM 14 associated widi a channel group key (or scan group key). A more detailed explanation of these two programming routines is made hereinbelow in reference to FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 6. The keypad 22 employs an array of conductive rubber switches, such as are known in die art. Suitable custom keypads are available from numerous manufacturers.

The EEPROM 14 provides memory storage for channel numbers assigned to the pre- labeled network keys, and to the channel group keys. The EEPROM 14 also provides memory storage for information required by the microcontroller 12 to generate electrical signals needed to construct the coded infrared sequences generated by the infrared emitter 20. Preferably, the EEPROM 14 contains a plurality of sets of such information (referred to herein as information sets), each of which can be used to control a different model and/or make of controlled device 26. During an initial setup of the remote control device 10. a user indicates to the remote control device 10 the model and/or make of controlled device 26 with which the remote control device 10 is to be used. (Such initial setup is described below.) Based on this indication, the microcontroller 12 selects the information set that will be utilized to construct the coded infrared sequences during future usage of die remote control device 10 with die controlled device 26. Advantageously, the remote control device 10 may also contain information sets needed to construct the coded infrared sequences for controlling devices other than television receivers, such as video cassette recorders (VCR's), cable "boxes", satellite dish controllers, and/or other audio/video-type equipment.

The remote control device 10 may be set up to control several different controlled devices. So that die user can indicate to the microcontroller 12 which of these controlled devices is to be controlled by a subsequent depression of a key on the keypad 22. the user may precede depression of a key or keys on the keypad 22 by depressing a controlled device selection key on die keypad 22, which indicates the particular controlled device to be controlled. Each ofthe controlled device selection keys 66 causes the microcontroller 12 to utilize a different information set from die EEPROM 14 in constructing the coded infrared sequences to be transmitted by the infrared emitter 20. For example, if the user wishes to control a television receiver, he or she first may press a controlled device selection key labeled "TV" (or "TV 1"), and then press a key associated widi d e function he or she desires on the television receiver. Once the user presses d e "TV" key, die microcontroller 12 will use the information set for the model and/or make of television previously identified by die user in constructing die coded infrared sequences for the desired function. If the user wishes to control, for example, his or her VCR, he or she precedes any key depressions indicating functions to be carried out by die VCR with a depression of a controlled device selection key labeled "VCR" (or "VCR 1"). Once the user presses the "VCR" key, the microcontroller 12 will use the information set for the model and/or make of VCR previously identified by the user.

The infrared emitter 20 (or infrared transmitter), converts electrical signals generated by Jie microcontroller 12 (which are indicative of the coded infrared sequences to be emitted from the infrared emitter 20) into appropriate coded infrared sequences. A suitable infrared emitter is available as Part No. SIR-5635B3F, from Rohm Coφoration of Tokyo. Japan Preferably, a plurality of such infrared emitters are wired in parallel, and simultaneously emit the same coded infrared sequence, so as to maximize the amount of infrared light being emitted from the remote control device 10, hopefully increasing die probability tiiat the coded infrared sequence will be received and properly acted upon by the controlled device 26.

The LED indicators 24 are utilized by the present embodiment to indicate to die user various statuses of the remote control device 10. For example, the LED indicators 24 may be used to indicate when the remote control device 10 is in a programming mode, when a key on the keypad 22 is being depressed, and or which of a plurality of controlled devices will be controlled by subsequent depressions of keys on the keypad 22 ofthe remote control device 10

The low voltage reset circuit 16 disables die microcontroller 12 in tiie event a battery power supply (not shown) is unable to generate a sufficient voltage for proper operation of the microcontroller 12

The low battery detector 18 indicates to the microcontroller 12 when the voltage generated by the battery power supply has fallen below a prescribed threshold (which is higher than die voltage at which die low voltage reset circuit 16 disables the microcontroller 12) In response to tiie indication from the low battery detector 18. the microcontroller 12 may cause one or more of die LED indicators 24 to indicate to the user (by, e g , flickering) that battery voltage is getting low

As shown in FIG IB, anodier embodiment of the remote control device of FIG 1 A may additionally employ a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Controller 28, an Alphanumeric LCD 30, and a timer 32 The LCD controller 28 can be an LCD controller selected from the numerous and well known LCD controllers that are now readily commercially available The LCD Controller 28 is coupled to die microcontroller 12 and receives commands from the microcontroller 12 in order to display appropriate information The Alphanumeric LCD 30 is coupled to the LCD Controller 28 and displays information and messages according to a subroutine contained within the microcontroller 12 For example, the Alphanumeric LCD 30 may "echo" the user's key depressions to visually confirm what die user has inputted Additionally , the Alphanumeric LCD 30 may display messages and/or instructions to the user during programming or operation of the remote control device

As seen in FIG IB, die remote control device 10 may further include a timer 32 for keeping die current time, I e , tiie present time of day , and/or date and for performing timing functions of die remote control device 10, e g , the "time lock" function described in further detail below The timer 32 is coupled to the microcontroller 12 and provides a timing signal thereto so diat the microcontroller 12 can perform timed operations and subroutines The timer 32 is preferably a part of the microcontroller 12, as is common in the art, but may also be a distinct component or circuit should such be desirable For example, the "timed lock out" and the "30 Second Timeout" features of the present embodiment require the microcontroller 12 to receive synchronization and timing signals from the timer 32 Referring next to FIG 2. one example is shown of a keypad layout usable witii the remote control device of FIG 1 The keypad is shown with the pre-labeled network keys 50, the channel group keys 52, channel number keys 54, channel up/down keys 56, 58, volume up/down keys 60, 62, programming keys 64. controlled device selection kevs 66, and a power key 68 hi order to select a television network on which to view programming, the user of die remote control device 10 may depress a pre-labeled network key 50 labeled with the television network on which he or she wishes to view programming. As described below, in reference to FIG. 6, each of the pre-labeled network keys 50 has been programmed with a corresponding channel number so as to cause die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1 ) to generate electrical signals corresponding to coded infrared sequences that direct the controlled device to tune to the channel number on which a particular network (as identified on the pre-labeled network key) is carried in a particular viewing area.

The channel group keys 52, when depressed, instruct the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to generate electrical signals corresponding to coded infrared sequences that instruct die controlled device 26 (FIG. 1) to tune to one of a plurality of channel numbers within a channel group corresponding to the depressed channel group key. Each time the channel group key is depressed, electrical signals are generated by the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) corresponding to coded infrared sequences instructing die controlled device 26 (FIG. 1 ) to tune to the next channel number within die channel group. When the last channel number within the channel group has been reached, a subsequent depression ofthe channel group key 52 results in the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) being directed to generate electrical signals corresponding to coded infrared sequences that instruct the controlled device to tune to the first channel number within the channel group. As above, subsequent depressions of the channel group key 52 result in the generation of electrical signals by the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) that instruct the controlled device 20 (FIG. 1) to tune to the next channel number within the channel group until the last channel number within the channel group is again reached.

In this way, the user of the remote control device 10 is able to "scan" (or "surf) dirough each of die channels witiiin die channel group by repeatedly depressing the channel group key 52 so that each of the channels within the channel group is sequentially displayed. The channel numbers witiiin each channel group are programmed in a manner described hereinbelow in reference to FIG. 6.

Note tiiat in die present embodiment, die smallest channel number in a given channel group is deemed to be the first channel number in the given channel group, and the largest channel number witiiin tiie given channel group is deemed to be the last channel number in the given channel group. Any channel numbers in the given channel group lying numerically between the first and last channel numbers in the given channel group are ordered numerically from smallest to largest for purposes of deteirnining their order within the given channel group, i.e., for determining the order in which electrical signals for such channel numbers will be generated in response to successive depressions ofthe channel group key for the given channel group. While the present embodiment relies on the magnitude, i.e., the '"number", ofthe channel numbers within the given channel group for puφoses of deteπ ining tiieir order witiiin such channel group, one skilled in die art will recognize diat numerous mediods of ordering channels within channel groups could be utilized with the present embodiment. Such numerous otiier methods for ordering channel numbers within channel groups are contemplated by the inventor.

The channel up/down keys 56, 58. the volume up/down keys 60, 62, the channel number keys 54, and the power key 68 operate in a conventional manner (except as described otherwise herein), and therefore further description of these keys is not made herein. The controlled device selection keys 66 are used to select the device die user desires to control using the remote control device 10. When one ofthe controlled device selection keys 66 is depressed, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is instructed to utilize a set of instructions (i.e., an instruction set) within the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1), corresponding to the device the user desires to control. For example, if die user wishes to control a first television receiver, he or she first depresses a controlled device selection key labeled "TV 1", i.e., the "TV 1" key, which instructs the microcontroller 12 (FIG. I) to employ an instruction set corresponding to the model and or brand of the first television receiver, i.e., the television receiver associated with the "TV 1" key, as described hereinbelow.

Having pressed the "TV 1" key, and thus instructed the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to utilize an instruction set for the first television receiver, the user may now depress any ofthe other keys on the keypad. Such depression will cause the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to generate electrical signals, as prescribed by the infonnation set utilized, appropriate to the first television receiver. For example, if the user wishes to view programming on a particular network, he or she may depress the pre-labeled network key 50 corresponding to such network. In response to the depression of such pre-labeled network key, the appropriate electrical signals are generated by die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1). in response to which the coded infrared sequences are generated that instruct the first television receiver to tune to the particular network.

In order to associate a controlled device selection key 66 with a particular set of instructions in die EEPROM, die user depresses die "Add" and "Delete" (or "Remove") programming keys 64 simultaneously until a "program" LED indicator 70 illuminates. Next, the user determines a tiiree number code corresponding to the controlled device that he or she wishes to associate with the particular controlled device selection key 66. The three number code may be listed in documentation accompanying the remote control device 10. and identifies the particular instruction set within the EEPROM 14 that is to be used with the controlled device to be associated with the controlled device selection key being programmed.

Once die user determines the appropriate three digit code, he or she enters the three digit code using the channel number keys 54. Following entry of the three digit code, die user depresses die controlled device selection key 66 that he or she wishes to associate with die controlled device. This procedure may be repeated for each controlled device the user wishes to associate with a controlled device selection key 66, with the user selecting a difTerent controlled device selection 66 key following each three digit code entry.

Within the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1), the three digit code indicates an address witiiin the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1) at which an instruction set is located for generating electrical signals used to generate the coded infrared sequences for controlling the particular controlled device.

In order to program the pre-labeled network keys 50, the user depresses die "Add" and d e "Delete" key simultaneously until the program LED indicator 70 illuminates, indicating d at tiie remote control is in the programming mode. Using die channel number keys 54, the user indicates the channel number on which the network identified on the pre-labeled network key provides programming in the user's area. After entering die channel number, the user depresses the pre-labeled network key 50 corresponding to die network providing programming on the already entered channel number. This sequence is repeated for each pre-labeled network key to be programmed. After die user has programmed all ofthe pre-labeled network keys 50 that he or she wishes to program, he or she presses the power key 68, which causes the remote control device 10 to exit from die programming mode. In response to depression ofthe power key, the program LED indicator 70 is extinguished.

In order to program die channel group keys 52. the user depresses tiie "Add" key and the "Delete" keys 64 simultaneously until the program LED indicator 70 illuminates. The user then depresses the channel group key 52 for the channel group to which he or she wishes to add or from which he or she wishes to remove channel numbers. Next, using the channel number keys 54, he or she enters die number of die channel tiiat he or she wishes to add to or remove from the channel group indicated.

If die user wishes to add die channel number to the channel group, he or she follows entry of tiie channel number by depressing the "Add" key 64 in order to confirm the addition ofthe channel number to die indicated channel group. If the user wishes to delete a channel from a channel group, he or she can locate the channel within the channel group by using the channel up/channel down keys 56, 58 to scroll through (i.e., cause the controlled device to tune in sequence) the channel numbers of the channel group until the channel to be deleted is tuned by the controlled device 26. Once the channel to be deleted is tuned by the controlled device 26. the user depresses the "Delete" key 64 in order to delete the channel number from the channel group Once all desired additions and or deletions have been made from the channel group, the user exits the programming mode by depressing die power key, which results in the extinguishing ofthe program LED indicator 70. One of the channel group keys functions in a manner slightly different than that in which the remaining channel group keys function. This channel group key is referred to as die "personal surf key. The "personal surf key allows multiple users of the remote control device 10 to each create a personal channel group containing channel numbers through which he or she wishes to scan from time to time. Programming ofthe "personal surf key is carried out in a manner similar to that in which die remaining channel group keys are programmed, except as noted below. In order to program die "personal surf key, the user depresses the "Add" and the "Delete" keys (i.e., the programming keys) 64 simultaneously until the program LED indicator 70 illuminates. The user dien depresses die "personal surf key. Next, unlike when programming the channel group keys 52, the user must indicate his or her "personal surf number, which identifies his/her personal channel group, using the channel number keys 54. Possible "personal surf numbers include the numbers 1-9. Following entering tiie "personal surf number, die user must then press the "personal surf key again, within three seconds after entering die "personal surf number. Thus, for example, if the user having a "personal surf number of 3 wishes to add a channel number to or delete a channel number from his or her personal channel group, he or she depresses the channel number key labeled with die number 3, following depression of the "personal surf key. The user then depresses the "personal surf key again, witiiin three seconds of depressing the channel number key labeled with the number 3. Following depression ofthe "personal surf key again, using the channel number keys 54, he or she enters the number of the channel that he or she wishes to add to or remove from his or her personal channel group. If the user wishes to add the channel number to his or her personal channel group, he or she follows entry ofthe channel number by depressing the "Add" programming key 64 in order to confirm tiie addition of die channel number to his or her personal channel group. If the user wishes to delete a channel from his or her personal channel group, he or she can locate the channel witiiin his or her personal channel group by using die channel up/channel down keys 56. 58 to scroll through (i.e., cause the controlled device to tune in sequence) the channel numbers of his or her personal channel group until die channel to be deleted is tuned by the controlled device 26. Once the channel to be deleted is tuned by the controlled device 26, the user depresses the "Delete" key 64 in order to delete the channel number from his or her personal channel group. Once all desired additions and/or deletions have been made from the user's personal channel group, the user exits the programming mode by depressing the power key 68. which results in the extinguishing of the program LED indicator 70.

In order to use the "personal surf key the user must first press the "personal surf key, and then, within three seconds, indicate his or her "personal surf number using the channel number keys 54. As mentioned above, possible "personal surf numbers include the numbers 1-9. Thus, for example, if a user having a "personal surf number of 3 wishes to scan through the channel numbers within his or her "personal surf channel group, he or she first depresses die "personal surf key and then, within three seconds, depresses the channel number key labeled with die number 3. Then the user presses the "personal surf key again. Following depression of the "personal surf key, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) generates electrical signals corresponding to coded infrared sequences that direct the controlled device 26 to tune to the first channel number in that user's "personal surf channel group. Such electrical signals are generated as a function of the information set for the particular controlled device being controlled, and of die user's "personal surf channel group, which is stored in the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1). Subsequent depression of the channel up/down keys 56, 58, which need not be preceded by depression of die "personal surf key or the user's "personal surf" number, results in the generation of electrical signals corresponding to coded infrared sequences for tuning the next or previous channel number, respectively in that user's "personal surf channel group.

The channel up/down keys 56, 58 can also be used following the other channel group keys 52 to step through the channel numbers in the respective channel groups, in either forward or reverse order, however, unlike with the personal channel groups, the other channel groups can be stepped through in a forward direction by depressing the respective channel group key. With die personal channel groups, only the channel up/down keys 56, 58 can be used, in die present embodiment, to step through such channel groups. Regardless of whether the channel up/down keys 56, 58 are used following a channel group key on following the "personal surf key, depression of any ofthe channel number keys 54, causes tiie channel up/down keys 56, 58 to revert to normal operation, in which they function in the conventional manner to sequentially step through channel numbers as is known in die art.

As with tiie otiier channel group keys 52, when the last channel number in the user's "personal surf channel group is selected, subsequent depression of the up key will result in the generation of electrical signals corresponding to coded infrared sequences that instruct the controlled device 26 to tune to die first channel number in the user's "personal surf channel group. Subsequent depressions of the up key scan through the channel numbers in the user's "personal surf channel group as described above. In this way. each of a plurality of users (up to nine in the preferred embodiment) of die remote control device 10 can each have a "personal surf channel group made up of channel numbers on which television networks provide programming through which the user desires to scan from time to time.

Referring next to FIG. 3. another example is shown of a keypad layout usable with tiie remote control device of FIG. 1. The keypad layout of FIG. 3 is utilized in a manner similar to diat described above in reference to FIG. 2, and therefore further explanation is not made herein.

Referring to FIG. 4A, an example is shown of a keypad layout usable widi the remote control device of FIG. 1. The keypad layout of FIG. 4A is also utilized in a manner similar to that described above in reference to FIG. 2. but includes additional features as described below. In FIG. 4A, additional LED indicators 80. 82. 84, 86 are shown proximate to each ofthe controlled device selection keys 66. When a key on the keypad is depressed, the additional LED indicator 80, 82, 84, 86 proximate to the controlled device selection key for the currently controlled device illuminates, or flickers. After another of the controlled device selection keys is depressed, in order to change the controlled device being controlled, the additional LED indicator 80, 82, 84 or 86 proximate to the other controlled device selection key will illuminate, or flicker, during subsequent depressions of keys on the keypad, until a further controlled device selection key is depressed.

One exception to the above-described method of operation is used when the low battery detector 18 (FIG. 1) detects that the voltage provided by the battery power supply has dropped below a prescribed ti reshold. Under this circumstance, rather than a single additional LED indicator 80, 82, 84 or 86 illuminating, or flickering, when a key on the keypad is depressed, all of the additional LED indicators 80, 82, 84, 86 simultaneously illuminate whenever a key on die keypad is depressed. This exception to the above-described method of operation provides a visual indication to die user of die remote control device whenever the battery voltage falls below the threshold and a key on die keypad is depressed. Such visual indication thus signals the user that it is time to replace the batteries within the remote control device 10.

Another feature of die example of FIG. 4A utilizes a "lock" key 88 and an "unlock" key 90. These keys 88, 90, and an appropriate control routine in the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) allow die user of die remote control device to "lock out" and "unlock" any ofthe pre-labeled network keys 50 or die channel group keys 52, so that other users ofthe remote control device cannot use the remote control device to view the channel number(s) associated with such keys. For example, tins feature is of particular use when a parent wishes to "lock out" channel numbers that provide programming having an "adult" content, such a violence, nudity, profanity or the like.

In order to "lock out" a pre-labeled network key 50. the user depresses the "lock" key 88 until the program LED indicator 70 illuminates. The user then enters a three digit access code of his or her choosing, and then depresses the "lock" key 88 again. The program LED indicator 70 will then begin to flicker, signaling the user to depress the pre-labeled network key 50 and or die channel group key 52 that he or she wishes to "lock out". The user then depresses any pre-labeled network key 50 and/or channel group key 52 that he or she wishes to have "locked out", and, when finished, depresses the power key 68. The program LED indicator 70 then extinguishes, and die remote control device 10 functions as described above, except that any depressions of keys that have been locked out will be ignored by the remote control device 10.

When die user wishes to "unlock" the pre-labeled network keys and/or the channel group keys tiiat have been "locked out", so tiiat he or she can view programming on channel numbers associated witii such keys, he or she presses the "unlock" key 80 until the program LED indicator 70 illuminates. The user then enters the three digit code used to lock the "locked out" keys, and presses die "unlock" key 80 again to unlock all of die "locked out" keys. The program LED indicator 70 will then extinguish, indicating that all ofthe keys on the keypad have been unlocked.

Advantageously, die above-described functionality allows a user to "lock out" keys on die keypad tiiat are associated witii channel numbers carrying television programming that the user does not wish other users of the remote control device 10 to view, but at the same time, provides die ability for the user to "unlock" such keys so that he or she may view programming on channel numbers associated with such keys.

Referring next to FIG. 4B, another embodiment of a remote control device 10 is shown featuring an Alphanumeric LCD 100 and a "time lock" key 92. The Alphanumeric LCD 100 displays information and/or instructions to the user during operation and programming of the remote control device 10. The "time lock" key 92, along with a subroutine executed by the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1), allows a user to lock-out pre-labeled network keys and/or channel group keys during specific times and/or days of the week. Additionally, the "time-lock" key 92 allows the user to selectively lock out certain channel numbers for the time periods during which select television programs are scheduled to "air" on such channel numbers. For example, if a user wants to lock out certain channels from 10:00 pm to 7:00 am. on Sundays and Tuesdays, the user is able to do so using the "time lock" key ofthe present embodiment.

In order to "time lock" a pre-labeled network key 50. or channel group key 52. the user follows the steps described above for locking out such keys. Specifically, the user presses the lock key 88, enters a three digit access code of his or her choosing, and then selects the pre-labeled network key 50 and/or the channel group key 52 that he or she wishes to "time lock." Next, the user presses the "time lock" key 92 before pressing the power key 68 as described above. Upon pressing the "time lock" key 92, the LCD 100 will display "Enter Lock Start Time," at which point die user may enter a time at which he or she would like the selected pre-labeled network key 50 or channel group key 52 to be locked out. In one variation of the present embodiment, die remote control device is programmed to receive standard "military time" entries, e.g., 0800 for 8:00 AM and 2000 for 8:00 PM. Entry of time entries is performed by the user depressing channel number keys corresponding to the digits of die "military time" the user wishes to enter. Upon receiving a valid time entry, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) stores the inputted time, i.e., the "lock start time," in die EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1). The LCD 100 dien displays "Enter Unlock Time," at which point the user may enter the time at which e or she wishes the selected key to be unlocked. Such entry is performed in a manner similar to that described above for the "lock start time."

Optionally, the user can also select the day(s) of the week during which the user wants die selected key(s) to be locked for the designated times. When such option is implemented, the LCD 100 displays "Enter The Day Of Week." at which point the user may depress any of the channel number keys labeled one through seven, corresponding to the seven days of the week, or enter "0" to indicate tiiat he or she wishes to lock out the selected key at the designated time for all days of the week. After entering these desired "lock-out days," the user then presses the power key 68 to indicate tiiat he or she is finished entering the days ofthe week during which a particular lock-out is to occur.

Referring to FIG. 4C, a further embodiment ofthe remote control device 10 is shown featuring a return key 102, and a temporary topic select key 104. The return key 102 allows a user to temporarily program the channel number associated therewith, so that he/she can easily return to that channel number, after having, for example, scanned through (or "surfed through") a series of channel numbers using the channel up and channel down key s. For example, if the user is currently viewing channel 3, and wishes to momentarily scan tlirough otiier channels, he/she simply temporarily programs the return key 102 witii the current channel number, by. for example, pressing the add key and dien the return key 102. The user then may proceed to scan through other channels, as desired. When the user wishes to return to the channel that he/she was viewing, e.g., channel 3, the user simply presses die return key 102, which causes the generation of electrical signals corresponding to coded infrared sequences that instruct the controlled device to tune to the channel number temporarily programmed into the memory location associated with die return key 102.

Similarly, the temporar topic select key 104 can be used by the user to temporarily establish a group of channel numbers, similar to the channel groups described herein (and referred to herein as a temporary topic group), that he/she wishes to "surf through on a temporary basis. For example, when the user wishes to add the channel number that he/she is currently viewing to die group of channel numbers associated with the temporary topic select key 104, he/she presses the add key, followed by the temporary topic select key 104. Tiiese actions cause the channel number currently being viewed by die user to be added to the group of channels associated with the temporary topic select key 104. When the user wishes to "surf through the channel numbers associated with the temporary topic select key 104, he/she simply presses the temporary topic select key 104, which causes the next key in the group of channels associated with the temporary topic select key 104 to be selected in response to which the remote controlled device generates electrical signals corresponding to coded infrared sequences that instruct the controlled device to tune to the next channel number in the group of channel numbers associated with the temporary topic select key 104.

In diese ways, die user is provided with a convenient and direct mechanism by which he she can temporarily program either the return key 102 or the temporary topic select key 104 to a channel number or group of channel numbers, respectively, of his/her choice. When the power key is depressed, to indicate to die remote control device 10 that the user wishes to turn off die controlled device, all channel numbers associated with the return key 102, and the temporary topic select key 104 are erased from the respective memory locations, in order to ready the return key 102 and the temporary topic select key 104 for use at a subsequent time.

Referring next to FIG. 5. a detailed schematic diagram is shown of one implementation ofthe remote control device of FIG. I . One variation ofthe microcontroller 12, die EEPROM 14, the low voltage reset circuit 16, the low battery detector 18. the infrared emitter 20, and the LED indicators 24 are shown. As the schematic diagram of FIG. 5 should be self- explanatory to one of skill in the art, further explanation is not made herein.

Referring next to FIG. 6, a flow diagram is shown of the steps traversed by the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) in response to a control program. When the remote control device 10 is reset (Block 1000, FIG. 6A). such as occurs when the power is first supplied to die remote control device 10, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is initialized (Block 1002), all registers within the microcontroller are initialized (Block 1004). and an interrupt routine is executed (Block 1004) to detect when a key on die keypad 22 (FIG. 1) is pressed. Next, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is put (Block 1006) into a "sleep" mode to await the depression of a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. 1), as detected by d e interrupt routine. Utilization of die sleep mode in this manner results in power savings when the remote control device is not in use.

Upon die depression of a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. 1). die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) wakes up and the interrupt routine begins execution (Block 1008). Before the keypad 22 (FIG. 1) is scanned, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1 ) waits 20 milliseconds (Block 1010). Then, a determination is made (Block 1012) as to whether the key depressed is a valid key. If the key depressed is not a valid key (Block 1012), the microcontroller is put back to sleep (Block 1006) until a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. 1) is again depressed.

If, however, die key depressed is a valid key (Block 1012), a determination is made as to what key was depressed (Block 1014). In the event the key depressed is a direct transmission button, i.e., one of the channel number keys 54 (FIGS. 2. 3, 4). i.e., a key labeled with a number between 0 and 9; the volume up key 60 (FIGS. 2. 3, 4); the volume down key 62 (FIGS. 2, 3, 4); the channel up key 56 (FIGS. 2, 3, 4); the channel down key 58; a mute key; a display key; a last channel recall key; an enter key; or the power key 68 (FIGS. 2, 3, 4) (Block 1016), a further determination is made as to whether the key depressed was a channel number key (Block 1017). If the key depressed was a channel number key (Block 1017), the channel up/down keys are associated (Block 1018) with a software routine for directing the remote control device to transmit coded infrared sequences for sequentially tuning the controlled device to a next or a previous channel number tuneable by die controlled device. (This is done in case the channel up/down keys 56, 58 have been associated with a software routine for tuning the controlled device to a next or a previous channel number within a channel group, as described below). Next, regardless of whether die direct transmission button depressed was a channel number key, information corresponding to the key depressed is retrieved from an appropriate information set (i.e., appropriate to die particular controlled device being controlled) in the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1 ). The information is used by the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to generate the electrical signals, which in turn are passed to the infrared emitter 20 (FIG. 1) and are used by the infrared emitter 20 (FIG. 1) to generate (Block 1019) the coded infrared sequences appropriate to the depressed key. (A more detailed explanation of how die coded infrared sequences are generated is made below in reference to FIG. 7.) It is in response to die coded infrared sequences tiiat the controlled device 26 (FIG. 1 ) takes an action appropriate to die key that is depressed, e.g., tunes to a particular channel, increases volume, etc. Following transmission of die coded infrared sequences (Block 1019), the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is again put to sleep until a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. I) is depressed (Block 1006)

In the event the key depressed (Blocks 1008. 1010. 1012. 1014) is not a direct transmission button (Block 1016), a determination is made (Block 1020) as to whether the key depressed is a "preset" button, i.e., a pre-labeled network key 50 (FIG. 2). In the event die key depressed is a preset button (Block 1020). the channel number assigned to the pre-labeled network key is retrieved (Block 1022) from the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1) and a transmit preset routine is called (Block 1024). (See FIG. 8 and die accompanying description diereof for a more complete explanation ofthe transmit preset routine). Basically , the transmit preset routine causes the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to retrieve information from the appropriate information set, corresponding to die retrieved channel number, from die EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1). The information is used by the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to generate electrical signals, which in turn cause the infrared emitter 20 (FIG. 1) to generate coded infrared sequences. These coded infrared sequences cause the controlled device to tune to die channel number that has been assigned to the pre-labeled network key 50 (FIG. 2). Following transmission of the coded infrared sequences, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is again put to sleep until a key on die keypad is depressed (Block 1006). (Note that the coded infrared sequences generated in response to the depression of a pre-labeled network key or a channel group key are generated in accordance with the transmit preset routine of FIG. 8, while the coded infrared sequences generated in response to the depression of a direct transmission button are generated in accordance with the steps shown in FIG. 7.)

In the event the key depressed (Blocks 1008, 1010, 1012, 1014) is not a direct transmission button (Block 1016), and not a preset button (Block 1020), a determination is made (Block 1026) as to whedier the key depressed is a "preset scan" button, i.e., a channel group key. If a determination is made that the key depressed is a preset scan button (Block 1026), then a determination is made as to whether the particular preset scan button depressed was the "personal surf key (Block 1027). If the key depressed was the "personal surf key (Block 1027), then a select personal list routine is called (Block 1028) (See FIG. 10). Next, regardless of whether the particular preset scan button depressed was die "personal surf button, a list of the channels within the channel group indicated by the selected preset scan button is retrieved (Block 1029) from the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1), and a transmit list routine is called (Block 1030) (See FIG. 8). Then, the microcontroller 12 is put back to sleep and awaits the depression of another key on the keypad (Block 1006).

In the event the key depressed (Block 1008. 1010, 1012. 1014) is not a direct transmit button (Block 1016), not a preset button (Block 1020), and not a preset scan button (Block 1026), a determination is made (Block 1044) as to whether the depressed key is a program "key" (i.e., the "add" key and the "delete" key depressed simultaneously ). If the key that is depressed is the program key (Block 1044), the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1 ) enters programming mode by setting a programming flag and initiating a 30-second time out (Block 1046, FIG. 6B). In the event the time out period expires (Block 1048) widiout tiie depression (Block 1052) of a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. 1), programming mode is terminated (Block 1050) and the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is again put to sleep until a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. 1) is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A).

In die event, however, that a key is pressed (Block 1052) during the time out period (Block 1052), the 30-second time out is reset (Block 1054). Next, a determination is made as to whedier die key depressed is a channel number ke (Block 1056). If the key depressed is a channel number key (Block 1056), the number of the channel number key is stored (Block 1058) in a temporary register witiiin tiie microcontroller 12 (FIG. I ). and the 30-second time out is again begun (Block 1048).

If die key depressed is not a channel number key (Block 1056), and not die enter key (Block 1059) a determination is made as to whether the key depressed is an enter key (Block 1059).

If the key depressed is the enter key (Block 1059). an enter key flag is set (1060) within the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1), and the 30-second time out is initiated (Block 1048) and the remote control device 10 waits for the depression (Block 1052) of a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. 1).

If die key depressed is not a channel number key (Block 1056). and not the enter key (Block 1059) a determination is made as to whether the key depressed is a preset button (Block 1061). In the event the key that is depressed is a preset button (Block 1061), the memory location in die EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1) at which die channel number associated with the preset button is stored is determined (Block 1062). The numbers stored in die temporary registers within the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) (up to three) are retrieved (Block 1064) and are moved, along with, if appropriate, an enter key flag, into two 8-bit code numbers (Block 1066) (using, e.g., a binary coded decimal (BCD) format). Note that the enter key flag is moved into the 8-bit code numbers only if an enter key depression is required, as indicated by die prior setting of the enter key flag within die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) (See Block 1060). The 8-bit code numbers, with or without the enter key flag, are then stored (Block 1068) in the memory locations of the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1) associated with the preset button being programmed. Next, the 30-second time out is again initiated (Block 1048) and die remote control device 10 waits for the depression (Block 1052) of a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. 1).

In die event die key depressed was not a channel number key (Block 1056), not the enter key (Block, 1059) and not a preset button (Block 1061). a determination is made as to whedier the key depressed was a preset scan button (Block 1070). If the key depressed was a preset scan button (Block 1070), a determination is made as to whether the preset scan button depressed was a "personal surf key (Block 1071). If the key depressed was a "personal surf key (Block 1071), a select personal list routine is called (Block 1072) (see FIG. 10). In the event the key depressed was a preset scan button (Block 1070), but was not a "personal surf key (Block 1071), a determination is made as to die memory location of die channel group associated with the preset scan button (Block 1073). Following the select personal list routine (Block 1072). or following the determination as to the memory location of the channel group associated with the preset scan button (Block 1073), a transmit list routine is called (Block 1074) (see FIG. 9). Next, the 30 second time out is again initiated (Block 1048) until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1052). If, however, the key depressed is not a channel number key (Block 1056), not the enter key (Block 1059), not a preset button (Block 1061 ). and not a preset scan button (Block 1070), a determination is made as to whether the key depressed is an add button or a delete button (Block 1075). In the event the key depressed is either the add button or the delete button (Block

1075), die next available location witiiin tiie memory area associated with the preset scan button being programmed, as previously identified (Block 1072 or 1073). is determined (Block 1076, FIG. 6C). The numbers stored in the temporary registers (up to three) within the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) are then retrieved (Block 1077), and moved (Block 1078) along widi, if appropriate, an enter key flag, into two 8-bit code numbers (using, e.g., a binary coded decimal (BCD) format). The user can indicate to the remote control device that an enter key depression is needed by the controlled device with which the remote control device is being used by depressing the enter key following die depression of the channel number keys of the channel number to be programmed and before depression ofthe preset scan button to be programmed. If die add button was depressed, as previously detemiined (Block 1075), then the two

8-bit code numbers, with or without the enter key flag, are stored within the memory areas associated witii the preset scan button being programmed at the next available memory location (Block 1078), as previously determined (Block 1076). A pointer indicating the next available memory location witiiin the memory area associated widi die preset scan button being programmed is then incremented (Block 1082). The 30-second time out is tiicn initiated (Block 1048, FIG. 6B) and the remote control device again initiates the 30-second time out period (Block 1048) and awaits the depression of a key on the keypad (Block 1052).

In this way. the above described embodiment provides a remote control device for remotely controlling a controlled device using channel group keys and/or pre-labeled network keys. Advantageously, such embodiment overcomes the above-mentioned shortcomings ofthe prior art by eliminating die need for a user to know die channel number on which a particular network broadcasts each time he or she wishes to tune the next controlled device to such channel number. Furthermore, the present embodiment eliminates the need for a user, who is looking for a program of a particular type to view, to "surf through a multiplicity of channel numbers not carrying such particular type of programs in order to "surf through channel numbers carrying such programs.

If die key depressed was not a channel number key (Block 1056), not the enter key (Block 1059) not a preset button (Block 1061 ). not a preset scan button (Block 1070), and not the add or delete button (Block 1075), a determination is made (Block 1083) as to whether the key depressed was a program key, i.e., the add key and the delete key depressed simultaneously. If the key depressed was a power key (Block 1083). then the programming mode is stopped (Block 1050), and the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is put to sleep until a key on the keypad 22 (FIG. 1) is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A).

In die event die key depressed is not a channel number key (Block 1056), not a preset button (Block 1061), not a preset scan button (Block 1070). not the add or delete button (Block 1075), and not die program "key" (Block 1083), a determination is made (Block 1084) as to whether the key depressed was a channel up/down button. In the event the key depressed was a channel up/down key (Block 1084), a list pointer, which is stored in the memory, is incremented/decremented (Block 1086), respectively, and the transmit list routine is called (Block 1088) (see FIG. 9). Following execution of die transmit list routine, the 30 second timeout period is initiated (Block 1048) and the microcontroller awaits depression of a key on the keypad (Block 1052).

If the key depressed was not a channel number key (Block 1056), not the enter key

(Block 1059). not a preset button (Block 1061), not a preset scan button (Block 1070), not the add or delete button (Block 1075), not die program "key" (Block 1083). and not a channel up/down button

(Block 1084), a determination is made (Block 1090) as to whether the key depressed is a controlled device selection key. In the event die key depressed is a controlled device selection key

(Block 1090), the last three numbers stored in the temporary registers within the microprocessor are retrieved (Block 1092) and saved (Block 1094) into two 8-bit memory locations within the memory. These two 8-bit memory locations are associated with the controlled device selection key depressed. Following die saving (Block 1094) of the three numbers into the two 8-bit memory location, the 30- second timeout period is again initiated by the microprocessor (Block 1048), and the microprocessor awaits a depression of a key on the keypad (Block 1052).

In the event die key depressed during the 30-second time out period is not a channel number key (Block 1056), not an enter key (Block 1059), not a preset button (Block 1061), not a preset scan button (Block 1070), not the add or delete button (Block 1075). not the program "Key" (Block 1083), not a channel up/down key (Block 1084). and not a controlled device selection key (Block 1090), the key depressed is deemed an invalid key in the programming mode. In response to such an invalid key, the 30 second time out is initiated (Block 1048) and die remote control device again waits until another key is depressed (Block 1052).

In the event the key depressed (Block 1008, 1010, 1012, 1014, back on FIG. 6A, outside of programming mode), is not a direct transmit button (Block 1016), not a preset button (Block 1020), not a preset scan button (Block 1026) and not a program "key" (Block 1044), a determination is made (Block 1096) as to whether tiie depressed key is controlled device selection key. If die key depressed is a controlled device selection key (Block 1096). the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) scans (Block 1098) an allocation table, in which is stored the memory location ofthe information set for the controlled device corresponding to the selection key that has been depressed. The microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) then retrieves (Block 1098) the location for such information set from the allocation table.

Next, the controller retrieves the information set for the controlled device from the memory (Block 1100). This information set determines the transmission "algorithm" used by the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) in response to which the coded infrared sequences are generated for transmission to the controlled device. Following retrieval ofthe information set from the memory, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is again put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006). In the event the key depressed (Block 1008, 1010, 1012, 1014) is not a direct transmission button (Block 1016), not a preset button (Block 1020). not a preset scan button (Block 1026), not a program "key" (Block 1044), and not a controlled device selection key (Block 1096), a determination is made (Block 1102) as to whether d e key depressed is a lock/unlock key In die event the key depressed is a lock/unlock key (Block 1 102), the microcontroller (FIG 1) initiates (Block 1116, FIG 6C) a 30-second timeout period If the 30-second timeout peπod expires (Block 1116) before a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1 1 18). the microcontroller 12 (FIG 1) is again put to sleep until a key on die keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG 6A) However, if a key is depressed (Block 1118) before the 30-second timeout period has expired (Block 1 116), die 30-second timeout period is reset (Block 1 120) and a determination is made (Block 1122) as to whether the key depressed is a channel number key In the event the key depressed is a channel number key (Block 1122), the number ofthe channel number key is stored (Block 1 124) in a temporary register within the microcontroller and a "number entered" flag is set (Block 1 126) Following the setting of the number entered flag, the microcontroller reinitiates (Block 1 1 16) the 30-second timeout peπod, and waits for a key on the keypad to be depressed (Block 1 1 18)

If, however, the key depressed is not a number key (Block 1 122), a determination is made as to whether the "number entered" flag is set (Block 1 128) If the "number entered" is set (Block 1128), a determination is then made (Block 1 130) as to whether the key depressed is the unlock key If the key depressed is the unlock key (Block 1 130), the numbers stored within the temporary registers of the microcontroller are compared (Block 1 132) with a "password" stored in the memory, and if die numbers in the temporary registers match the "password" (Block 1134), lock flags stored w thin the memory are reset (Block 1 136) Note that the "password" and the lock flags are descπbed more fully below Following resetting ofthe lock flags (Block 1 136), in the event the numbers in the temporary registers do not match the "password" (Block 1 134), or in the event the "number entered" flag is not set (Block 1 128) the microcontroller is put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006. FIG 6A)

In the event the key depressed is not a channel number key (Block 1 122), and the "number entered" flag is set (Block 1128). and the key depressed is not the unlock key (Block 1130), a determination is made (Block 1 138) as to whether the key depressed is the lock key If the key depressed is not the lock key (Block 1 138), the microcontroller is put to sleep, and again awaits depression of a key on die keypad (Block 1006. FIG 6A) If. however, the key depressed is the lock key (Block 1138), a determination is made (Block 1 140) as to whether any ofthe preset buttons have previously been locked If one or more of the preset buttons have been locked (Block 1 140), the numbers stored in the temporary registers of the microcontroller are compared (Block 1 142) to the "password" stored in memory. If numbers in the temporary registers do not match the "password" stored in die memory, the microcontroller is put to sleep and awaits depression of a key on the keypad (Block 1006. FIG. 6A).

If, however, the numbers in the temporary registers do match the "password" stored in tiie memory (Block 1 144), or in the event tiie preset buttons have not previously been locked (Block 1 140), die last three numbers entered, which are stored in the temporary registers of die microcontroller, are stored (Block 1146) in the memory as a "password". Next, a 30-second timeout period is initiated (Block 1 150) and a determination is made as to whether the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1 150) before a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1 152). In the event the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1150) before a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1 152), the microcontroller is again put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A).

In die event, however, a key is depressed (Block 1 152) before the 30-second timeout expires (Block 1150), the 30-second timeout period is reset (Block 1 154), and a determination is made as to whether tiie key depressed is a preset button (Block 1 156), or a preset scan button (Block 1156). In d e event the key depressed is a preset button (Block 1 156), or a preset scan button (Block 1156), a lock flag is set (Block 1 158) within the memory at a location associated with the particular preset button or preset scan button depressed. Following the setting of the lock flag for the particular preset button or preset scan button (Block 1 158), the 30-second time out period is again initiated (Block 1 150) and the microcontroller waits until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1152).

In the event the key depressed is not a preset button or a preset scan button (Block

1156), a determination is then made (Block 1 170) as to whether the key depressed is the power key.

In die event die key depressed is the power key (Block 1 170) the microcontroller is then again put to sleep until a key on die keypad is depressed (Block 1006) Once the lock flag for a particular preset button or preset scan button has been set within the memory (Block 1 158). and the power key has been depressed (Block 1 170), subsequent depressions of the particular preset button or preset scan button will be ignored during operation of the remote control device, thus, effectively, "locking out" the channel number or numbers associated with the particular preset button or preset scan button (Block 1 156). If, based on die determinations above as to whether the "number entered" flag is set

(Block 1128), whether tiie unlock key has been depressed (Block 1 130) and whether the lock key has been depressed (Block 1 138). it is determined that the "number entered" flag is set (Block 1 128), the unlock key was not depressed (Block 1 130) and the lock key was not depressed (Block 1 138), then the microcontroller is again put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A).

If, based on the deteπninations above as to whether a preset button has been depressed (Block 1156), whether a preset scan button has been depressed (Block 1 156), and whether the power key has been depressed (Block 1 170), it is determined that a preset button, a preset scan button, and the power key have not been depressed (Blocks 1 156 and 1170, respectively), a determination is then made as to whether the time lock key has been depressed (Block 1200). In the event it is determined that the time lock key was depressed (Block 1200), a determination is made (Block 1201. FIG. 6D) as to whether any lock flags have been set at any of the locations in memory associated with the particular present buttons or preset scan buttons. If no lock flags have been set (Block 1201). the 30-second time out period is again initiated (Block 1 150) and the microcontroller waits until a key on die keypad is depressed (Block 1 152). If. however, one or more lock flags have been set (Block 1201) the preset button or preset scan button for which the lock key was most recently set is selected (Block 1202) for time locking and the Alphanumeric LCD 30 (FIG. 1) then displays "Enter Lock Start Time" (Block 1203). Another 30-second timeout period is then initiated (Block 1206). If the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1206) before a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1208), the microcontroller 12 (FIG. I ) is again put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006. FIG. 6A).

However, if a key is depressed (Block 1208) before die 30-second timeout period has expired (Block 1206), die 30-second timeout period is reset (Block 1210) and a determination is made as to whether the key depressed is a channel number key (Block 1212). In the event that die key depressed is not a channel number key, a deteπnination is then made as to whether the key depressed is die enter key (Block 1214). In the event that the key depressed is not a channel number key or the enter key (Blocks 1212 and 1214, respectively), the Alphanumeric LCD displays "Invalid Entry" (Block 1224) for a period and then displays "Enter Lock Start Time" (Block 1203) again. After "Enter Lock Start Time" (Block 1203) is displayed, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) again waits for the user to depress a key on the keypad (Block 1208) or until the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1206), as described above.

In the event that the key depressed is a channel number key, the number corresponding to the channel number key depressed is displayed on the Alphanumeric LCD (Block 1214) and stored in a temporary register within the microcontroller (Block 1216). The microcontroller then again waits for the user to depress another key (Block 1208) or until the 30- second timeout period expires (Block 1206). as described above. In the event that the ke depressed is the enter key, the microcontroller 12 (FIG.1) then checks whether a valid time has been entered (Block 1220) by comparing the time entered in the temporary registers with a range of valid times stored within the microcontroller 12. In the event it is determined that a valid time has not been entered, (Block 1220) the Alphanumeric LCD displays "Invalid Entry" (Block 1224) for a period followed by "Enter Lock Start Time" (Block 1203). The microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) then again waits for tiie user to depress a key on the keypad (Block 1208) or until the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1206), as described above.

In the event that it is determined diat a valid time has been entered (Block 1220), die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) will store the numbers entered as the "lock start time" in the EEPROM (Block 1222) at the location associated with the selected preset button or preset scan button. After the lock start time has been stored, die Alphanumeric LCD then displays "Enter Unlock Start Time" (Block 1230). The microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1 ) then initiates a 30-second timeout period (Block 1234). If the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1234) before a key is depressed (Block 1236), the stored lock start time is discarded and the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is again put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A). However, if a key is depressed (Block 1236) before the 30-second timeout period has expired (Block 1234), the 30-second timeout period is reset (Block 1238) and a determination is made as to whether the key depressed is a channel number key (Block 1240). In the event that the key depressed is not a channel number key, a determination is made as to whedier die key depressed is the enter key (Block 1242). In the event that the key depressed is not a channel number key or the enter key , the Alphanumeric LCD 100 displays "Invalid Entry" (Block 1252) for a period and then redisplays "Enter Unlock Time" (Block 1230). The microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) then again waits for the user to depress a key on the keypad (Block 1236) or until the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1234). as described above.

In the event that die key depressed is a channel number key (Block 1240), the number corresponding to the channel number key depressed is displayed on the Alphanumeric LCD (Block 1244) and stored in a temporary register (Block 1246) within the microcontroller. The microcontroller then waits for the user to depress another key (Block 1236) or until the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1234), as described above.

In the event that the key depressed is die enter key (Block 1242), the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) then checks whether a valid time has been entered (Block 1248) by comparing die time entered witii a range of valid times stored in the microcontroller 12. In the event it is determined that a valid time has not been entered (Block 1248). the Alphanumeric LCD will display "Invalid Entry" (Block 1252) for a period and dien redisplay "Enter Unlock Time" (Block 1230). The microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) will then again wait for the user to depress a key on the keypad (Block 1236) or until the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1234), as described above. In the event that it is determined that a valid time has been entered (Block 1248), the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) will store the numbers entered as the "unlock time" in memory (Block 1250).

In a preferred variation, after the "unlock time" has been stored (Block 1250), the Alphanumeric LCD displays "Enter Days of Week" at which point the user may depress a channel number key numbered zero through seven with one through seven corresponding to the seven days of the week and zero corresponding to all the days of the week. After "Enter Day of Week" is displayed, the microcontroller initiates (Block 1304) a 30-second timeout period. If the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1304) before a key is depressed (Block 1306), a determination is made as to whether at least one valid "day entry" has been made (Block 1318), i.e., whether a channel number key numbered zero through seven has been depressed. If it is determined that at least one valid day entry has not been made (Block 1318), the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) sets a default value to all days ofthe week (Block 1320) and the selected key(s) are locked-out for all days of the week at the designated times as determined by the lock start time and unlock time as entered above. The microcontroller 12 is then put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A).

If it is determined that at least one valid day entry has been made (Block 1318), the microcontroller 12 is then put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A).

In any event, subsequent depressions of the particular preset button or preset scan button will be ignored during operation ofthe remote control device during the lock-out time period on the day(s) of die week specified or on all days of the week if no days were specified.

However, if a key is depressed (Block 1306) before die 30-second timeout period has expired (Block 1304), die 30-second timeout is reset (Block 1307) and a deteπnination is made as to whether die key depressed is the power key 68 (FIG. 4) (Block 1308). In the event that the key depressed is not the power key 68 (Block 1308), a determination is then made as to whether the key depressed is one ofthe channel number keys labeled zero through seven (Block 1310). In the event that the key depressed is not the power key 68 (Block 1308). and not one ofthe channel number keys labeled zero dirough seven (Block 1310). die Alphanumeric LCD will display "Invalid Entry," (Block 1316) fora period and then redisplay "Enter Days of Week" (Block 1300). The microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) will dien again wait for tiie user to depress a key on the keypad (Block 1306) or until the 30- second timeout period expires (Block 1304). as described above.

In the event that the key depressed is a channel number key labeled zero dirough seven, the LCD Alphanumeric Display will display the number of the channel number key depressed (Block 1312) and the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1 ) will set a "lock day" in memory for the day ofthe week corresponding to the number key pressed (Block 1314). e.g.. one for Sunday, two for Monday, diree for Tuesday, etc. Once the lock day has been stored in memory, the microcontroller 12 tiien waits for the user to depress another key on the keypad (Block 1306) or until the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1304), as described above. Subsequent depressions of the particular preset buttons or preset scan buttons will be ignored during operation ofthe remote control device during the lock-out time period and day(s) of the week specified.

In the event that the key depressed is the power key 68 (Block 1308), the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) then checks whether at least one valid lock day entry has been made (Block 1318). If it is determined that at least one valid lock day entry has not been made (Block 1318), the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) sets tiie default value to all days of the week (Block 1320) and the particular preset buttons or preset scan buttons will be locked-out for all days ofthe week at the designated times, as determined by the lock start time and unlock start time as stored above. If it is determined that at least one valid day entry has been made (Block 1318), subsequent depressions of the particular preset buttons or preset scan buttons will be ignored during operation of the remote control device during the lock-out time period and lock day(s) specified. In any case, following die determination as to whether at least one valid lock day entry has been made (Block 1318), and possibly the setting of tiie default value (Block 1320), the microcontroller 12 is then put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A).

If the key depressed following the storing ofthe "password" (Block 1 146) is not the preset button or the preset scan button ( 1 156, FIG. 6C), not the power key (Block 1 170), and not the time lock key (Block 1200), the 30-second timeout period is restarted (Block 1 150), and the microcontroller waits until either the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1 150). or until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1 152). as above hi die event tiie key depressed (Block 1008. 1010. 1012, 1014. 1026), not a program "key" (Block 1044), not a controlled device selection key (Block 1096), and not a lock/unlock key (1002), a determination is made (Block 1400) as to whether the key depressed is die add key. In the event the key depressed is the add key (Block 1002). the microcontroller (FIG. 1) initiates (Block 1402, FIG. 6F) a 30-second timeout period. If the 30-second timeout period expires (Block 1402) before a key on the keypad on the keypad is depressed (Block 1404). the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is again put to sleep until a key on die keypad is depressed (Block 1006. FIG. 6A). However, if a key is depressed (Block 1404) before the 30-second timeout period has expired (Block 1402), the 30- second timeout period is reset (Block 1406) and a deteπnination is made (Block 1408) as to whedier the key depressed is a return key. In die event die key depressed is a return key (Block 1408). the two 8-bit codes, with or without the enter ke flag, for the channel number currently being viewed, i.e., die last channel number for which infrared codes were sent to the controlled device, are stored (Block 1410) in a memory location associated with the return key . Following the storing of the channel number, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A).

In the event the key depressed after the add key (Block 1400) is not the return key (Block 1408), a deteirnination is made (Block 1412) as to whether the key depressed is the temporary topic select key. If the key depressed is not the temporary topic select key (Block 1412), die microcontroller is put to sleep, again awaits depression of a key on the keypad (Block 1006, FIG. 6A). If a determination is made that the key depressed is the temporary topic select key (Block 1412), then the two 8-bit codes, with or without the enter key flag, are stored within the memory areas associated with the temporary topic select key at the next available memory location (Block 1416) as previously determined (Block 1414). A pointer indicating the next available memory location within the memory area associated with the temporary topic select key is then incremented (Block 1418). The microcontroller is then again put to sleep until a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 1006, FIG. 6A). In the event the key depressed (Block 1008. 1010, 1012, 1014) is not a direct transmission button (Block 1016), not a preset button (Block 1020). not a preset scan button (Block 1026), not a program "key" (Block 1044), not a controlled device selection key (Block 1096), not a lock/unlock key (Block 1102), and not an add key (Block 1400), a determination is made (Block 1440) as to whether the key depressed is the return key. In the event the key depressed is the return key (Block 1440), the channel number assigned to the return key is retrieved (Block 1414) from the EEPROM 14 (FIG. I) and the transmit preset routine is called (Block 1444) (See FIG. 8 and accompanying description thereof for a more complete explanation of the transmit preset routine). Basically, the transmit preset routine causes the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to retrieve information from the appropriate information set, corresponding to the retrieved channel number, from the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1). The information is used by the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to generate electrical signals, which in turn cause the infrared emitter 20 (FIG. 1) to generate coded infrared sequences. These coded infrared sequences cause the controlled device to tune to the channel number that has been assigned to the pre-labeled network key 50 (FIG. 2). Following transmission of the coded infrared sequences, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1 ) is again put to sleep until a key on d e keypad is depressed (Block 1006).

In the event the key depressed (Blocks 1008. 1010. 1012. 1014) is not a direct transmission button (Block 1016), not a preset button (Block 1020), not a preset scan button (Block 1026), not a program "key" (Block 1044). not a controlled device selection key (Block 1096), not a lock unlock key (Block 1 102). not an add key (Block 1400). and not a return key (Block 1440), a determination is made (Block 1460) as to whether the key depressed is a temporary topic select key. If a determination is made that the key depressed is a temporary topic select key (Block 1460), then a list of channels within the temporary channel group is retrieved (Block 1462) from the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1), and a transmit list routine is called (Block 1464) (See FIG. 8). Then, the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) is put back to sleep and awaits depression of another key on the keypad (Block 1006). If, following die determinations above as to whedier a direct transmission button was depressed (Block 1016, FIG. 6A), whether a preset button was depressed (Block 1020), whether a preset scan button was depressed (Block 1026). whether program "key" was depressed (Block 1044), whether a controlled device selection key was depressed (Block 1096), whether a lock/unlock key was depressed (Block 1102), whether an add key was depressed (Block 1400). whether a return key was depressed (Block 1440), and whether a temporary topic select key was depressed (Block 1460), a determination is made that a direct transmit button (Block 1016), a preset button (Block 0120), a preset scan button (Block 1026), a program key (Block 1044), a controlled device selection key (Bloc, 1096) the lock/unlock key (Block 1 102), the add key (Block 1400), the return key (Block 1440) and the temporary topic select key (Block 1460), were not depressed, the microprocessor is again put to sleep until a key on the key pad is depressed (Block 1006).

Referring next to FIG. 7. a flow diagram is shown of a transmit routine used when the transmission of a coded infrared signal is called for by the control program of FIG. 6 (see Block 1018), or by the transmit preset routine of FIG. 8 (see Block 1008). described below. When the transmit routine is called by the control program (Block 2000). information from the information set for the particular controlled device relating to the coded infrared sequence to be transmitted is retrieved (Block 2002) from the appropriate information set within the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1). In response to retrieval of such information, electrical signals are generated (Block 2004) within the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) in response to which the infrared emitter 20 (FIG. 1) emits the desired coded infrared sequence. A determination is then made as to whether the key in response to which the coded infrared sequence is being transmitted is still being depressed (Block 2006), and if it is (Block 2006), die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1 ) continues to generate the electrical signals in response to which the coded infrared sequence is generated (Block 2004). When the key ceases to be depressed (Block 2006), the transmit routine returns control (Block 2008) to the control program of FIG. 6 or to the transmit preset routine of FIG. 8. as appropriate

Referring next to FIG. 8. a flow diagram is shown of a transmit preset routine that is called by die control routine of FIG. 6 and by a transmit list routine of FIG. 9. Upon being called (Block 3000) the transmit preset routine retrieves (Block 3002) die two 8-bit code numbers associated with the preset button in response to which the preset routine has been called from the EEPROM 14 (FIG 1) The two 8-bit code numbers are separated (Block 3004) into constituent digits and the enter key flag, if the enter key flag is set within one of the two 8-bit code numbers (Block 3004), I e., if required by the controlled device being controlled The digits retrieved from the 8-bιt coded numbers are two or three digits of a channel number to be transmitted to the controlled device If a third number is also retrieved, it is transmitted in a similar manner The first number is retneved (Block 3006), electrical signals are generated by the microcontroller 12 (FIG 1), and an appropnate coded infrared sequence is transmitted by the infrared emitter 20 (FIG 1 ) to the controlled device 26 (FIG 1) in accordance with the transmit routine of FIG 7 (Block 3008) Next, the second number is retrieved (Block 3010) and transmitted (Block 3012) using the transmit routine If a third number is also retneved, it is transmitted in a similar manner If the enter key flag is set within one or more of die 8-bit code numbers (Block 3014), then information to be transmitted in response to die enter key is retneved from the information set for tiie controlled device (Block 3016) and is then transmitted usmg d e transmit routine of FIG 7 (Block 3018) Following the transmission of the coded infrared sequence for the enter key, or if no enter key is required by the controlled device, control is returned to the control routine of FIG 6 (Block 3020)

Referring to FIG. 9, a flow diagram is shown of a transmit list routine that is called by d e control routine of FIG 6 Initially, the channel up/down keys 56, 58 are associated (Block 4030) with a software routine for directing the remote control device to transmit coded infrared sequences for sequentially tuning die controlled device to a next or a previous channel number within the current channel group This allows the user to step through the channels of a channel group in a forward or reverse direction using the channel up/down key s This forward or reverse scanning is achieved by incrementing or decrementing a list pointer within the current channel group Next, the list pointer is retrieved (Block 4031) from the EEPROM 14 (FIG 1) The list pointer points to a channel number within the retrieved channel group to be selected next Information for the channel number to which the list pointer points is then retrieved (Block 4032) from the EEPROM 14 (FIG 1), and die transmit preset routine of FIG 8 is called (Block 4034) In response to the transmit preset routine, electπcal signals are generated by the microcontroller 12 (FIG 1) These electπcal signals cause the infrared emitter 20 (FIG 1 ) to emit coded infrared sequences that instruct the controlled device 26 (FIG 1) to tune (Block 4034) to the channel number pointed to in the channel group by the list pointer

Following a two and one-half second delay (Block 4036). a determination is made as to whedier the preset scan button is still being depressed (Block 4038) If the preset scan button is not being depressed (Block 4038), a deteπnination is made (Block 4039) as to whether the channel - j? - down key is being depressed. If the channel down key is not being depressed, control is returned to the control program of FIG. 6.

If the preset scan button is still being depressed (Block 4038). the list pointer is incremented to die next channel number in the channel group (Block 4040), and information needed by die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to generate electrical signals for the next channel number is retrieved (Block 4042) from the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1 ). If the channel down key is being depressed (Block 4039), the list pointer is decremented to the previous channel number in the channel group (Block 4043). and information needed by die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) to generate electrical signals for the previous channel number is retrieved (Block 4042) from the EEPROM 14 (FIG. 1). In response to the retrieval of tiie infonnation (either for the next channel number or the previous channel number), the transmit preset routine is again called (Block 4034) and the microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) generates the electrical signals, which cause the infrared emitter 20 (FIG. 1) to emit a coded infrared sequence instructing die controlled device 26 (FIG. 1 ) to tune to the channel number indicated by die list pointer. Following generation ofthe electrical signals and the coded infrared sequence, die microcontroller 12 (FIG. 1) again waits for two and one-half seconds (Block 4036) and determines whether the preset scan button continues to be depressed (Block 4038) or the channel down key has been depressed (Block 4039), as described above. If the preset scan button and the channel down key are not being depressed, the control is returned (Block 4050) to the control program of FIG. 6.

Referring next to FIG. 10. a flow diagram is shown of the steps traversed in a select personal list routine that is called by the control program of FIG. 6. Initially, a 3-second timeout period is initiated (Block 5000). If the 3-second timeout period expires (Block 5002) before a key is depressed (Block 5004). control is returned (Block 5006) to the control program of FIG. 6. If a key is depressed (Block 5004), however, before the 3-second timeout has expired (Block 5002) a determination is made as to whether a channel number key . having a magnitude of 1-9 has been depressed (Block 5008). If a channel number key having a magnitude of 1 -9 has not been depressed, the "personal surf number is reset to 1 (Block 5010). and control is returned (Block 5006) to the control routine of FIG. 6.

If, however, a channel number key having a magnitude of 1-9 is depressed (Block 5008), the magnitude of such channel number key is stored within the EEPROM (Block 5012). and the 3-second timeout period is reset (Block 5014). If the 3-second timeout period expires (Block 5016) before a key on the keypad is depressed (Block 5018). the "personal surf number is reset to 1 (Block 5010) and control is returned (Block 5006) to the control routine of FIG. 6.

If, however, a key is depressed (Block 5018) before the 3-second timeout period expires (Block 5016). a deteπnination is made (Block 5020) as to whether the "personal surf key has been depressed. If die personal surf key was not the key depressed (Block 5020), the "personal surf number is reset to 1 (Block 5010), and control is returned (Block 5006) to the control routine of FIG. 6. If, however, die key depressed was the personal surf key (Block 5020), a personal channel group corresponding to the channel number key . 1-9. is selected (Block 5022) and control is returned (Block 5024) to the control routine of FIG. 6.

Referring next to FIG. 1 1 , a block diagram is shown illustrating a variation ofthe remote control device 10 of the present embodiment. The remote control device 10 of FIG. 1 1 has a microcontroller 12 coupled to an electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) 14, an infrared emitter 20. a keypad matrix 22. a frequency detector 34, and an audio signal generator 36, coupled to the frequenc detector 34.

This remote control device 10 allows the user to locate it by producing an audio signal to guide the user to its location. Advantageously, this allows the user to locate the remote control device 10 when he/she has misplaced it. The frequency detector 34 detects sounds preferably in an audio frequency range (e.g., about 20 Hz to about 30 kHz) responsive to either a whistle, a clap ofthe hands, or similar noise. It may, however in some embodiments, be advantageous to instead or in addition detect sounds outside the audio frequency range, e.g., in ultrasonic or infrasonic ranges. When a user desires to locate the remote control device 10 (FIG. 1 1 ). he or she can make a clapping noise or a whistle noise, and the frequency detector 34 will detect the soundwave produced by the user. The frequency detector 34 is a circuit that includes a bandpass filter to filter out any signals not within a prescribed frequency range, which is preferably the audio frequency range selected to contain frequencies generated by, for example, clapping and/or whistling. The frequency detector 34 also includes a measuring circuit which measures signals output from the bandpass filter and compares the voltage levels of these signals to a reference level. If the voltage level ofthe measured signals is greater than the reference level, the frequency detector 34 produces a signal that instructs the audio signal generator 36 to generate an audio locator signal. The audio signal generator is a custom designed circuit that generates certain sounds, e.g., an audible "beep" tone, using a power amplifier and a Piezo element, such as is well known in the art. In response to the audio locator signal, which is preferably the audible "beep" tone, the user is guided to the location ofthe remote control device. Referring next to FIG. 12, an exemplary perspective view is shown of a housing 106 useable with the remote control devices described herein. Shown are the pre-labeled network keys 50, the channel group keys 52. the programming keys 64. and the channel number keys 54. In the embodiment shown, all of the keys protrude from a top surface of the housing, which is approximately 20.8 cm long. 8.64 cm wide, and 2.13 cm thick. As can be seen, a radius curve 108 is molded into a bottom surface ofthe housing 106. The radius curve represents a cavity having a depth of approximately 0.66 cm at its deepest point. The shape of such cavity is that of a portion of a side of a cylinder having a radius of about 17.8 cm. with the central axis of the cylinder oriented transverse to die lengtii ofthe housing 106. FIG. 13 shows the housing 106, with the concavity 108, from a side view.

Advantageously, the radius curve can be used to assist the user of die remote control device in balancing the remote control device on his her knee, on die arm of a couch or the like. Thus, the radius curve enhances the overall functionality of the embodiments described herein, or can be employed in heretofore known remote control devices in order to provide its advantageous features thereto.

While the invention herein disclosed has been described by means of specific embodiments and applications thereof, numerous modifications and variations could be made thereto by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention set forth in the claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A remote control device for controlling a television comprising: an entry pad including a temporary topic select key. a channel selection key, and a storage key; a memory for storing a first channel of a temporary topic group, and for storing a second channel ofthe temporary topic group; a transmitter for transmitting a first cliannel select signal indicative of a first scanned channel in response to a first actuation of the channel select key. and for transmitting a second channel select signal indicative of a second scanned channel in response to a second actuation ofthe channel select key; and a processor including means for communicating the first scanned channel to the memory for storage as the first channel ofthe temporary topic group in response to a first actuation ofthe storage key, means for communicating the second scanned channel to the memory for storage as the second channel ofthe temporary topic group in response to a second actuation ofthe storage key, means for retrieving the first channel of tiie channel group from the memory in response to a first actuation ofthe channel group key, and means for retrieving the second channel ofthe channel group from the memory in response to a second actuation ofthe channel group key; the transmitter including means for transmitting the first channel select signal indicative of the first channel of the temporary topic group in response to the retrieval of the first channel ofthe temporary topic group from tiie memory and for transmitting the second channel select signal indicative ofthe second cliannel ofthe temporary topic group in response to the retrieval of die second channel ofthe temporary topic group from the memory .

2. A remote control device for controlling a television comprising: an entry pad including a recall key, a channel selection key, and a storage key; a memory for storing a channel number associated with the recall key; a transmitter for transmitting a channel select signal indicative ofthe scanned channel number in response to an actuation ofthe channel selection key; and a processor including means for communicating the scanned channel to the memory for storage as tiie channel associated with the recall key in response to an actuation of the storage key, and means for retrieving the channel number associated with the recall key from the memory in response to an actuation ofthe recall key; and the transmitter including means for transmitting the channel select signal indicative ofthe channel associated with the recall key in response to the retrieval of the channel associated with the recall key from the memory.

3. A remote control for controlling an electronic device comprising: an entry pad including a network selection key comprising a descriptive character indicative of a television network; a memory including means for storing a channel number associated with the network selection key; a processor including means for retrieving the channel number from the memory in response to an actuation ofthe network selection key; and a transmitter for transmitting a channel select signal indicative ofthe channel number in response to the retrieval ofthe channel number from the memory.

4. The remote control of Claim 3 further comprising: said entry pad including another network selection key comprising anodier descriptive character indicative of another television network; said memory including means for storing another channel number associated with the other network selection key; said processor including means for retrieving the other channel number from said memory in response to an actuation of the other network selection key; and said transmitter for transmitting a channel select signal indicative ofthe other channel number in response to the retrieval of the other channel number from the memory.

5. The remote control of Claim 1 1 wherein said transmitter includes an infrared transmitter.

6. A remote control for controlling an electronic device comprising: an entry pad including a key; a processor including means for generating electrical signals in response to an actuation of the key, the processor being coupled to the keypad; a transmitter for transmitting a transmit signal in response to the electrical signals, the transmitter being coupled to the processor; a battery power supply coupled to the processor; a housing including a top surface through which the entry pad is accessible, and a bottom surface opposing the top surface, the bottom surface including an arcuate cavity therein, the housing enclosing the processor.

7. A remote control for controlling an electronic device comprising. an entry pad including a key ; a processor including means for generating electrical signals in response to an actuation of the key, the processor being coupled to the keypad; a transmitter for transmitting a transmit signal in response to the electrical signals, the transmitter being coupled to the processor; a battery power supply coupled to the processor; a housing including a top surface through which the entry pad is accessible, and a bottom surface opposing the top surface, the bottom surface including a cavity therein that has a depth at its deepest point of at least 0.5 centimeters, the housing enclosing the processor.

8. The remote control of Claim 7 wherein said cavity has a shape of a portion of a side of a cylinder.

9. The remote control device of Claim 8 wherein said cylinder has a diameter of at least 3 inches.

10. The remote control device of Claim 8 wherein said cylinder has a diameter of at least 6 inches.