WO2004018060A2 - Ameliorations d'un systeme de jeux tv interactifs - Google Patents

Ameliorations d'un systeme de jeux tv interactifs Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2004018060A2
WO2004018060A2 PCT/GB2003/003660 GB0303660W WO2004018060A2 WO 2004018060 A2 WO2004018060 A2 WO 2004018060A2 GB 0303660 W GB0303660 W GB 0303660W WO 2004018060 A2 WO2004018060 A2 WO 2004018060A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
games
game
data
video
server
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2003/003660
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2004018060A3 (fr
Inventor
Dean Delamont
Original Assignee
Lime Studios Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GBGB0219509.7A external-priority patent/GB0219509D0/en
Application filed by Lime Studios Limited filed Critical Lime Studios Limited
Priority to AU2003259338A priority Critical patent/AU2003259338A1/en
Publication of WO2004018060A2 publication Critical patent/WO2004018060A2/fr
Publication of WO2004018060A3 publication Critical patent/WO2004018060A3/fr

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Classifications

    • A63F13/12—
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/30—Interconnection arrangements between game servers and game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game servers
    • A63F13/33—Interconnection arrangements between game servers and game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game servers using wide area network [WAN] connections
    • A63F13/338—Interconnection arrangements between game servers and game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game servers using wide area network [WAN] connections using television networks
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/30—Interconnection arrangements between game servers and game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game servers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/30—Interconnection arrangements between game servers and game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game devices; Interconnection arrangements between game servers
    • A63F13/35—Details of game servers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/40—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterised by details of platform network
    • A63F2300/409—Data transfer via television network

Definitions

  • the invention described within the application relates to a video games system for digital Satellite, Cable and Terrestrial TV subscribers equipped with a Games Consoles, PC or Set Top Box (STB).
  • this invention relates to a video games system for subscribers with the means for receiving Cable, Satellite or Terrestrial TV programs that combines digital transmission channels (DTC), video streaming and server technology that provides a scalable and interactive delivery of games to Games Consoles, STBs and PCs.
  • DTC digital transmission channels
  • An objective of the present invention is to provide an interactive TV games system that allows TV viewers equipped with a games console, PC or STB to access 32-bit or higher games at anytime from a DTC without the need for an internet connection, CD, DVD or hard disc.
  • Gaming on Games Consoles and PCs is constrained by many factors including the hardware capabilities and legacy systems that dramatically reduce the level of interactivity and accessibility to games.
  • games can be acquired through downloading a game from the Internet or purchasing a CD or DVD from a retailer.
  • Broadband presents a new opportunity in delivery of games through the Internet at high speed, however there are a number of logistical issues with current and future broadband offerings including scalability and costs.
  • Current broadband systems require every user to have an individual broadband connection, which means that with the present solutions every user would each require a 3Mb/s broadband connection to the home. This is disadvantageous.
  • An objective of the present invention is to provide a video games distribution solution for Games Consoles and PCs based on existing cable, satellite and terrestrial TV operator architectures, which would enable users to access 3D and 2D games through a TV channel. This is achieved by utilising the out-band forward data channel (FDC) and in-band Forward Path bandwidth capacity of a digital transmission channel (DTC) to provide game data to a Games Console, PC or Set Top Box (STB).
  • FDC out-band forward data channel
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • a further objective of the present invention is to provide a multi-platform games distribution system for games consoles and PCs which enables users to access games directly through a TV channel by utilising the out-of-band FDC and in-band forward path bandwidth capacity of a digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • the games distribution system aims to provide a significant improvement over proprietary and constrained broadband Internet systems.
  • a scalable, high-performance server system optimised for the delivery of games and based on proven real-time technology the games distribution system aims to provide a significant improvement over proprietary and constrained broadband Internet systems.
  • An objective of the present invention is to provide new enhanced TV services to Games Console, PC users that enhances the gaming experience and provides unique user interfaces that are accessible from a DTC for accessing single player and multi-player networked games.
  • a yet further objective of the present invention is to integrate the use of broadcast video provided over an in-band DTC that may be utilised within a game to enhance the graphic quality of the game.
  • a yet further objective of the present invention is to integrate the use of TV channels and programs with games to provide a unique experience and delivery of games that is no longer constrained by accessibility and which enhances the gaming experience.
  • a further objective of the present invention is to enhance gaming experience on a STB, Games Console and PC by providing remote co processing and assistance graphic processing that enables more complex 3D graphics than supported by a STB, Games Console or PC to be rendered within a game. This is advantageous.
  • the games system consists of a software architecture, which includes native applications that reside on Games Servers, middleware applications that reside on Middleware and Proxy Servers and resident applications that reside on Games Consoles, PCs and STB.
  • the software architecture described facilitates the means of providing game data over a DTC or FDC by a digital Satellite, Terrestrial or Cable TV provider.
  • the software architecture also provides the means enabling the Games System to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of Cable, Terrestrial and Satellite TV providers as will be described.
  • a number of devices which may be used to access data of games provided by the Games Server over the Cable, Terrestrial or Satellite transmissions.
  • These devices may include a Set top Box (STB), a Personnel Computer (PC) or a Game Console.
  • STB Set top Box
  • PC Personnel Computer
  • Game Console a Game Console
  • a PC typically consists of a Central Processor Unit, RAM, DRAM, SDRAM, EEPROM, DVD Drive, Graphics Accelerator Card, Hard Disc, PS2 ports, Modem/receiver, MPEG decoder and an Operating System (O/S).
  • a STB typically consists of a Central Processor Unit, RAM, Flash memory, EEPROM, Graphics Processor, USB ports, Modem/receiver, MPEG decoder and an Operating System (O/S).
  • a Games Console typically consists of a Central Processor Unit, RAM, DRAM, SDRAM, EEPROM, DVD Drive, Graphics Accelerator Card, USB ports, Modem/receiver, MPEG-2 decoder and an Operating System (O/S).
  • a Modem within the subscribers Games Console, PC or STB provides the interactive TCP/IP transport necessary to transmit and receive data from the TV operators network.
  • the modem may be a Cable modem, a Satellite Modem or a Terrestrial modem depending on the TV provider.
  • a cable modem may be interfaced with the TV network via two-way hybrid fiber optic cable, whereas a Satellite modem or terrestrial modem are interfaced via a dial-up interface over DSL/POTs cables.
  • the modem may form part of a receiver that may be based on Multimedia Cable Network Systems (MCNS) on Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) specifications.
  • MCNS Multimedia Cable Network Systems
  • DVD Digital Video Broadcasting
  • the subscribers STB, Games Console or PC may be interfaced with a Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) Receiver Dish or UHFA HF Terrestrial Antenna from which data transmitted by the Games Server may be retrieved as will be described.
  • DBS Direct Broadcast Satellite
  • Modems/receivers models may be used to interface the subscribers STB, Games Console or PC with the TV network provider including those developed by PACE Microsystems, Broadcom or Motorola.
  • the Game System is operable to work with various cable modem specifications for data communication over cable, satellite and terrestrial TV including those used by NTL and Telewest such as Multimedia Cable Network System (MCNS) a US standard.
  • MCNS Multimedia Cable Network System
  • MCNS Multimedia Cable Network System
  • software may be provided on the STB, Games Console or PC that enables the device to be interfaced with MCNS or DVB based Cable modems.
  • Transcoding servers are operable to convert MCNS and DVB data streams to IP based packets, which are then transmitted to Game Server.
  • Games console or PC it is possible to reconfigure the resident operating system and native application software with software downloaded via an in-band DTC, out-of-band FDC.
  • software may be provided via a CD/DVD or via a dial-up interface.
  • various different protocol specifications may be used to facilitate the transmission of data within a Forward Data Channel (FDC), Reverse Data Channel (RDC) or Digital Transmission Channel (DTC) for providing games on Cable TV.
  • FDC Forward Data Channel
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • DTC Digital Transmission Channel
  • DVB-C may include DVB-C, MCNS, DVB-RCCL, IEEE 802.14 or DOCSIS.
  • Digital Video Broadcasting Cable (DVB-C) is a European standard adopted by many European and UK Cable TV operators to provide interactivity and data to subscribers set top boxes.
  • Return Channel For Cable and LMDS (DVB-RCCL) is a variant of the European standard adopted by many European and UK Cable TV operators to provide interactive return path used by subscribers set top boxes to transmit data and requests upstream to a server.
  • Multimedia Cable Network System is a US protocol standard adopted by many Cable TV operators to provide interactivity and data to subscribers set top boxes.
  • Data- Over-Cable Service Interface Specification DOCSIS
  • European standard adopted by many European and UK Cable TV operators to provide data over fiber to subscribers set top boxes.
  • DBS Direct broadcast satellite
  • subscribers who use a Direct broadcast satellite may be provided with a DVB-S Satellite modem which is operable to interface a STB, Games Console or PC to a 18-inch direct satellite receiver dish.
  • the DVB-S modem may be built in to STB or connected via a USB port.
  • the DVB-S receiver/modem may also be connected to a Games Console via a type III PCMCIA Port or via a USB or Firewire port.
  • the games console type III PCMCIA Interface provides an interface between the satellite modem and the mini dish.
  • a DVB-S receiver/modem may be connected to a PC via a PCI Port or via a USB or Firewire port.
  • the PCs PCI Port provides an interface between the DVB-S satellite modem and the satellite receiver dish.
  • the Satellite modem may also be interfaced via a dial-up interface to the Satellite TV provides ADSL network.
  • the satellite-modem DVB-S interface is operable to receive digital signals from a GEO satellite and isolate channels containing game data. It converts the digital signal to an analogue format, and checks for errors. In this way game data may be directly broadcast to subscribers Games Consoles, STB or PC via a wide swath by geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites.
  • GEO geostationary orbit
  • data provided by the Games Server may be transmitted via ground based uplinks as a digitised signal to a GEO Satellite which is operable to beam the signals across a wide swath which may be received by a subscribers 18-inch satellite dish. This signal may then be feed via a coax cable to a satellite modem within a Games Console.
  • the CPU is operable to buffer the data into a game console's dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and the Game is rendered using the random access memory (RAM).
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • satellite bands may be used when transmitting data over a satellite including C-Band, Ka-Band and Ku-Band which may provide data rates of up to 45 Mbps per signal. This high-speed data rate is facilitated through a mini dish and a satellite modem.
  • other transmission bands may be used to transmit data via a GEO Satellite to a subscribers Games Console, PC or STB including, S-Band, L-Band, V-Band, VHF-Band, UHF-Band and X-Band.
  • Satellite DVB-S Digital Video Broadcasting Satellite
  • the Games System may be used by the Games System to facilitate the transmission of data by a Satellite Modulator over FDC. Satellite Modems within users Games Console, PC or STB which may also use the DVB-Satellite Return Channel (DVB-RCS) protocol specification to transmit data over DSL to the Hub thereby providing the reverse data channel (RDC).
  • DVD-RCS DVB-Satellite Return Channel
  • DVB-T Digital Video Broadcasting Terrestrial
  • DVD-RCT Digital Video Broadcasting Terrestrial
  • the DVB-Terrestrial Return Channel (DVB-RCT) protocol specification may also be utilised by a dial up modem to transmit data over DSL to Hub. In this way a RDC may be initiated from a users Games Console, PC or STB to the Hub.
  • the Game Servers consists of rack-mountable computer chassis features a passive backplane, slots for peripheral and hot swappable CPU modules, RAM, DRAM, SDRAM, VNRAM, multiple network interface input/outputs (I/O), V.90 modem, DVB-C/MCSN Cable modem and a high-capacity, high-bandwidth, integrated storage subsystem.
  • the Games Servers are optimised for scalability and fault tolerance that is particularly required within the broadcast environment for an acceptable quality of service. It will be appreciated that CPUs may be provided by number of manufactures including IBM, Motorola or Intel.
  • the Games Server network interfaces may be based on a Gigabyte System Network (GSN) to Fiber Channel (FC) bridge suitable for both Cable, Satellite and Terrestrial TV networks.
  • GSN Gigabyte System Network
  • FC Fiber Channel
  • the Games Servers are coupled with disk arrays capable of storing and retrieving up to a trillion bytes per second with a data output capable of exceeding a billions of bytes per second of games data as will be described. This is advantageous.
  • Game Servers are operable to connect through multiple network interface input/outputs (I/O) to a TV network backbone which can provide various speeds of gigabytes per second between a number of industry standard communication fabrics such as Gigabit Ethernet and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM). This is advantageous.
  • I/O network interface input/outputs
  • ATM Asynchronous Transfer Mode
  • Game Servers may be configured to meet specific network connectivity requirements.
  • Connectivity with HFC cable, DSL, high-bandwidth fiber trunk, and/or IP-based networks may be provided by a wide variety of network interface controllers including integrated QAM 64 and QAM 256 modulators with or without integrated frequency upconverters, DVB-ASI, ATM/OC3c, 10/100BaseT, and Gigabit Ethernet.
  • the Games System is designed to support multiple network connectivity options including hybrid fiber coax (HFC) cable, digital subscriber line (DSL), high-bandwidth fiber trunks, and IP-based networks as previously described in GB 0203790.1 , thereby supporting present TV operators installed network transports without the requirement for costly investment transport overhauls.
  • HFC hybrid fiber coax
  • DSL digital subscriber line
  • IP-based networks IP-based networks as previously described in GB 0203790.1 , thereby supporting present TV operators installed network transports without the requirement for costly investment transport overhauls.
  • the Game Servers are operable to be configured to meet specific performance requirements of cable, satellite or terrestrial TV operator Head-Ends and networks. This is advantageous.
  • the storage subsystem is based on multiple hard discs, Disk Arrays, Optical Disc Drives, DVD Drives and hot swappable removable disk drives that provide terabyte capacity.
  • data streams that are provided by Games Server to subscriber may be constructed from data that may be stored on QAM content servers, digital networks, satellite down/up links, Fast Ethernet, video decoders, and VHF/UHF signals.
  • video and audio streams that are provided by Games Server 12 to subscribers may be constructed from data that may be stored on disk drives, digital networks, satellite down/up links, Fast Ethernet, video decoders, and VHF/UHF signals.
  • the Games Server software is run on a Windows NT, Sun Solaris or Unix operating system.
  • Each Games Server node is Windows NT, Sun Solaris or Unix platform-certified.
  • the Windows NT operating system includes support for such standard devices as the Video Graphics Adapter (VGA), modem, Ethernet, and disk controllers.
  • Games Server software may be run on any number of operating systems including those developed specifically the Sony PS2, Nintendo Gamecube, X-box or Sega Dreamcast systems that may be implemented within Games Server software architecture.
  • operating systems including those developed specifically the Sony PS2, Nintendo Gamecube, X-box or Sega Dreamcast systems that may be implemented within Games Server software architecture.
  • each operating system has a varied C++ development compatibility.
  • the Games Server Software could be specifically developed for either of the above mentioned operating systems, thereby enabling the integration of PS2, Nintendo Gamecube, Dreamcast or X-box graphics hardware in the Games Servers hardware architecture. This is advantageous.
  • a user may trigger a game to download directly relating to video on DTC or ATC to their Games Console, PC or STB.
  • a user may be watching a video preview of a game on channel 288 on their cable TV during which they are prompted to download a game on to their Games Console by a red icon in screen. If the user responds by pressing the red button then a signal is transmitted to STB that in turn transmits signal for authentication.
  • STB switch channels to correct program source for the game and the game is transmitted to the games console via a DTC.
  • the user may have responded to the video preview of a game by pressing a button on their games pad. This is advantageous.
  • users may access and download games through a user interface provided over a TV channel.
  • This is achieved through transmitting HTML/Java data in the DTC, in-band Forward Path, or an out-of- band forward data channel (FDC) to a subscribers STB, Games Console or PC.
  • FDC out-of- band forward data channel
  • the subscribers STB, Games Console or PC is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML and Java objects provided by a Middleware or Proxy Server.
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of a STB, PC or Games Console.
  • Preferably video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML, Jpeg and GIF graphics on video received within an out-of-band or in-band signal. In this way the viewer may visually select a game by highlighting a game of their choice using a remote control or games pad.
  • the subscriber is then able through using the remote control or games pad to navigate user interface by manipulating the buttons provided.
  • the user is able to select a game using their remote or games pad, which triggers a receiver in STB, Games Console or PC to switch channels to correct Program Identity (PID) relating to game selected.
  • PID Program Identity
  • a resident application is operable retrieve the data from a FDC or DTC on to the memory of a STB, Games Console or PC from which the game may be rendered.
  • a game is typically rendered with the RAM of a STB, Games Console or PC. This is advantageous.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • game data required by a subscriber may be stored on the Games server and transmitted continuously to all subscribers tuned into a specific channel or on demand to specific user via a FDC.
  • games maybe transmitted continuously over a DTC from which games maybe downloaded onto a games console, PC or STB.
  • the advantage of transmitting the game data continuously is that only one copy is needed on a single server. This however does not limit the number users who access the game data, as the games are download via a digital transmission channel (DTC). Thereby enabling hundreds of thousands if not millions of users equipped with a Games Console, PC or STB equipped with suitable receiver to access a game at anytime and without the need for broadband or ADSL connection. This is advantageous.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • a channel is a separate incoming QAM signal or ATC source that a user can select through an RF tuner.
  • a channel has a defined bandwidth of 6 to 8MHz that may be utilised to provide data to all users Games Console, PC or STB that a tuned into channel.
  • a channel will exist within a range of 50-850MHz on a cable, satellite or terrestrial television network.
  • the Games Server may be configured to broadcast game data to multiple users over the Internet using a technique referred to as multicasting, however the recipient would then require a broadband or ADSL connection.
  • the Game Server maybe interfaced with the QPSK Modulator at the Headend or Hub, whereby games maybe transmitted continuously or on demand over a Forward Data Channel (FDC) from which games maybe downloaded onto a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • FDC Forward Data Channel
  • This process of selecting and downloading a game from a FDC may be initiated by a request for game that may formed by the Game Server or a number of alternative user devices, including STB, Games Console or PC. Requests formed by a STB, Games Console or PC may be provided to Games Server via the Reverse Data Channel (RDC).
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • a Cable Modem, Satellite Modem or Terrestrial Modem using QPSK modulation provides the RDC. In this way requests may be transmitted upstream to the Game Server.
  • a request may be initiated through a resident application on a STB, PC or Games Console for a specific game that has been provided by a resident application relating to a video preview of a game on a DTC.
  • a Specific Channel ID, Service ID is used to define the game requested and Packet ID within an MPEG-2 Transport stream or a URL provided by the Game Server.
  • the request may be initiated by the Game Server whereby game data is retrieved from a disk array and provided within an out-of-band FDC continuously thereby not requiring a request to constructed by a resident application on a STB, Games Console or PC to initiate the download.
  • Games Console or PC requests a game data is subsequently retrieved from either an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal and loaded into the memory on the device in order for the game to be realised.
  • a STB might cache the Game data into the flash memory or DRAM from which the Game is then rendered and displayed on the TV screen.
  • a Games Console might cache the Game data into the Random Access Memory (RAM) from which the Game is then rendered and displayed on the TV screen.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the method of providing games consists of retrieving game data from the Games Servers Storage Subsystem which is then output through a network interface to an MPEG encoder.
  • the MPEG encoder is operable to encode the data into MPEG 2 transport streams which may be combined with video and audio streams which are then multiplexed into a single in-band Digital Transmission Channel DTC or an out-of-band Forward Data Channel and provided as a constant data bit stream.
  • a DTC is an out-of-band 256 QAM Waveform that is modulated by a QAM Modulator typically at bandwidth of 6MHz providing a total throughput of 36.5Mbps.
  • the term in- band signals refer to use of transmission channels that are typically used to provide HDTV or digitally encoded signals.
  • a FDC is an out-of-band QPSK Waveform that is modulated by a QPSK Modulator typically at bandwidth of 1 MHz providing a total throughput of 6Mbps.
  • the term out-of- band signals refer to use of non-transmission channels that are not used to provide HDTV or digitally encoded signals due to lower capacity.
  • Data provided by the Games Server within the DTC may be stored on multiple hard discs, Disk Arrays, Optical Disc Drives, DVD Drives and hot swappable removable disk.
  • data provided by Games Server 12 within DTC may be retrieved from data that may be stored on QAM content servers, digital networks, satellite down/up links, Fast Ethernet, video decoders, and VHF/UHF signals.
  • Video and audio streams that are provided by Games Server 12 to subscribers may be constructed from data that may be stored on disk drives, digital networks, satellite down/up links, Fast Ethernet, video decoders, and VHF/UHF signals.
  • a native application coded in C or C++ is operable to retrieve data from the Game Server sub storage system which is output directly to an MPEG encoder that is operable to encode the data into MPEG-2 Streams. These MPEG Streams may then be transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band signal to subscribers STB's, Games Consoles or PCs. As previously described an application resident on the subscribers STBs, PCs or Games Consoles is operable to interpret the data and render a game that is realised within the RAM.
  • the Game Server may also be directly interfaced with the QAM modulator and QPSK modulator through GSN or Fiber based I/O Network interfaces as previously described.
  • the Games System is designed to support variable channelisation and supports 4, 16, 32, 64, 128 and 256-QAM. These modulations provide various different bit rates, which may be used to support various Cable, Terrestrial or Satellite TV operator's bandwidth and spectrum availability.
  • the Games Server may be configured to provide an output bit rate of 25 Mbps suitable for transmitting data on a single 6MHz (DOCIS) in-band 64-QAM Waveform.
  • the Games Server may be configured to output 55.6 Mbps suitable for transmitting data on a single 8Mhz (Euro-DOCIS) in-band 256-QAM Waveform. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Server may also be configured to provide an output bit rate of 45Mbps suitable for transmitting data on 11Ghz (DBS) Ka- band or Ku-Band Signal as will be described.
  • Data, audio and video output from the Games Server is digitally encoded by an MPEG encoder and provided as a constant bit rate data, audio and video streams which are multiplexed and modulated into in-band QAM signal or out-of-band QPSK signal and transmitted to subscribers STBs, Games Consoles or PCs.
  • This eliminates the overhead of context switches and data copies that standard user-mode interfaces require. In addition this lowers CPU utilisation and I/O latency, providing an environment suited to high-performance, constant bit rate applications.
  • Software Application developed for the Games Server operating system handles the transfer of video, audio and data objects.
  • the Games Server may contain several MPEG video pumps that are operable to provide an aggregate MPEG-2 transport stream throughput of over 800 MB/s per second per encoder. This eliminates the need to interface the Games Server with MPEG encoder.
  • MPEG-2 data transport streams may be aggregated into one 256-QAM Digital Transmission channel, which may be provided continuously over a Broadcast File System (BFS).
  • BFS Broadcast File System
  • this may be scaled to suit the TV operator's requirements whereby up to 200 or more MPEG-2 transport streams each containing a different game may be provided continuously as date stream over multiple transmission paths including in-band QAM or out-of-band QPSK signals.
  • the transmission path used to transmit game data to subscribers STB, Games Console or PC could include a multiple of communication paths including Ka-band, Ku-Band, C- band, L-band, N-band satellite links or UHF/VHF terrestrial signals. This is advantageous.
  • game data that is stored on the Game Server Storage Subsystem may be transmitted over a variety of links to a users Games Console, PC or STB including Radio Frequency Links (UHF/VHF), Digital Broadcast Satellite Links, Cable TV Networks Transmissions, Standard Terrestrial Communication Links (PDH, SDH), Microwave Line of Sight (LoS) Links (wireless), Digital Subscriber Links (ADSL family) and Packet / Cell Links (ATM, IP, IPv6, Ethernet).
  • Radio Frequency Links UHF/VHF
  • Digital Broadcast Satellite Links Digital Broadcast Satellite Links
  • Cable TV Networks Transmissions
  • Standard Terrestrial Communication Links PDH, SDH
  • Microwave Line of Sight (LoS) Links wireless
  • Digital Subscriber Links ADSL family
  • ATM Packet / Cell Links
  • a data transmission may be provided over a simplex or full duplex (using an interaction channel for the return) and may be Unicast (point-to-point), Multicast (one to many) or broadcast (all receivers receiving the assigned PID).
  • Data Piping is a method used by the Games Server to deliver discrete pieces of data using containers to the destination.
  • PES timing relationship between other (PES) packets and the game data packets.
  • Data Streaming is a method used by the Game Server to retrieve data, which takes the form of a continuous stream that is carried in an asynchronous PES.
  • Data Carousels is a method that may be used by the Game Server for assembling game data sets into a buffer, which are played-out cyclic manner (periodic transmission).
  • the data sets may be of any format or type i.e. HTML, Java or C++.
  • HTML HyperText Markup Language
  • Java Java
  • C++ HyperText Markup Language
  • this technique may be used to provide the data for an onscreen On-line Games Guide.
  • the data may of course be transmitted using fixed sized DSM-CC sections.
  • Object Carousel typically resemble data carousels, however they are primarily intended for the broadcast of data services. Those skilled in the art will realise that the data sets are typically defined by the DVB Network Independent Protocol specification and may be used, to down-load data to a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • BFS Broadcast File System
  • STB Schedule Transfer
  • TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol/IP
  • RTSP Remote Streaming Protocol
  • IPTV IPTV
  • a subscriber may access and begin to download a game at any point of the data cast regardless of when the user triggers the download.
  • Any data provided within the BFS that is transmitted via in-band QAM or out-of-band QPSK signals may be accessed through a data stream manager resident on the users STB, Games Consoles or PCs which is activated on users request.
  • the data stream manager is a resident application on the user STB, Games Consoles or PCs enables game data to be retrieved and interpreted from the BFS into the device DRAM or Flash memory where it is then rendered on a TV Screen.
  • a game is typically realised in the RAM of a device.
  • the TV operator is only required to provide one 2Mbps MPEG-2 streams per game as opposed to per user to their total subscriber base.
  • the present invention described in the UK TV operators could provide a 2Mbps MPEG 2 stream over a satellite link to 5.5 million subscribers from which a game could be retrieved on to a STB, Games Console or PC at anytime. This is achieved through transmitting data that is retrieved from the Games Server sub storage system and provided continuously over a transmission channel. This eliminates the need for a dial up connection and provides a low cost yet high-bandwidth delivery of games to subscribers. This is advantageous.
  • a Games Console or PC are operable to access data just as they would from a CD or DVD whereby only the data required for the game level is loaded into the memory. In this way the subscribers does not have to download the entire game onto a hard disc or Personal Video Recorder (PVR) to be played.
  • PVR Personal Video Recorder
  • a Games Console or PC will only load what is required from BFS, which is provided continuously within a DTC or FDC. Those skilled in the art will realise that a game is typically realised within the RAM or a Games Console or PC.
  • the BFS acts as storage for all games each with a unique Packet ID identifiable within a unique MPEG-2 Stream that is provided continuously over a FDC or DTC. This is advantageous. This may also applied to STB as it has limited storage capacity
  • BFS data may be retrieved and rendered by a Games Console, PC or STB without requiring a hard disc, optical disc drive or removable storage. This is achieved through buffering data into DRAM of Games Console, PC or STB. From which the CPU is operable is render the game through utilising the RAM. As the subscriber progresses through the game, data is retrieved from the DTC or FDC, which is similar to a DVD or CD usage in a Games Console. Each game is designed to retrieve data from the DTC or FDC similar to the use of DVD on CD whereby only data relating to a particular level is loaded into the device memory.
  • the subscriber is equipped with hard disc which can be utilised by the CPU to store game data retrieved from the BFS.
  • hard disc which can be utilised by the CPU to store game data retrieved from the BFS.
  • games can be stored locally on the subscribers Games Console, PC or STB.
  • various formats may be used to transport the game data including MPEG-4, DigiCipher II and Raw Transport Data (RTD).
  • RTD Raw Transport Data
  • MPEG-2 format is used to transport the game data to a user's device. This has the advantage of being supported by mostly all digital TV operators.
  • a subscriber's STB, Games Console or PC is operable to retrieve raw data sent in MPEG-2 private sections. This is achieved through transmitting data and video over the same transport stream or when a Games Server does not utilise the BFS. Resident applications within the users STB, Games Console or PC enables data provided with MPEG-2 private data stream to be interpreted and a game to be rendered on the users TV screen. In this way the user is able to retrieve data within the MPEG-2 transport stream that can be interpreted by a Games Console, STB or PC and a game may be loaded on screen.
  • the STB, Games Console or PC is operable to access data within the MPEG-2 data stream through utilising the stream manager a resident application which ensures that the device tuned into the correct frequency and PID of the game requested by the user.
  • a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby software drivers may be provided to Games Consoles, PC or STB via a digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • the necessary software drivers to play a game may be provided directly to viewers
  • Games Console, PC or STB which may be provided over a DTC or FDC and stored as resident applications.
  • the drivers may include a graphics engine required to render games available on the games system. This is advantageous.
  • GUI Graphics Display
  • Drivers may be specific to a device that may be connected to viewers Games Console, PC or STB to play a game such as an Infrared or USB Games Pad.
  • means may be provided through a GUI whereby a user can select and download multiple games at same time on to a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • the data may be stored on a hard disc, personnel video recorder (PVR) or a secondary memory device connected via a USB or Firewire port to a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • PVR personnel video recorder
  • secondary memory device connected via a USB or Firewire port to a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • the user may therefore download up to four games at a rate of 8 Mbps from a single DTC.
  • At a low rate of 3 Mbps allocated to each game up to 18 games may be downloaded at the same time over a single DTC. However at a low rate of 3Mbps the games would take noticeably longer to download.
  • multiple games may be retrieved from an out-of-band QPSK signal which set at 6 MHz would provide a total throughput of 36 Mbps in which several games could be provided.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may prompt a GUI provided within a DTC which would enable them to select and highlight multiple games which may be provided over a QAM or QPSK signal to a Games Console, STB or PC.
  • previews of the games may be broadcast or streamed within the GUI thereby enabling the subscriber to preview a game before downloading. This is advantageous.
  • the Command Server is operable to vary the rate of the transport streams in relation to size of game.
  • the rate may be adjusted from 512 Kbps up to 56 Mbps per game. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a game that a Games Server has provided to a subscribers Set Top Box (STB) over a DTC or FDC may be saved.
  • Means may be provided whereby a Game may saved within the flash memory of a STB as a resident application from which the subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a game may be saved on a USB memory card connected to the STB via the USB port.
  • a resident application on the STB would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the USB memory card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a subscriber may save a game played on a STB on a Smart card which may be inserted in a smart card drive.
  • a resident application on the STB would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the Smart card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • Alternatively means may be provided through a resident application on the STB would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on hard disc or a Personal Video Recorder (PVR). In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved.
  • PVR Personal Video Recorder
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a STB on a Games Server which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC which would enable a game to saved be on the Games Server.
  • a resident application on the STB would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server. This is advantageous.
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within a STB's flash memory or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the flash memory or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a game that a Games Server has provided that to a subscribers Games Console over a DTC or FDC may be saved.
  • Means may be provided whereby a Game may saved within the memory card of a Games Console as a resident application from which the subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a game may be saved on a USB memory card connected to the Games Console via the USB port.
  • a resident application on the Games Console would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the USB memory card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby through a resident application on the Games Console this would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilising a Hard disc or a Optical Disc Drive a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a Games Console on a Games Server which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC which would enable a game to saved on the Games Server.
  • a resident application on the Games Console would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server. This is advantageous.
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the Games Console memory card or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the memory card or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a game that a Games Server has provided that to a subscribers Personal Computer (PC) over a DTC or FDC may be saved. Through a resident application on the PC this would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilizing a hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • PC Personal Computer
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a PC on a Games Server which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC or FDC which would enable a game to saved on the Games Server.
  • a resident application on the PC would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server. This is advantageous.
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the PC hard disc or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the hard disc or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game. This is advantageous.
  • User can access a Graphical user interface from an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC that enables the user to select multi-player networked games using a STB, Games Console or PC and play against other subscribers.
  • a Satellite TV subscriber might access a GUI from an in-band DTC by pressing the select button on a Games Pad.
  • Data containing HTML and JavaScript objects is then retrieved from the DTC to the Games Consoles memory.
  • the Games Console is operable to render the GUI.
  • a GUI is typically realised within the RAM of a STB, PC or Games Console.
  • the subscriber is presented with a list of multi-player networked games including details of number of players, duration of play, game in session, difficulty level, author, publisher and channel.
  • MPEG 1 video previews of live multi-player networked games in session may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved by using data inputs retrieved from a Games Console, STB or PC to render the games graphics on Game Server situated in Head-End as described in previously in GB 0129161.6 and GB 0203790.1.
  • a subscriber may highlight and select a multi-player networked game to join in. If the subscriber selects a game then a resident application on the Games console switches the DVB-S receiver/modem to the correct DTC or FDC relating to the games PID. Data is then retrieved from the DTC or FDC on to Games Console DRAM. The game is then realised within the RAM.
  • a two-way communication path is then established between the Games Server and Games Console enabling data inputs to be exchange.
  • Data inputs are centrally exchanged via the Games Server and each participating subscriber's Games console.
  • the Games console is operable to render the game.
  • Data inputs are then provided to the Games Server within a 1 MHz QPSK Waveform initiated by the DVB-S receiver/modem via a dial-up interface.
  • This provides an Reverse Data Channel (RDC), often referred to as the return path, in which data inputs may be transmitted upstream to a Games Server which may then be transmitted to participating subscribers via an in-band DTC satellite signal or out-of-band FDC over ADSL.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • a Games Server which may then be transmitted to participating subscribers via an in-band DTC satellite signal or out-of-band FDC over ADSL.
  • a subscriber may select and join in a multi-player network game from GUI provided over an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC. This is advantageous.
  • this method of providing multi-player networked games may be provided to any Satellite, Cable or Terrestrial TV subscriber with a Games Console, STB or PC that include a receiver/modem capable of transmitting and receiving data provided over at out-of-band FDC or in-band DTC. This is advantageous.
  • a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby sound and music may be provided by the Games Server within an in-band digital transmission channel (DTC) or out-of-band forward data channel (FDC) as MPEG audio stream to enhance the user interfaces of a game.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • music or sounds may provided as a signal which may decoded by a receiver within STB and output from a Television set internal or external speakers.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB.
  • the STB Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC relating to the Service and Packet ID of the game that was selected.
  • the data is then retrieved from the DTC and buffered into the STB flash memory and rendered within the random access memory.
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG audio streams whilst the Ul is displayed on the TV screen.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB is operable to decode the MPEG audio provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television speakers. Music and audio relating to the games Ul may then be heard. This enhances the game menus by integrating sound and music without requiring the data to downloaded and stored on the STB flash memory.
  • the audio or music is provided as MPEG audio stream this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby video provided by the Games Server within an in-band digital transmission channel (DTC) or out-of-band forward data channel (FDC) is combined with data stream at the Head-End and transmitted to a subscribers STB.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • the CPU use HTML/JavaScript or C+ objects and the STB RAM to render a game's user interfaces or menus.
  • the user interface is then rendered over video, which has been decoded by an MPEG decoder in the STB.
  • video audio and images may be provided to enhance the Ul of a game and enable motion backgrounds.
  • audio provided with an MPEG-2 stream may also be decoded by a receiver within STB and output from a television set internal or external speakers.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB.
  • the STB Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC relating to the Program ID of the game that was selected. Data, video and audio are then retrieved from the DTC. The data is then buffered into the STB flash memory and the game is rendered within the random access memory (RAM).
  • RAM random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG video streams whilst the Ul is displayed on the TV screen.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB is operable to decode the MPEG video provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television screen. Video relating to the games Ul may then be seen in behind the game's menu. This enhances the game menus by integrating video without requiring the data to downloaded and stored on the STB flash memory.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • music and audio affects during a game may be provided over an in-band QAM Signal or out-of-band QPSK Signal.
  • multiple audio formats may be used by the Game Server to provide sound and music including Dolby Digital Surround Sound, MPEG 1 Layer 3 (MP3) and Audio Compression Level 3 (AC-3).
  • This may also be applied to Games Consoles and PCs. Thereby reducing the required amount of data to be downloaded to a users Games Console or PC and which in turn reduces the bandwidth need which can be utilised to provide other services. This is advantageous.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • the foreground may be provided over DTC as a data stream and rendered by a STB, Games Console or PC over the video provided within the QAM Signal. Combined with the foreground graphics this then enhances the game quality and reduces the required data to be processed by a STB, Games Console or PC.
  • video provided within in-band DTC and combined with the foreground graphics may be rendered graphics by the Games Server.
  • a games background may be rendered and provided as MPEG video which is then output by the server and combined with data stream by a Multiplexer into a 6 MHz QAM signal which is transmitted to the subscribers STB. It will be appreciated that this may be transmitted via cable, satellite or terrestrial communication paths as previously described in GB 0129161.6 and GB 0203790.1.
  • a MPEG decoder is operable to decode the video stream which is then output on TV screen.
  • the CPU is operable to render the game's foreground graphics over the video.
  • the STB is not required to render the games background thereby reducing the number of processing transaction required of the CPU and RAM.
  • rendering graphics on Games Server the graphics provided during a game can be enhanced to that equal to or greater than current Games console system. This is advantageous.
  • the background graphics may be provided over an Analogue Transmission Signal (ATC) with Raw Data or transmitted within the out-of-band FDC with compressed digitised data.
  • ATC Analogue Transmission Signal
  • a forward data channel FDC
  • the foreground may be provided over DTC or FDC and rendered by STB, Games Console, PC however video within the FDC QPSK Signal may be utilised as the game background. Combined with the foreground graphics this then enhances the game quality and reduces the required data to be processed by a STB, Games Console or PC.
  • video provided within out-of- band Forward Data Channel may be combined with foreground graphics rendered by the views Games Console, PC or STB.
  • a games background may be rendered and provided as MPEG video which is then output by the server and combined with data stream by a Multiplexer into a 6 MHz QPSK signal which is transmitted to the subscribers STB. It will be appreciated that this may be transmitted via cable, satellite or terrestrial communication paths as previously described GB 0129161.6 and GB 0203790.1.
  • a MPEG decoder is operable to decode the video stream which is then output on TV screen.
  • the CPU is operable to render the game's foreground graphics over the video. In this way the STB is not required to render the games background thereby reducing the number of processing transaction required of the CPU and RAM.
  • rendering graphics on Games Server the graphics provided during a game can be enhanced to that equal to or greater than current Games console system. This is advantageous.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB.
  • the STB Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC relating to the Service and Packet ID of the game that was selected. Data, video and audio are then retrieved from the DTC. The data is then buffered into the STB flash memory and the game is rendered within the random access memory (RAM).
  • RAM random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG video streams when the subscriber selects play.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB is operable to decode the MPEG video provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television screen. Video relating to the games may then be played on the subscriber's TV screen and the subscriber views a video cut scene for the game. This enhances the game by integrating video without requiring the video to downloaded and stored on the STB flash memory.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • video output by the Game Server that is provided within a QAM Signal of a Digital Transmission Channel, may be provided as continuous loop of video whereby random cut scenes are provided when a game is loading between levels.
  • the MPEG-2 streams relating to a particular cut scenes may be requested during a game and identified within the DTC. This is advantageous.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB.
  • the STB Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the FDC relating to the particular Service and Packet ID of the game that was selected.
  • Data, video and audio are then retrieved from the FDC.
  • the data is then buffered into the STB flash memory and the game is rendered within the random access memory (RAM).
  • RAM random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG video streams when the subscriber selects play.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB is operable to decode the MPEG video provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television screen. Video relating to the games may then be played on the subscriber's TV screen and the subscriber views a video cut scene for the game. This enhances the game by integrating video without requiring the video to downloaded and stored on the STB flash memory.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • video output by the Game Server may be provided within a QAM Signal of a Digital Transmission Channel, which may be provided as continuous loop of video whereby random cut scenes are provided when a game is loading between levels.
  • multiple audio streams provided by the Games Server may be aggregated into a single DTC or FDC from which the subscriber's receiver is operable to switch between audio streams during game.
  • Instructions carried within game provide unique Packet identifiers that may be interpreted by the subscriber's STB, Games Console or PC that is operable to switch to the correct MPEG transport stream using the Packet Identifiers (PIDs).
  • An instruction within the game data may instruct the subscribers STB, PC or Games Consoles decoder to switch to a MPEG audio stream with a particular Packet Identifiers (PIDs). This may be in menu when a subscriber highlights a selection in the game menu or may be during a game relating to a subscriber's inputs.
  • PIDs Packet Identifiers
  • an instruction may be transmitted by the STB CPU to switch MPEG streams to specified Packet Identifier (PID).
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • the STB is operable to switch to the specified audio stream, which is then decoded by a MPEG decoder and output by the Television set internal or external speakers. The subscriber then hears an audio sample relating to their input on the Ul. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Server is operable to provide up to 40 audio streams provided on a single 6MHz in-band DTC or out-of- band FDC that may be accessible during a game. This is achieved through aggregating 40 audio streams at a data rate of 384 Kbps, which is then combined with the several data streams containing different games and multiplexed into a single in-band QAM or out-of-band QPSK signal that has total throughput of 35 Mbps. Each audio stream may be utilised by a game played on a STB to enhance the gaming experience and quality.
  • Software provided on the STB is operable to interpret data instructions that are provided during a game over a DTC or FDC to switch MPEG streams to correct PID.
  • audio streams may consist of several or more sounds aggregated into a single MPEG 2 audio transport stream. As such some audio streams may share consistency with other streams such as background music or sound that relate to the game level as well as sounds relating to the subscribers inputs. This is advantageous.
  • multiple video streams provided by the Games Server may be aggregated into a single DTC or FDC from which the subscriber's receiver is operable to switch between video streams during game. Instructions carried within game provide unique Packet Identifiers (PID) that may be interpreted by the subscriber's STB that is operable to switch to the correct MPEG stream using the PID.
  • PID Packet Identifiers
  • An instruction within the game data may instruct the STB decoder to switch to a MPEG video stream with a particular PID. This may be in menu when a subscriber highlights a selection in the game menu such as the saved games or may be during a game relating to a subscriber's inputs.
  • an instruction may be transmitted by the STB CPU to switch MPEG streams to specified PID.
  • the STB is operable to switch to the specified video stream, which is then decoded by a MPEG decoder and output via the Scart lead on the Television screen.
  • the subscriber then sees a video sample relating to their selection of saved games on the Ul. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Server is operable to provide up to 10 video streams provided on a single 6MHz in-band DTC or out-of- band FDC that may be accessible during a game. This is achieved through aggregating 10 video streams at a data rate of 2 Mbps, which is then combined with the several data streams containing different games and multiplexed into a single in-band QAM or out-of-band QPSK signal that has total throughput of 35 Mbps. Each video stream may be utilised by a game played on a STB to enhance the gaming experience and quality.
  • Software provided on the STB is operable to interpret data instructions that are provided during a game over a DTC or FDC to switch MPEG streams to correct PID.
  • an instruction to switch to specific PID may be initiated by the subscribers inputs on the remote control and progress in the game.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB is operable to decode the incoming MPEG stream, which is then displayed on the TV screen.
  • This may of course be a pre-rendered scene provided by the Games Server relating to the subscriber's inputs or progress. This enhances the game by integrating video without requiring the video to be downloaded and stored on the STB flash memory.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • CMTS Cable Modem Termination Unit
  • FDC Forward Path or Forward Data Channel
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • the Game is then executed on the Games Server and a resident application is launched that enables the user's data inputs to be interpreted by the Games Server Central Processor Unit (CPU).
  • a graphics processor card within the Games Console is operable to output RGB and composite signals from the Games Server.
  • An application resident on the Games Console is operable instruct CPU to transmit users data inputs within RDC which may received by the Games Servers situated that are operable to interpret the users data inputs and render 3D/2D graphics.
  • Rendered graphics are then output from Games Server graphics card as RGB, PAL, NTSC or composite signal to an MPEG real time encoder (RTE) and encoded and compressed within an MPEG 2 video transport stream in real time.
  • the digital signal is the multiplexed within an in-band Forward Path or out-of-band Forward Data Channel (FDC) by a Multiplexer, using Time Divisional Multiplexing (TDM) and Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM).
  • TDM Time Divisional Multiplexing
  • FDM Frequency Division Multiplexing
  • the signal is modulated into a QPSK waveform or QAM waveform depending on whether the signal is transmitted within a in-band forward path as private MPEG stream or within an out-of-band FDC.
  • the signal is then transmitted over the Cable TV operators transport network that consists of a series of Universal Broadband Routers (URB) connected over optical cables layer 12 or 48 to the hub where signal is then transmitted over Access Network to subscribers Games Console.
  • UMB Universal Broadband Routers
  • Signal is then demultiplexed, demodulated by the Cable Modem/receiver within the Games Console before being buffered into the MPEG decoder's memory for playback.
  • the signal is the decoded by the MPEG decoder and output via a AV lead to TV screen.
  • the data inputs are continuously transmitted within a RDC via the Cable Modem to Games Server that renders the game.
  • the rendered graphics are the received within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC and displayed on the user TV screen.
  • the entire game may be rendered by the Games Server or partially rendered which enables far more complex and detailed 3D scenes to be rendered during a game than supported by a STB, Games Console or PC to be rendered within a game. This is advantageous.
  • any modem for example a 28 Kbps or 56 Kbps modem may be used to transmit data inputs upstream via return path to Games Server and that any 28 kbps to a 56 kbps modem may be used by the Games Server to receive data inputs.
  • DTC may be utilised to provide in game video cut scenes, whilst a STB, Games Console or PC retrieves data from the DTC or a FDC. Thereby enabling a game to be loaded whilst viewing a cut scene. This is advantageous.
  • game cut scene videos may be provided by a Game Server within the out-of-band Forward Data Channel. This is achieved through utilising an MPEG-2 transport stream within a QPSK Waveform to provide video that is transmitted over the networks transport infrastructure to a users STB, Games Console or PC.
  • An MPEG decoded with the subscribers STB, Games Console or PC is operable to decode the video that is then displayed on the subscriber's TV or SVGA screen if using a PC.
  • in game cut scenes may be provided on demand whereby a request is formed by users device and transmitted via the RDC to Game Server which is operable to interpret request and stream the required cut scene as Private MPEG-2 video within the FDC to a users device.
  • An MPEG decoded with the users Games Console, PC or STB is operable to decode the video that is then displayed on the TV screen. This is advantageous.
  • a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby viewers are able to view live Multi-player networked games on a TV channel in which the voices of participating viewers can be heard.
  • a microphone or voice headset connected to a Games Console, STB or PC enables audio to be captured from the subscriber.
  • Voice and data inputs are transmitted upstream within out-of-band reverse data channel (RDC) from each participating viewer's Games Console, STB or PC to the Games server situated within the Head-End.
  • RDC out-of-band reverse data channel
  • the RDC is a QPSK waveform generated by the modem using forward modulation techniques.
  • the QPSK RDC may provide a data rate of up to 6 Mbps on Cable TV, whereas with Satellite and Terrestrial TV the capacity is typically slightly less at about 2 Mbps over ADSL.
  • the data inputs provided within a QPSK signal in the RDC the Game Server is operable to render a live game graphics using viewer inputs as previously described in GB 0203790.1.
  • Video output by the Games Server in then combined with the audio stream and transmitted over a in-band QAM signal.
  • Audio may be provided in stereo, joint stereo, dual channel (Stereo) or single channel (Mono).
  • viewers may select to join a live Multi-player networked game via a STB, Games Console or PC as previously described in GB 0203790.1
  • Figure 1 is a block diagram of the software architecture used to by a Games Console, STB or PC to access and interpret user interfaces and games.
  • Figure 2 is a block diagram of the software architecture used to by a Games Server to provide game data and video to Games Consoles, STB or PC via a QPSK or QAM Signal.
  • FIG. 3 is a detailed block diagram of a Cable TV architecture that may be used by a Games Server to provide game data and video to Games Consoles, STB or PC via a QPSK or QAM Signal.
  • FIG 4 is a detailed block diagram of a Satellite TV architecture that may be used by a Games Server to provide game data and video to Games Consoles, STB or PC via a FDC QPSK signal or a QAM Satellite downlink.
  • FIG. 5 is a detailed block diagram of a Terrestrial TV architecture that may be used by a Games Server to provide game data and video to Games Consoles, STB or PC via a FDC QPSK signal or terrestrial UHF/VHF Signal.
  • the users Games Console, PC or STB consists of six main layers of software, which includes an Application Program Interface (API) 1 , resident applications 3, native applications 4, Operating System (O/S) 5, and embedded device drivers 6 within the sub O/S.
  • API Application Program Interface
  • resident applications resident applications
  • native applications native applications
  • Operating System (O/S) Operating System
  • embedded device drivers 6 within the sub O/S.
  • the Application Program Interface (API) 1 enables applications to be specifically coded for a subscriber's device including STBs, PCs and Games Consoles.
  • the API 1 also provides at set routines used by applications resident on the subscribers STB, Games Console or PC to direct performance procedures by the Operating System (O/S).
  • O/S Operating System
  • the Resident applications 2 exist with flash memory of a STB or RAM of Games Console. Through an Application Specific Interface (AIS) on the Games Server a TV operator may update or configure resident applications within the STB by transmitting data within an out-of-band FDC or an in-band DTC. This is also possible with a Games Consoles or PCs via the in-band DTC and out-of-band FDC.
  • the resident applications provide basic functions for the STB, Games Console or PC. For example in a Game Console this would include the Pay-Per-Play, Games Program Guide and a Multi-player program guide used for Games System herein.
  • Native applications 3 may be compiled in C or C++ using application program interfaces from the operating systems of the user devices such as Games Consoles and PC client terminals.
  • Native applications may include a HTML/Java Web Browser in which HTML and Java based user interfaces may be rendered.
  • a HTML Engine sometimes referred to as a Middleware engine 2 may also reside on the users Games Console, PC or STB, as a native application that co-exists with other native applications.
  • the users device is operable to access applications provided via the in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC.
  • a HTML interpreter application resident on an STB, PC or Games Console is operable interpret specific HTML content used to define the parameters of a GUI and provide GUI functions.
  • HTML engine provides a STB direct access to content decoders for decompressing common JPEG images or AIFF audio. This is also same with a PC or Games Console.
  • the Operating System 5 provides the device specific software functionality of a subscriber's STB, Games Console or PC including network drivers, transfer protocols and hardware drivers.
  • the TCP/IP Stack with the subscribers STB, Games Console or PC O/S provides the necessary protocols that enable the modem to receive and transmit data. These protocols maybe DVB or MCNS based.
  • the sub-operating system 6 contains embedded device drivers that are specific to the subscriber's STB, Games Console or PC including Interface drivers, network drivers and peripheral drivers.
  • a Games Console may include USB, Firewire and display drivers embedded in the devices memory.
  • the sub-operating system may also include embedded interfaces built into the hardware or a controller board so that a device within the Games Console, STB or PC can be directly interfaced with system bus.
  • the software architecture described facilitates the means of providing game data over a DTC or FDC on a digital Satellite, Terrestrial or Cable TV network.
  • the software architecture also provides the means enabling the Games System to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a TV network as will be described.
  • the Games Server consists of a five main software layers. These include an Application Specific Interface (ASI) 7, Application Program Interface (API) 8, Native Applications 9, Resident Application 10, Software Drivers 11 and an Operating System 12.
  • ASI Application Specific Interface
  • API Application Program Interface
  • Native Applications Native Applications 9
  • Resident Application 10 Software Drivers 11
  • Operating System 12 an Operating System 12.
  • the Application Specific Interface (ASI) 7 enables the Game Server 12 to be interfaced with the Transport Network or Head-End.
  • the ASI provides access to several different mechanisms and protocols for delivering data between the Game Server 12 and the Subscribers device regardless of whether a Games Console 15, PC or STB 13. In this way the Game Servers 12 are operable to be directly interfaced with a QAM Modulator 28, QPSK Modulator or a Broadband Integrated Gateway (BIG).
  • BIG Broadband Integrated Gateway
  • the Application Program Interface (API) 8 enables applications to be specifically coded for the Games Server from the operating system.
  • the API also provides at set routines used by applications resident on the Games Server to direct performance procedures by the Operating System (O/S).
  • the Native Applications 9 are programs that have been designed specifically for the Games Servers Microprocessors.
  • the programs are binary compatible with the Microprocessor and therefore run much faster than non-native application, which must run with an emulator program.
  • one native application on the Games Server 12 is an application streamer which operable to retrieve data from the memory resources of Games Server 12 and output the data within compressed MPEG-2 transport streams.
  • the application streamer is also operable to combine video, audio and data for many of the games systems enhanced TV functionality.
  • the application streamer may be configured to provided video, audio and data from multiple memory resources within MPEG transport streams in synchronisation.
  • the native applications may be compiled in C or C++ using application program interfaces from the operating systems of the Games Servers 12.
  • a native server based application compiled in C may be designed for a Unix, Linux or Windows NT system.
  • Resident applications 10 are programs that remain loaded in the memory even when it is not running. This enables the application to be launched quickly for specific tasks while another application is running.
  • the Operating System 11 provides the device specific software functionality of the Games Server 12 including network drivers, transfer protocols and hardware drivers.
  • a TCP/IP Stack within Games Servers 12 O/S provides the necessary protocols that enable the Games Server to receive and transmit data.
  • These protocols maybe DVB-MHP, DVB-S, DVB-T, DSM-CC, DVB-C, DOCSIS, EuroDOCSIS, DAVIC, MCNS, DVB-RCS, DVB-RCCL or DVB-RCT based.
  • the software architecture described facilitates the means of providing game data over a DTC or FDC on a digital Satellite, Terrestrial or Cable TV network.
  • the software architecture also provides the means enabling the Games System to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a TV network as will be described.
  • FIG 3 is an example an of a Cable TV architecture and infrastructure that may be used to distribute game data from the Game Servers 12 to a subscribers Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13.
  • the cable TV content providers network consists of a Head- End/Data Centre, Transport Network infrastructure/backbone, Hub, Access Network and the subscriber's premises.
  • the Head-End provides the operational side of TV operator and may include several Game Servers 12, which are operable to output data continuously within the in-band forward path of a DTC or out-of-band FDC to all subscribers Games Consoles 15, PCs 26 or STBs 13. This is achieved through interfacing the Game Servers 12 with the Head-End network through a PCI System that may be Ethernet or Fiber.
  • the Game Servers 12 may also include an Application Specific Integration (ASI) interface that enables the Game Server 12 to be interfaced with the Transport Network or Head-End.
  • ASI Application Specific Integration
  • the ASI provides access to several different mechanisms and protocols for delivering data between the Game Server 12 and the Subscribers device regardless of whether a Games Console 15, PC or STB 13. In this way the Game Servers 12 are operable to be directly interfaced with a QAM/QPSK Modulator 28 or a Broadband Integrated Gateway (BIG).
  • BIG Broadband Integrated Gateway
  • Game Server 12 could not be located in the Hub 45 as illustrated in Patent GB 0203790.1 , however as the Games System is designed to transport data through the use of in-band QAM Signals to a subscribers device and as such from an operational perceptive it is more cost advantageous to centrally situate the Game Servers 12 within the Head-End as illustrated in figure 3.
  • the Head-End consists of a Games Servers 12 that are connected to an MPEG Encoder 31 which in turn is connected to a Multiplexer 30.
  • data transmitted by the Game Server 12 may be encoded into MPEG-2 transport streams by the Real-time MPEG Encoder 31 , before being transmitted within a in-band QAM digital transmission channel (DTC) or out-of-band QPSK forward data channel (FDC).
  • DTC in-band QAM digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • the MPEG-2 Real-time Encoders (RTE) 31 are operable to compress video and data feeds into MPEG-2 transport streams which are then Multiplexed into a single signal by a Multiplexer 30 also located in the Head-End and transmitted to a subscribers device. It will be appreciated that the process of encoding data within an MPEG-2 transport stream may be achieved in real time.
  • Advert insertion server 32 which provides QAM video content over in-band digital transmission channels (DTC). This may be interconnected with the Game Servers 12 for provisioning TV adverts within Graphical User Interface (GUI) provided by the Game System.
  • DTC digital transmission channels
  • Common QAM Content 29 storage from which TV program content may be retrieved and provided over an in-band DTC or analogue transmission channel (ATC).
  • ATC analogue transmission channel
  • a DTC is a QAM waveform with a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting MPEG-2 Transport Streams from the Head-End to a users STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26.
  • the Head-End also contains a Middleware Server 35, which is operable to provide HTML, JavaScript and pJava objects to the subscribers STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26, which may be used to render a GUI.
  • Middleware Server 35 which is operable to provide HTML, JavaScript and pJava objects to the subscribers STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26, which may be used to render a GUI.
  • HTML and JavaScript objects command functionality on the device.
  • HTML objects it is possible to command the STB TV functionality such as switching the RF tuner to specific frequency to receive incoming data over an MPEG Stream.
  • a Middleware engine and HTML Browser resident within the Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13 enables HTML/JavaScript objects to be interpreted by the subscriber's device.
  • a Command Server 38 Connected to the Middleware Server 35 is a Command Server 38, which is operable to control data streams from the Game Servers 12. Monitoring software and diagnostics software provided on the Command Server 38 enables the TV operator to analysis bandwidth usage and identify problems such as bottlenecks within the network.
  • a Billing Server 34 which is operable to provide transaction authentication and SSL.
  • TFTP Trivial File Transfer Protocol
  • STB Set Top Box
  • a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) Server 37 provides dynamic assigned IP addresses to the subscribers Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13.
  • the DHCP Server 37 also allows the re-use of assigned IP addresses.
  • a Domain Name System (DNS) Server 37 provides IP addresses to devices connected to the Games System such as the Game Servers 12 or Command Server 38.
  • the DNS Server 37 may also be configured to provide addresses to subscribers and external network devices connected to Internet, enabling subscribers to access the devices external to the Cable TV network using TCP/IP.
  • a Time Of Day (TOD) Server 36 provides the synchronisation of native and resident applications on a subscribers device.
  • the TOD Server 36 may be utilised to synchronise a program guide with the actual time.
  • the Middleware Server 35, Command Server 38, Billing Server 34, DHCP Server 37, TFTP Server 33 and TOD Server 36 are all connected via an 10/100Base-t Ethernet network to a Universal Broadband Router (UBR) 39 that connects the Head-End to the Transport Network infrastructure.
  • UBR Universal Broadband Router
  • CMTS 28 Cable Modem Termination Systems
  • the CMTS 28 controls and coordinators all data transmitted downstream to a subscribers Cable Modem 16.
  • the CMTS 28 may be configured to receive external data from other networks including the Internet.
  • the CMTS 28 may also act as a server Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) Server, Time Of Day (TOD), Domain Name System (DNS) and provide device specific operating features for Cable modems.
  • DHCP Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
  • TOD Time Of Day
  • DNS Domain Name System
  • Operation Support System software within the Head-End provides Conditional Access (CAM).
  • the hardware upon which the conditional access may be executed may be a Sun Solaris or Windows NT based workstation that may also be the Billing Server 34.
  • a QAM Modulator 28 provides the in-band forward path for digital transmission channels (DTCs).
  • DTC digital transmission channels
  • a DTC is a QAM waveform with a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting MPEG-2 Transport Streams from the Head-End to a subscribers STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26.
  • the QAM modulator 28 also provides in-band Analogue transmission channels (ATCs).
  • An ATC is an AM-VSB waveform and has a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting an NTSC or PAL signals from the Head-End to a subscribers STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26.
  • UBR Universal Broadband Router
  • the Transport Network 24 infrastructure/backbone consists of numerous Universal Broadband Routers (UBR) interconnected over fiber cabling.
  • UBR Universal Broadband Routers
  • the Transport Network 24 infrastructure is operable to support the transmission of data, video and audio within in-band QAM Digital Transmission Channel (DTC) signals or the out-of-band QPSK Forward Data Channel (FDC) over a fiber based Transport Network 24 to the Hub 45.
  • DTC Digital Transmission Channel
  • FDC Forward Data Channel
  • Proxy Servers 40, 44 and Transcoder Servers 42 Connected to the Transport Network 24 are Proxy Servers 40, 44 and Transcoder Servers 42.
  • the Proxy Servers 40,44 provide HTTP links between the cable TV network and external networks such as the Internet.
  • a Proxy Server 40 is operable to provide software objects to a subscriber's STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26. These objects may be HTML documents, Java applets or XML documents.
  • a Proxy Server 40 may also provide filtering of requests, translation, and client authentication.
  • a Proxy Server 40 typically uses an IP Gateway to distribute objects to a subscriber's STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26. These objects may be HTML or JavaScript objects or other applications.
  • the Transcoder Servers 42 provides the communication link between the Game Server 12 and subscribers device whether an STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26.
  • the Transcoder Server is operable to convert RDC signals received from a DVB or MCNS Cable Modem 16 in to IP data packets, which may then transmitted over the Transport Network 24 to a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • the Hub 45 consists of Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK) Modulators 46 which provide the Forward Data Channel (FDC) used for transmitting data packets containing IP or MPEG-2 private sections to a subscriber's Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13.
  • QPSK Quadrature Phase Shift Keying
  • the FDC is a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz which may be used for transporting data and various subsystem components from the Hub to a subscribers Games Console 15, STB 13 or PC 26.
  • Fiber Nodes (FN) 51 alternatively referred to as Cable Nodes (CN)
  • CN Cable Nodes
  • the Access Network 25 often referred to, as the last five miles or the local loop, connects the Hub 45 to the subscribers STB 13, PC 26 or Games Console 15.
  • This is typically with coax via a cable modem (CM) to subscribers device as illustrated by figure 3, whereas with Satellite and Terrestrial TV subscribers this typically is via a dial up interface over ADSL/POTS exchange.
  • CM cable modem
  • the subscriber's premises includes a STB 13, PC 24 and a Games Console 15 that are connected to the Hub 45 via a cable modem/receiver 52.
  • the Cable Modem 16 provides QPSK modulation and demodulation.
  • the Games Console 15 consists of 120MB RAM 11 , a 480MHz central processor unit (CPU), 32MB DRAM Memory, Digital Video Disc (DVD) Drive, a 3D Graphics Accelerator chip, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, a FireWire port, a 16MB Memory Card, an MPEG-2 decoder, and an Operating System (O/S).
  • CPU central processor unit
  • DRAM Dynamic RAM
  • DVD Digital Video Disc
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • FireWire port a 16MB Memory Card
  • MPEG-2 decoder an Operating System
  • the CPU is operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from resources. Data transferred between the Games Consoles 15 resources is transferred over the main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the Games Consoles 15 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the volatile memory is a semiconductor based memory that can be read and written by the CPU or other hardware devices.
  • the CPU typically utilises the RAM when rendering a Game.
  • Dynamic RAM is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilised by the CPU to store and retrieve data. DRAM is typically used during a game acting as a memory buffer with the RAM. Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a DVD or hard disc. DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • the memory card is a memory module containing random access memory (RAM) semiconductor chips that may be utilised by the CPU to store data or programs.
  • RAM random access memory
  • the module may also comprise of EPROM, RAM, ROM or flash memory chips.
  • Digital Video Disc (DVD) drive is traditionally used by the Games Console 15 to access data, video and audio which has been encoded on a compact disc (CD).
  • CD compact disc
  • a DVD can store greater amounts of data than a traditional CD ranging from 4.7 GB to 17 GB.
  • the Graphics Card contains a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can. The coprocessor is vital to performance of a Games Console 15 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks. All present Games Consoles contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the FireWire (i-Link) port allows external devices to be connected to the Games console 15 such as a Hub, which enables multiple players to play against each other.
  • the FireWire (i-Link) port will support data rates of up to 400 Mbps.
  • the MPEG decoder is operable to decode MPEG-2 streams received from a Satellite, Terrestrial or Cable TV signal. In this way video, audio and data compressed and digitised into an MPEG-2 transport stream and transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal can be decoded and interpreted by the CPU. It will be appreciated that the MPEG decoder may of course be software based or may form part of a Satellite, Terrestrial or Cable TV receiver.
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • the Games Console 15 may also include an optional Hard Disc or Optical Disc Drive on which games retrieved from a DTC or FDC may be stored.
  • the Games console 15 is typically connected to users TV screen 14 via an AV lead to a TV Scart port or via S- video cable.
  • a Cable Modem 16 is illustrated external to a Games Console 15, however this may be internal to the device through an expansion bay as previously described. It will be appreciated that various different interfaces may be used to connect a Cable Modem 16 to a Games Console 15 including a USB, Firewire or Ethernet adapter.
  • modem is derivative to that of the term's modulation and demodulation.
  • modems described herein are high-speed cable modems designed for high bandwidth data and video transmissions at bit rates of 4 to 19 Mbps and not 28.8 Kbps dial-up interface modems which most will be familiar with in terms of the Internet.
  • the Cable Modem 16 is operable to demodulator and modulate signals to and from a CMTS located within the Head-End.
  • the Cable Modem 16 is also operable to retrieve data, video and audio transmitted within a FDC by QPSK Modulator located within the hub.
  • the Cable Modem 16 may be connected to a Games Console via a type III PCMCIA Card slot within the expansion bay. It will be appreciated that various different Interfaces may be used to interface the Cable Modem 16 including Ethernet 10Base-T, RJ-45 connectors, USB Series B connector, Cable RF Input, 75 Ohm F-Connector. Alternatively a 10/100 Base TX Ethernet card may be used to connect the Games Console 15 to the TV network and in turn the Games Server 12.
  • a QPSK demodulator within the users Cable Modem 16 is operable to receive IP packets and MPEG-2 private data sections. Using a QPSK demodulator the Cable Modem 16 is operable to receive data transmitted within a forward data channel (FDC) signal from the Games Server 12.
  • FDC forward data channel
  • a FDC is a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz used for transmitting data to a subscriber's device from the Hub 45.
  • a Cable Modem 16 typically utilises one FDC for receiving both application data and instructions at any given time.
  • a QPSK modulator within the subscriber's Cable Modem 16 provides an out-of-band Reverse Data Channel (RDC).
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • the RDC is also a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz used for transmitting data from a subscribers device to the Hub 45.
  • a Cable Modem 16 typically utilises one RDC for sending both application data and control messages at any given time.
  • a Hub 45 may be configured to provide multiple RDC's to one Cable Modem 16 at any given time for providing data inputs and requests from the Games Console 15 to a Game Server 12.
  • a QAM demodulator within the subscribers Games Console 15 is operable to adapt to channels encoded at different rates of up to 56 Mbps. Thereby enabling data to be received at up to 56 Mbps. In this way data may be retrieved from a QAM in-band DTC signal at a bit rate of 45 Mbps which may be buffered into a Games Consoles 15 memory and rendered through utilising the Random Access Memory (RAM) 11. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Console 15 supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for cable broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home networking and storage.
  • Software applications resident on the Games Console 15 facilitate the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from the Cable TV network.
  • the software drivers resident within the Operating System provides the means enabling the Games Console 15 to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • Games Console 15 Connected by a s-video or AV lead to the subscribers Games Console 15 is a TV screen 14 that is operable to display video decoded by an MPEG decoder in the Games console and graphics rendered within the RAM. Alternatively the Games Console 15 may be connected via a S-VHS lead.
  • the TV screen 14 includes speakers from which audio may be output.
  • the Set Top Box (STB) 13 consists of an 80MHz Central Processor Unit, 4MB RAM, 2MB Flash Memory, 4MB DRAM, 256 KB EEPROM, 2 Smart card interfaces, 2 USB ports, a Graphics Processor Unit with 4MB SDRAM, an infra-red port, a built-in Modem, an MPEG decoder, an RF Tuner and software.
  • the CPU is a microprocessor which operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from the STB resources. Data is transferred over the STB's 13 main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the STB's 13 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the volatile memory is a semiconductor based memory that can be read and written by the CPU or other hardware devices.
  • the CPU typically utilises the RAM when rendering a Game.
  • Flash Memory is a type of non-volatile memory is built into the STB 13. Flash memory is similar to EEPROM memory in function however data must be removed in blocks. The CPU utilises the flash memory to store data. In this way the Flash Memory acts as a replacement to a hard disc.
  • Dynamic RAM is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilised by the CPU to store and retrieve data.
  • the CPU utilises the DRAM as a memory buffer for game data.
  • Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a Flash Memory.
  • DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • the Graphics Processor Unit is a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can.
  • the coprocessor is vital to performance of a STB 13 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks.
  • the majority of present STBs contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the MPEG decoder is operable to decode MPEG-2 streams received from a Cable TV signal. In this way video, audio and data compressed and digitised into an MPEG-2 transport stream and transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal can be decoded and interpreted by the CPU. It will be appreciated that the MPEG decoder may of course be software based or may form part of a Satellite, Terrestrial or Cable TV receiver.
  • the remote control and Infra-red interface are standard in all current Set top boxes and are used to relay user commands to the Set top box 13. In this way the user is able to control a game through the manipulation of the buttons on the remote control.
  • the cable modem built in to the STB 13 enables QPSK Waveforms to be received and transmitted. Data may be transmitted through the QPSK modulator which enables the STB to utilise the Reverse Data Channel (RDC) with a QPSK waveform, which in turn provides a return path whereby requests and data inputs maybe transmitted upstream to a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • a QPSK demodulator enables the STB 13 to retrieve data within the out-of-band Forward Data Channel (FDC) provided by the Game Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • FDC out-of-band Forward Data Channel
  • a QPSK Modulator typically located in the Hub 45 is operable to transmit packets containing IP or MPEG private sections over the FDC to the users STB 13.
  • QPSK demodulators 46 present within the hub 45 enable data to be retrieved from the RDC and transported over the transport network to a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40 within the Head-End.
  • a QAM demodulator within the STB 13 enables data to be retrieved from within QAM signal provided by the Game Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • QAM signals are QAM waveforms which provides a forward path whereby data, audio and video maybe broadcast to all subscribers devices by a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40 within a digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • DVB-C Digital Video Broadcasting Cable
  • DVB-RCCL Return Channel For Cable and LMDS
  • DAVIC Digital Audio Visual Council
  • MCNS Multimedia Cable Network System
  • IEEE 802.14 DOCSIS (Data-Over-Cable Service Interface Specification) to facilitate the transmission of data within the FDC or RDC.
  • the STB 13 supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for cable broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home . networking and storage.
  • Software applications provided on the STB 13 facilitates the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from the Cable TV network.
  • the software also provides the means enabling the STB to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • TV screen 14 Connected Set Top Box (STB) 13 via a Scart lead is a TV screen 14 which is operable to display video decoded by a MPEG decoder in the STB 13 and graphics rendered by Graphic Processor Unit (GPU).
  • GPU Graphic Processor Unit
  • the diagram shows a second subscriber that is connected to the access network via a cable modem 27 which in turn is connected to a Personnel Computer PC 26.
  • the Personnel Computer (PC) 26 contains a 1.2 GHz Central Processor Unit, 120MB RAM, 24MB DRAM, 32MB SDRAM, 512KB EEPROM, DVD Drive, 128MB 3D Graphics Accelerator chip, a 40 Gigabyte Hard Disc, an PS2 port, a Modem/receiver, a MPEG-2 decoder and an Operating System (O/S).
  • PC Central Processor Unit
  • the CPU is a silicon based microprocessor which operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from resources. Data is transferred over the PC's 26 main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the PC's 26 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the volatile memory is a semiconductor based memory that can be read and written by the CPU or other hardware devices.
  • the CPU typically utilises the RAM when rendering a Game.
  • DRAM Dynamic RAM Is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilized by the CPU to store and retrieve data.
  • the CPU utilises the DRAM as a memory buffer for game data.
  • Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a DVD or hard disc.
  • DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • DVD Digital Video Disc
  • CD Compact disc
  • the Graphics Card contains a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can.
  • the coprocessor is vital , to performance of a PC 26 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks.
  • the majority of present PCs contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the MPEG decoder is operable to decode MPEG-2 streams received from a Cable TV signal. In this way video, audio and data compressed and digitised into an MPEG-2 transport stream and transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal can be decoded and interpreted by the PC 26.
  • the MPEG decoder may be connected to the PC 26 via a PCI slot. It will be appreciated that the MPEG decoder 45 may of course be software based or may form part of a Cable receiver.
  • the PS2 interface is standard on all PCs and enables the user to command a game using a keyboard or mouse. In this way the user is able to control a game through manipulating the buttons on the keyboard or mouse, which may be interpreted by a game engine on the PC 26 and the corresponding graphics to users inputs are rendered on the screen. With present PC systems this process can be performed in real time.
  • USB adapter may be provided with a PC 26 to be indirectly interfaced via a USB interface to a DVB-C or MCNS based Cable modem that is operable to connect to the Game Server 12.
  • a PC 26 may be directly interfaced to the Game Server 12 situated with the Head-End via a Cable Modem 27.
  • the Cable Modem 27 may be connected to a PC 26 via an expansion bay.
  • an Ethernet Network Card 10/100Base-t may be used to connect the PC 26 to the Games Server 12.
  • a PC 26 may access data within the in-band and out-band signals provided by the Games Server 12.
  • the PC 26 may transmit requests or data via the reverse data channel (RDC) upstream to the Game Server 12 with the Head-End. This is advantageous.
  • RDC reverse data channel
  • the PC 26 supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for cable broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home networking and storage.
  • Software applications provided on the PC facilitate the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from the Cable TV network.
  • the software also provides the means enabling the PC to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • a subscriber may trigger a game to download directly relating to video preview of a game provided on a digital transmission channel (DTC) or an analogue, transmission channel (ATC) using a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • ATC analogue, transmission channel
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29 in which HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's Games Console 15.
  • the CPU in the Games Console 15 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image which is displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen prompting the subscriber to download a game.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the subscriber may respond to the prompt. If the subscriber responds by pressing the select button on Games Pad then a signal is then transmitted to the CPU in the Games Console 15.
  • the CPU interprets the data input signal and instructs the Cable Modem/receiver connected via PCMCIA slot to switch channels to correct MPEG packet ID (PID) required for the game.
  • PID MPEG packet ID
  • the cable modem then performs a handshake with the CMTS 28 situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data and is based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies used and authentication.
  • the game data which is being transmitted continuously by the Games Server 12 within a DTC, is then received via the HFC and demodulated by the Cable Modem/receiver.
  • An MPEG Decoder in the Games Console 15 is then operable to decompress and decode the digitised data stream provided within an MPEG-2 transport stream.
  • the CPU then buffers the data onto the Games Console 15 Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and the game is rendered using the RAM.
  • the rendered graphics are then output from the Games Console 15 via an AV-video lead which is connected to a TV Screen 14 upon which the game is displayed.
  • AV-video lead which is connected to a TV Screen 14 upon which the game is displayed.
  • subscribers may be provided with a user interface from which the subscriber may select and download games to a STB, Games Console or PC. This is achieved through transmitting HTML/Java data in the DTC, in-band Forward Path, or an out-of-band forward data channel (FDC) to a subscribers STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26.
  • FDC out-of-band forward data channel
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's Games Console 15.
  • the Games Console 15 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • the graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing select button on the game pad.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a Middleware engine resident on the Games Console 15 is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games Console 15.
  • Preferably video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band DTC signal.
  • the video may be defined within HTML parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate user interface by manipulating the buttons on the game pad, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber then presses the select button on games pad, which sends a signal to the CPU in Games Console 15.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input and instructs the Cable Modem/receiver 52 to switch to the correct Channel ID, Service ID and Packet Identity (PID) relating to game selected.
  • PID Packet Identity
  • the Cable modem/receiver 52 then performs a handshake with the CMTS 28 situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data and is based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies and authentication used. For example this protocol may be DVB-C or MCNS based.
  • conditional access system Authentication is provided through the conditional access system that provides a link from the subscriber's device back to the service provider Head-End so that a viewing history can be obtained by the Billing Server 34 for billing purposes.
  • the conditional access system enables the subscriber to utilise pay-per-play services provided by the Games Server 12.
  • the conditional access system is typically provided through a multi- step encryption/decryption scheme. The steps could include DES, RSA and digital signature algorithms.
  • the conditional access system also provides information that restricts the receiving party to only access games content which it is authorised to view or have agreed to pay for.
  • the conditional access system could also be configured for copy control to prevent taping with games, a regional control may be used to blackout specific regions and a user control for parental control of games.
  • the Cable modem/receiver 52 may then receive data output by the Games Server 12 within the DTC as MPEG TS via the Transport network 14 and Access Network 25.
  • the Games Console 15 is operable retrieve the data from Cable modem/receiver 52 which is then buffered in to the DRAM of the Games Console 15 from which the game may be rendered.
  • a game is typically realised within the RAM of a Games Console 15.
  • the subscriber may visually select a game from a user interface by highlighting a game of their choice using a games pad and download the game on to the Games Console 15 memory from which the game may be played. This is advantageous.
  • game data required by a games console, PC or STB may be stored on the Games server 12 and transmitted continuously or on demand to specific user. This is achieved through interfacing the Game Servers 12 with a QAM Modulator, at the Head-End.
  • the Games Server 12 situated within the Head-End may be configured to output game data stored on a hard disc, optical disc, DVD or disk array continuously to as a raw data stream to an Real Time MPEG Encoder (RTE) 31.
  • RTE Real Time MPEG Encoder
  • the RTE is operable to compress and encode the data provided by Games Server 12 into separate MPEG Transport streams that are the multiplexed and combined into single channel by a Multiplexer 30.
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted to a Universal Broadband Router (UBR) 39 that is operable to route the QAM signal over the Transport Network to a second UBR 43.
  • UBR Universal Broadband Router
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted from the second UBR 43 to the Hub 45, which is in turn is then transmitted via the Fiber Nodes 51 over the Access Network 25 to all subscribers tuned into the channel upon which the game data is provided.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video previews of games provided on a separate DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's Games Console 15.
  • the Games Console 15 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • the graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing select button on the game pad.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the Games Console 15 is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games Console 15.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate user interface by manipulating the buttons on the game pad, which is then interpreted by the CPU and the corresponding selection to subscriber's inputs are highlighted on Ul which is displayed on the TV Screen 14.
  • the subscriber is then able to select and highlight a game of their choice using the games pad.
  • the subscriber then selects a game by highlighting a game of their choice and pressing the select button.
  • the CPU interprets the data input and instructs the DVB-C Cable modem/receiver 52 to switch to correct channel and transport stream identifiable within the PID, SID and Channel ID.
  • the Cable modem/receiver 52 then performs a handshake with the CMTS 28 situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies used and authentication.
  • the QAM signal is then received by the DVB-C Cable modem/receiver 52 that is connected to the Games Console 15 via the USB port.
  • the Cable modem/receiver 52 is operable to demodulator the QAM signal and data stream is separated from audio and video signals.
  • the data signal is then transferred to the MPEG decoder that decodes the data back to its original form and the data is then buffered into DRAM from which the game may be rendered.
  • the CPU then renders the Game which is then output from the Games Console 15 via an Audio and Video lead which is connected to a via TV Scart adapter to the TV Screen 14 upon which the rendered games graphics are displayed.
  • the buttons on the Games Pad the subscriber is operable to control the game. This is advantageous.
  • games which are output by the Games Server 12 to a QAM Modulator 28 maybe transmitted continuously over a DTC from which games maybe downloaded via a user interface onto a Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13 at anytime. It will be appreciated that through providing game data over a DTC or ATC the games are being transmitted as a broadcast, which may be incepted by anyone with a receiver that is tuned into the right channel signal. Those skilled in the art will realise that a channel is a separate incoming QAM signal or ATC source that a subscriber can select through a RF tuner.
  • the signal has a defined bandwidth with of 6 to 8MHz that may be utilised to provide games to a subscribers Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13 equipped with a DVB-C Cable Modem/receiver.
  • a channel will exist within a range of 50-850MHz.
  • a further aspect of present invention means may be provided whereby up to 20 MPEG-2 transport streams containing game data may be aggregated into one 256-QAM Digital Transmission channel, which may be provided continuously over a Broadcast File System (BFS).
  • BFS Broadcast File System
  • This is achieved through combining multiple MPEG-2 data transport streams in to a signal 256-QAM Waveform that may be broadcast to all viewers over a Cable TV network. It will be appreciated that this may be scaled to suit the TV operator's requirements whereby up 200 MPEG-2 transport streams each containing a different game may be provided continuously over multiple QAM channels. This is advantageous.
  • game data that is stored on the Game Server 12 Storage Subsystem may be transmitted over a variety of links to a subscribers Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13. These may include Cable TV Networks Transmissions, IP, IPv6 or Ethernet.
  • a data transmission may be provided over a simplex or full duplex (using an interaction channel for the return) and may be Unicast (point-to-point), Multicast (one to many) or broadcast (all receivers receiving the assigned PID).
  • FIG 3 there are five main methods of providing game data within a DTC or FDC to a users Games Console, PC or STB which consist of Data Piping, Data Streaming, Data Carousels or Object Carousels.
  • Data Streaming is a method used by the Game Server 12 to provide game data, which takes the form of a continuous stream that is carried in an asynchronous PES.
  • Data Carousels is a method that may be used by the Game Server for assembling game data sets into a buffer, which are played-out cyclic manner (periodic transmission).
  • the data sets may be of any format or type i.e. HTML, Java or C++. For example this technique may be used to provide the data for an onscreen On-line Games Guide.
  • the data may be transmitted using fixed sized DSM-CC sections.
  • Object Carousel typically resemble data carousels, however they are primarily intended for the broadcast of data services.
  • data sets are typically defined by the DVB Network Independent Protocol specification and may be used, to down-load data to a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • the Cable TV operator network uses a Broadcast File System (BFS) for transporting data repeatedly over the network.
  • BFS Broadcast File System
  • the BFS allows a Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13 to quickly access games at anytime without requiring the use of an RDC to request data from the Game Server 12.
  • This mechanism is useful where large numbers of subscribers require the same game data.
  • An example would be where the same game is made available to any Games Console that has access to the DTC or FDC. This is advantageous.
  • a subscriber may access and begin to download a game at any point of the data cast regardless of when the user triggers the download.
  • Any data provided within the BFS that is transmitted via in-band QAM or out-of-band QPSK signals may be accessed through a data stream manager resident on the users STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26 which is activated on users request.
  • the data stream manager is a resident application on the user STB 13, Games Consoles 15 or PC 26 that enables game data to be retrieved and interpreted from the BFS into the device DRAM or Flash memory where it is then rendered on a TV Screen.
  • Games Consoles 15 or PC 26 that enables game data to be retrieved and interpreted from the BFS into the device DRAM or Flash memory where it is then rendered on a TV Screen.
  • An application resident on the Games Server 12 is operable retrieve the game data, audio and video that is stored within the Games Server Sub storage system.
  • the data, audio and video is then output via an AM Fiber Transport Network or SONET/SDH Transport Network interface to the MPEG Encoder.
  • the MPEG Encoder then encoders the data, audio and video into separate elementary streams that are then combined to form individual MPEG Transport Streams.
  • each MPEG TS is assigned a unique PID that is identifiable with a particular game provided within the games systems user interface or channels.
  • the signal is output from the MPEG Encoder 31 as MPEG TS to a Multiplexer 30 that combines the MPEG TS with other incoming signals using Time Divisional Multiplexing TDM and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing (FDM) techniques.
  • the signal is then output from the Multiplexer 30 to a QAM Modulator 28, which modulates the multiplexed signal within a 256 QAM waveform (Digital Transmission Channel).
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted to a Universal Broadband Router (UBR) 39 that operable to forward the QAM signal over the Transport Network to a second UBR 43.
  • UBR Universal Broadband Router
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted from the second UBR 43 to the Hub 45, which is in turn is then transmitted via the Fiber Nodes 51 over the Access Network 25 to the subscribers DVB-C Cable Modem/Receiver.
  • the QAM signal is then demultiplexed and demodulated by the Cable Modem/Receiver.
  • the MPEG TS signals are then separated into data, audio, video and ????.
  • the audio and video elementary streams are then buffered in the decoders memory for playback and the data stream is then decoded into its original data form and buffered into the Games Consoles 15 Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the TV operator is only required to provide one 2Mbps MPEG-2 Transport streams per game as opposed to per user to their total subscriber base.
  • the present invention described in the TV operator could provide a 2Mbps MPEG 2 stream over a cable transmission link to all subscribers from which a game could be retrieved on to a STB, Games Console or PC at anytime. This is achieved through transmitting data that is retrieved from the Games Server sub storage system and provided continuously over a digital transmission channel. This eliminates the need for a dial up connection and provides a low cost yet high-bandwidth delivery of games to subscribers. This is advantageous.
  • a Games Console 15 or PC 26 are operable to access data just as they would from a CD or DVD whereby only the data required for the game level is loaded into the memory. In this way the subscribers does not have to download the entire game onto a hard disc or Personal Video Recorder (PVR) to be played.
  • PVR Personal Video Recorder
  • the Games Console 15 or PC 26 will only load what is required from BFS, which is provided continuously within a DTC or FDC. Those skilled in the art will realise that a game is typically realised within the RAM or a Games Console 15 or PC 26.
  • the BFS acts as storage for all games each with a unique PID identifiable within a unique MPEG-2 Stream that is provided continuously over a FDC or DTC. This is advantageous. This may also applied to STB as it has limited storage capacity
  • BFS data may be retrieved and rendered by a Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13 without requiring a hard disc, optical disc drive or removable storage. This is achieved through buffering data into DRAM of Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13. From which the CPU is operable is render the game through utilising the RAM. As the subscriber progresses through the game, data is retrieved from the DTC or FDC, which is similar to a DVD or CD usage in a Games Console. Each game is designed to retrieve data from the BFS on instruction which links to specific PID relating to the Game data required.
  • various formats may be used to transport the game data including MPEG-4, DigiCipher II and Raw Transport Data (RTD).
  • RTD Raw Transport Data
  • MPEG-2 format is used to transport the game data to a user's device. This has the advantage of being supported by mostly all digital TV operators.
  • a subscriber's STB 13 Games Console 15 or PC 26 is operable to retrieve raw data sent in MPEG-2 private sections. This is achieved through transmitting data and video over the same transport stream or when a Games Server 12 does not utilise the BFS.
  • An application resident within the users STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26 enables data to be interpreted and a game to be rendered on the users TV screen. In this way the user is able to retrieve data within the MPEG transport stream that can be interpreted by a Games Console, STB or PC to render the game which is the output from the subscribers Games Console, STB and displayed on a TV screen or SVGA for PCs.
  • the STB 13, Games Console 15 or PC 26 is operable to access data within the MPEG- 2 data stream through an utilisation the stream manager a resident application that ensures that the device is tuned into the correct frequency and PID of the game requested by the user.
  • a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby software drivers may be provided to Games Consoles 15, PC 26 or STB 13 via a digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • the necessary software drivers to play a game may be provided directly to viewers
  • Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13 which may be provided over a DTC or FDC and stored as resident applications.
  • the drivers may include a graphics engine required to render games available on the games system. This is advantageous.
  • GUI graphical user interface
  • drivers may be specific to a device that may be connected to viewers Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13 to play a game such as an Infrared or USB Games Pad.
  • means may be provided through a GUI whereby a user can select and download multiple games at same time on to a Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13.
  • the data may be stored on a hard disc, personnel video recorder (PVR) or a secondary memory device connected via a USB or Firewire port to a Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13.
  • PVR personnel video recorder
  • a secondary memory device connected via a USB or Firewire port to a Games Console 15, PC 26 or STB 13.
  • a subscriber may store games locally on their device. This is advantageous. This is achieved through aggregating several MPEG-2 transport streams each containing data relating to a specific game within one in-band 8 MHz 256-QAM signal.
  • each game may be provided within 8 Mbps MPEG-2 streams simultaneously.
  • the user may therefore download up to four games at a rate of 8 Mbps from a single DTC.
  • At a low rate of 3 Mbps allocated to each game up to 18 games may be downloaded at the same time over a single DTC. However at a low rate of 3Mbps the games would take noticeably longer to download.
  • multiple games may be retrieved from an out-of-band QPSK signal which set at 6 MHz would provide a total throughput of 36 Mbps in which several games could be provided.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may prompt a GUI provided within a DTC which would enable them to select and highlight multiple games which may be provided over a QPSK signal to a Games Console, STB or PC.
  • previews of the games may be broadcast or streamed within the GUI thereby enabling the subscriber to preview a game before downloading. This is advantageous.
  • the Command Server 38 is operable to vary the rate of the transport streams in relation to size of game.
  • the rate may be adjusted from 512 Kbps up to 56 Mbps per game within an 8Mhz QAM Waveform. This is advantageous.
  • a game that a Games Server 12 has provided that to a subscribers Set Top Box (STB) 13 over a DTC or FDC may be saved.
  • STB Subscribe Top Box
  • a Game may saved within the flash memory of a STB 13 as a resident application from which the subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID (PID), service ID, publisher, developer, format and size. Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 and Time stamp that links to specific section of a game.
  • a resident application on STB 13 is operable to interpret the Game identifier stored in the STB flas memory and search for a specific PID, Channel ID and Time Stamp relating to the saved game.
  • a game may be saved on a USB memory card connected to the STB 13 via the USB port.
  • a resident application on the STB 13 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the USB memory card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams (TS) carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 that links to specific section of a game.
  • a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 13 is operable to interpret the PID on the USB memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC via a Cable Modem/receiver to the STB 13 and buffed in the flash memory or dynamic random access memory. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a subscriber may save a game played on a STB 13 on a Smart card which may be inserted in a smart card drive.
  • the majority of Set-Top Boxes are equipped with multiple smart card drives, which are presently used for conditional access and authentication.
  • a resident application on the STB 13 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the Smart card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 that links to specific section of a game.
  • a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 13 is operable to interpret the PID on the Smart card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC to the STB 13 and stored in the flash memory or DRAM. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • PVR Personal Video Recorder
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size. Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 and Time stamp that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 13 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID and Time stamp on the hard disc or PVR and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC or FDC to the STB 13 and stored in the flash memory, hard disc or within the memory on the PVR. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a STB 13 on a Games Server 12 which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC or FDC which would enable a game to be saved on the Games Server 12.
  • data is stored on Games Server containing a Game ID and Subscriber ID.
  • the Game Identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID (PID), Time Stamp, Service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game ID also contains a unique value at the end of the PID that links to specific section of a game within a PID ranging from 0 to 255.
  • a resident application on the STB 13 enables a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12 using the data stored in Game Identifier.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's STB 13.
  • the STB 13 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • the graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 14 prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing the red button on the remote control.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of STB 13.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which is operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the DTC which is temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) of the subscriber's STB 13.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the STB 13.
  • Preferably video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band DTC signal.
  • the video may be defined within HTML parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate the user interface by manipulating the buttons on the remote control, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber is provided the option to select saved games via the remote control.
  • a resident application on STB is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server by constructing a request in response to the subscriber's inputs on the remote control. If the subscribers selects saved games a request formed by the STB 13 which is transmitted upstream by the Cable Modem/Receiver within a 1 MHz QPSK waveform, Reverse Data Channel (RDC), to the Hub 45.
  • QPSK Modems 46 within the Hub 45 are operable to retransmit the data stream to a Universal Broadband Router (UBR) router 43 situated on the Transport Network.
  • the UBR router 43 is operable to route the data stream to second UBR router 39 that is connected to the Games Server 12 situated at the Head-End via an Ethernet 10/100base-t connection.
  • the Games Server 12 is operable to retrieve the saved games using the Subscribers ID from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the Game identifier files which are encoded within a MPEG-2 transport stream by an MPEG Encoder 31 as private MPEG section only accessible by authenticated subscriber.
  • the digitised signal is then combined with other data, video and audio streams output by the Games Servers 12 and multiplexed by Multiplexer 30 into a single signal using Time Divisional Multiplexing and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing techniques.
  • the multiplexed signal is then modulated by the QAM/QPSK modulator 28 into an in- band QAM or out-of-band QPSK waveform.
  • the signal containing the subscribers saved game data is then transmitted downstream via a UBR router 39 over the Transport network 24 to a second UBR router 43 which is operable to route the transmission via the Hub 45 downstream over the Access Network to the subscribers STB 13.
  • a Cable Modem/receiver within the STB 13 then demultiplexes and demodulates the incoming signal that is then feed to an MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 13.
  • the MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 13 then decodes the MPEG stream and data is decoded into its original form.
  • the CPU then buffers the data into the flash memory or dynamic random access memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • the STB 13 is operable to render a second user interface using the RAM.
  • the subscriber is then presented with list of saved games within the second user interface.
  • Each saved game listed within the user interface has a unique PID, Channel ID and Service ID stored temporally within the STB 13 memory.
  • the CPU is operable to identify and instruct the Cable Modem/receiver to the correct MPEG transport stream containing the exact data relating to the subscriber selection of a saved game.
  • the game data is then retrieved by Cable Modem/receiver from the DTC or FDC and buffered into the flash memory or dynamic random access memory of the STB 13.
  • the STB 13 is operable to render the game which is then output from the STB 13 via a TV Scart as an analogue signal and displayed on the TV Screen 14.
  • a TV Scart as an analogue signal
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the STBs flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game. For example a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the red button on their remote control. The game data is then retrieved from the data stream and buffered in to the Set Top Box 13 flash memory or DRAM and realised within the RAM.
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen 14 that is connected to the STB 13 via a Scart lead.
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request that is interpreted by the STB 13 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the STB memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on STB 13 memory resources the game is loaded and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the saved game data stored on the STB 13 flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM may contain Game identifiers which as previously described may be used retrieve data stored within the BFS using the PID, Channel ID, Time Stamp and Service ID. This may be necessary for the user to continue playing a game from the point the game was saved depending on the actual byte size of the game.
  • a game that a Games Server 12 has provided to a subscribers Games Console 15 over a DTC or FDC may be saved.
  • This may provided in number of ways. Firstly means may be provided whereby a Game may be saved within the memory card of a Games Console 15 as a resident application from which the subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Console 15 memory card containing a Game identifier.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, Packet ID (PID), publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID Packet ID
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique value and time stamp that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with specific data packet provided in the BFS that links to level 12 of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 15 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID and Time Stamp on the memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in- band DTC or out-of-band FDC via a Cable Modem/receiver to the Games Console 15 and buffered in the DRAM memory. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous. Alternatively a game may be saved on a USB memory card connected to the Games Console 15 via the USB port. A resident application on the Games Console would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the USB memory card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique value ranging from 0 - 255 and a Time stamp that links to specific section of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 15 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID, Time Stamp and Service ID on the USB memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC to the Games Console 15 and buffered in the DRAM memory. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby through a resident application on the Games Console 15 this would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on Hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilising a Hard disc or a Optical Disc Drive a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • GID Game Identifier
  • the GID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • the Game Identifier also includes specific Packet Identifier (PID)
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique number that links to specific section of a game.
  • a PID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with the level of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 15 is operable to interpret the GID on the Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive and search for a specific PID, Service ID and Channel ID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID, Service ID and Channel ID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC to the Games Console 15 and stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory, Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous. According to yet a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a Games Console 15 on a Games Server 12 which would be held remotely on a database. Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC which would enable a game to saved on the Games Server 12.
  • a resident application on the Games Console 15 would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12. This may be achieved in a number of ways. Firstly a request may formed by the subscribers Games Console 15 and transmitted upstream via the RDC to Games Server 12 which is operable to retrieve the saved games from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the saved files via the FDC to the subscribers Games Console 15. Once received by the Games Console 15 a game may be loaded.
  • GID Game identifier
  • Subscriber ID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, MPEG TS identifier, Packet identifier (PID), publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID Packet identifier
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the GID also contains a unique number at the end of the data string that links to specific section of a game. For example a GID may include a 07 at the end of the address which is identifiable with the level 7 of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 15 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request which is transmitted upstream within a QPSK waveform.
  • the Game Server 12 is operable to interpret the request and using the subscribers ID retrieves the subscribers saved games from a database which is then transmitted of FDC or DTC to the subscribers Games Console 15.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's Games Console 15.
  • the Games Console 15 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • the graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 14 prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing the select button on a game pad.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which is operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the DTC which is temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) of the subscriber's Games Console 15.
  • a Middleware engine resident on the Games Console 15 the CPU is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games Console 15.
  • Preferably video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band DTC signal.
  • the video may be defined within HTML parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate the user interface by manipulating the buttons on the games pad, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber is provided the option to select saved games via the games pad.
  • a resident application on Games Console 15 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request in response to the subscriber's inputs on the remote control. If the subscribers selects saved games a request formed by the Games Console 15 which is transmitted upstream by the Cable Modem/Receiver within a 1 MHz QPSK waveform, Reverse Data Channel (RDC), to the Hub 45.
  • QPSK Modems 46 within the Hub 45 are operable to retransmit the data stream to a Universal Broadband Router (UBR) router 43 situated on the Transport Network.
  • the UBR router 43 is operable to route the data stream to second UBR router 39 that is connected to the Games Server 12 situated at the Head-End via an Ethernet 10/100base-t connection.
  • the Games Server 12 is operable to retrieve the saved games using the Subscribers ID from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the Game identifier files which are encoded within a MPEG-2 transport stream by an MPEG Encoder 31 as private MPEG section only accessible by authenticated subscriber.
  • the digitised signal is then combined with other data, video and audio streams output by the Games Servers 12 and multiplexed by Multiplexer 30 into a single signal using Time Divisional Multiplexing and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing techniques.
  • the multiplexed signal is then modulated by the QAM/QPSK modulator 28 into an in- band QAM or out-of-band QPSK waveform.
  • the signal containing the subscribers saved game data is then transmitted downstream via a UBR router 39 over the Transport network 24 to a second UBR router 43 which is operable to route the transmission via the Hub 45 downstream over the Access Network to the subscribers Games Console 15.
  • a Cable Modem/receiver 16 within the Games Console 15 then demultiplexes and demodulates the incoming signal that is then feed to an MPEG decoder/processor in the Games Console 15.
  • the MPEG decoder/processor in the Games Console 15 then decodes the MPEG stream and data is decoded into its original form.
  • the CPU then buffers the data into the dynamic random access memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • the Games Console 15 is operable to render a second user interface using the RAM. The subscriber is then presented with list of saved games within the second user interface. Each saved game listed within the user interface has a unique PID, Channel ID and Service ID stored temporally within the Games Console 15 memory.
  • the CPU is operable to identify and instruct the Cable Modem/receiver to the correct MPEG transport stream containing the exact data relating to the subscriber selection of a saved game.
  • the game data is then retrieved by Cable Modem/receiver 16 from the DTC or FDC and buffered into the dynamic random access memory of the Games Console 15.
  • the Games Console 15 is operable to render the game which is then output from the Games Console 15 via a S-Video lead as an analogue signal and displayed on the TV Screen 14.
  • a S-Video lead as an analogue signal
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the Games Console 15 memory card or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the memory card or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game.
  • a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the select button on their games controller pad.
  • the game data is then retrieved from the data stream provided within the DTC and buffered in to the Games Console 15 dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and realised within the RAM.
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or C+ or HTML/JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the Games Console 15 via a S-video lead.
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request, which is interpreted by the Games Consoles 15 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the Games Console 15 memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on memory resources and the Games Consoles 15 RAM the CPU loads the game and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a game that a Games Server has provided that to a subscribers Personal Computer (PC) 26 over a DTC or FDC may be saved.
  • PC Personal Computer
  • This may provided in number of ways. Firstly through a resident application on the PC 26 this would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilising a Hard disc or a Optical Disc Drive a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • GID Game identifier
  • the GID contains attributes of the game including, PID, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the GID also contains a unique value that links to specific section of a game. For example a GID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with level 7 of a game.
  • a resident application on PC 26 is operable to interpret the PID on the Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC to the PC 26 and stored in the flash memory, Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a PC 26 on a Games Server 12 which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC or FDC which would enable a game to saved on the Games Server 12.
  • a resident application on the PC 26 would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12. This may be achieved in a number of ways. Firstly a request may formed by the subscribers PC 26 and transmitted upstream via the RDC to Games Server 12 which is operable to retrieve the saved games from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the saved files via the FDC to the subscribers PC 26. Once received by the PC 28 a game may be loaded.
  • PID Program ID
  • Subscriber ID Subscriber ID
  • the PID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique number at the end of the data string that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include a 07 at the end of the address which is identifiable with the level of a game.
  • a resident application stored on the PC 26 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request which is transmitted upstream within a QPSK waveform.
  • the Game server 12 is operable to interpret the request and using the subscribers ID retrieves the subscribers saved games from a database which is then transmitted of FDC or DTC to the subscribers PC 26.
  • the resident application interprets the PID and searches for the specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band DTC or out- of-band FDC to the PC 26 and buffered in the DRAM memory or stored on hard disc.
  • the game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the PC 26 hard disc or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the hard disc or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game.
  • a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the select button on their keyboard or games pad.
  • the game data is then retrieved from the data stream and buffered in to the PC's 26 dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and realised within the RAM.
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • an introductory user interface that may comprise or C+ or HTML/JavaScript objects, is presented to the subscriber on the SVGA screen that is connected to the PC 26.
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request, which is interpreted by the PC's 26 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the PC 26 memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on memory resources and the PC 26 RAM the CPU loads the game and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby through a user interface provided within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC a user can select multi-player networked games using a STB, Games Console or PC and play against other subscribers.
  • a subscriber might access a GUI from an in-band DTC by pressing the select button on a Games Pad.
  • Data containing HTML and JavaScript objects is then retrieved from the DTC to the Games Consoles 15 memory.
  • the Games Console 15 is operable to render the GUI.
  • a GUI is typically realised within '.he RAM of a Gsmes Console 15.
  • the subscriber is presented with a list of multi-player networked games including details of number of players, duration of play, game in session, difficulty level, author, publisher and channel.
  • MPEG 1 video previews of live multi-player networked games in session may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved by using data inputs retrieved from participating subscribers Games Console, STB or PC within RDC to render the games graphics on Game Server 12 situated in Head-End as described previously in GB 0129161.6.
  • the subscriber may highlight and select a multi-player networked game to join in. If the subscriber selects a game then a resident application on the Games console 15 switches the Cable modem/receiver 16 to the correct DTC or FDC relating to the games PID. Data is then retrieved from the DTC or FDC via the Cable modem/receiver 16 on to Games Console 15 DRAM. The game is then realised within the RAM.
  • a two-way communication path is then established between the Games Server 12 and Games Console 15 enabling data inputs to be exchange.
  • the two-way communication may be formed by two cable modems performing a handshake and using QPSK modulation to transmit data upstream to Games Server 12 and downstream to the Games Console 15.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • Data inputs are then centrally exchanged via the Games Server 12 and each participating subscriber's Games console, PC or STB.
  • the Games console is operable to render the game.
  • a subscriber may select and join in a Multi- player network game from GUI provided over an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC. This is advantageous.
  • this method of providing multi-player networked games may be provided to any Cable TV subscriber with a Games Console, STB or PC equipped with a Cable Modem/receiver capable of transmitting and receiving data provided over at out-of-band FDC or in-band DTC. This is advantageous.
  • sound and music output from the Games Server 12 may be provided by as MPEG audio stream to enhance the user interfaces of a game. It will be appreciated that this may be provided within an in-band digital transmission channel (DTC) or out- of-band forward data channel (FDC).
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • music or sounds may provided as a signal which may decoded by a receiver within STB 13 and output from a Television set 14 internal or external speakers.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB 13.
  • the STB 13 Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the Cable Modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC relating to the Packet Identifier (PID) of the game that was selected.
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • the data is then retrieved from the DTC and buffered into the STB flash memory or DRAM and rendered within the Random Access Memory.
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen 14 that is connected to the STB 13 via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB 13 is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG audio streams in whilst the Ul is displayed on the TV screen 14.
  • the CPU is operable to instruct the Cable Modem/receiver to switch over the correct MPEG audio stream required.
  • Receiver switches MPEG audio streams and audio is buffered into the MPEG decoder memory.
  • the MPEG decoder then decodes the MPEG audio into an analogue signal that is then output from the subscriber's Television 14 speakers.
  • the CPU use HTML/JavaScript or C+ objects and the STB RAM to render a game's user interfaces or menus.
  • the user interface is then rendered over video which has been decoded by an MPEG decoder in the STB.
  • video, audio and images may be provided to enhance the Ul of a game and enable motion backgrounds. Audio as previously described may also be decoded by a receiver within STB and output from a television's internal or external speakers.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB.
  • the STB Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC relating to the Packet ID of the game that was selected. Data, video and audio are then retrieved from the DTC. The data is then buffered into the STB flash memory and the game is rendered within the random access memory (RAM).
  • RAM random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG video streams whilst the Ul is displayed on the TV screen.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB is operable to decode the MPEG video provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television screen. Video relating to the games Ul may then be seen in behind the game's menu. This enhances the game menus by integrating video without requiring the data to downloaded and stored on the STB flash memory. In addition as the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • music and audio affects during a game may be provided over an in-band QAM Signal or out-of-band QPSK Signal.
  • multiple audio formats may be used by the Game Server to provide sound and music including Dolby Digital Surround Sound, MPEG 1 Layer 3 (MP3) and Audio Compression Level 3 (AC-3).
  • This may also be applied to Games Consoles and PCs. Thereby reducing the required amount of data to be downloaded to a users Games Console or PC and which in turn reduces the bandwidth need which can be utilised to provide other services. This is advantageous.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • the foreground may be provided over DTC as a data stream and rendered by a STB, Games Console or PC over the video provided within the QAM Signal. Combined with the foreground graphics this then enhances the game quality and reduces the required data to be processed by a STB, Games Console or PC.
  • video provided within in-band DTC and combined with the foreground graphics may be rendered graphics by the Games Server.
  • a games background may be rendered and provided as MPEG video which is then output by the server and combined with data stream by a Multiplexer into a 6 MHz QAM signal which is transmitted to the subscribers STB. It will be appreciated that this may be transmitted via cable, satellite or terrestrial communication paths as previously described in GB 0129161.6 and GB 0203790.1.
  • a MPEG decoder is operable to decode the video stream which is then output on TV screen.
  • the CPU is operable to render the game's foreground graphics over the video.
  • the STB is not required to render the games background thereby reducing the number of processing transaction required of the CPU and RAM.
  • rendering graphics on Games Server the graphics provided during a game can be enhanced to that equal to or greater than current Games console system. This is advantageous.
  • the background graphics provided by the Games Server may be pre-rendered thereby not requiring the Games server to render the games background. This is advantageous. In this way the STB, Games Console or PC are not required to process the background data as this is provided as a transmission within a QAM Signal. This is advantageous Alternatively the background graphics may be provided over an Analogue Transmission Signal (ATC) with Raw Data or transmitted within the out-of-band FDC with compressed digitised data.
  • ATC Analogue Transmission Signal
  • a forward data channel FDC
  • the foreground may be provided over DTC or FDC and rendered by STB, Games Console, PC however video within the FDC QPSK Signal may be utilised as the game background. Combined with the foreground graphics this then enhances the game quality and reduces the required data to be processed by a STB, Games Console or PC.
  • video provided within out-of- band FDC and combined with the foreground graphics may be rendered graphics by the Games Server.
  • a games background may be rendered and provided as MPEG video which is then output by the server and combined with data stream by a Multiplexer into a 6 MHz QPSK signal which is transmitted to the subscribers STB. It will be appreciated that this may be transmitted via cable, satellite or terrestrial communication paths as previously described in GB 0129161.6 and GB 0203790.1.
  • a MPEG decoder is operable to decode the video stream which is then output on TV screen.
  • the CPU is operable to render the game's foreground graphics over the video.
  • the STB is not required to render the games background thereby reducing the number of processing transaction required of the CPU and RAM.
  • rendering graphics on Games Server the graphics provided during a game can be enhanced to that equal to or greater than current Games console system. This is advantageous.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB 13.
  • the STB 13 Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, aud and video from the DTC relating to the Packet Identifier (PID) of the game that was selected.
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • Data, video and audio are then retrieved from the DTC.
  • the data is then buffered into the STB flash memory and the game is rendered within the random access memory (RAM).
  • RAM random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB 13 via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB 13 is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG video streams when the subscriber selects play.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB 13 is operable to decode the MPEG video provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television screen. Video relating to the games may then be played on the subscriber's TV screen and subscribers views a video cut scene for the game. This enhances the game by integrating video without requiring the video to downloaded and stored on the STB 13 memory.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • video output by the Game Server may be provided within a QAM Signal of a Digital Transmission Channel, which may be provided as continuous loop of video whereby random cut scenes are provided when a game is loading between levels.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB 13.
  • the STB 13 Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the FDC relating to the Packet Identifier (PID) of the game that was selected.
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • Data, video and audio are then retrieved from the FDC.
  • the data is then buffered into the STB 13 flash memory and the game is rendered within the random access memory (RAM).
  • RAM random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB 13 is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG video streams when the subscriber selects play.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB 13 is operable to decode the MPEG video provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television screen. Video relating to the games may then be played on the subscriber's TV screen and subscribers views a video cut scene for the game. This enhances the game by integrating video without requiring the video to downloaded and stored on the STB 13 flash memory.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • video output by the Game Server may be provided within a QAM Signal of a Digital Transmission Channel, which may be provided as continuous loop of video whereby random cut scenes are provided when a game is loading between levels.
  • the subscriber's Cable modem/receiver is operable to switch audio streams on command during a game.
  • MPEG Transport Stream (TS) Identifiers the subscriber Cable modem/receiver is also operable to switch DTC, FDC or MPEG TS on command during a game.
  • multiple audio streams may be provided by the Games Server 12 within MPEG Transport streams that may be aggregated into a single DTC or FDC from which the subscriber's receiver is operable to switch between audio streams during a game. This may be achieved through instructions or triggers provided within game data stream or script that provide unique Packet Identities that may be interpreted by the subscriber's receiver that is operable to switch to the correct audio stream provided within DTC or FDC using the Packet Identifier (PID).
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • the subscribers receiver may be instructed during duration play to switch streams to specific PID. This may be applied to scripted or non-scripted games engine.
  • Games Console or PC For a subscriber's STB, Games Console or PC to receive a particular transport stream, the subscriber's device must first determine the PID being used and then filter packets that have a matching PID value. To help the STB, Games Console or PC identify which PID corresponds to which game, a special set of streams, referred to as Signalling Tables, are transmitted with a description of each game carried within the MPEG-2 Transport Stream.
  • PSI Program Specific Information
  • Each Digital Transmission Channel may contain up to 17 MPEG Transport Streams (TS) with a bit rate of 2Mbps that are aggregated into a single 6MHz in-band QAM signal.
  • Equally each Forward Data Channel may also contain up to 17 Transport Streams (TS) provided at rate of 2Mbps that are aggregated into a single 6MHz out-of- band QPSK signal.
  • TS Transport Streams
  • Each MPEG Transport Stream is unique to each game that is provided by the Games Server 12.
  • Each transport stream consists of several or more elementary streams (ES) that may include Digital Control Data, Digital Audio (sampled and compressed), Digital Video (sampled and compressed) and Digital Data (synchronous, or asynchronous).
  • ES elementary streams
  • Each ES provided within MPEG TS can be assigned a unique value from 1 to 255, which are utilised by the subscribers Games Console, PC or STB to identify streams relating to a particular game. It will be appreciated that various Audio samples ranging from sample rates of 16Bps to 365 Kbps may be encoded as elementary steams that are provided with MPEG TS.
  • the subscriber prompts a game from a digital transmission channel.
  • IR signal transmitted to STB IR port.
  • the CPU interprets instruction and an Instructs the Cable modem/receiver switch PID to correct MPEG TS relating to the game selected.
  • Data is then retrieved from the MPEG TS and buffered within Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) or Flash Memory of the STB 13.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU then renders the games using Random Access Memory (RAM) that is then feed from the STB 13 via a Scart lead to TV Screen 14. Audio is then buffered into the memory of the MPEG decoder, which operable to demultiplex and demodulate the signal that is then output from the STB 13 via a Scart lead to the TV speakers. The rendered graphics are then displayed on the subscriber's TV screen 14 and audio is then output through TV speakers. As previously described through manipulating the buttons on the remote control the subscriber is operable to control the game.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • an instruction is provided within data stream to switch audio streams to a new PID.
  • the CPU interprets the instruction and instructs the receiver/decoder to switch audio streams to correct PID.
  • the receiver the switches PID audio that is then decoded and output from speakers.
  • each ES Prior to transportation over a DTC or FDC each ES is input to an MPEG-2 processor, often referred to as a video compressor or encoder, which accumulates the data into a stream of Packetised Elementary Stream (PES) packets.
  • a PES packet may be a fixed or variable sized block, with up to 65536 bytes per block and includes a 6 byte protocol header.
  • the PES protocol header consists of a 3-byte start code followed by a 1-byte stream ID and a 2-byte length field.
  • each MPEG ES additional information about the stream is also provided to assist the decoder at the receiver.
  • This includes a Packetised Elementary Stream (PES) Scrambling Control that defines whether scrambling is used, and the chosen scrambling method, a PES Priority that indicates priority of the current PES packet and a data alignment indicator that indicates if the payload starts with a video or audio start code.
  • PES Packetised Elementary Stream
  • Other additional information may include copyright information, indicating if the game within payload is copyright protected.
  • the ES may also include information on whether the ES is an original or a copy of the original ES.
  • each MPEG ES additional information about the stream is also provided to assist the decoder at the receiver.
  • This includes a Packetised Elementary Stream (PES) Scrambling Control that defines whether scrambling is used, and the chosen scrambling method, a PES Priority that indicates priority of the current PES packet and a data alignment indicator that indicates if the payload starts with a video or audio start code.
  • PES Packetised Elementary Stream
  • Other additional information may include copyright information, indicating if the game within payload is copyright protected.
  • the ES may also include information on whether the ES is an original or a copy of the original ES.
  • the ES are then combined within MPEG TS before being transported to the Multiplexer
  • the QAM modulator 68 then modulates the channel within 256 QAM waveform. This provides a data throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction. Once the forward error correction is complete the QAM signal containing the subscribers saved game data is then transmitted to a DBS Satellite Uplink 67.
  • DBS Satellite Uplink 67 is operable to transmit the QAM signal to a DBS Satellite 84.
  • the DBS Satellite 84. then amplifies the signal that is then transmitted to all subscribers with Satellite Receivers within the Satellites Spot beam.
  • the signal is then received by the Satellite Receiver 81 and feed into the Satellite Modem/receiver within the STB 13, which then demultiplexes and demodulates the incoming signal that is then feed to an MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 13.
  • the MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 13 then decodes the MPEG stream relating to PID requested during the game. This is advantageous.
  • the elementary streams may synchronised, or may not be synchronised depending on the task required.
  • elementary streams are usually synchronised for digital TV programs, or for digital radio programs to ensure that the audio playback is in synchronism with the corresponding video frames.
  • the elementary streams may be not synchronised to facilitate the downloading of software or games via a televised program.
  • the subscribers STB, Games Console or PC receiver may achieve synchronisation through utilising time stamps that are provided within the MPEG transport stream.
  • means may be provided whereby remote co processing and assistance graphic processing is provided by the Games Server to enhance 3D and 2D graphics within a game. This is achieved by using data inputs provided by a subscriber's Games Console, PC or STB for the Games Server to render a game.
  • a user may prompt a game from a user interface using the Games Pad.
  • the Cable Modem/receiver then performs a handshake with a Cable Modem Termination Unit (CMTS) 28 situated in the Head-end.
  • CMTS Cable Modem Termination Unit
  • This may be DVB-C or MCNS based.
  • a two-way communication is then established with the subscribers Games Console Cable Modem/receiver and Games Servers 12 Cable Modem.
  • the two-way communication consists of a Forward Path or Forward Data Channel (FDC) and an Reverse Data Channel (RDC).
  • FDC Forward Path or Forward Data Channel
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • the Game is then executed on the Games Server 12 and a resident application is launched that enables the user's data inputs to be interpreted by the Games Server 12 Central Processor Unit (CPU).
  • CPU Central Processor Unit
  • a graphics processor card within the Games Server is operable to output RGB, PAL, NTSC or composite signals from the Games Server 12 to an MPEG encoder 31.
  • An application resident on the Games Console 15 is operable instruct CPU to transmit users data inputs within RDC which may received by the Games Servers 12 situated that are operable to interpret the users data inputs and render 3D/2D graphics. Rendered graphics are then output from Games Server 12 graphics card as RGB, PAL, NTSC or composite signal to an MPEG real time encoder (RTE) 31 and encoded and compressed within an MPEG 2 video transport stream in real time.
  • the digital signal is the multiplexed within an in-band Forward Path or out-of-band Forward Data Channel (FDC) by a Multiplexer 30, using Time Divisional Multiplexing (TDM) and Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM).
  • TDM Time Divisional Multiplexing
  • FDM Frequency Division Multiplexing
  • the signal is modulated into a QPSK waveform or QAM waveform depending on whether the signal is transmitted within a in-band forward path as private MPEG stream or within an out-of-band FDC.
  • the signal is then transmitted over the Cable TV operators transport network 14 that consists of a series of Universal Broadband Routers (URB) 39,43 connected over Fiber optic cables to the hub 45 where signal is then transmitted over Access Network 25 to subscribers Cable Modem 16.
  • URB Universal Broadband Routers
  • Signal is then demultiplexed, demodulated by the Cable Modem/receiver 16 before being buffered into the memory of an MPEG decoder in the Games Console 15 for playback.
  • the signal is the decoded by the MPEG decoder and output from Games Console 15 via a AV lead to TV screen 14.
  • the data inputs are continuously transmitted within a RDC via the Cable Modem 16 to Games Server 12 that is operable to render the game.
  • the rendered graphics are the received within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC and displayed on the user TV screen 14.
  • the entire game may be rendered by the Games Server 12 or partially rendered which enables far more complex and detailed 3D scenes to be rendered during a game than supported by a STB, Games Console or PC to be rendered within a game. This is advantageous.
  • any modem for example a 28 Kbps or 56 Kbps modem may be used by a Games Console, PC or STB to transmit data inputs upstream via return path to Games Server 12 and that any 28 kbps to a 56 kbps modem may be used by the Games Server 12 to receive data inputs.
  • FIG 4 is an example of a Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) system and Satellite TV network architecture which may be used to connect a subscribers Games Console, STB or PC to the Games System.
  • Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) system is an alternative to cable television as a digital telecommunications service that provides television programming and data via a Digital Satellite System.
  • the satellite TV content providers network consists of a Head- End/Data Centre, Transport Network infrastructure/backbone, Hub, Access Network and the subscriber's premises.
  • the Head-End provides the operational side of TV operator and may include several Game Servers 12, which are operable to output data continuously within the in-band forward path of a DTC via a satellite link to a subscribers Games Console, PC or STB.
  • the Games Server 12 may be configured output data continuously within out-of-band FDC over ATM/OC-3 network to a subscribers Games Console, PC or STB. This is achieved through interfacing the Game Servers 12 with the Head-End network through a PCI System that may be Ethernet, IP or DSL.
  • the Game Servers 12 may also include an Application Specific Integration (ASI) interface that enables the Game Server 12 to be interfaced with the Transport Network or Head-End.
  • ASI Application Specific Integration
  • the ASI provides access to several different mechanisms and protocols for delivering data between the Game Server 12 and the Subscribers device regardless of whether a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79. In this way the Game Servers 12 are operable to be directly interfaced with a QAM/QPSK Modulator 68.
  • the Head-End consists of a Games Servers 12 that are connected to an MPEG Encoder 56 which in turn is connected to a Multiplexer 66.
  • data transmitted by the Game Server 12 may be encoded into MPEG-2 transport streams and transmitted within a in-band QAM digital transmission channel (DTC) or out-of- band QPSK forward data channel (FDC) to a users Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • DTC in-band QAM digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • the MPEG-2 Real-time Encoders (RTE) 56 are operable to compress video and data feeds into MPEG-2 transport streams which are then Multiplexed into a single signal by a Multiplexer 66.
  • the multiplexed signal is than modulated by the QAM/QPSK Modulator 68 into a QAM or QPSK Signal and transmitted via satellite link or transport network to a subscriber's device. It will be appreciated that the process of encoding data within an MPEG-2 transport stream may be achieved in real time.
  • Advert insertion server 58 Also connected to the MPEG Encoder 56 by OC-3/OC-12 cable is the Advert insertion server 58, which provides QAM video content over in-band digital transmission channels (DTC) provided by Direct Broadcast Satellite to subscribers Receiver Dishes. This may be interconnected with the Game Servers 12 for provisioning TV adverts within Graphical User Interface (GUI) provided by the Game System.
  • DTC digital transmission channels
  • GUI Graphical User Interface
  • ATC in-band DTC or analogue transmission channel
  • QAM Quadrature Amplitude Modulator
  • a DTC is a QAM waveform with a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting MPEG-2 Transport Streams to a Ground Satellite uplink transmitter 67 which using a satellite dish antenna, pointed towards a Geostationary orbit satellite 84 (GEO), is operable to transmit digitised signals to the satellite transponders.
  • GEO Geostationary orbit satellite 84
  • Each satellite typically has 12 to 24 transponders set at different frequencies.
  • a Geo satellite typically uses bandwidths of 11 to 12 GHz (uplink) and 14 GHz (downlink) referred to as the Ku-band.
  • the signal is then transmitted within the downlink to all subscribers' receivers within the Satellites spot beam, sometimes refereed to as a Wide Swath.
  • the downlink signal may be received by an 18-inch DBS Satellite Dish 81 , which is then feed directly into the Set top box that contains a MPEG decoder and an access card for the decoder. From the Satellite Dish 81 the signal is then converted to a lower frequency and transported to the MPEG decoder.
  • the MPEG decoder then applies demodulation and the forward error correction code is removed.
  • the signal is then demultiplexed to enable additional data to be extracted.
  • the compressed data stream is the sent to a buffer from where the compression engine could access it.
  • the downlink may be DVB-S broadcast-based.
  • Data may be provided over a Ka-Band, Ku-Band or C-Band signal from a GEO Satellite to a subscriber's Games Console, STB or PC via an 18-inch Satellite receiver dish.
  • DBS transmissions are delivered at the 11-to-15 GHz frequency range, known as the Ku-band, at a power that may exceed 120 watts.
  • the higher power of the Ku-band allows a more directed satellite-to-receiver signal and, thus, requires a much smaller receiver dish than is required for C-band reception.
  • Ku-Band is a frequency range used for a satellite uplink and downlink of a host of signals.
  • the advantage of using Ku-Band is that it requires a smaller dish than C-Band for reception, and is more resilient to interference.
  • Ku Band Satellites typically operates in the 11 to 14 GHz range, these are medium-power satellites, requiring about 40 to 80 watts per transponder and permitting receiving dishes as small 1 meter across.
  • the Games System service may be provided on a GEO Satellite in multiple beams. It will be appreciated that the transponder parameters, frequency and type of polarisation will be predefined and will depend on the volume of data.
  • the user may receive up to 40 Mbps and transmit up to 5 Mbps within the RDC.
  • the receiver protocol is DVB-S.
  • the transport protocols for data transfer are TCP/IP, UDP/IP, FTP, VoIP.
  • the transmitting teleports use special-purpose equipment, and the receiving earth stations should be equipped with a satellite router as a stand-alone unit or a DVB-S receive card integrated with the user's STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • the antenna diameter and the power of the upconverter depend on the link budget based on the required data rate, modem operation modes and satellite parameters.
  • Satellite systems including DDS based on C-Band satellite technology may be utilised by the Games Server 12 to provide Games to a subscribers Games Console 82, STB 79 or PC 88.
  • C-Band refers to a frequency range used for satellite uplink/downlink of a host of signals ranging from radio and television programming to high-speed data services.
  • the band typically exists between 4 and 8 GHz.
  • the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz satellite communication band is used as the downlink frequencies and the 5.925 to 6,425 GHz band that serves as the uplink frequencies.
  • data maybe transmitted within a digital transmission channel DTC in the in-band Forward Path via a Ka-band Satellite transmission to a Satellite receiver dish.
  • Data carried over transmission channel in the in-band Forward Path on a Satellite TV network is received over the air as a satellite transmission by a digital Satellite receiver dish 81 , which is connected to the via a downlead to a STB 79.
  • Ka-band refers to a frequency range used for satellite uplink/downlink of a host of signals.
  • the Ka Band frequency ranges from 18 to 31 GHz.
  • K/Ka-band Gigabit Satellites may be utilised by the Games Server 12 to provide data throughput of (1.2 - 1.5 Gbps), very high data rate (155 Mbps) and multi-player network games (1.5 - 155 Mbps) users.
  • the gigabit links use SS/TDMA while the others use SCPC/TDM uplinks and TDM/TDMA downlinks with onboard ATM switching.
  • the Middleware Server 63 is operable to provide HTML, JavaScript and pJava objects to the subscribers STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88 that may be used to render a graphical user interface (GUI).
  • GUI graphical user interface
  • HTML and JavaScript objects command functionality on the device.
  • HTML objects it is possible to command the STB 79 TV functionality such as switching the Satellite receiver to a specific frequency to receive incoming data over an in-band DTC MPEG-2 transport stream.
  • a Middleware engine and HTML Browser resident within the Games Console 82, PC 88 and STB 79 enables HTML/JavaScript objects to be interpreted by the subscriber's device.
  • a Command Server 95 Connected to the Middleware Server 63 is a Command Server 95, which is operable to control data streams from the Game Servers 12. Monitoring software and diagnostics software provided on the Command Server 61 enables the TV operator to analysis bandwidth usage and identify problems such as bottlenecks within the network.
  • a Billing Server 59 which is operable to provide transaction authentication and SSL.
  • TFTP Trivial File Transfer Protocol
  • STB Set Top Box
  • a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) Server 60 provides dynamic assigned IP addresses to the subscribers Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • the DHCP Server 60 also allows the re-use of assigned IP addresses.
  • a Domain Name System (DNS) Server 60 provides IP addresses to devices connected to the Games System such as the Game Servers 12 or Command Server 38.
  • the DNS Server 60 may also be configured to provide addresses to subscribers and external network devices connected to Internet, enabling subscribers to access content external to the TV network using TCP/IP.
  • a Time Of Day (TOD) Server 64 provides the synchronisation of native and resident applications on a subscribers device.
  • the TOD Server 64 may be utilised to synchronise a program guide with the actual time.
  • the Middleware Server 63, Command Server 61 , Billing Server 59, DHCP Server 60, TFTP Server 62 and TOD Server 64 are all connected via an 10/100Base-t Ethernet network to an Asymmetric Transfer Mode Switch (ATM) 65 that connects the Head-End to the Transport Network infrastructure via Optical cables.
  • ATM Asymmetric Transfer Mode Switch
  • Operation Support System software within the Head-End provides Conditional Access (CAM).
  • the hardware upon which the conditional access may be executed may be a Sun Solaris or Windows NT based workstation that may also be the Billing Server 59.
  • a QAM Modulator 68 provides the in-band Analogue transmission channels (ATCs).
  • An ATC is an AM-VSB waveform and has a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting an NTSC or PAL signals from the Head-End to a subscribers STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • a QAM Modulator 68 provides the in-band forward path for digital transmission channels (DTCs).
  • DTC is a QAM waveform with a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting MPEG-2 Transport Streams from the Head-End to a subscribers STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • ATM Asymmetric Transfer Mode Switch
  • the Transport Network infrastructure/backbone consists of numerous Asymmetric Transfer Mode (ATM) Switches interconnected over optical cables such as Optical Carrier Level 12 (OC-12) to 48 (OC-48).
  • the Transport Network infrastructure is operable to support the transmission of data, video and audio over optical cables within out-of-band QPSK Forward Data Channel (FDC) over as Optical Carrier Level 12 to 48 cables to the Hub.
  • QSPK Modems 74 situated at the. Hub are operable to transmit the signal over the Access Network via a Pots splitter shelf 73 to a subscriber's STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • the Hub consists of Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK) Modulators 74 that provide the Forward Data Channel (FDC) used for transmitting packets containing IP or MPEG-2 private sections to a users Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • QPSK Quadrature Phase Shift Keying
  • the FDC is a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz which may be used for transporting data and various subsystem components from the Hub to a subscribers Games Console 82, STB 79 or PC 88 over Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Lines (ADSL). Plain Old Telephone System (POTS) Splitter Shelves 73 interconnect the Hub with the Access Network, which in turn interconnect the subscribers Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 via ADSL cable to the QPSK Modulators 74 within the Hub.
  • ADSL Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Lines
  • POTS Plain Old Telephone System
  • the Access Network often referred to, as the last five miles or the local loop, connects the Hub to the subscribers STB 79, PC 88 or Games Console 82.
  • This is typically with ADSL/POTS via a dial up modem to subscribers device as illustrated by figure 4.
  • the home subscribers premises includes a 18-inch satellite dish 81 for receiving video, audio and data from a satellite link, which is connected to a STB 79 which may used to play games.
  • the subscribers STB 79 includes a standard DVB-S Satellite Receiver Dish 81 operable to receive C, L, X and KU - Band signals which is connected to a Satellite Modem via a BNC connection.
  • This modem may be a DVB-S based.
  • Figure 4 also shows a Games Console 82 within the subscribers premises which is also connected to the 18-inch satellite dish 85 via coax cable, which connects to a Satellite receiver/modem contained within the Games Console 82.
  • the a Satellite receiver/modem enables data to be received by the Games Console 82 from a Ka-band or Ku-Band satellite signal which may be provided at bit rate of up to 45 Mbps.
  • the Satellite receiver/modem is also operable to transmit and receive data from out-of-band QPSK signals via the dial-up connection 83.
  • each Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 is a resident or native application that is operable to retrieve data received from a QPSK/BPSK out-of-band or in-band satellite signals using the satellite receiver/modem.
  • the application is also operable to buffer data received over an out-of-band or in-band signal into the device memory from which a game may be rendered.
  • the Access Network Connected to the Games Console 82 via dial up connection 83 is the Access Network, which contains a series or routers and switches on which data may be transmitted to and from the Hub.
  • a series of QPSK modems 74 provide the out-of- band QPSK Forward data channel (FDC) to a users Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • FDC QPSK Forward data channel
  • data packets received over the transport network from a Game Server 12 may be transmitted over the Access network to a users Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 provided within a 1 to 6 MHz QPSK waveform.
  • the QPSK modems 74 within the Hub are also operable to convert data received from out-of-band QPSK signals transmitted within the Reverse Data Channel (RDC) from a subscribers Satellite modem within a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • the QPSK modems 74 in the Hub are also operable to transmit signals received from the subscribers Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 to the Command Server 61 located in the Head-End of a Satellite content provider.
  • an ATM switch 71 Connected to the QPSK modems 74 is an ATM switch 71 , which in turn is connected to a series of ATM switches which connect the Hub via the Transport network with a second ATM switch 65 located in the Regional Head-End.
  • Proxy Servers 72 Also connected to the ATM Switch 71 on the Transport Network is a Proxy Servers 72 and Transcoder Servers 70.
  • the Proxy Servers 72 provide HTTP links between the Satellite TV network and external networks such as the Internet.
  • the Proxy Server 72 is operable to provide software objects to a subscriber's STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88. These objects may be HTML documents, Java applets or XML documents.
  • the Proxy Server 72 may also provide filtering of requests, translation, and client authentication.
  • a Proxy Server 72 typically uses an IP Gateway to distribute objects to a subscriber's STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88. These objects may be HTML or JavaScript objects or other applications.
  • the Transcoder Servers 70 provides the communication link between the Game Server 12 and subscribers device whether an STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • the Transcoder Server is operable to convert RDC signals received from a DVB Satellite Modem in to IP data packets, which may then transmitted over the Transport Network to a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 72.
  • the subscriber's premises includes a STB 79, PC 88 and a Games Console 82 that are connected to the Hub via a dial up modem and Satellite receiver.
  • the Satellite modem provides QPSK modulation and demodulation.
  • the Games Console 82 consists of 120MB RAM, a 480MHz central processor unit (CPU), 32MB DRAM Memory, Digital Video Disc (DVD) Drive, a 3D Graphics Accelerator chip, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, a FireWire port, a 16MB Memory Card, an MPEG-2 decoder, and an Operating System (O/S).
  • CPU central processor unit
  • DRAM Dynamic RAM
  • DVD Digital Video Disc
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • FireWire port a 16MB Memory Card
  • MPEG-2 decoder an MPEG-2 decoder
  • O/S Operating System
  • the CPU is operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from resources. Data transferred between the Games Consoles 82 resources is transferred over the main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the Games Consoles 82 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the volatile memory is a semiconductor based memory that can be read and written by the CPU or other hardware devices.
  • the CPU typically utilises the RAM when rendering a Game.
  • Dynamic RAM is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilised by the CPU to store and retrieve data. DRAM is typically used during a game acting as a memory buffer with the RAM. Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a DVD or hard disc. DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • the memory card is a memory module containing random access memory (RAM) semiconductor chips that may be utilised by the CPU to store data or programs. The module may also comprise of EPROM, RAM, ROM or flash memory chips.
  • DVD Digital Video Disc
  • CD Compact disc
  • the Graphics Card 17 contains a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can.
  • the coprocessor is vital to performance of a Games Console 82 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks. All present Games Consoles contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the FireWire (i-Link) port allows external devices to be connected to the Games console 82 such as a Hub, which enables multiple players to play against each other.
  • the FireWire (i-Link) port will support data rates of up to 400 Mbps.
  • the MPEG decoder is operable to decode MPEG-2 streams received from a Satellite TV signal.
  • video, audio and data compressed and digitised into an MPEG-2 transport stream and transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal can be decoded and interpreted by the CPU.
  • the MPEG decoder may of course be software based or may form part of a Satellite TV receiver.
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • the Games Console 82 may also include an optional Hard Disc or Optical Disc Drive on which games retrieved from a DTC or FDC may be stored.
  • the Games console 82 is typically connected to users TV screen 86 via an AV lead to a TV Scart port or via S- video cable.
  • the STB 79 is also connected to a dial up connection 78.
  • the dial up connection is utilised by the Satellite modem or V.90 Analogue modem to transmit data over the Access Network to QPSK modems 74 situated at the Hub.
  • Satellite modem/receiver is illustrated internal to a Games Console 82, however this may be external to the device through various different interfaces including a USB, Firewire or Ethernet adapter.
  • modem is derivative to that of the term's modulation and demodulation.
  • modems described herein are high-speed Satellite modems designed for high bandwidth data and video transmissions at bit rates of 4 to 45 Mbps and not 28.8 Kbps analogue modems which most will be familiar with in terms of the Internet.
  • the Satellite modem/receiver is operable to demodulator and modulate signals to and from QPSK modems located within the Hub.
  • the Satellite modem/receiver is also operable to retrieve data, video and audio transmitted within a Ku-band, Ka-band or C- band satellite transmission by QAM Modulator located within the Headend.
  • the Satellite modem/receiver may be connected to a Games Console via a type III PCMCIA Card slot within the expansion bay. It will be appreciated that various different Interfaces may be used to interface the Satellite Modem/receiver 16 including Ethernet 10Base-T, RJ-45 connectors, USB Series B connector, Cable RF Input, 75 Ohm F- Connector. Alternatively a 10/100 Base TX Ethernet card may be used to connect the Games Console 15 to the TV network and in turn the Games Server 12.
  • a QPSK demodulator within the users Satellite modem/receiver is operable to receive IP packets and MPEG-2 private data sections. Using a QPSK demodulator the Satellite modem/receiver is operable to receive data transmitted within a forward data channel (FDC) signal from the Games Server 12.
  • FDC forward data channel
  • a FDC is a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz used for transmitting data to a subscriber's device from the Hub 45. Satellite modem/receiver typically utilises one FDC for receiving both application data and instructions at any given time.
  • a QPSK modulator within the subscriber's Satellite modem/receiver provides an out-of- band Reverse Data Channel (RDC).
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • the RDC is also a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz used for transmitting data from a subscriber's device to the QPSK modems 74 in the Hub.
  • a Satellite modem/receiver typically utilises one RDC for sending both application data and control messages at any given time.
  • the QPSK modems 74 in the Hub may be configured to provide multiple RDC's to one Satellite modem/receiver at any given time for providing data inputs and requests from the Games Console 82 to a Game Server 12.
  • a QAM demodulator within the subscribers Games Console 82 is operable to adapt to channels encoded at different rates of up to 56 Mbps. Thereby enabling data to be received at up to 56 Mbps. In this way data may be retrieved from a QAM in-band DTC signal at a bit rate of 45 Mbps which may be buffered into a Games Consoles 82 memory and rendered through utilising the Random Access Memory (RAM) 11. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Console 82 and Satellite modem/receiver supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for Satellite broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home networking and storage.
  • Software applications resident on the Games Console 82 facilitate the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from the Satellite TV network.
  • the software drivers resident within the Operating System provide the means enabling the Games Console 82 to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a Satellite TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • a Satellite Receiver Dish 85 which is operable to receive C, L, X, K/Ka and Ku-band signals transmitted by a DBS Satellite 84.
  • the Satellite Receiver Dish 85 is connected to a Satellite Modem/receiver via a BNC connection.
  • This modem may be a DVB-S based. In this way games provided by the Games Server 12 within a Ka-band or Ku-band Satellite signal may be received by subscribers Games Console 82. This is advantageous.
  • the reverse data channel may be provided without the use of dial up interface.
  • RRC reverse data channel
  • a Satellite Modem/receiver can transmit at data rates of up to 2Mbits/sec in a Ka-Band (29.5- 30GHz) and has a receive capability of 38Mbits/sec (DVB MPEG-2).
  • the return path over a satellite link maximum bit rate is however dependent on the size of the subscriber's dish. For example 144Kbits/sec may be achieved with a 65-75cm dish, 384 Kbits/sec with a 79-95cm dish and 2.048Mbits/sec with 95-120cm dish. This is advantageous.
  • Games Console 82 Connected by a s-video or AV lead to the subscribers Games Console 82 is a TV screen 86 that is operable to display video decoded by an MPEG decoder in the Games console and graphics rendered within the RAM.
  • the Games Console 15 may be connected via a S-VHS lead.
  • the TV screen 86 includes speakers from which audio may be output.
  • the Set Top Box (STB) 79 consists of an 80MHz Central Processor Unit, 4MB RAM, 2MB Flash Memory, 4MB DRAM, 256 KB EEPROM, 2 Smart card interfaces, 2 USB ports, a Graphics Processor Unit with 4MB SDRAM, an infra-red port, a built-in Modem, an MPEG decoder, an RF Tuner and software.
  • the CPU is a microprocessor which operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from the STB 79 resources. Data is transferred over the STB's 79 main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the STB's 79 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • Flash Memory is a type of non-volatile memory is built into the STB 79. Flash memory is similar to EEPROM memory in function however data must be removed in blocks. The CPU utilises the flash memory to store data. In this way the Flash Memory acts as a replacement to a hard disc.
  • Dynamic RAM is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilised by the CPU to store and retrieve data.
  • the CPU utilises the DRAM as a memory buffer for game data.
  • Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a Flash Memory.
  • DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • the Graphics Processor Unit is a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can.
  • the coprocessor is vital to performance of a STB 79 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks.
  • the majority of present Set top boxes contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the MPEG decoder is operable to decode MPEG-2 streams received from a Satellite TV signal.
  • video, audio and data compressed and digitised into an MPEG-2 transport stream and transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal can be decoded and interpreted by the CPU.
  • the MPEG decoder may of course be software based or may form part of a Satellite TV receiver.
  • the remote control and Infrared interface are standard in all current Set top boxes and are used to relay user commands to the Set top box 79. In this way the user is able to control a game through the manipulation of the buttons on the remote control.
  • the STB 79 is also connected to a dial up connection 78.
  • the dial up connection is utilised by the modem to transmit data over the Access Network to QPSK modems 74 situated at the Hub.
  • the Satellite Modem/receiver built in to the STB 79 enables QPSK Waveforms to be received and transmitted.
  • Data may be transmitted through the QPSK modulator which enables the STB to utilise the Reverse Data Channel (RDC) with a QPSK waveform, which in turn provides a return path whereby requests and data inputs maybe transmitted upstream to a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 72.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • a QPSK demodulator enables the STB 79 to retrieve data within the out-of-band Forward Data Channel (FDC) provided by the Game Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 72.
  • FDC out-of-band Forward Data Channel
  • a QPSK Modulator 74 typically located in the Hub is operable to transmit packets containing IP or MPEG private sections over the FDC to the users STB 79.
  • QPSK demodulators 74 present within the hub enable data to be retrieved from the RDC and transported over the transport network to a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 72.
  • a QAM demodulator within the STB 79 enables data to be retrieved from within QAM signal provided by the Game Server 12, Middleware Server 35 or Proxy Server 40.
  • QAM signals are QAM waveforms which provides a forward path whereby data, audio and video maybe broadcast via a Satellite transmission to all subscribers devices by a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 72 within a digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • DVB-S Digital Video Broadcasting Satellite
  • DVB-RCS Return Channel For Satellite
  • IEEE 802.14 IEEE 802.14, to facilitate the transmission of data within the FDC or RDC.
  • the STB 79 and Satellite Modem/receiver supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for Satellite broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home networking and storage.
  • Software applications provided on the STB 79 facilitate the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from the Satellite TV transmission.
  • the software also provides the means enabling the STB to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a Satellite TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • a Satellite Receiver Dish 81 Connected to the Set top box (STB) 79 is a Satellite Receiver Dish 81 which is operable to receive C, L, X, K/Ka and Ku-band signals transmitted by a DBS Satellite 84.
  • the Satellite Receiver Dish 81 is connected to a Satellite Modem/receiver via a BNC connection. This modem may be a DVB-S based. In this way the subscribers STB 79 may receive games provided by the Games Server 12 within a Ka, C, L or Ku- band satellite transmission signals. This is advantageous.
  • the reverse data channel may be provided without the use of dial up interface.
  • a Satellite Modem/receiver can transmit at data rates of up to 2Mbits/sec in a Ka-Band (29.5- 30GHz) and has a receive capability of 38Mbits/sec (DVB MPEG-2).
  • the return path over a satellite link maximum bit rate is however dependent on the size of the subscriber's dish. For example 144Kbits/sec may be achieved with a 65-75cm dish, 384 Kbits/sec with a 79-95cm dish and 2.048 Mb its/sec with 95-120cm dish. This is advantageous.
  • STB Set Top Box
  • Scart lead is a TV screen 80 which is operable to display video decoded by a MPEG decoder in the STB 79 and graphics rendered by Graphic Processor Unit (GPU).
  • GPU Graphic Processor Unit
  • the diagram shows a third subscriber that is connected to the access network via a dial up connection 87 which in turn is connected to a Personnel Computer PC 88.
  • the Personnel Computer (PC) 88 contains a 1.2 GHz Central Processor Unit, 120MB RAM, 24MB DRAM, 32MB SDRAM, 512KB EEPROM, DVD Drive, 128MB 3D Graphics Accelerator chip, a 40 Gigabyte Hard Disc, an PS2 port, a Modem/receiver, a MPEG-2 decoder and an Operating System (O/S).
  • PC Central Processor Unit
  • the CPU is a silicon based microprocessor which operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from resources. Data is transferred over the PC's 88 main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the PC's 88 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the volatile memory is a semiconductor based memory that can be read and written by the CPU or other hardware devices.
  • the CPU typically utilises the RAM when rendering a Game.
  • Dynamic RAM is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilised by the CPU to store and retrieve data.
  • the CPU utilises the DRAM as a memory buffer for game data.
  • Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a DVD or hard disc.
  • DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • DVD Digital Video Disc
  • CD Compact disc
  • the Graphics Card contains a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can.
  • the coprocessor is vital to performance of a PC 88 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks.
  • the majority of present PCs contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the MPEG decoder is operable to decode MPEG-2 streams received from a Satellite TV signal. In this way video, audio and data compressed and digitised into an MPEG-2 transport stream and transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal can be decoded and interpreted by the PC 88.
  • the MPEG decoder may be connected to the PC 88 via a PCI slot. It will be appreciated that the MPEG decoder may of course be software based or may form part of a Satellite Modem/receiver.
  • the PS2 interface is standard on all PCs and enables the user to command a game using a keyboard or mouse. In this way the user is able to control a game through manipulating the buttons on the keyboard or mouse, which may be interpreted by a game engine on the PC 88 and the corresponding graphics to users inputs are rendered on the screen. With present PC systems this process can be performed in real time.
  • subscribers of Satellite TV may be provided with USB adapter.
  • the USB would enable a PC 88 to be indirectly interfaced via a USB interface to a DVB-S Satellite modem that is operable to connect to the Game Server 12.
  • a PC 88 may be directly interfaced to the Game Server 12 situated with the Head-End via a Satellite Modem/receiver or a dial up modem.
  • the Satellite Modem/receiver may be connected to a PC 88 via an expansion bay.
  • an Ethernet Network Card 10/100Base-t may be used to connect the PC 88 to the Games Server 12.
  • a PC 88 may access data within the in-band and out-band signals provided by the Games Server 12.
  • the PC 88 may transmit requests or data via the reverse data channel (RDC) upstream to the Game Server 12 with the Head-End. This is advantageous.
  • RDC reverse data channel
  • a Satellite Receiver Dish 89 Connected to the PC 88 is a Satellite Receiver Dish 89 which is operable to receive C, L, X, K/Ka and Ku-band signals transmitted by a DBS Satellite 84.
  • the Satellite Receiver Dish 89 is connected to a Satellite Modem/receiver via a BNC connection.
  • This modem/receiver may be a DVB-S based.
  • the subscribers PC 88 may receive games provided by the Games Server 12 within a Ka, C, L or Ku-band satellite transmission signals. This is advantageous.
  • the return path over a satellite link maximum bit rate is however dependent on the size of the subscriber's dish. For example 144Kbits/sec may be achieved with a 65-75cm dish, 384 Kbits/sec with a 79-95cm dish and 2.048Mbits/sec with 95-120cm dish. This is advantageous.
  • the PC 88 and Satellite Modem/receiver supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for Satellite broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home networking and storage.
  • Software applications provided on the PC 88 facilitate the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from a Satellite transmission or over Satellite TV network.
  • the software also provides the means enabling the PC 88 to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • a subscriber may trigger a game to download directly relating to video preview of a game provided on a digital transmission channel (DTC) or an analogue transmission channel (ATC) using a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • ATC an analogue transmission channel
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29 in which HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's Games Console 15.
  • the CPU in the Games Console 82 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image which is displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen prompting the subscriber to download a game.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the subscriber may respond to the prompt. If the subscriber responds by pressing the select button on Games Pad then a signal is then transmitted to the CPU in the Games Console 82.
  • the CPU interprets the data input signal and instructs the Satellite Modem/receiver connected via PCMCIA slot to switch channels to correct MPEG packet ID (PID) required for the game.
  • PID MPEG packet ID
  • the Satellite modem then performs a handshake with the MTS situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data and is based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies used and authentication.
  • the game data which is being transmitted continuously by the Games Server 12 within a DTC, is then received via the Satellite Receiver Dish 89 and demodulated by the Satellite Modem/receiver.
  • An MPEG Decoder in the Games Console 82 is then operable to decompress and decode the digitised data stream provided within an MPEG-2 transport stream.
  • the CPU then buffers the data onto the Games Console 82 Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and the game is rendered using the RAM.
  • the rendered graphics are then output from the Games Console 82 via an AV-video lead which is connected to a TV Screen 86 upon which the game is displayed.
  • subscribers may be provided with a user interface from which the subscriber may select and download games to a STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • This is achieved through transmitting HTML/Java data in the DTC, in-band Forward Path, or an out-of- band forward data channel (FDC) to a subscribers STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • FDC out-of- band forward data channel
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 57.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted via DBS Satellite 84 to the subscriber's Satellite Receiver Dish 89 which is then transported to the Games Console 82.
  • the Games Console 82 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image. The graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 86 prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing select button on the game pad.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of Games Console 82.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which is operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the DTC which is temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) of the subscriber's Games Console 82.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • a Middleware engine resident on the Games Console 82 is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 70.
  • Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games Console 82.
  • Preferably video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band DTC signal.
  • the video may be defined within HTML parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate the user interface by manipulating the buttons on the game pad, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber then presses the select button on games pad, which sends a signal to the CPU in Games Console 82.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input and instructs the Satellite Modem/receiver to switch to the correct Channel ID, Service ID and Packet Identity (PID) relating to game selected.
  • PID Packet Identity
  • the Satellite modem/receiver then performs a handshake with the MTS situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data and is based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies and authentication used. For example this protocol may be DVB-S based.
  • conditional access system Authentication is provided through the conditional access system that provides a link from the subscriber's device back to the service provider Head-End so that a viewing history can be obtained by the Billing Server 59 for billing purposes.
  • the conditional access system enables the subscriber to utilise pay-per-play services provided by the Games Server 12.
  • the conditional access system is typically provided through a multi- step encryption/decryption scheme. The steps could include DES, RSA and digital signature algorithms.
  • the conditional access system also provides information that restricts the receiving party to only access games content which it is authorised to view or have agreed to pay for.
  • the conditional access system could also be configured for copy control to prevent taping with games, a regional control may be used to blackout specific regions and a user control for parental control of games.
  • Satellite Modem/receiver may then receive data output by the Games Server 12 via the Satellite Receiver Dish 89 provided within the DTC as MPEG TS.
  • the Games Console 82 is operable retrieve the data from Satellite modem/receiver 52 which is then buffered in to the DRAM of the Games Console 82 from which the game may be rendered.
  • a game is typically realised within the RAM of a Games Console 82.
  • the subscriber may visually select a game from a user interface by highlighting a game of their choice using a games pad and download the game on to the Games Console 82 memory from which the game may be played. This is advantageous.
  • game data required by a Games console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 may be stored on the Games server 12 and transmitted continuously or on demand to specific user. This is achieved through interfacing the Game Servers 12 with a QAM Modulator 68, at the Head-End.
  • the Games Server 12 situated within the Head-End may be configured to output game data stored on a hard disc, optical disc, DVD or disk array continuously to as a raw data stream to an Real Time MPEG Encoder (RTE) 56.
  • the RTE 56 is operable to compress and encode the data provided by Games Server 12 into separate MPEG Transport streams that are the multiplexed and combined into single channel by a Multiplexer 66.
  • the QAM modulator 68 then modulates the channel within 256 QAM waveform. This provides a data throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction.
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted to a Ground Satellite Uplink 67 that is operable to transmit the QAM signal within uplink on a frequency ranging from 17.3 to 17.8 GHz to one of the DBS Satellites transponders 84.
  • the DBS Satellite 84 then translates the uplink signal to a frequency between 12.2 and 12.7 GHz, amplifies it and sends it back to earth within the downlink to all subscribers with Satellite Receivers with DBS satellites 84 spot beam.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video previews of games provided on a separate QAM digital transmission channel (DTC) by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 57.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • the Games Console 82 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of Games Console 82.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the DTC which is then temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) of the subscriber's Games Console 82.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the Games Console 82 is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 72.
  • Ul user interface
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games Console 82.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate user interface by manipulating the buttons on the game pad, which is then interpreted by the CPU and the corresponding selection to subscriber's inputs are highlighted on Ul which is displayed on the TV Screen 86.
  • the subscriber is then able to select and highlight a game of their choice using the games pad.
  • the subscriber then selects a game by highlighting a game of their choice and pressing the select button.
  • the CPU interprets the data input and instructs the DVB-S Satellite modem/receiver to switch to correct channel and transport stream identifiable within the PID, SID and Channel ID.
  • the Satellite modem/receiver 52 then performs a handshake with the MTS 28 situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies used and authentication.
  • the QAM signal is then received by Satellite Dish 85 which feed to the DVB-S Satellite modem/receiver that is contained with the Games Console 82.
  • the Satellite modem/receiver is operable to demodulator, demultiplex the QAM signal.
  • the data stream is then separated from audio and video signals.
  • the data signal is then transferred to the MPEG decoder that decodes the data back to its original form and the data is then buffered into DRAM of Game Console 82 from which the game may be rendered.
  • the CPU then renders the Game which is then output from the Games Console 82 via an audio and video (AV) lead which is connected to a via TV Scart adapter to the TV Screen 86 upon which the rendered games graphics are displayed.
  • AV audio and video
  • games which are output by the Games Server 12 to a QAM Modulator 68 maybe transmitted continuously over a Satellite transmission within a DTC from which games maybe downloaded via a user interface onto a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 at anytime. It will be appreciated that through providing game data over a DTC or ATC the games are being transmitted as a Satellite broadcast, which may be incepted by anyone with a Satellite Receiver Dish that is tuned into the right channel signal.
  • a channel is a separate incoming QAM signal or ATC source that a subscriber can select through a RF tuner.
  • the signal has a defined bandwidth with of 6 to 8MHz that may be utilised to provide games to a subscribers Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 equipped with a DVB-S Satellite Modem/receiver.
  • a channel will exist within a range of 50-850MHz.
  • a further aspect of present invention means may be provided whereby up to 20 MPEG-2 transport streams containing game data may be aggregated into one 256-QAM Digital Transmission channel, which may be provided continuously over a Satellite Broadcast File System (BFS).
  • BFS Satellite Broadcast File System
  • This is achieved through combining multiple MPEG-2 data transport streams in to a signal 256-QAM Waveform that may be broadcast to all viewers with equipped with Satellite Receivers within a DBS Satellites spot beam radius. It will be appreciated that this may be scaled to suit the TV operator's requirements whereby up 200 MPEG-2 transport streams each containing a different game may be provided continuously over multiple QAM channels. This is advantageous.
  • game data that is stored on the Game Server 12 Storage Subsystem may be transmitted over a variety of links to a subscribers Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79. These may include Satellite TV Networks Transmissions, IP, IPv6 or ATM or ADSL.
  • a data transmission may be provided over a simplex or full duplex (using an interaction channel for the return) and may be Unicast (point-to-point), Multicast (one to many) or broadcast (all receivers receiving the assigned PID).
  • FIG 4 there are five main methods of providing game data within a DTC or FDC to a users Games Console, PC or STB which consist of Data Piping, Data Streaming, Data Carousels or Object Carousels.
  • Data Streaming is a method used by the Game Server 12 to provide game data, which takes the form of a continuous stream that is carried in an asynchronous PES.
  • Data Carousels is a method that may be used by the Game Server for assembling game data sets into a buffer, which are played-out cyclic manner (periodic transmission).
  • the data sets may be of any format or type i.e. HTML, Java or C++. For example this technique may be used to provide the data for an onscreen On-line Games Guide.
  • the data may be transmitted using fixed sized DSM-CC sections.
  • Object Carousel typically resemble data carousels, however they are primarily intended for the broadcast of data services.
  • data sets are typically defined by the DVB Network Independent Protocol specification and may be used, to down-load data to a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • the Satellite TV operator network uses a Broadcast File System (BFS) for transporting data repeatedly over the network.
  • BFS Broadcast File System
  • the BFS allows Satellite TV subscribers equipped with a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 to quickly access games at anytime without requiring the use of an RDC to request data from the Game Server 12.
  • This mechanism is useful where large numbers of subscribers require the same game data.
  • An example would be where the same game is made available to any Games Console that has access to the DTC or FDC. This is advantageous.
  • transport protocols may be used to transmit data over the Transport network to the STB 79, Games console 82 or PC 88 such as Schedule Transfer (ST), ATM, TCP/IP, RTSP and IPTV.
  • ST Schedule Transfer
  • ATM Transmission Control Protocol
  • TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol
  • RTSP Remote Control Protocol
  • IPTV IPTV
  • a subscriber may access and begin to download a game at any point of the data cast regardless of when the user triggers the download.
  • Any data provided within the BFS that is transmitted via in-band QAM or out-of-band QPSK signals may be accessed through a data stream manager resident on the users STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88 which is activated on users request.
  • the data stream manager is a resident application on the user STB 79, Games Consoles 82 or PC 88 that enables game data to be retrieved and interpreted from the BFS into the device DRAM or Flash memory where it is then rendered on a TV Screen.
  • Games Consoles 82 or PC 88 that enables game data to be retrieved and interpreted from the BFS into the device DRAM or Flash memory where it is then rendered on a TV Screen.
  • an application resident on the Games Server 12 is operable retrieve the game data, audio and video that is stored within the Games Server 12 sub storage system.
  • the data, audio and video is then output via an AM Fiber Transport Network or SONET/SDH Transport Network interface to the MPEG Encoder 56.
  • the MPEG Encoder 56 then encoders the data, audio and video into separate elementary streams that are then combined to form individual MPEG Transport Streams.
  • each MPEG TS is assigned a unique PID that is identifiable with a particular game provided within the games systems user interface or channels.
  • the signal is output from the MPEG Encoder 56 as MPEG TS to a Multiplexer 66 that combines the MPEG TS with other incoming signals using Time Divisional Multiplexing TDM and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing (FDM) techniques.
  • the signal is then output from the Multiplexer 66 to a QAM Modulator 68, which modulates the multiplexed signal within a 256 QAM waveform (Digital Transmission Channel).
  • the Digital Transmission Channel (DTC) provides a total throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction.
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted to a Ground Satellite Uplink 67 that is operable to transmit the QAM signal within uplink on a frequency ranging from 17.3 to 17.8 GHz to one of the DBS Satellites transponders 84.
  • the DBS Satellite 84 then translates the uplink signal to a frequency between 12.2 and 12.7 GHz, amplifies it and sends it back to earth within the downlink to all subscribers with Satellite Receivers with DBS satellites 84 spot beam.
  • the signal is the received by the subscribers Satellite Receiver Dish 89 and feed via a downlead to the Satellite Modem/Receiver within the Games Console 82.
  • the QAM signal is then demultiplexed and demodulated by the Satellite Modem/Receiver.
  • the MPEG TS signals are then separated into data, audio and video.
  • the audio and video elementary streams are then buffered in the decoders memory for playback and the data stream is then decoded into its original data form and buffered into the Games Consoles 82 Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU is operable to render the game that is then output via AV lead to the TV 86.
  • the buttons on the Games pad the user is able to play the game. This is advantageous.
  • the Satellite TV operator is only required to provide one 2-4Mbps MPEG-2 Transport streams per game as opposed to per user to their total subscriber base.
  • the Satellite TV operator could provide a 2-4 Mbps MPEG 2 stream over a Satellite transmission link to all subscribers from which a game could be retrieved on to a STB, Games Console or PC at anytime. This is achieved through transmitting data that is retrieved from the Games Servers 12 Sub storage system and provided continuously over a digital transmission channel. This eliminates the need for a dial up connection and provides a low cost yet high-bandwidth delivery of games to an unlimited number of subscribers. This is advantageous.
  • a Games Console 82 or PC 88 are operable to access data just as they would from a CD or DVD whereby only the data required for the game level is loaded into the memory. In this way the subscribers does not have to download the entire game onto a hard disc or Personal Video Recorder (PVR) to be played.
  • PVR Personal Video Recorder
  • the Games Console 82 or PC 88 will only load what is required from BFS, which is provided continuously within a DTC or FDC. Those skilled in the art will realise that a game is typically realised within the RAM or a Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • the BFS acts as storage for all games each with a unique PID identifiable within a unique MPEG-2 Stream that is provided continuously over a Satellite transmission within a DTC.
  • data may be provided continuously over Satellite TV operators Transport Network within an out-of-band 6Mhz QPSK Forward Data Channel (FDC).
  • FDC Forward Data Channel
  • This may also applied to Set top boxes, which have limited storage capacity.
  • Through utilising the BFS data may be retrieved and rendered by a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 without requiring a hard disc, optical disc drive or removable storage. This is achieved through buffering data into DRAM of Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79. From which the CPU is operable is render the game through utilising the RAM and data stored in the DRAM.
  • Each game is designed to retrieve data from the BFS on instruction which links to specific PID relating to the Game data required.
  • the subscriber may be equipped with hard disc which can be utilised by the CPU to store game data retrieved from the BFS. Thereby enabling games to be stored locally on the subscribers Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • various formats may be used to transport the game data over a Satellite Transmission or the Transport Network including MPEG-4, DigiCipher II and Raw Transport Data (RTD).
  • MPEG-4 DigiCipher II
  • RTD Raw Transport Data
  • MPEG-2 a format used to transport the game data to a user's device. This has the advantage of being supported by the majority of digital TV operators.
  • a subscriber's STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88 is operable to retrieve raw data sent in MPEG-2 private sections. This is achieved through transmitting data and video over the same transport stream or when a Games Server 12 does not utilise the BFS.
  • An application resident within the users STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88 enables data to be interpreted and a game to be rendered on the users TV screen. In this way the user is able to retrieve data within the MPEG transport stream that can be interpreted by a Games Console, STB or PC to render the game which is the output from the subscribers Games Console, STB and displayed on a TV screen or SVGA for PCs.
  • the STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88 is operable to access data within the MPEG- 2 data stream through an utilisation the stream manager a resident application that ensures that the device is tuned into the correct frequency and PID of the game requested by the user.
  • a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby software drivers may be provided to Games Consoles 82, PC 88 or STB 79 via a Satellite digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC Satellite digital transmission channel
  • software drivers may be provided directly to viewers
  • Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 which may be provided over a Satellite transmission within DTC and stored as resident applications.
  • software drivers may be provided via the Transport Network within an out-of-band FDC QPSK signal.
  • Drivers may include a graphics engine required to render games available on the games system. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a user can select and download drivers from GUI. These drivers may be specific to a device that may be connected to viewers Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79 to play a game such as an Infrared or USB Games Pad.
  • means may be provided through a GUI whereby a user can select and download multiple games at same time from a Satellite Digital Transmission Channel on to a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • the data may be stored on a hard disc, personnel video recorder (PVR) or a secondary memory device connected via a USB or Firewire port to a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • PVR personnel video recorder
  • STB 79 secondary memory device connected via a USB or Firewire port to a Games Console 82, PC 88 or STB 79.
  • the user may therefore download up to four games at a rate of 8 Mbps from a single DTC.
  • At a low rate of 3 Mbps allocated to each game up to 18 games may be downloaded at the same time over a single DTC. However at a low rate of 3Mbps the games would take noticeably longer to download.
  • multiple games may be retrieved from an out-of-band QPSK signal via the Satellite TV operators Transport Network which set at 6 MHz would provide a total throughput of 36 Mbps in which several games could be provided.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may prompt a GUI provided within a DTC which would enable them to select and highlight multiple games which may be provided over a QPSK signal to a Games Console, STB or PC.
  • previews of the games may be broadcast or streamed within the GUI thereby enabling the subscriber to preview a game before downloading. This is advantageous.
  • the Command Server 61 is operable to vary the rate of the transport streams in relation to size of game.
  • the rate may be adjusted from 512 Kbps up to 56 Mbps per game within an 6-8Mhz QAM Waveform. This is advantageous.
  • a game that a Games Server 12 has provided that to a subscribers Set Top Box (STB) 79 over a Satellite DTC or FDC may be saved.
  • STB Subscribe Top Box
  • a Game may saved within the flash memory of a STB 79 as a resident application from which the subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID (PID), service ID, publisher, developer, format and size. Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 and Time stamp that links to specific section of a game.
  • a resident application on STB 79 is operable to interpret the Game identifier stored in the STB flash memory and search for a specific PID, Channel ID and Time Stamp relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID and Channel ID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band Satellite DTC or out-of-band FDC via a Dial-up DSL Modem to the STB 79 and stored in the flash memory or dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a game may be saved on a USB memory card connected to the STB 79 via the USB port.
  • a resident application on the STB 79 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the USB memory card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams (TS) carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 that links to specific section of a game.
  • a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 79 is operable to interpret the PID on the USB memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band Satellite DTC or out-of-band FDC via a DSL Modem/receiver to the STB 79 and buffed in the flash memory or dynamic random access memory. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a subscriber may save a game played on a STB 79 on a Smart card which may be inserted in a smart card drive.
  • the majority of Set-Top Boxes are equipped with multiple smart card drives, which are presently used for conditional access and authentication.
  • a resident application on the STB 79 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the Smart card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 that links to specific section of a game.
  • a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 79 is operable to interpret the PID on the Smart card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band Satellite DTC or out-of-band FDC via Transport Network to the STB 79 and stored in the flash memory or DRAM. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • PVR Personal Video Recorder
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size. Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 and Time stamp that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 79 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID and Time stamp on the hard disc or PVR and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC or FDC to the STB 79 and stored in the flash memory, hard disc or within the memory on the PVR. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous. According to yet a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a STB 79 on a Games Server 12 which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a Satellite DTC or FDC which would enable a game to be saved on the Games Server 12.
  • a game is saved data is stored on Games Server 12 containing a Game ID and Subscriber ID.
  • the Game Identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID (PID), Time Stamp, Service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game ID also contains a unique value at the end of the PID that links to specific section of a game within a PID ranging from 0 to 255.
  • a resident application on the STB 79 enables a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12 using the data stored in Game Identifier.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a Satellite DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's STB 79.
  • the STB 79 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • the graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 80 prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing the red button on the remote control.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of STB 79.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which is operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the Satellite DTC which is temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) or Flash Memory of the subscriber's STB 79.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, XML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 72.
  • Ul user interface
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the STB 79.
  • Preferably video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band Satellite DTC signal.
  • the video may be defined within HTML parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate the user interface by manipulating the buttons on the remote control, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber is provided the option to select saved games via the remote control.
  • a resident application on STB 79 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request in response to the subscriber's inputs on the remote control. If the subscribers selects saved games a request formed by the STB 79 which is transmitted upstream by the DSL Modem/Receiver within a 1 MHz QPSK waveform, Reverse Data Channel (RDC), to the Hub.
  • QPSK Modems 74 within the Hub are operable to retransmit the data stream to an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) switch 71 situated on the Transport Network.
  • ATM switch 71 is operable to route the data stream to second ATM switch 65 that is connected to the Games Server 12 situated at the Head-End via an Ethernet 10/100base-t connection.
  • the Games Server 12 is operable to retrieve the saved games using the Subscribers ID from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the Game identifier files which are encoded within a MPEG-2 transport stream by an MPEG Encoder 31 as private MPEG section only accessible by authenticated subscriber.
  • the digitised signal is then combined with other data, video and audio streams output by the Games Servers 12 and multiplexed by Multiplexer 30 into a single signal using Time Divisional Multiplexing and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing techniques.
  • the QAM modulator 68 then modulates the channel within 256 QAM waveform. This provides a data throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction. Once the forward error correction is complete the QAM signal containing the subscribers saved game data is then transmitted to a Ground Satellite Uplink 67.
  • the Ground Satellite Uplink 67 is operable to transmit the QAM signal within uplink on a frequency ranging from 17.3 to 17.8 GHz to one of the DBS Satellites transponders 84.
  • the DBS Satellite 84 then translates the uplink signal to a frequency between 12.2 and 12.7 GHz, amplifies it and sends it back to earth within the downlink to all subscribers with Satellite Receivers with DBS satellites 84 spot beam.
  • the signal is then received by the Satellite Receiver Dish 81 and feed into the Satellite Modem/receiver within the STB 79 which then demultiplexes and demodulates the incoming signal that is then feed to an MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 79.
  • the MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 79 then decodes the MPEG-2 private transport stream and data is decoded into its original form.
  • the CPU then buffers the data into the flash memory or dynamic random access memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • the STB 79 is operable to render a second user interface using the RAM.
  • the subscriber is then presented with list of saved games within the second user interface.
  • Each saved game listed within the user interface has a unique PID, Channel ID and Service ID stored temporally within the STB 79 memory.
  • the CPU is operable to identify and instruct the Satellite Modem/receiver to switch to the MPEG transport stream containing the PID relating to the subscribers saved game.
  • the game data is then retrieved by Satellite Modem/receiver from the DTC and buffered into the flash memory or dynamic random access memory of the STB 79.
  • the STB 79 is operable to render the game which is then output from the STB 79 via a TV Scart as an analogue signal and displayed on the TV Screen 80.
  • a TV Scart as an analogue signal
  • the subscribers saved game data may of course be transmitted via a forward data channel (FDC) over the Satellite TV operators network to the subscribers STB 79. This would be achieved through modulating the signal within a 1 Mhz QPSK waveform. Those skilled in the art will realise that the data would of course be received via a dial up interface 78 to the STB 79.
  • FDC forward data channel
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the STB's 79 flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game.
  • a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the red button on their remote control.
  • the game data is then retrieved from the data stream and buffered in to the Set Top Box 79 flash memory or DRAM and realised within the RAM.
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen 80 that is connected to the STB 79 via a Scart lead.
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request that is interpreted by the STB 79 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the STB 79 memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on STB 79 memory resources the game is loaded and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the saved game data stored on the STB 79 flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM may contain Game identifiers which as previously described may be used retrieve data stored within the BFS using the PID, Channel ID, Time Stamp and Service ID. This may be necessary for the user to continue playing a game from the point the game was saved depending on the actual byte size of the game.
  • a game that a Games Server 12 has provided to a subscribers Games Console 82 over a DTC or FDC may be saved. This may provided in number of ways. Firstly means may be provided whereby a Game may be saved within the memory card of a Games Console 82 as a resident application from which the subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Console 82 memory card containing a Game identifier.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, Packet ID (PID), publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID Packet ID
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique value and time stamp that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with specific data packet provided in the BFS that links to level 12 of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 82 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID and Time Stamp on the memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in- band DTC via Satellite Receiver Dish 85 or out-of-band FDC via a DSL Modem/receiver to the Games Console 82 and buffered in the DRAM memory. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a game may be saved on a USB memory card connected to the Games Console 82 via the USB port.
  • a resident application on the Games Console 82 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the USB memory card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique value ranging from 0 - 255 and a Time stamp that links to specific section of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 82 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID, Time Stamp and Service ID on the USB memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band DTC via Satellite Receiver Dish 85 or out-of-band FDC via a dial up connection 83 to the Games Console 82 and buffered in the DRAM memory. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous. According to yet a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby through a resident application on the Games Console 82 this would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on Hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilising a Hard disc or a Optical Disc Drive a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • GID Game Identifier
  • the GID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • the Game Identifier also includes specific Packet Identifier (PID)
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique number that links to specific section of a game.
  • a PID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with the level of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 82 is operable to interpret the GID on the Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive and search for a specific PID, Service ID and Channel ID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID, Service ID and Channel ID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC via the Satellite Receiver Dish 85 to the Games Console 82 and stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory, Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a Games Console 82 on a Games Server 12 which would be held remotely on a database. Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC which would enable a game to saved on the Games Server 12.
  • a resident application on the Games Console 82 would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12. This may be achieved in a number of ways. Firstly a request may formed by the subscribers Games Console 82 and transmitted upstream via the RDC to Games Server 12 which is operable to retrieve the saved games from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the saved files via the FDC to the subscribers Games Console 82. Once received by the Games Console 82 a game may be loaded.
  • GID Game identifier
  • Subscriber ID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, MPEG TS identifier, Packet identifier (PID), publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID Packet identifier
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the GID also contains a unique number at the end of the data string that links to specific section of a game. For example a GID may include a 07 at the end of the address which is identifiable with the level 7 of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 82 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request which is transmitted upstream within a QPSK waveform.
  • the Game Server 12 is operable to interpret the request and using the subscribers ID retrieves the subscribers saved games from a database which is then transmitted of FDC or DTC to the subscribers Games Console 82.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 57.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's Games Console 82.
  • the Games Console 82 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • the graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 86 prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing the select button on a game pad.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of Games Console 82.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which is operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the DTC which is temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) of the subscriber's Games Console 82.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 63 or Proxy Server 72.
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games. Console 82.
  • Preferably video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML/C++, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band DTC signal.
  • the video may be defined within HTML or C++ parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate the user interface by manipulating the buttons on the games pad, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber is provided the option to select saved games via the games pad.
  • a resident application on Games Console 82 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request in response to the subscriber's inputs on the remote control. If the subscribers selects saved games a request formed by the Games Console 82 which is transmitted upstream by the DSL Modem/Receiver within a 1 MHz QPSK waveform, Reverse Data Channel (RDC), to the Hub.
  • QPSK Modems 74 within the Hub are operable to retransmit the data stream to a ATM switch 71 situated on the Transport Network.
  • the ATM switch 71 is operable to route the data stream to second ATM switch 65 that is connected to the Games Server 12 situated at the Head- End via an Ethernet 10/100base-t connection.
  • the Games Server 12 is operable to retrieve the saved games using the Subscribers ID from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the Game identifier files which are encoded within a MPEG-2 transport stream by an MPEG Encoder 56 as private MPEG section only accessible by authenticated subscriber.
  • the digitised signal is then combined with other data, video and audio streams output by the Games Servers 12 and multiplexed by Multiplexer 30 into a single signal using Time Divisional Multiplexing and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing techniques.
  • the signal containing the subscribers saved game data is then modulated within 256 QAM waveform by a QAM modulator 68.
  • This provides a data throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction.
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted to a Ground Satellite Uplink 67 that is operable to transmit the QAM signal within uplink on a frequency ranging from 17.3 to 17.8 GHz to one of the DBS Satellites transponders 84.
  • the DBS Satellite 84 then translates the uplink signal to a frequency between 12.2 and 12.7 GHz, amplifies it and sends it back to earth within the downlink to all subscribers with Satellite Receivers with DBS satellites 84 spot beam.
  • the signal is then received by the Satellite Receiver 85 which is then feed via a downlead to a Satellite Modem/receiver within the Games Console 82 which then demultiplexes and demodulates the incoming signal that is then feed to an MPEG decoder/processor in the Games Console 82.
  • the MPEG decoder/processor in the Games Console 82 then decodes the MPEG stream and data is decoded into its original form.
  • the CPU then buffers the data into the dynamic random access memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • the Games Console 82 is operable to render a second user interface using the RAM. The subscriber is then presented with list of saved games within the second user interface. Each saved game listed within the user interface has a unique PID, Channel ID and Service ID stored temporally within the Games Console 82 memory.
  • the CPU is operable to identify and instruct the Satellite Modem/receiver to the correct MPEG transport stream containing the exact data relating to the subscriber selection of a saved game.
  • the game data is then retrieved by Satellite Modem/receiver from the satellite DTC and buffered into the dynamic random access memory of the Games Console 82.
  • the Games Console 82 is operable to render the game which is then output from the Games Console 82 via a S-Video lead as an analogue signal and displayed on the TV Screen 86.
  • the subscribers saved game data may of course be transmitted via a forward data channel (FDC) over the Satellite TV operators network to the subscribers Games Console 82. This would be achieved through modulating the signal within a 1 Mhz QPSK waveform. Those skilled in the art will realise that the data would of course be received via a dial up interface 83 to the Games Console 82.
  • FDC forward data channel
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the Games Console 82 memory card or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the memory card or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game.
  • a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the select button on their games controller pad.
  • the game data is then retrieved from the data stream provided within the DTC and buffered in to the Games Console 82 dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and realised within the RAM.
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or C++ or HTML/JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the Games Console 82 via a S-video lead.
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request, which is interpreted by the Games Consoles 82 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the Games Console 82 memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on memory resources and the Games Consoles 82 RAM the CPU loads the game and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a game that a Games Server 12 has provided to a subscribers Personal Computer (PC) 88 over a DTC via a Satellite transmission or FDC via dial up connection 87 may be saved.
  • PC Personal Computer
  • This may provided in number of ways. Firstly through a resident application on the PC 88 this would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilising a Hard disc or a Optical Disc Drive a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • GID Game identifier
  • the GID contains attributes of the game including, PID, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the GID also contains a unique value that links to specific section of a game. For example a GID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with level 7 of a game.
  • a resident application on PC 88 is operable to interpret the PID on the Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC via the Satellite Receiver Dish 89 to the PC 88 and stored in the flash memory, Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a PC 88 on a Games Server 12 which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC or FDC which would enable a game to saved on the Games Server 12.
  • a resident application on the PC 88 would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12. This may be achieved in a number of ways. Firstly a request may formed by the subscribers PC 88 and transmitted upstream via the RDC to Games Server 12 which is operable to retrieve the saved games from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the saved files via the FDC to the subscribers PC 88. Once received by the PC 8.8 a game may be loaded.
  • PID Program ID
  • Subscriber ID Subscriber ID
  • the PID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique number at the end of the data string that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include a 07 at the end of the address which is identifiable with the level of a game.
  • a resident application stored on the PC 88 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request which is transmitted upstream within a QPSK waveform.
  • the Game server 12 is operable to interpret the request and using the subscribers ID retrieves the subscribers saved games from a database which is then transmitted of FDC or DTC to the subscribers PC 88.
  • the resident application interprets the PID and searches for the specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band DTC or out- of-band FDC to the PC 88 and buffered in the DRAM memory or stored on hard disc.
  • the game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the PC 88 hard disc or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the hard disc or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game.
  • a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the select button on their keyboard or games pad.
  • the game data is then retrieved from the data stream and buffered in to the PC's 88 dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and realised within the RAM.
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • an introductory user interface that may comprise or C+ or HTML/JavaScript objects, is presented to the subscriber on the SVGA screen that is connected to the PC 88.
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request, which is interpreted by the PC's 88 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the PC 88 memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on memory resources and the PC 88 RAM the CPU loads the game and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • Satellite subscriber can select multi-player networked games using a STB, Games Console or PC and play against other subscribers.
  • a subscriber might access a GUI from an in-band Satellite DTC by pressing the select button on a Games Pad.
  • Data containing HTML and JavaScript objects is then retrieved from the DTC to the Games Consoles 82 memory.
  • the Games Console 82 is operable to render the GUI.
  • a GUI is typically realised within the RAM of a Games Console 82.
  • the subscriber is presented with a list of multi-player networked games including details of number of players, duration of play, game in session, difficulty level, author, publisher and channel.
  • MPEG 1 video previews of live multi-player networked games in session may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved by using data inputs retrieved from participating subscribers Games Console, STB or PC within RDC to render the games graphics on Game Server 12 situated in Head-End as described previously in GB 0129161.6 and GB 0203790.1.
  • the subscriber may highlight and select a multi-player networked game to join in. If the subscriber selects a game then a resident application on the Games console 82 switches the Satellite modem/receiver to the correct DTC or FDC relating to the games PID. Data is then retrieved from the DTC or FDC via the Satellite modem/receiver on to Games Console 82 DRAM. The game is then realised within the RAM.
  • a two-way communication path is then established between the Games Server 12 and Games Console 82 enabling data inputs to be exchange.
  • the two-way communication may be formed by two dial up DSL modems performing a handshake and using QPSK modulation to transmit data upstream to Games Server 12 and downstream to the Games Console 82.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • Games Server 12 Data inputs are then centrally exchanged via the Games Server 12 and each participating subscriber's Games console, PC or STB.
  • the Games console 82 is operable to render the game.
  • a subscriber may select and join in a Multi-player network game from GUI provided over an in-band Satellite DTC or out-of- band FDC via a dial up connection. This is advantageous.
  • this method of providing multi-player networked games may be provided to any Satellite TV subscriber with a Games Console, STB or PC equipped with a Satellite Modem/receiver or DSL modem capable of transmitting and receiving data provided over at out-of-band FDC or in-band DTC. This is advantageous.
  • sound and music output from the Games Server 12 may be provided by as MPEG audio stream to enhance the user interfaces of a game. It will be appreciated that this may be provided within an in-band digital transmission channel (DTC) or out-of-band forward data channel (FDC).
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • music or sounds may provided as a signal which may decoded by a receiver within STB 79 and output from a Television set 80 internal or external speakers.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB 79.
  • the STB 79 Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the Satellite Modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC relating to the Packet Identifier (PID) of the game that was selected.
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • the data is then retrieved from the DTC and buffered into the STB 79 flash memory or DRAM and rendered within the Random Access Memory.
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen 80 that is connected to the STB 79 via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB 79 is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C++ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC via the Satellite Receiver Dish 81. This may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG audio streams whilst the Ul is displayed on the TV screen 80.
  • the CPU is operable to instruct the Satellite Modem/receiver to switch over the correct MPEG audio stream required.
  • Receiver switches MPEG audio streams and audio is buffered into the MPEG decoder memory.
  • the MPEG decoder then decodes the MPEG audio into an analogue signal that is then output from the subscriber's Television 80 speakers.
  • video and audio provided by the Games Server 12 or Common QAM Content Server 57 is combined with data at the subscribers STB, PC or Games Console to enhance a Game's user interfaces.
  • data, video and audio may be provided within an in-band DTC via the Satellite Receiver Dish or within an out- of-band FDC via a dial up connection.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control, which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB 79.
  • the STB 79 Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the Satellite modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC via Satellite Receiver Dish 81 relating to the Packet ID of the game that was selected. Data, video and audio is then retrieved from the DTC via the Satellite Receiver Dish 81 that is then feed into a Satellite modem/receiver within the STB 79.
  • the Satellite receiver/modem is then operable to demodulate, demultiplex and remove any forward error correction.
  • Video and audio is then buffered into the MPEG decoder's memory for playback and the data is buffered into the STB flash memory or DRAM.
  • the video and audio signal are then decoded and decompressed by the MPEG decoder.
  • the decoded video and audio is then output from the subscriber's television screen 80 and the user interface is then rendered over video using the HTML parameters to define the interface graphics.
  • Video relating to the games user interface may then be seen in behind the game's menu. In this way video, audio and images may be provided to enhance the Ul of a game and enable motion backgrounds. Additionally video and audio may be integrated within a Game's user interface without requiring the data to downloaded and stored on the STB 79 flash memory or DRAM.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by the STB 79 MPEG decoder/processor this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game interface. This is advantageous.
  • this may also be applied to Games Consoles and PCs connected to a Satellite TV provider. Thereby reducing the amount of data required to be downloaded to a users Games Console or PC. This reduces the bandwidth required to provide an enhanced gaming experience thus enabling non-utilised bandwidth to be allocated to provide other services.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • music and audio affects during a game may be provided over an in-band QAM Signal or out-of-band QPSK Signal.
  • multiple audio formats may be used by the Game Server to provide sound and music including Dolby Digital Surround Sound, MPEG 1 Layer 3 (MP3) and Audio Compression Level 3 (AC-3).
  • MP3 MPEG 1 Layer 3
  • AC-3 Audio Compression Level 3
  • This may also be applied to Games Consoles and PCs. Thereby reducing the required amount of data to be downloaded to a users Games Console or PC and which in turn reduces the bandwidth need which can be utilised to provide other services. This is advantageous.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • the foreground may be provided over DTC as a data stream and rendered by a STB, Games Console or PC over the video provided within the QAM Signal. Combined with the foreground graphics this then enhances the game quality and reduces the required data to be processed by a STB, Games Console or PC.
  • video provided within in-band DTC and combined with the foreground graphics may be rendered graphics by the Games Server.
  • a games background may be rendered and provided as MPEG video which is then output by the server and combined with data stream by a Multiplexer into a 6 MHz QAM signal which is transmitted to the subscribers STB. It will be appreciated that this may be transmitted via cable, satellite or terrestrial communication paths as previously described in GB 0129161.6 and GB 0203790.1.
  • a MPEG decoder is operable to decode the video stream which is then output on TV screen.
  • the CPU is operable to render the game's foreground graphics over the video.
  • the STB is not required to render the games background thereby reducing the number of processing transaction required of the CPU and RAM.
  • rendering graphics on Games Server the graphics provided during a game can be enhanced to that equal to or greater than current Games console system. This is advantageous.
  • the background graphics may be provided over an Analogue Transmission Signal (ATC) with Raw Data or transmitted within the out-of-band FDC with compressed digitised data.
  • ATC Analogue Transmission Signal
  • FDC forward data channel
  • the foreground may be provided over DTC or FDC and rendered by STB, Games Console, PC however video within the FDC QPSK Signal may be utilised as the game background. Combined with the foreground graphics this then enhances the game quality and reduces the required data to be processed by a STB, Games Console or PC.
  • video provided within out-of- band FDC and combined with the foreground graphics may be rendered graphics by the Games Server.
  • a games background may be rendered and provided as MPEG video which is then output by the server and combined with data stream by a Multiplexer into a 6 MHz QPSK signal which is transmitted to the subscribers STB. It will be appreciated that this may be transmitted via cable, satellite or terrestrial communication paths as previously described in Patent GB 0129161.6 and GB 0203790.1.
  • a MPEG decoder is operable to decode the video stream which is then output on TV screen.
  • the CPU is operable to render the game's foreground graphics over the video.
  • the STB is not required to render the games background thereby reducing the number of processing transaction required of the CPU and RAM.
  • rendering graphics on Games Server the graphics provided during a game can be enhanced to that equal to or greater than current Games console system. This is advantageous.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB 79.
  • the STB 79 Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC relating to the Packet Identifier (PID) of the game that was selected.
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • Data, video and audio are then retrieved from the DTC.
  • the data is then buffered into the STB flash memory and the game is rendered within the random access memory (RAM).
  • RAM random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB 79 via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB 79 is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG video streams when the subscriber selects play.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB 79 is operable to decode the MPEG video provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television screen. Video relating to the games may then be played on the subscriber's TV screen and subscribers views a video cut scene for the game. This enhances the game by integrating video without requiring the video to downloaded and stored on the STB 79 memory.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • video output by the Game Server may be provided within a QAM Signal of a Digital Transmission Channel, which may be provided as continuous loop of video whereby random cut scenes are provided when a game is loading between levels.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB 79.
  • the STB 79 Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the FDC relating to the Packet Identifier (PID) of the game that was selected.
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • Data, video and audio are then retrieved from the FDC.
  • the data is then buffered into the STB 79 flash memory and the game is rendered within the random access memory (RAM).
  • RAM random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the STB via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB 79 is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C+ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC which may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG video streams when the subscriber selects play.
  • An MPEG decoder in the STB 79 is operable to decode the MPEG video provided over the DTC that is then output from the subscriber's television screen. Video relating to the games may then be played on the subscriber's TV screen and subscribers views a video cut scene for the game. This enhances the game by integrating video without requiring the video to downloaded and stored on the STB 79 flash memory.
  • the video is provided as MPEG transport stream and decoded by MPEG decoder this frees up the CPU to carry out other tasks relating to the game. This is advantageous.
  • video output by the Game Server may be provided within a QAM Signal of a Digital Transmission Channel, which may be provided as continuous loop of video whereby random cut scenes are provided when a game is loading between levels.
  • the subscriber's Satellite modem/receiver is operable to switch audio streams on command during a game.
  • MPEG Transport Stream (TS) Identifiers the subscriber Satellite modem/receiver is also operable to switch DTC, FDC or MPEG TS on command during a game.
  • multiple audio streams may be provided by the Games Server 12 within MPEG Transport streams that may be aggregated into a single DTC or FDC from which the subscriber's receiver is operable to switch between audio streams during a game. This may be achieved through instructions or triggers provided within game data stream or script that provide unique Packet Identities that may be interpreted by the subscriber's receiver that is operable to switch to the correct audio stream provided within DTC or FDC using the Packet identifier (PID).
  • PID Packet identifier
  • the subscribers receiver may be instructed during duration play to switch streams to specific PID. This may be applied to scripted or non-scripted games engine.
  • Games Console or PC For a subscriber's STB, Games Console or PC to receive a particular transport stream, the subscriber's device must first determine the PID being used and then filter packets that have a matching PID value.
  • a special set of streams referred to as Signalling Tables, are transmitted with a description of each game carried within the MPEG-2 Transport Stream.
  • PSI Program Specific Information
  • Each Digital Transmission Channel may contain up to 17 MPEG Transport Streams (TS) with a bit rate of 2Mbps that are aggregated into a single 6MHz in-band QAM signal.
  • Equally each Forward Data Channel may also contain up to 17 Transport Streams (TS) provided at rate of 2Mbps that are aggregated into a single 6MHz out-of- band QPSK signal.
  • TS Transport Streams
  • Each MPEG Transport Stream is unique to each game that is provided by the Games Server 12.
  • Each transport stream consists of several or more elementary streams (ES) that may include Digital Control Data, Digital Audio (sampled and compressed), Digital Video (sampled and compressed) and Digital Data (synchronous, or asynchronous).
  • ES elementary streams
  • Each ES provided within MPEG TS can be assigned a unique value from 1 to 255, which are utilised by the subscribers Games Console, PC or STB to identify streams relating to a particular game. It will be appreciated that various Audio samples ranging from sample rates of 16Bps to 365 Kbps may be encoded as elementary steams that are provided with MPEG TS.
  • the subscriber prompts a game from a digital transmission channel.
  • IR signal transmitted to STB IR port.
  • the CPU interprets instruction and an Instructs the Satellite modem/receiver switch PID to correct MPEG TS relating to the game selected.
  • Data is then retrieved from the MPEG TS and buffered within Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) or Flash Memory of the STB 79.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU then renders the games using Random Access Memory (RAM) that is then feed from the STB 79 via a Scart lead to TV Screen 14. Audio is then buffered into the memory of the MPEG decoder, which operable to demultiplex and demodulate the signal that is then output from the STB 79 via a Scart lead to the TV speakers. The rendered graphics are then displayed on the subscriber's TV screen 14 and audio is then output through TV speakers. As previously described through manipulating the buttons on the remote control the subscriber is operable to control the game.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • an instruction is provided within data stream to switch audio streams to a new PID.
  • the CPU interprets the instruction and instructs the receiver/decoder to switch audio streams to correct PID.
  • the receiver the switches PID audio that is then decoded and output from speakers.
  • each ES Prior to transportation over a DTC or FDC each ES is input to an MPEG-2 processor, often referred to as a video compressor or encoder, which accumulates the data into a stream of Packetised Elementary Stream (PES) packets.
  • a PES packet may be a fixed or variable sized block, with up to 65536 bytes per block and includes a 6 byte protocol header.
  • the PES protocol header consists of a 3-byte start code followed by a 1-byte stream ID and a 2-byte length field.
  • each MPEG ES additional information about the stream is also provided to assist the decoder at the receiver.
  • This includes a Packetised Elementary Stream (PES) Scrambling Control that defines whether scrambling is used, and the chosen scrambling method, a PES Priority that indicates priority of the current PES packet and a data alignment indicator that indicates if the payload starts with a video or audio start code.
  • PES Packetised Elementary Stream
  • Other additional information may include copyright information, indicating if the game within payload is copyright protected.
  • the ES may also include information on whether the ES is an original or a copy of the original ES.
  • the ES are then combined within MPEG TS before being transported to the Multiplexer
  • the QAM modulator 68 then modulates the channel within 256 QAM waveform. This provides a data throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction. Once the forward error correction is complete the QAM signal containing the subscribers saved game data is then transmitted to a DBS Satellite Uplink 67. DBS Satellite Uplink 67 is operable to transmit the QAM signal to a DBS Satellite 84. The DBS Satellite 84. then amplifies the signal that is then transmitted to all subscribers with Satellite Receivers within the Satellites Spot beam.
  • the signal is then received by the Satellite Receiver 81 and feed into the Satellite Modem/receiver within the STB 79, which then demultiplexes and demodulates the incoming signal that is then feed to an MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 79.
  • the MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 79 then decodes the MPEG stream relating to PID requested during the game. This is advantageous.
  • the elementary streams may synchronised, or may not be synchronised depending on the task required. For example elementary streams are usually synchronised for digital TV programs, or for digital radio programs to ensure that the audio playback is in synchronism with the corresponding video frames.
  • the elementary streams may be not synchronised to facilitate the downloading of software or games via a televised program.
  • the subscribers STB, Games Console or PC receiver may achieve synchronisation through utilising time stamps that are provided within the MPEG transport stream.
  • means may be provided whereby remote co processing and assistance graphic processing is provided by the Games Server to enhance 3D and 2D graphics within a game. This is achieved by using data inputs provided by a subscriber's Games Console, PC or STB for the Games Server to render a game.
  • a user may prompt a game from a user interface using the Games Pad.
  • the Satellite Modem/receiver then performs a handshake with a QPSK Modem situated in the Hub ??. This may be DVB-S or TCP/IP based.
  • a two- way communication is then established with the subscribers Games Console 82 Satellite Modem/receiver and Games Servers 12 Satellite Modem.
  • the two-way communication consists of a Forward Path or Forward Data Channel (FDC) and a Reverse Data Channel (RDC).
  • FDC Forward Path or Forward Data Channel
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • the Game is then executed on the Games Server 12 and a resident application is launched that enables the user's data inputs to be interpreted by the Games Server 12 Central Processor Unit (CPU).
  • CPU Central Processor Unit
  • a graphics processor card within the Games Server is operable to output RGB, PAL, NTSC or composite signals from the Games Server 12 to an MPEG encoder 56.
  • An application resident on the Games Console 82 is operable instruct CPU to transmit users data inputs within RDC which may received by the Games Servers 12 situated that are operable to interpret the users data inputs and render 3D/2D graphics.
  • Rendered graphics are then output from Games Server 12 graphics card as RGB, PAL, NTSC or composite signal to an MPEG real time encoder (RTE) 56 and encoded and compressed within an MPEG 2 video transport stream in real time.
  • the digital signal is the multiplexed within an in-band Forward Path or out-of-band Forward Data Channel (FDC) by a Multiplexer 66, using Time Divisional Multiplexing (TDM) and Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM).
  • TDM Time Divisional Multiplexing
  • FDM Frequency Division Multiplexing
  • the signal is modulated into a QPSK waveform or QAM waveform depending on whether the signal is transmitted within an out-of-band FDC.
  • the signal is then transmitted over the Satellite TV operators transport network that consists of a series of ATM Switches 65,71 connected over layer 12 to 48 optical cables to the hub where signal is then transmitted over Access Network to subscribers Satellite Modem 52.
  • the signal may be transmitted within an in-band forward path as private MPEG stream whereby the signal is transmitted via DBS Satellite 84 to the users Satellite Receiver 85.
  • the signal is then demultiplexed, demodulated by the Satellite Modem/receiver within Games Console 82 before being buffered into the memory of an MPEG decoder in the Games Console 82 for playback.
  • the signal is the decoded by the MPEG decoder and output from Games Console 82 via a AV lead to TV screen 86.
  • the data inputs are continuously transmitted within a RDC via the Satellite Modem to Games Server 12 that is operable to render the game.
  • the rendered graphics are the received within an in-band DTC via Satellite Receiver or out-of-band FDC via dial up connection and displayed on the user TV screen 86.
  • the entire game may be rendered by the Games Server 12 or partially rendered which enables far more complex and detailed 3D scenes to be rendered during a game than supported by a STB, Games Console or PC to be rendered within a game. This is advantageous.
  • any modem for example a 28 Kbps or 56 Kbps modem may be used by a Games Console, PC or STB to transmit data inputs upstream via return path to Games Server 12 and that any 28 kbps to a 56 kbps modem may be used by the Games Server 12 to receive data inputs.
  • the return path in which data inputs are transmitted upstream to Games Server 12 may also be provided through a Ka-band Satellite Receiver to the Games Server 12 without requiring a dial up connection. This is advantageous.
  • FIG 5 is an example of a Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) architecture that may be used to connect subscribers Games Consoles, STBs or PCs to the Games System.
  • Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) is an alternative to cable television and satellite as a digital telecommunications service that provides television and radio programming and data via Radio Ultra High Frequencies (UHF) and Very High Frequencies (VHF).
  • UHF Radio Ultra High Frequencies
  • VHF Very High Frequencies
  • the Terrestrial TV content providers network consists of a Head- End/Data Centre, Transport Network infrastructure/backbone, Hub, Access Network and the subscriber's premises.
  • the Head-End provides the operational side of TV operator and may include several Game Servers 12, which are operable to output data continuously within the in-band forward path of a DTC via a UHF/VHF link to subscribers Games Consoles, PCs or STBs.
  • the Games Server 12 may be configured output data continuously within out-of-band FDC over ATM/OC-3 Transport network to subscribers Games Consoles, PCs or STBs. This is achieved through interfacing the Game Servers 12 with the Head-End network through a PCI System that may be Ethernet, IP or DSL.
  • the Game Servers 12 may also include an Application Specific Integration (ASI) interface that enables the Game Server 12 to be interfaced with the Transport Network or Head-End.
  • ASI Application Specific Integration
  • the ASI provides access to several different mechanisms and protocols for delivering data between the Game Server 12 and the Subscribers device regardless of whether a Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106. In this way the Game Servers 12 are operable to be directly interfaced with a QAM/QPSK Modulator 89.
  • the Head-End consists of a Games Servers 12 that are connected to an MPEG Encoder 86 which in turn is connected to a Multiplexer 87.
  • data transmitted by the Game Server 12 may be encoded into MPEG-2 transport streams and transmitted within a in-band QAM digital transmission channel (DTC) or out-of- band QPSK forward data channel (FDC) to a users Games Console, PC or STB.
  • DTC in-band QAM digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • the MPEG-2 Real-time Encoders (RTE) 86 are operable to compress video and data feeds into MPEG-2 transport streams which are then Multiplexed into a single signal by a Multiplexer 87.
  • the multiplexed signal is than modulated by the QAM/QPSK Modulator 89 into a QAM or QPSK Signal and transmitted via terrestrial link or transport network to a subscriber's device. It will be appreciated that the process of encoding data within an MPEG-2 transport stream may be achieved in real time.
  • Advert insertion server 58 Also connected to the MPEG Encoder 86 by OC-3/OC-12 cable is the Advert insertion server 58, which provides QAM video content over in-band digital transmission channels (DTC) provided by UHF Antenna Transmitter 102 to subscribers UHF Aerials. This may be interconnected with the Game Servers 12 for provisioning TV adverts within Graphical User Interface (GUI) provided by the Game System.
  • DTC digital transmission channels
  • GUI Graphical User Interface
  • Common QAM Content 88 storage from which TV program content may be retrieved and provided over an in-band DTC or analogue transmission channel (ATC) via a DTT transmission to subscribers UHF Aerials.
  • ATC analogue transmission channel
  • a DTC is a QAM waveform with a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting MPEG-2 Transport Streams to a UHF Antenna transmitter 98 which is operable to transmit digitised signals to the UHF Amplifier Mast.
  • the signal is then amplified and transmitted to all subscribers' receivers within the UHF Amplifier Masts signal radius.
  • the signal may be received by an UHF Aerial, which is then feed directly into the Set top box that contains a MPEG decoder and an access card for the decoder. From the Terrestrial UHF Aerial the signal is then demodulated and demultiplexed before being transported to the MPEG decoder.
  • the MPEG decoder then applies demodulation and the forward error correction code is removed.
  • the signal is then demultiplexed to enable additional data to be extracted.
  • the compressed data stream is the sent to a buffer from where the compression engine could access it.
  • the transmission may be DVB-T broadcast-based.
  • Data may be provided over a VHF- Band or UHF-Band signal from a Terrestrial Antenna transmitter to a subscriber's Games Console, STB or PC via an UHF Aerial.
  • the user may receive up to 40 Mbps and transmit up to 5 Mbps within the RDC.
  • the receiver protocol is DVB-T.
  • the transport protocols for data transfer are TCP/IP, UDP/IP, FTP, VoIP.
  • the UHF Antenna Transmitters use special-purpose equipment, and the receiving users should be equipped with a Terrestrial modem/receiver as a stand-alone unit or a DVB-T receive card integrated with the user's STB 79, Games Console 82 or PC 88.
  • the antenna diameter and the power of the upconverter depend on the link budget based on the required data rate, modem operation modes and terrestrial parameters.
  • a series of operation support servers consisting of a Time Of Day (TOD) Server 94, a TPFP Server 93, a DHCP/DNS Server 91 and a Billing Server 120.
  • TOD Time Of Day
  • TPFP Transmission-Fidelity
  • DHCP/DNS Dynamic Protocol/DNS Server
  • Billing Server 120 Also connected by an Ethernet interface to the ATM Switch 96 is a Command Server 95, Middleware Server 92 and the Games Server 12.
  • the Command Server 95, Middleware Server 92 or Games Server 12 may receive requests transmitted within the RDC by the subscriber's Games Console 106, PC 117 or STB 109.
  • the Middleware Server 93 is operable to provide HTML, JavaScript and pJava objects to subscribers STBs, Games Consoles or PCs that may be used to render a graphical user interface (GUI).
  • GUI graphical user interface
  • HTML and JavaScript objects command functionality on the device.
  • HTML objects it is possible to command the STB 106 TV functionality such as switching the Terrestrial receiver to a specific frequency to receive incoming data over an in-band DTC MPEG-2 transport stream.
  • XML Browser resident within the Games Console 109, PC 117 and STB 106 enable HTML, JavaScript and XML objects to be interpreted by the subscriber's device.
  • a Command Server 95 Connected to the Middleware Server 93 is a Command Server 95, which is operable to control data streams from the Game Servers 12. Monitoring software and diagnostics software provided on the Command Server 95 enables the TV operator to analysis bandwidth usage and identify problems such as bottlenecks within the network.
  • a Billing Server 120 which is operable to provide transaction authentication and SSL.
  • TFTP Trivial File Transfer Protocol
  • STB Set Top Box
  • a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) Server 91 provides dynamic assigned IP addresses to the subscribers Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106.
  • the DHCP Server 91 also allows the re-use of assigned IP addresses.
  • a Domain Name System (DNS) Server 91 provides IP addresses to devices connected to the Games System such as the Game Servers 12 or Command Server 95.
  • the DNS Server 91 may also be configured to provide addresses to subscribers and external network devices connected to Internet, enabling subscribers to access content external to the TV network using TCP/IP.
  • a Time Of Day (TOD) Server 94 provides the synchronisation of native and resident applications on a subscribers device.
  • the TOD Server 94 may be utilised to synchronise a program guide with the actual time.
  • the Middleware Server 92, Command Server 95, Billing Server 120, DHCP Server 91 , TFTP Server 93 and TOD Server 94 are all connected via an 10/100Base-t Ethernet network to an Asymmetric Transfer Mode Switch (ATM) 96 that connects the Head-End to the Transport Network infrastructure via Optical cables.
  • ATM Asymmetric Transfer Mode Switch
  • Operation Support System software within the Head-End provides Conditional Access (CAM).
  • the hardware upon which the conditional access may be executed may be a Sun Solaris or Windows T based workstation that may also be the Billing Server 120.
  • a QAM Modulator 89 provides the in-band Analogue transmission channels (ATCs).
  • An ATC is an AM-VSB waveform and has a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting an NTSC or PAL signals from the Head-End to a subscribers STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117.
  • a QAM Modulator 89 provides the in-band forward path for digital transmission channels (DTCs).
  • DTC is a QAM waveform with a bandwidth of 6 MHz used for transporting MPEG-2 Transport Streams from the Head-End to a subscribers STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117.
  • ATM Asymmetric Transfer Mode Switch
  • the Transport Network infrastructure/backbone consists of numerous Asymmetric Transfer Mode (ATM) Switches interconnected over optical cables such as Optical Carrier Level 12 (OC-12) to 48 (OC-48).
  • the Transport Network infrastructure is operable to support the transmission of data, video and audio over optical cables within out-of-band QPSK Forward Data Channel (FDC) over as Optical Carrier Level 12 to 48 cables to the Hub.
  • QSPK Modems 104 situated at the Hub are operable to transmit the signal over the Access Network via a Pots splitter shelf 103 to a subscriber's STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117.
  • the Hub consists of Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK) Modulators 104 that provide the Forward Data Channel (FDC) used for transmitting packets containing IP or MPEG-2 private sections to a users Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106.
  • QPSK Quadrature Phase Shift Keying
  • the FDC is a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz which may be used for transporting data and various subsystem components from the Hub to a subscribers Games Console, STB or PC over Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Lines (ADSL).
  • ADSL Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Lines
  • Plain Old Telephone System (POTS) Splitter Shelves 103 interconnect the Hub with the Access Network, which in turn interconnect the subscribers Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106 via ADSL cable to the QPSK Modulators 104 within the Hub.
  • POTS Plain Old Telephone System
  • the Access Network often referred to, as the last five miles or the local loop, connects the Hub to the subscribers STB 106, PC 117 or Games Console 109.
  • Terrestrial TV subscribers this is typically with ADSL/POTS via a dial up modem to subscribers device as illustrated by Figure 5.
  • the home subscribers premises includes a UHF Aerial 107 for receiving video, audio and data from a terrestrial link, which is connected to a STB 106 which may used to play games.
  • the subscribers STB 106 includes a standard UHF Aerial 107 operable to receive UHF and VHF Band signals which is connected to a Terrestrial Modem/receiver via a BNC connection. This modem may be a DVB-T based.
  • FIG. 5 also shows a Games Console 109 within the subscribers premises which is also connected to the UHF Aerial 111 via BNC cable, which connects to a Terrestrial receiver/modem contained within the Games Console 109.
  • the a Terrestrial receiver/modem enables data to be received by the Games Console 109 from a UHF or VHF terrestrial signal which may be provided at bit rate of up to 45 Mbps.
  • the Terrestrial receiver/modem is also operable to transmit and receive data from out-of- band QPSK signals via the dial-up connection 83.
  • each Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106 is a resident or native application that is operable to retrieve data received from a QPSK/BPSK out-of-band or in-band UHF/VHF signals using the terrestrial receiver/modem.
  • the application is also operable to buffer data received over an out-of-band or in-band signal into the device memory from which a game may be rendered.
  • the Access Network Connected to the Games Console 109 via dial up connection 108 is the Access Network, which contains a series or routers and switches on which data may be transmitted to and from the Hub.
  • a series of QPSK modems 104 provide the out-of-band QPSK Forward data channel (FDC) to a users Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106.
  • FDC QPSK Forward data channel
  • data packets received over the transport network from a Game Server 12 may be transmitted over the Access network to a users Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106 provided within a 1 to 6 MHz QPSK waveform.
  • the QPSK modems 104 within the Hub are also operable to convert data received from out-of-band QPSK signals transmitted within the Reverse Data Channel (RDC) from a subscribers Terrestrial modem within a Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • the QPSK modems 104 the Hub are also operable to transmit signals received from the subscribers Games Console 106, PC 117 or STB 109 to the Command Server 95 located in the Head-End of a Terrestrial content provider.
  • an ATM switch 98 Connected to the QPSK modems 104 is an ATM switch 98, which in turn is connected to a series of ATM switches which connect the Hub via the Transport network with a second ATM switch 96 located in the Regional Head-End.
  • the Proxy Servers 99 provide HTTP links between the Terrestrial TV network and external networks such as the Internet.
  • the Proxy Server 99 is operable to provide software objects to a subscriber's STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117. These objects may be HTML documents, Java applets or XML documents.
  • the Proxy Server 99 may also provide filtering of requests, translation, and client authentication,
  • a Proxy Server 99 typically uses an IP Gateway to distribute objects to a subscriber's STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117. These objects may be HTML or JavaScript objects or other applications.
  • the Transcoder Servers 97 provides the communication link between the Game Server 12 and subscribers device whether an STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117.
  • the Transcoder Server is operable to convert RDC signals received from a DVB Terrestrial Modem in to IP data packets, which may then transmitted over the Transport Network to a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • the subscriber's premises includes a STB 106, PC 117 and a Games Console 109 that are connected to the Hub via a dial up modem and Terrestrial receiver.
  • the Terrestrial modem/receiver provides QPSK modulation and demodulation.
  • the Games Console 109 consists of 120MB RAM, a 480MHz central processor unit (CPU), 32MB DRAM Memory, Digital Video Disc (DVD) Drive, a 3D Graphics Accelerator chip, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, a FireWire port, a 16MB Memory Card, an MPEG-2 decoder, and an Operating System (O/S).
  • CPU central processor unit
  • DRAM Dynamic RAM
  • DVD Digital Video Disc
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • FireWire port a 16MB Memory Card
  • MPEG-2 decoder an MPEG-2 decoder
  • O/S Operating System
  • the CPU is operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from resources. Data transferred between the Games Consoles 109 resources is transferred over the main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the Games Consoles 82 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the volatile memory is a semiconductor based memory that can be read and written by the CPU or other hardware devices.
  • the CPU typically utilises the RAM when rendering a Game.
  • Dynamic RAM is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilised by the CPU to store and retrieve data. DRAM is typically used during a game acting as a memory buffer with the RAM. Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a DVD or hard disc. DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • the memory card is a memory module containing random access memory (RAM) semiconductor chips that may be utilised by the CPU to store data or programs.
  • RAM random access memory
  • the module may also comprise of EPROM, RAM, ROM or flash memory chips.
  • DVD Digital Video Disc
  • CD Compact disc
  • the Graphics Card contains a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can.
  • the coprocessor is vital to performance of a Games Console 109 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks. All present Games Consoles contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the FireWire (i-Link) port allows external devices to be connected to the Games cotware based or may form part of a Terrestrial TV receiver.
  • USB Universal Serial Bus
  • the Games Console 109 may also include an optional Hard Disc or Optical Disc Drive on which games retrieved from a DTC or FDC may be stored.
  • the Games console 109 is typically connected to users TV screen 111 via an AV lead to a TV Scart port or via AV lead.
  • the Games Console 109 is also connected to a dial up connection 105.
  • the dial up connection is utilised by the Terrestrial modem/receiver or V.90 Analogue modem to transmit data over the Access Network to QPSK modems 104 situated at the Hub.
  • Terrestrial modem/receiver is illustrated internal to a Games Console 109, however this may be external to the device through various different interfaces including a USB, Firewire or Ethernet adapter.
  • modem is derivative to that of the term's modulation and demodulation.
  • modems described herein are high-speed Terrestrial modems designed for high bandwidth data and video transmissions at bit rates of 4 to 45 Mbps and not 28.8 Kbps analogue modems which most will be familiar with in terms of the Internet.
  • the Terrestrial modem/receiver is operable to demodulator and modulate signals to and from QPSK modems located within the Hub.
  • the Terrestrial modem/receiver is also operable to retrieve data, video and audio transmitted within a UHF-band or VHF- band terrestrial transmission by QAM Modulator located within the Head-End.
  • the Terrestrial modem/receiver may be connected to a Games Console 109 via a type III PCMCIA Card slot within the expansion bay. It will be appreciated that various different Interfaces may be used to interface the Terrestrial Modem/receiver including Ethernet 10Base-T, RJ-45 connectors, USB Series B connector, RF Input, 75 Ohm F- Connector. Alternatively a 10/100 Base TX Ethernet card may be used to connect the Games Console 109 to the TV network and in turn the Games Server 12.
  • a QPSK demodulator within the users Terrestrial modem/receiver is operable to receive IP packets and MPEG-2 private data sections. Using a QPSK demodulator the Terrestrial modem/receiver is operable to receive data transmitted within a forward data channel (FDC) signal from the Games Server 12.
  • FDC forward data channel
  • a FDC is a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz used for transmitting data to a subscriber's device from the Hub.
  • Terrestrial modem/receiver typically utilises one FDC for receiving both application data and instructions at any given time.
  • a QPSK modulator within the subscriber's Terrestrial modem/receiver provides an out- of-band Reverse Data Channel (RDC).
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • the RDC is also a QPSK waveform with a bandwidth of 1 MHz used for transmitting data from a subscriber's device to the QPSK modems 104 in the Hub.
  • a Terrestrial modem/receiver typically utilises one RDC for sending both application data and control messages at any given time.
  • the QPSK modems 74 in the Hub may be configured to provide multiple RDC's to one Terrestrial modem/receiver at any given time for providing data inputs and requests from the Games Console 109 to a Game Server 12.
  • a QAM demodulator within the subscribers Games Console 109 is operable to adapt to channels encoded at different rates of up to 56 Mbps. Thereby enabling data to be received at up to 56 Mbps. In this way data may be retrieved from a QAM in-band DTC signal at a bit rate of 45 Mbps which may be buffered into a Games Consoles 109 memory and rendered through utilising the Random Access Memory (RAM). This is advantageous.
  • the Games Console 109 and Terrestrial modem/receiver supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for Terrestrial broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home networking and storage.
  • Games Console 109 Software applications resident on the Games Console 109 facilitate the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from the Terrestrial TV network.
  • the software drivers resident within the Operating System provide the means enabling the Games Console 109 to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a Terrestrial TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • a Terrestrial UHF Aerial 112 which is operable to receive UHF and VHF-band signals transmitted by a UHF Antenna Transmitter 98.
  • the UHF Aerial 112 is connected to a Terrestrial Modem/receiver via a BNC connection.
  • This modem may be a DVB-T based. In this way games provided by the Games Server 12 within a UHF-band or VHF-band Terrestrial signal may be received by subscribers Games Console 109. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Server 12 may be utilised by various modulations including QPSK and QAM with or without direct sequence spreading to provide data to subscribers Games Console 109 with a DVB-T Terrestrial Modem/receiver at a bit rates up to 140Mbps.
  • This is advantageous.
  • Connected by a s-video or AV lead to the subscribers Games Console 109 is a TV screen 111 that is operable to display video decoded by an MPEG decoder in the Games console and graphics rendered within the RAM.
  • the Games Console 109 may be connected via a S-VHS lead.
  • the TV screen 111 includes speakers from which audio may be output.
  • the Set Top Box (STB) 106 consists of an 80MHz Central Processor Unit, 4MB RAM, 2MB Flash Memory, 4MB DRAM, 256 KB EEPROM, 2 Smart card interfaces, 2 USB ports, a Graphics Processor Unit with 4MB SDRAM, an infra-red port, a built-in Modem, an MPEG decoder, an RF Tuner and software.
  • the CPU is a microprocessor which operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from the STB 106 resources. Data is transferred over the STB's 106 main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the STB's 106 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the volatile memory is a semiconductor based memory that can be read and written by the CPU or other hardware devices.
  • the CPU typically utilises the RAM when rendering a Game.
  • Flash Memory is a type of non-volatile memory is built into the STB 106. Flash memory is similar to EEPROM memory in function however data must be removed in blocks. The CPU utilises the flash memory to store data. In this way the Flash Memory acts as a replacement to a hard disc.
  • Dynamic RAM is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilised by the CPU to store and retrieve data.
  • the CPU utilises the DRAM as a memory buffer for game data.
  • Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a Flash Memory.
  • DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • the Graphics Processor Unit is a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can.
  • the coprocessor is vital to performance of a STB 106 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks.
  • the majority of present Set top boxes contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the MPEG decoder is operable to decode MPEG-2 treams received from a Terrestrial TV signal. In this way video, audio and data compressed and digitised into an MPEG-2 transport stream and transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal can be decoded and interpreted by the CPU. It will be appreciated that the MPEG decoder may of course be software based or may form part of a Terrestrial TV receiver.
  • the remote control and Infrared interface are standard in all current Set top boxes and are used to relay user commands to the Set top box 106. In this way the user is able to control a game through the manipulation of the buttons on the remote control.
  • the STB 106 is also connected to a dial up connection 105.
  • the dial up connection is utilised by the modem to transmit data over the Access Network to QPSK modems 104 situated at the Hub.
  • the Terrestrial Modem/receiver built in to the STB 106 enables QPSK Waveforms to be received and transmitted.
  • Data may be transmitted through the QPSK modulator which enables the STB to utilise the Reverse Data Channel (RDC) with a QPSK waveform, which in turn provides a return path whereby requests and data inputs maybe transmitted upstream to a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • a QPSK demodulator enables the STB 106 to retrieve data within the out-of- band Forward Data Channel (FDC) provided by the Game Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • FDC Forward Data Channel
  • a QPSK Modulator typically located in the Hub is operable to transmit packets containing IP or MPEG private sections over the FDC to the users STB 106.
  • QPSK demodulators present within the hub enable data to be retrieved from the RDC and transported over the transport network to a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • a QAM demodulator within the STB 106 enables data to be retrieved from within QAM signal provided by the Game Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • QAM signals are QAM waveforms which provides a forward path whereby data, audio and video maybe broadcast via a Terrestrial transmission to all subscribers devices by a Game Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99 within a digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • DVB-T Digital Video Broadcasting Terrestrial
  • DVB-RCT Return Channel For Terrestrial
  • the STB 106 and Terrestrial Modem/receiver supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for Terrestrial broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home networking and storage.
  • Software applications provided on the STB 106 facilitate the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from the Terrestrial TV transmission.
  • the software also provides the means enabling the STB to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a Terrestrial TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • UHF Aerial 107 Connected to the Set top box (STB) 106 is a UHF Aerial 107 which is operable to receive UHF and VHF-band signals transmitted by a DTT Antenna 98.
  • the UHF Aerial 107 is connected to a Terrestrial Modem/receiver via a BNC connection. This modem may be a DVB-T based. In this way the subscribers STB 106 may receive games provided by the Games Server 12 within a UHF or VHF-band transmission signals. This is advantageous.
  • TV screen 110 which is operable to display video decoded by a MPEG decoder in the STB 106 and graphics rendered by Graphic Processor Unit (GPU).
  • GPU Graphic Processor Unit
  • the diagram shows a third subscriber that is connected to the access network via a dial up connection 112 which in turn is connected to a Personnel Computer PC 88.
  • the Personnel Computer (PC) 117 contains a 1.2 GHz Central Processor Unit, 120MB RAM, 24MB DRAM, 32MB SDRAM, 512KB EEPROM, DVD Drive, 128MB 3D Graphics Accelerator chip, a 40 Gigabyte Hard Disc, an PS2 port, a Modem/receiver, a MPEG-2 decoder and an Operating System (O/S).
  • PC Central Processor Unit
  • the CPU is a silicon based microprocessor which operable to interpret and execute instructions.
  • the CPU is used to fetch, decode and to transfer data to and from resources. Data is transferred over the PC's 117 main data transfer path, the bus, which enables the CPU to command the PC's 117 resources.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the volatile memory is a semiconductor based memory that can be read and written by the CPU or other hardware devices.
  • the CPU typically utilises the RAM when rendering a Game.
  • Dynamic RAM is a type of semiconductor random access memory which may be utilised by the CPU to store and retrieve data.
  • the CPU utilises the DRAM as a memory buffer for game data.
  • Memory buffers hold data temporarily for processing allowing the CPU to access the data at a faster rate than on a DVD or hard disc.
  • DRAM has the advantage of being able to store more data than RAM.
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable read-only Memory
  • DVD Digital Video Disc
  • CD Compact disc
  • the Graphics Card contains a coprocessor, which is a specialised microprocessor that can update graphics on a screen far quicker than a CPU can.
  • the coprocessor is vital to performance of a PC 117 as it able to free up the CPU for other tasks.
  • the majority of present PCs contain a Graphics coprocessor of some kind, which can generate polygons, texture maps, filters and lines in response to instructions from the CPU.
  • the MPEG decoder is operable to decode MPEG-2 streams received from a Terrestrial TV signal. In this way video, audio and data compressed and digitised into an MPEG-2 transport stream and transmitted within an in-band DTC or out-of-band FDC signal can be decoded and interpreted by the PC 117.
  • the MPEG decoder may be connected to the PC 117 via a PCI slot. It will be appreciated that the MPEG decoder may of course be software based or may form part of a Terrestrial Modem/receiver.
  • the PS2 interface is standard on all PCs and enables the user to command a game using a keyboard or mouse. In this way the user is able to control a game through manipulating the buttons on the keyboard or mouse, which may be interpreted by a game engine on the PC 117 and the corresponding graphics to users inputs are rendered on the screen. With present PC systems this process can be performed in real time.
  • subscribers of Terrestrial TV may be provided with USB adapter.
  • the USB would enable a PC 117 to be indirectly interfaced via a USB interface to a DVB-T modem that is operable to connect to the Game Server 12.
  • a PC 117 may be directly interfaced to the Game Server 12 situated with the Head-End via a Terrestrial Modem/receiver or a dial up modem.
  • the Terrestrial Modem/receiver may be connected to a PC 117 via an expansion bay.
  • an Ethernet Network Card 10/100Base-t may be used to connect the PC 117 to the Games Server 12.
  • a PC 117 may access data within the in-band and out-band signals provided by the Games Server 12.
  • the PC 117 may transmit requests or data via the reverse data channel (RDC) upstream to the Game Server 12 with the Head-End. This is advantageous.
  • RDC reverse data channel
  • UHF Aerial 118 Connected to the PC 117 is a UHF Aerial 118 which is operable to receive UHF and VHF-band signals transmitted by a DTT Antenna 98.
  • the UHF Aerial 118 is connected to a Terrestrial Modem/receiver via a BNC connection.
  • the Terrestrial modem/receiver may be a DVB-T based. In this way the subscribers PC 117 may receive games provided by the Games Server 12 within an UHF or VHF-band terrestrial transmission signals. This is advantageous.
  • the PC 117 and Terrestrial Modem/receiver supports the key functions of, audio and video transport stream demultiplexing for Terrestrial broadcasts, source decoding, video encoding/transcoding, streaming audio and video, still imaging, return channel communications, home networking and storage.
  • Software applications provided on the PC 117 facilitate the means of accessing game data over a DTC or FDC from a Terrestrial transmission or over Terrestrial TV network.
  • the software also provides the means enabling the PC 117 to utilise existing communication paths and infrastructure of a TV network to transmit data upstream to the Games Server 12.
  • a subscriber may trigger a game to download directly relating to video preview of a game provided on a digital transmission channel (DTC) or an analogue transmission channel (ATC) using a Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • ATC analogue transmission channel
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29 in which HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's Games Console 109.
  • the CPU in the Games Console 109 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image which is displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 111 prompting the subscriber to play a game.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the subscriber may respond to the prompt. If the subscriber responds by pressing the select button on Games Pad then a signal is then transmitted to the CPU in the Games Console 109.
  • the CPU interprets the data input signal and instructs the Terrestrial Modem/receiver connected via PCMCIA slot to switch channels to correct MPEG packet ID (PID) required for the game.
  • PID MPEG packet ID
  • the Terrestrial modem then performs a handshake with the Modem Termination System (MTS) situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data and is based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies used and authentication.
  • MTS Modem Termination System
  • the game data which is being transmitted continuously by the Games Server 12 within a DTC, is then received via the UHF Aerial 112 and demodulated by the Terrestrial Modem/receiver.
  • An MPEG Decoder in the Games Console 109 is then operable to decompress and decode the digitised data stream provided within an MPEG-2 transport stream.
  • the CPU then buffers the data onto the Games Console 82 Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and the game is rendered using the RAM.
  • the rendered graphics are then output from the Games Console 109 via an AV-video lead which is connected to a TV Screen 86 upon which the game is displayed.
  • subscribers may be provided with a user interface from which the subscriber may select and download games to a STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117.
  • This is achieved through transmitting HTML/Java data in the DTC, in-band Forward Path, or an out-of- band forward data channel (FDC) to a users STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117.
  • FDC out-of- band forward data channel
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 88.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted via UHF Antenna 98 to the subscriber's UHF Aerial 112 which is then transported to the Games Console 109.
  • the Games Console 109 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image. The graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 111 prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing select button on the game pad.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of Games Console 109.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which is operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript, XML or C++ data from the DTC which is temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) of the subscriber's Games Console 109.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • a Middleware engine resident on the Games Console 109 is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games Console 109.
  • Preferably video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band DTC signal.
  • the video may be defined within HTML parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate the user interface by manipulating the buttons on the game pad, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber then presses the select button on games pad, which sends a signal to the CPU in Games Console 109.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input and instructs the Terrestrial Modem/receiver to switch to the correct Channel ID, Service ID and Packet Identity (PID) relating to game selected.
  • PID Packet Identity
  • the Terrestrial modem/receiver then performs a handshake with a QPSK Modem situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data and is based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies and authentication used. For example this protocol may be DVB-T based.
  • conditional access system Authentication is provided through the conditional access system that provides a link from the subscriber's device back to the service provider Head-End so that a viewing history can be obtained by the Billing Server 90 for billing purposes.
  • the conditional access system enables the subscriber to utilise pay-per-play services provided by the Games Server 12.
  • the conditional access system is typically provided through a multi- step encryption/decryption scheme. The steps could include DES, RSA and digital signature algorithms.
  • the conditional access system also provides information that restricts the receiving party to only access games content which it is authorised to view or have agreed to pay for.
  • the conditional access system could also be configured for copy control to prevent taping with games, a regional control may be used to blackout specific regions and a user control for parental control of games.
  • Terrestrial modem/receiver Once the subscriber is authenticated and the receiving protocol is defined data may then received by the Terrestrial modem/receiver via the Terrestrial Receiver Dish 89. Terrestrial Modem/receiver then receives data output by the Games Server 12 via the Terrestrial Receiver Dish 89 provided within the DTC as MPEG TS. Through an application the Games Console 109 is operable retrieve the data from Terrestrial modem/receiver which is then buffered in to the DRAM of the Games Console 109 from which the game may be rendered.
  • a game is typically realised within the RAM of a Games Console 109.
  • the subscriber may visually select a game from a user interface by highlighting a game of their choice using a games pad and download the game on to the Games Console 109 memory from which the game may be played. This is advantageous.
  • game data required by a Games console 109, PC 118 or STB 106 may be stored on the Games server 12 and transmitted continuously or on demand to specific user. This is achieved through interfacing the Game Servers 12 with a QAM Modulator 89, at the Head-End.
  • the Games Server 12 situated within the Head-End may be configured to output game data stored on a hard disc, optical disc, DVD or disk array continuously to as a raw data stream to an Real Time MPEG Encoder (RTE) 86.
  • the RTE 86 is operable to compress and encode the data provided by Games Server 12 into separate MPEG Transport streams that are the multiplexed and combined into single channel by a Multiplexer 87.
  • the QAM modulator 89 then modulates the channel within 256 QAM waveform. This provides a data throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction.
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted to a UHF Antenna Transmitter 98 that is operable to transmit the QAM signal to a UHF Amplifier Mast 102.
  • the UHF Amplifier Mast 102 then boosts the signal, which then received by the subscribers UHF Aerial 112 within UHF transmission range.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video previews of games provided on a separate QAM digital transmission channel (DTC) by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 88.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • the Games Console 109 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of Games Console 109.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the DTC which is then temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) of the subscriber's Games Console 109.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the Games Console 109 is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript, XML or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • Ul user interface
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games Console 109.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate user interface by manipulating the buttons on the game pad, which is then interpreted by the CPU and the corresponding selection to subscriber's inputs are highlighted on Ul which is displayed on the TV Screen 111.
  • the subscriber is then able to select and highlight a game of their choice using the games pad.
  • the subscriber then selects a game by highlighting a game of their choice and pressing the select button.
  • the CPU interprets the data input and instructs the DVB-T Terrestrial modem/receiver to switch to correct channel and transport stream identifiable within the PID, SID and Channel ID.
  • the Terrestrial modem/receiver then performs a handshake with the situated at the Head-End. This is needed to agree on how to transmit/receive game data based on a protocol that defines the type of signalling, frequencies used and authentication.
  • the QAM signal is then received by Terrestrial UHF Aerial 112, which feed to the DVB- T Terrestrial modem/receiver that is contained with the Games Console 109.
  • the Terrestrial modem/receiver is operable to demodulator, demultiplex the QAM signal.
  • the data stream is then separated from audio and video signals.
  • the data signal is then transferred to the MPEG decoder that decodes the data back to its original form and the data is then buffered into DRAM of Game Console 109 from which the game may be rendered.
  • the CPU then renders the Game which is then output from the Games Console 109 via an audio and video (AV) lead which is connected to a via TV Scart adapter to the TV Screen 111 upon which the rendered games graphics are displayed.
  • AV audio and video
  • Games which are output by the Games Server 12 to a QAM Modulator 89 maybe transmitted continuously over a Terrestrial transmission within a DTC from which games maybe downloaded via a user interface onto a Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106 at anytime. It will be appreciated that through providing game data over a DTC or ATC the games are being transmitted as a Terrestrial UHF/VHF broadcast, which may be incepted by anyone with a UHF Aerial 112 that is tuned into the right channel signal.
  • a channel is a separate incoming QAM signal or ATC source that a subscriber can select through a RF tuner.
  • the signal has a defined bandwidth with of 6 to 8MHz that may be utilised to provide games to a subscribers Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106 equipped with a DVB-T Terrestrial Modem/receiver.
  • a channel will exist within a range of 50-850MHz.
  • a further aspect of present invention means may be provided whereby up to 20 MPEG-2 transport streams containing game data may be aggregated into one 256-QAM Digital Transmission channel, which may be provided continuously over a Terrestrial Broadcast File System (BFS).
  • BFS Terrestrial Broadcast File System
  • This is achieved through combining multiple MPEG-2 data transport streams in to a signal 256-QAM Waveform that may be broadcast to all viewers with equipped with UHF Aerials within a UHF Transmitter 98 transmission range. It will be appreciated that this may be scaled to suit the TV operator's requirements whereby up 200 MPEG-2 transport streams each containing a different game may be provided continuously over multiple QAM channels. This is advantageous.
  • game data that is stored on the Game Server 12 Storage Subsystem may be transmitted over a variety of links to a subscribers Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106. These may include Terrestrial TV Networks Transmissions, IP, IPv6 or ATM or ADSL.
  • a data transmission may be provided over a simplex or full duplex (using an interaction channel for the return) and may be Unicast (point-to-point), Multicast (one to many) or broadcast (all receivers receiving the assigned PID).
  • FIG. 5 there are five main methods of providing game data within a DTC or FDC to a users Games Console, PC or STB which consist of Data Piping, Data Streaming, Data Carousels or Object Carousels.
  • Data Streaming is a method used by the Game Server 12 to provide game data, which takes the form of a continuous stream that is carried in an asynchronous PES.
  • Data Carousels is a method that may be used by the Game Server for assembling game data sets into a buffer, which are played-out cyclic manner (periodic transmission).
  • the data sets may be of any format or type i.e. HTML, Java or C++. For example this technique may be used to provide the data for an onscreen On-line Games Guide.
  • the data may be transmitted using fixed sized DSM-CC sections.
  • Object Carousel typically resemble data carousels, however they are primarily intended for the broadcast of data services.
  • data sets are typically defined by the DVB Network Independent Protocol specification and may be used, to down-load data to a Games Console, PC or STB.
  • the Terrestrial TV operator network uses a Broadcast File System (BFS) for transporting data repeatedly over the network.
  • BFS Broadcast File System
  • the BFS allows Terrestrial TV subscribers equipped with a Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 109 to quickly access games at anytime without requiring the use of an RDC to request data from the Game Server 12.
  • This mechanism is useful where large numbers of subscribers require the same game data.
  • An example would be where the same game is made available to any Games Console that has access to the DTC or FDC. This is advantageous.
  • transport protocols may be used to transmit data over the Transport network to the STB 106, Games console 109 or PC 117 such as Schedule Transfer (ST), ATM, TCP/IP, RTSP and IPTV.
  • ST Schedule Transfer
  • ATM Transmission Control Protocol
  • TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol
  • RTSP Remote Control Protocol
  • IPTV IPTV
  • a subscriber may access and begin to download a game at any point of the data cast regardless of when the user triggers the download.
  • Any data provided within the BFS that is transmitted via in-band QAM or out-of-band QPSK signals may be accessed through a data stream manager resident on the users STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117 which is activated on users request.
  • the data stream manager is a resident application on the user STB 106, Games Consoles 109 or PC 117 that enables game data to be retrieved and interpreted from the BFS into the device DRAM or Flash memory where it is then rendered on a TV Screen.
  • Games Consoles 109 or PC 117 that enables game data to be retrieved and interpreted from the BFS into the device DRAM or Flash memory where it is then rendered on a TV Screen.
  • an application resident on the Games Server 12 is operable retrieve the game data, audio and video that is stored within the Games Server 12 sub storage system.
  • the data, audio and video is then output via an AM Fiber Transport Network or SONET/SDH Transport Network interface to the MPEG Encoder 86.
  • the MPEG Encoder 86 then encoders the data, audio and video into separate elementary streams that are then combined to form individual MPEG Transport Streams.
  • each MPEG TS is assigned a unique PID that is identifiable with a particular game provided within the games systems user interface or channels.
  • the signal is output from the MPEG Encoder 86 as MPEG TS to a Multiplexer 87 that combines the MPEG TS with other incoming signals using Time Divisional Multiplexing TDM and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing (FDM) techniques.
  • the signal is then output from the Multiplexer 87 to a QAM Modulator 89, which modulates the multiplexed signal within a 256 QAM waveform (Digital Transmission Channel).
  • the Digital Transmission Channel (DTC) provides a total throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction.
  • the QAM signal is then transmitted to a UHF Antenna Transmitter 98 that is operable to transmit the QAM signal to a UHF Amplifier Mast 102.
  • the UHF Amplifier 102 mast then amplifies it and transmits the signal to all subscribers with UHF Aerials within the UHF transmission range.
  • the signal is the received by the subscribers UHF Aerial 112 and feed via a downlead to the Terrestrial Modem/Receiver within the Games Console 109.
  • the QAM signal is then demultiplexed and demodulated by the Terrestrial Modem/Receiver.
  • the MPEG TS signals are then separated into data, audio and video.
  • the audio and video elementary streams are then buffered in the decoders memory for playback and the data stream is then decoded into its original data form and buffered into the Games Consoles 109 Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU is operable to render the game that is then output via AV lead to the TV 111.
  • the buttons on the Games pad the user is able to play the game. This is advantageous.
  • the Terrestrial TV operator is only required to provide one 2-4Mbps MPEG-2 Transport streams per game as opposed to per user to their total subscriber base.
  • the present invention described in the Terrestrial TV operator could provide a 2-4 Mbps MPEG 2 stream over a Terrestrial transmission link to all subscribers from which a game could be retrieved on to a STB, Games Console or PC at anytime. This is achieved through transmitting data that is retrieved from the Games Servers 12 Sub storage system and provided continuously over a digital transmission channel. This eliminates the need for a dial up connection and provides a low cost yet high-bandwidth delivery of games to an unlimited number of subscribers. This is advantageous.
  • a Games Console 109 or PC 117 are operable to access data just as they would from a CD or DVD whereby only the data required for the game level is loaded into the memory. In this way the subscribers does not have to download the entire game onto a hard disc or Personal Video Recorder (PVR) to be played.
  • PVR Personal Video Recorder
  • the BFS acts as storage for all games each with a unique PID identifiable within a unique MPEG-2 Stream that is provided continuously over a Terrestrial transmission within a DTC.
  • data may be provided continuously over Terrestrial TV operators Transport Network within an out-of-band 6Mhz QPSK Forward Data Channel (FDC). This is advantageous. This may also applied to Set top boxes, which have limited storage capacity.
  • FDC Forward Data Channel
  • a subscriber's STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117 is operable to retrieve raw data sent in MPEG-2 private sections. This is achieved through transmitting data and video over the same transport stream or when a Games Server 12 does not utilise the BFS.
  • An application resident within the users STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117 enables data to be interpreted and a game to be rendered on the users TV screen. In this way the user is able to retrieve data within the MPEG transport stream that can be interpreted by a Games Console, STB or PC to render the game which is the output from the subscribers Games Console, STB and displayed on a TV screen or SVGA for PCs.
  • the STB 106, Games Console 109 or PC 117 is operable to access data within the MPEG-2 data stream through an utilisation the stream manager a resident application that ensures that the device is tuned into the correct frequency and PID of the game requested by the user.
  • a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby software drivers may be provided to Games Consoles 109, PC 117 or STB 106 via a Terrestrial digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC Terrestrial digital transmission channel
  • software drivers may be provided to Games Consoles 109, PC 117 or STB 106 via a Terrestrial digital transmission channel (DTC).
  • DTC Terrestrial digital transmission channel
  • software drivers may be provided via the Transport Network within an out-of-band FDC QPSK signal.
  • Drivers may include a graphics engine required to render games available on the games system. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a user can select and download drivers from GUI. These drivers may be specific to a device that may be connected to viewers Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106 to play a game such as an Infrared or USB Games Pad.
  • means may be provided through a GUI whereby a user can select and download multiple games at same time from a Terrestrial Digital Transmission Channel on to a Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106.
  • the data may be stored on a hard disc, personnel video recorder (PVR) or a secondary memory device connected via a USB or Firewire port to a Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106.
  • PVR personnel video recorder
  • STB 106 secondary memory device connected via a USB or Firewire port to a Games Console 109, PC 117 or STB 106.
  • the user may therefore download up to four games at a rate of 8 Mbps from a single DTC.
  • At a low rate of 3 Mbps allocated to each game up to 18 games may be downloaded at the same time over a single DTC. However at a low rate of 3Mbps the games would take noticeably longer to download.
  • multiple games may be retrieved from an out-of-band QPSK signal via the Terrestrial TV operators Transport Network which set at 6 MHz would provide a total throughput of 36 Mbps in which several games could be provided.
  • a subscriber may prompt a GUI provided within a DTC which would enable them to select and highlight multiple games which may be provided over a QPSK signal to a Games Console, STB or PC.
  • previews of the games may be broadcast or streamed within the GUI thereby enabling the subscriber to preview a game before downloading. This is advantageous.
  • the Command Server 95 is operable to vary the rate of the transport streams in relation to size of game.
  • the rate may be adjusted from 512 Kbps up to 56 Mbps per game within an 6-8Mhz QAM Waveform. This is advantageous.
  • a game that a Games Server 12 has provided that to a subscribers Set Top Box (STB) 106 over a Terrestrial DTC or FDC may be saved.
  • STB Subscribe Top Box
  • a Game may saved within the flash memory of a STB 106 as a resident application from which the subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID (PID), service ID, publisher, developer, format and size. Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 and Time stamp that links to specific section of a game.
  • a resident application on STB 106 is operable to interpret the Game identifier stored in the STB flash memory and search for a specific PID, Channel ID and Time Stamp relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID and Channel ID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band Terrestrial DTC or out-of-band FDC via a dial-up modem to the STB 106 and stored in the flash memory or dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a game may be saved on a USB memory card connected to the STB 106 via the USB port.
  • a resident application on the STB 106 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the USB memory card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams (TS) carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 that links to specific section of a game.
  • a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 106 is operable to interpret the PID on the USB memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band Terrestrial DTC or out-of-band FDC via a dial up modem to the STB 106 and buffed in the flash memory or dynamic random access memory. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a subscriber may save a game played on a STB 106 on a Smart card, which may be inserted in a smart card drive.
  • the majority of Set-Top Boxes are equipped with multiple smart card drives, which are presently used for conditional access and authentication.
  • Within the Smart card flash memory EEPROM or DRAM a games could be saved.
  • a resident application on the STB 106 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the Smart card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 that links to specific section of a game.
  • a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 106 is operable to interpret the PID on the Smart card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band Terrestrial DTC or out-of-band FDC via Transport Network to the STB 106 and stored in the flash memory or DRAM. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided through a resident application on the STB 106 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on hard disc or a Personal Video Recorder (PVR). In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilising a hard disc or a Personal Video Recorder (PVR) a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size. Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game identifier also contains a unique PID value ranging from 0 - 255 and Time stamp that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include the value 40 which is identifiable with a specific data packet provided within an MPEG TS that relates to the particular level that the game was saved.
  • a resident application on STB 106 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID and Time stamp on the hard disc or PVR and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC or FDC to the STB 106 and stored in the flash memory, hard disc or within the memory on the PVR. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a STB 106 on a Games Server 12, which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a Terrestrial DTC or FDC which would enable a game to be saved on the Games Server 12.
  • data is stored on Games Server 12 containing a Game ID and Subscriber ID.
  • the Game Identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID (PID), Time Stamp, Service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the Game ID also contains a unique value at the end of the PID that links to specific section of a game within a PID ranging from 0 to 255.
  • a resident application on the STB 106 enables a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12 using the data stored in Game Identifier.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a Terrestrial DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 29.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's STB 106.
  • the STB 106 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • the graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 110 prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing the red button on the remote control. If the subscriber responds by pressing the select button on the remote control a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of STB 106.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which is operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the Terrestrial DTC which is temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) or Flash Memory of the subscriber's STB 106.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, XML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the STB 106.
  • video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band Terrestrial DTC signal. The video may be defined within HTML parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate the user interface by manipulating the buttons on the remote control, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber is provided the option to select saved games via the remote control.
  • a resident application temporary stored on STB 106 flash memory is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request in response to the subscriber's inputs on the remote control. If the subscribers selects saved games a request formed by the STB 106 which is transmitted upstream by the dial up modem within a 1 MHz QPSK waveform, Reverse Data Channel (RDC), to the Hub.
  • QPSK Modems 104 within the Hub are operable to retransmit the data stream to an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) switch 98 situated on the Transport Network.
  • ATM switch 98 is operable to route the data stream to second ATM switch 96 that is connected to the Games Server 12 situated at the Head-End via an Ethernet 10/100base-t connection.
  • the Games Server 12 is operable to retrieve the saved games using the Subscribers ID from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the Game identifier files which are encoded within a MPEG-2 transport stream by an MPEG Encoder 86 as private MPEG section only accessible by authenticated subscriber.
  • the digitised signal is then combined with other data, video and audio streams output by the Games Servers 12 and multiplexed by Multiplexer 87 into a single signal using Time Divisional Multiplexing and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing techniques.
  • the QAM modulator 68 then modulates the channel within 256 QAM waveform. This provides a data throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction.
  • the QAM signal containing the subscribers saved game data is then transmitted to a UHF Antenna Transmitter 98.
  • the UHF Antenna Transmitter 98 is operable to transmit the QAM signal to a UHF Amplifier Mast 102.
  • the Amplifier Mast 102 then amplifies the signal that is then transmitted to all subscribers with UHF Aerials within the Amplifier Mast 102 transmission range.
  • the signal is then received by the UHF Aerial 107 and feed into the Terrestrial Modem/receiver within the STB 106, which then demultiplexes and demodulates the incoming signal that is then feed to an MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 106.
  • the MPEG decoder/processor in the STB 106 then decodes the MPEG-2 private transport stream and data is decoded into its original form.
  • the CPU then buffers the data into the flash memory or dynamic random access memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • the STB 106 is operable to render a second user interface using the RAM.
  • the subscriber is then presented with list of saved games within the second user interface.
  • Each saved game listed within the user interface has a unique PID, Channel ID and Service ID stored temporally within the STB 106 memory.
  • the CPU is operable to identify and instruct the Terrestrial Modem/receiver to switch to the MPEG transport stream containing the PID relating to the subscribers saved game.
  • the game data is then retrieved by Terrestrial Modem/receiver from the DTC and buffered into the flash memory or dynamic random access memory of the STB 106.
  • the STB 106 is operable to render the game which is then output from the STB 106 via a TV Scart as an analogue signal and displayed on the TV Screen 110.
  • a TV Scart as an analogue signal and displayed on the TV Screen 110.
  • the subscribers saved game data may of course be transmitted via a forward data channel (FDC) over the Terrestrial TV operators network to the subscribers STB 106. This would be achieved through modulating the signal within a 1Mhz QPSK waveform.
  • FDC forward data channel
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the STB's 106 flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM as an instruction, which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game. For example a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the red button on their remote control. The game data is then retrieved from the data stream and buffered in to the Set Top Box 106 flash memory or DRAM and realised within the RAM.
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen 110 that is connected to the STB 106 via a Scart lead.
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request that is interpreted by the STB 106 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the STB 106 memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on STB 79 memory resources the game is loaded and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the saved game data stored on the STB 79 flash memory, DRAM or EEPROM may contain Game identifiers which as previously described may be used retrieve data stored within the BFS using the PID, Channel ID, Time Stamp and Service ID. This may be necessary for the user to continue playing a game from the point the game was saved depending on the actual byte size of the game.
  • a game that a Games Server 12 has provided to a subscribers Games Console 109 over a DTC or FDC may be saved.
  • This may provided in number of ways. Firstly means may be provided whereby a Game may be saved within the memory card of a Games Console 109 as a resident application from which the subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Games Console 109 memory card containing a Game identifier.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, Packet ID (PID), publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID Packet ID
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique value and time stamp that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with specific data packet provided in the BFS that links to level 12 of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 109 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID and Time Stamp on the memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in- band DTC via UHF Aerial 112 or out-of-band FDC via a DSL Modem/receiver to the Games Console 109 and buffered in the DRAM memory. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous. Alternatively a game may be saved on a USB memory card connected to the Games Console 109 via the USB port. A resident application on the Games Console 109 would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on the USB memory card. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • the Game identifier contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel ID, packet ID, service ID, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique value ranging from 0 - 255 and a Time stamp that links to specific section of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 109 is operable to interpret the PID, Channel ID, Time Stamp and Service ID on the USB memory card and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game.
  • a further aspect of the present invention means may be provided whereby through a resident application on the Games Console 109 this would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on Hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilising a Hard disc or a Optical Disc Drive a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • the GID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • the Game Identifier also includes specific Packet Identifier (PID) Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique number that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with the level of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 109 is operable to interpret the GID on the Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive and search for a specific PID, Service ID and Channel ID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID, Service ID and Channel ID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC via the UHF Aerial 112 to the Games Console 109 and stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory, Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a Games Server 12 which would be held remotely on a database. Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC which would enable a game to saved on the Games Server 12.
  • a resident application on the Games Console 109 would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12. This may be achieved in a number of ways. Firstly a request may formed by the subscribers Games Console 109 and transmitted upstream via the RDC to Games Server 12 which is operable to retrieve the saved games from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the saved files via the FDC to the subscribers Games Console 109. Once received by the Games Console 109 a game may be loaded.
  • GID Game identifier
  • Subscriber ID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, MPEG TS identifier, Packet identifier (PID), publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID Packet identifier
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the GID also contains a unique number at the end of the data string that links to specific section of a game. For example a GID may include a 07 at the end of the address which is identifiable with the level 7 of a game.
  • a resident application on Games Console 109 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request, which is transmitted upstream within a QPSK waveform.
  • the Game Server 12 is operable to interpret the request and using the subscribers ID retrieves the subscribers saved games from a database, which is then transmitted of FDC or DTC to the subscribers Games Console 109.
  • a subscriber may be watching a video preview of a game provided on a DTC by the Games Server 12 or QAM Content Servers 57.
  • HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects containing triggers are transmitted to the subscriber's Games Console 109.
  • the Games Console 109 is operable to interpret the HTML/JavaScript or C++ objects and through utilising Random Access Memory (RAM) is operable to render a graphic image.
  • the graphic image is then displayed in the top right corner of the TV screen 111 prompting the subscriber to access the games by pressing the select button on a game pad.
  • RAM Random Access Memory
  • a signal is then transmitted to the CPU of Games Console 109.
  • the CPU is operable to interpret the subscribers data input.
  • the CPU then launches a resident application which is operable retrieve HTML, JavaScript or C++ data from the DTC which is temporally stored in the Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) of the subscriber's Games Console 109.
  • DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory
  • the CPU is operable to render the user interface (Ul) using the HTML, JavaScript or C++ objects provided by a Games Server 12, Middleware Server 92 or Proxy Server 99.
  • the Ul is typically realised within the RAM of the Games Console 109.
  • video previews of games available may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved through overlaying HTML/C++, Jpeg and GIF graphics provided within the data stream on MPEG video received within the in-band DTC signal.
  • the video may be defined within HTML or C++ parameters of the user interface.
  • the subscriber is then able to navigate the user interface by manipulating the buttons on the games pad, which is may be interpreted by the CPU and which in turn highlights the subscriber's selection.
  • the subscriber is provided the option to select saved games via the games pad.
  • a resident application on Games Console 109 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request in response to the subscriber's inputs on the remote control. If the subscribers selects saved games a request formed by the Games Console 109 which is transmitted upstream by the DSL Modem/Receiver within a 1 MHz QPSK waveform, Reverse Data Channel (RDC), to the Hub.
  • QPSK Modems 104 within the Hub are operable to retransmit the data stream to a ATM switch 98 situated on the Transport Network.
  • the ATM switch 98 is operable to route the data stream to second ATM switch 96 that is connected to the Games Server 12 situated at the Head-End via an Ethernet 10/100base-t connection.
  • the Games Server 12 is operable to retrieve the saved games using the Subscribers ID from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the Game identifier files which are encoded within a MPEG-2 transport stream by an MPEG Encoder 86 as private MPEG section only accessible by authenticated subscriber.
  • the digitised signal is then combined with other data, video and audio streams output by the Games Servers 12 and multiplexed by Multiplexer 30 into a single signal using Time Divisional Multiplexing and Frequency Divisional Multiplexing techniques.
  • the signal containing the subscribers saved game data is then modulated within 256 QAM waveform by a QAM modulator 68. This provides a data throughput of 38.8 Mb/s with 188/204 Reed Salmon Forward Error Correction.
  • the UHF Antenna Transmitter 98 is operable to transmit the QAM signal to a UHF Amplifier Mast 102.
  • the Amplifier Mast 102 then amplifies the signal that is then transmitted to all subscribers with UHF Aerials within the Amplifier Mast 102 transmission range.
  • the signal is then received by the UHF Aerial 112 that is then feed via a downlead to a Terrestrial Modem/receiver within the Games Console 109 that then demultiplexes and demodulates the incoming signal that is then feed to an MPEG decoder/processor in the Games Console 109.
  • the MPEG decoder/processor in the Games Console 109 then decodes the MPEG stream and data is decoded into its original form.
  • the CPU then buffers the data into the dynamic random access memory (DRAM).
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • HTML/JavaScript data that is provided with the MPEG-2 private transport stream the Games Console 109 is operable to render a second user interface using the RAM. The subscriber is then presented with list of saved games within the second user interface.
  • Each saved game listed within the user interface has a unique PID, Channel ID and Service ID stored temporally within the Games Console 109 memory.
  • the CPU is operable to identify and instruct the Terrestrial Modem/receiver to the correct MPEG transport stream containing the exact data relating to the subscriber selection of a saved game.
  • the game data is then retrieved by Terrestrial Modem/receiver from the terrestrial DTC and buffered into the dynamic random access memory of the Games Console 109.
  • the Games Console 109 is operable to render the game which is then output from the Games Console 109 via a Audio and Video (AV) lead as an analogue signal and displayed on the TV Screen 111.
  • AV Audio and Video
  • the subscribers saved game data may of course be transmitted via a forward data channel (FDC) over the Terrestrial TV operators network to the subscribers Games Console 109. This would be achieved through modulating the signal within a 1 Mhz QPSK waveform.
  • FDC forward data channel
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the Games Console 109 memory card or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the memory card or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game.
  • a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the select button on their games controller pad.
  • the game data is then retrieved from the data stream provided within the DTC and buffered in to the Games Console 109 dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and realised within the RAM.
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or C++ or HTML/JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen that is connected to the Games Console 109 via a AV lead.
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request, which is interpreted by the Games Consoles 109 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the Games Console 109 memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on memory resources and the Games Consoles 109 RAM the CPU loads the game and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a game that a Games Server 12 has provided to a subscribers Personal Computer (PC) 117 over a DTC via a Terrestrial transmission or FDC via dial up connection 116 may be saved.
  • PC Personal Computer
  • This may provided in number of ways. Firstly through a resident application on the PC 117 this would enable a subscriber to save and load saved games stored on hard disc or an Optical Disc Drive. In this way a subscriber may select and load a game from the point the game was saved. Through utilising a Hard disc or a Optical Disc Drive a subscriber would be able to save a significant number of games. This is advantageous.
  • GID Game identifier
  • the GID contains attributes of the game including, PID, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the GID also contains a unique value that links to specific section of a game. For example a GID may include the number 7 which is identifiable with level 7 of a game.
  • a resident application on PC 117 is operable to interpret the PID on the Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive and search for a specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the DTC via the UHF Aerial 118 to the PC 117 and stored in the flash memory, Hard disc or Optical Disc Drive. The game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • means may be provided whereby a subscriber may save a game played on a PC 117 on a Games Server 12 which would be held remotely on a database.
  • Means may provided through a graphical user interface within a Game or provided over a DTC or FDC which would enable a game to saved on the Games Server 12.
  • a resident application on the PC 117 would enable a subscriber to select and load a game from the point the game was saved on the Games Server 12. This may be achieved in a number of ways. Firstly a request may formed by the subscribers PC 117 and transmitted upstream via the RDC to Games Server 12 which is operable to retrieve the saved games from a database situated in Head-End and transmit the saved files via the FDC to the subscribers PC 117. Once received by the PC 117 a game may be loaded.
  • PID Program ID
  • Subscriber ID Subscriber ID
  • the PID contains attributes of the game including, title, time of transmission, channel frequency, channel number, publisher, developer, format and size.
  • Each PID is unique to a game and may be addressable from MPEG-2 transport streams carried within the BFS.
  • the PID also contains a unique number at the end of the data string that links to specific section of a game. For example a PID may include a 07 at the end of the address which is identifiable with the level of a game.
  • a resident application stored on the PC 117 is operable to retrieve the PID from the Games Server 12 by constructing a request which is transmitted upstream within a QPSK waveform.
  • the Game server 12 is operable to interpret the request and using the subscribers ID retrieves the subscribers saved games from a database which is then transmitted of FDC or DTC to the subscribers PC 117.
  • the resident application interprets the PID and searches for the specific PID relating to the saved game. Once the correct PID is established data is then retrieved from the in-band DTC or out- of-band FDC to the PC 117 and buffered in the DRAM memory or stored on hard disc.
  • the game is then realised in RAM and the subscriber is able to continue playing the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a saved game executable file may be stored within the PC 117 hard disc or EEPROM as an instruction which is executable on the launch of a game.
  • Each game is operable to interpret the instruction thereby enabling game to load to a specific level or a point at which the subscriber selected save.
  • a game may also be operable to retrieve saved files within the hard disc or EEPROM that may be provided within a user interface of a Game. For example a subscriber might select a game from the DTC by pressing the select button on their keyboard or games pad. The game data is then retrieved from the data stream and buffered in to the PC's 117 dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and realised within the RAM.
  • DRAM dynamic random access memory
  • an option to load a game option may be provided.
  • the subscriber may select the load game option.
  • the game then constructs a request, which is interpreted by the PC's 117 Central Processor Unit (CPU) which is operable to retrieve game data stored within the PC 117 memory resources.
  • the saved game files are then provided within a second user interface as a list of saved games.
  • the subscriber may select a saved game to load. If the subscriber presses select then using the data stored on memory resources and the PC 117 RAM the CPU loads the game and the subscriber is able to play the game from the point the game was saved. This is advantageous.
  • a Terrestrial subscriber can select multi-player networked games using a STB, Games Console or PC and play against other subscribers.
  • a subscriber might access a GUI from an in-band Terrestrial DTC by pressing the select button on a Games Pad.
  • Data containing HTML and JavaScript objects is then retrieved from the DTC to the Games Consoles 117 memory.
  • the Games Console 117 is operable to render the GUI.
  • a GUI is typically realised within the RAM of a Games Console 117.
  • the subscriber is presented with a list of multi-player networked games including details of number of players, duration of play, game in session, difficulty level, author, publisher and channel.
  • MPEG 1 video previews of live multi-player networked games in session may be provided within the user interface. This is achieved by using data inputs retrieved from participating subscribers Games Console, STB or PC within RDC to render the games graphics on Game Server 12 situated in Head-End as described previously in GB 0203790.1.
  • the subscriber may highlight and select a multi-player networked game to join in. If the subscriber selects a game then a resident application on the Games console 117 switches the Terrestrial modem/receiver to the correct DTC or FDC relating to the games PID. Data is then retrieved from the DTC or FDC via the Terrestrial modem/receiver on to Games Console 109 DRAM. The game is then realised within the RAM.
  • a two-way communication path is then established between the Games Server 12 and Games Console 82 enabling data inputs to be exchange.
  • the two-way communication may be formed by two dial up DSL modems performing a handshake and using QPSK modulation to transmit data upstream to Games Server 12 and downstream to the Games Console 109.
  • Data inputs are then provided to the Games Server 12 within a 1MHz QPSK Waveform initiated by the DVB-T receiver/modem. This provides an Reverse Data Channel (RDC), often referred to as the return path, in which data inputs may be transmitted upstream to a Games Server 12.
  • RDC Reverse Data Channel
  • Games Server 12 Data inputs are then centrally exchanged via the Games Server 12 and each participating subscriber's Games console, PC or STB.
  • the Games console 109 is operable to render the game.
  • a subscriber may select and join in a Multi-player network game from GUI provided over an in-band Terrestrial DTC or out- of-band FDC via a dial up connection. This is advantageous.
  • this method of providing multi-player networked games may be provided to any Terrestrial TV subscriber with a Games Console, STB or PC equipped with a Terrestrial Modem/receiver or DSL modem capable of transmitting and receiving data provided over at out-of-band FDC or in-band DTC. This is advantageous.
  • sound and music output from the Games Server 12 may be provided by as MPEG audio stream to enhance the user interfaces of a game. It will be appreciated that this may be provided within an in-band digital transmission channel (DTC) or out-of-band forward data channel (FDC). In this way music or sounds may provided as a signal which may decoded by a receiver within STB 106 and output from a Television set 110 internal or external speakers.
  • DTC digital transmission channel
  • FDC forward data channel
  • music or sounds may provided as a signal which may decoded by a receiver within STB 106 and output from a Television set 110 internal or external speakers.
  • a subscriber might select a game from a user interface by pressing the select button on the remote control which transmits an Infrared radiation signal to the IR port on STB 106.
  • the STB 106 Central Processor Unit interprets the signal and transmits an instruction to the Terrestrial Modem/receiver that is operable to retrieve data, audio and video from the DTC relating to the Packet Identifier (PID) of the game that was selected.
  • PID Packet Identifier
  • the data is then retrieved from the DTC and buffered into the STB 106 flash memory or DRAM and rendered within the Random Access Memory.
  • an introductory user interface which may comprise or HTML or JavaScript objects is presented to the subscriber on the TV screen 110 that is connected to the STB 106 via a Scart lead.
  • Software on the subscribers STB 79 is operable interpret HTML/JavaScript or C++ instructions provided within the data stream from the DTC via the UHF Aerial 112. This may include an instruction to decode one or more MPEG audio streams whilst the Ul is displayed on the TV screen 111.
  • the CPU is operable to instruct the Terrestrial Modem/receiver to switch over the correct MPEG audio stream required.
  • Receiver switches MPEG audio streams and audio is buffered into the MPEG decoder memory.
  • the MPEG decoder then decodes the MPEG audio into an analogue signal that is then output from the subscriber's Television 111 speakers.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Two-Way Televisions, Distribution Of Moving Picture Or The Like (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système de jeux vidéo pour télévision numérique. Ce système comprend un serveur de jeux (12, fig.4), un codeur MPEG (56) codant les jeux fournis par le serveur de jeux (12) et un réseau de transport connectant les terminaux des utilisateurs au serveur de jeux (12) qui peut être utilisé pour envoyer des jeux vidéo stockés à distance par un canal de transmission numérique intrabande ou un canal de données aller hors bande vers un terminal d'utilisateur. Ledit système peut comprendre un boîtier décodeur (79, fig. 4), une console de jeux (82, fig. 4), un PC (88, fig. 4) qui peut recevoir et fournir un jeu.
PCT/GB2003/003660 2002-08-21 2003-08-21 Ameliorations d'un systeme de jeux tv interactifs WO2004018060A2 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2003259338A AU2003259338A1 (en) 2002-08-21 2003-08-21 Improvements to interactive tv games system

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB0219509.7A GB0219509D0 (en) 2001-12-05 2002-08-21 Improvements to interactive TV games system
GB0219509.7 2002-08-21

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WO2004018060A2 true WO2004018060A2 (fr) 2004-03-04
WO2004018060A3 WO2004018060A3 (fr) 2004-07-29

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AU (1) AU2003259338A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2004018060A2 (fr)

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