U.S. patent application number 12/577007 was filed with the patent office on 2010-11-25 for dual function device.
Invention is credited to Stephen Christopher Austin, John Louis Warpakowski Furlan, Michael Denis O'Connor, Michael Andrew Posadas, Terence Wilson.
Application Number | 20100299712 12/577007 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43124359 |
Filed Date | 2010-11-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100299712 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Austin; Stephen Christopher ;
et al. |
November 25, 2010 |
Dual Function Device
Abstract
A communication system for accessing media items via a display
device. A receiver is coupled to the display device and a
transmitter is coupled to a computer system. Media items stored
locally on the computer system and/or remotely on a remote server
may be wirelessly transferred from the transmitter to the receiver
for display on the display device. In addition, the transmitter and
the receiver may be pre-paired prior to delivery to the user,
allowing for the network to be configured without any user input.
Advantageously, embodiments provide a user with the ability to
conveniently view content stored on a computer or a web server
without the user having to perform any wireless network setup
procedures.
Inventors: |
Austin; Stephen Christopher;
(Pacifica, CA) ; O'Connor; Michael Denis; (Cary,
NC) ; Wilson; Terence; (Alameda, CA) ; Furlan;
John Louis Warpakowski; (Belmont, CA) ; Posadas;
Michael Andrew; (Milpitas, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PATTERSON & SHERIDAN, LLP/CISC
3040 POST OAK BLVD., SUITE 1500
HOUSTON
TX
77056-6582
US
|
Family ID: |
43124359 |
Appl. No.: |
12/577007 |
Filed: |
October 9, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61179688 |
May 19, 2009 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
725/81 ;
710/63 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/4122 20130101;
H04N 7/163 20130101; H04N 21/43637 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
725/81 ;
710/63 |
International
Class: |
H04N 7/18 20060101
H04N007/18; H04N 5/00 20060101 H04N005/00 |
Claims
1. A device comprising: a non-volatile memory storing a software
program; a connector adapted to couple the device to a computer
system, wherein the software program is transmitted between the
device and the computer system via the connector when the device is
coupled to the computer system and operating in a mass storage
mode; and switching logic configured to switch the device from the
mass storage mode to another mode, wherein the device can perform
one or more operations when operating in the another mode.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the connector is a USB (Universal
Serial Bus) connector.
3. The device of claim 2, wherein the device is enumerated as a USB
mass storage device upon being coupled to the computer system.
4. The device of claim 2, wherein the signal comprises a USB human
interface device (HID) command.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is enumerated as a
CD-ROM (compact disc read-only memory) drive upon being coupled to
the computer system.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the switching logic is configured
to switch the device from the mass storage mode to another mode
based on a signal received from the computer system via the
connector.
7. The device of claim 6, wherein the signal comprises a CD-ROM
eject command.
8. The device of claim 6, wherein the signal comprises at least one
of a dismount command and a disconnect command.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the switching logic comprises a
physical switch configured to switch the transmitter device from
the mass storage mode to the another mode.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the another mode comprises a
computer peripheral mode.
11. A method for operating a device, the method comprising:
determining that the device is coupled to a computer system;
receiving a software program stored in a non-volatile memory
included in the device; transmitting a command to the device to
switch the device from a mass storage mode to a another mode; and
causing the device to cease operating as a mass storage device and
to begin operating as another device associated with the another
mode.
12. The method of claim 11, further comprising the step of
installing the software program on the computer system, and wherein
the software program comprises at least one of an application, a
driver, a service, and a daemon.
13. The method of claim 11, wherein the device is enumerated as a
USB (Universal Serial Bus) mass storage device upon being coupled
to the computer system.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the command comprises a human
interface device (HID) command.
15. The method of claim 11, wherein the device is enumerated as a
CD-ROM (compact disc read-only memory) drive upon being coupled to
the computer system.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the signal comprises a CD-ROM
eject command.
17. A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that,
when executed by a processor, cause a computer system to operate a
device, by performing the steps of: receiving a software program
stored in a non-volatile memory included in the device in response
to determining that the device is coupled to a computer system;
transmitting a command to the device to switch the device from a
mass storage mode to a another mode; and causing the device to
cease operating as a mass storage device and to begin operating as
another device associated with the another mode.
18. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 17, further
comprising the step of installing the software program on the
computer system, and wherein the software program comprises at
least one of an application, a driver, a service, and a daemon.
19. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 17, wherein the
device is enumerated as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) mass storage
device upon being coupled to the computer system.
20. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 17, wherein the
command comprises a human interface device (HID) command.
21. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 17, wherein the
device is enumerated as a CD-ROM (compact disc read-only memory)
drive upon being coupled to the computer system, and wherein the
signal comprises a CD-ROM eject command.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. provisional patent
application Ser. No. 61/179,688 filed on May 19, 2009, which is
hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Digital video cameras enable a user to capture video
footage, which can be viewed on a computer or television, uploaded
to video sharing websites, or recorded onto a recording medium such
as a DVD. Typically, transferring video footage from a digital
video camera to an external device such as a television or computer
requires the use of a video cable and software to connect the
digital video camera to the external device. Some models of digital
video cameras provide a built-in Universal Serial Bus (USB)
connector to facilitate transfer of video footage from/to the
digital video camera and the external device. In order to view
video footage on a television, a user typically uses a cable (e.g.,
a cable with both video and audio connectors) to connect the
digital video camera to the inputs of the television, and then uses
a user interface on the digital video camera to initiate and
control the playback of the video footage displayed on the
television. Some digital video cameras also utilize a remote
control to supplement or replace the user interface on the digital
video camera during playback to the television. This method of
viewing video footage on a television presents several
difficulties, including either using the batteries in the digital
video camera or providing external power to the digital video
camera during playback, positioning of the digital video camera
close to the television while the user is typically sitting farther
from the television during video playback, and the like.
[0003] If the user has already downloaded the video content
recorded on the digital video camera to a computer, the video
content can be viewed on the computer display. However, many users
prefer to watch video footage on a television, which is typically
located at a distance (e.g., in a separate room) from the computer.
One approach is to use the computer to burn a digital versatile
disc (DVD) including the video content. However, burning a DVD is a
complicated operation for some users and requires use of DVD media.
Additionally, DVDs have limits on the length of videos that can be
stored on the DVD, typically one or two hours of video. Thus, for
video footage of longer durations, multiple DVDs are typically
required. Another approach is to transmit the video footage from
the computer to the television. 802.11-based media extenders have
been developed for this purpose. Using 802.11-based wireless
networks is a challenging endeavor for many users. Setting up the
network is a complicated process that many users find difficult and
frustrating, including issues related to firewalls, port
forwarding, dynamic Domain Name System (DNS), etc. The challenges
of setting up and operating 802.11-based networks is a contributing
factor to the high return rate of wireless networking
equipment.
[0004] Despite the capabilities of currently available systems, the
viewing experience of digital video for many users is less than
desirable. Thus, there is a need in the art for improved methods
and systems for viewing video footage on a display device.
SUMMARY
[0005] One embodiment of the invention provides a method for
operating a transmitter. The method includes determining that the
transmitter is coupled to a computer system; reading network
parameters stored in a non-volatile memory included in the
transmitter device; transmitting a command to the transmitter
device to switch the transmitter device from a mass storage mode to
a wireless communication mode; and causing the transmitter device
to establish a network connection with a receiver device.
[0006] Another embodiment of the invention provides a device that
includes a non-volatile memory storing a software program; a
connector adapted to couple the device to a computer system, where
the software program is transmitted between the device and the
computer system via the connector when the device is coupled to the
computer system and operating in a mass storage mode; and switching
logic configured to switch the device from the mass storage mode to
another mode, where the device can perform one or more operations
when operating in the another mode.
[0007] Many benefits are achieved by way of embodiments of the
present invention over conventional techniques. For example,
embodiments of the present invention provide an enhanced user
experience in comparison with conventional wireless communications
networks. Additionally, embodiments provide a user with the ability
to conveniently view video footage stored on a computer or a web
server on a television without having to perform any wireless
network setup procedures. As an example, embodiments of the present
invention provide a simple and reliable way for viewing videos,
movies, photos, and other media on a home television. Utilizing the
embodiments described herein, consumers can effectively bring their
multimedia content onto their primary viewing device (i.e., the TV)
and enjoy this media in a comfortable setting such as a living
room. These and other embodiments of the invention along with many
of its advantages and features are described in more detail in
conjunction with the text below and attached figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a simplified illustration of elements of a
communications system, according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a simplified illustration of an exemplary use of
the communications system, according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a simplified schematic diagram of a receiver,
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 4 is a simplified schematic diagram of a transmitter,
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of method steps for operating a
communications system, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of method steps for operating a
transmitter in two different modes of operation, according to an
embodiment of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of method steps for updating
firmware on the receiver, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of method steps for operating a
dual function device, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0016] Embodiments of the present invention relate to transmitting
video footage from a source to a display device. Merely by way of
example, embodiments of the invention are applied to a
communications system including a transmitter coupled to a computer
and a receiver coupled to any type of display device, such as a
television, a monitor, or any other type of display device. The
methods and techniques can be applied to video footage stored on a
web server, a local machine, a remote machine, and the like.
[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a
system for transmitting video content from a computer to a display
device is provided. The system includes a receiver operable to
communicate with the display device. The receiver includes a first
wireless transceiver, a video output, and an audio output. The
system also includes a transmitter operable to communicate with the
computer. The transmitter also includes a wireless transceiver. The
receiver and the transmitter are operable to perform two-way
wireless communication with each other.
[0018] According to yet another embodiment of the present
invention, a method of transmitting video content is provided. The
method includes establishing a connection between a receiver and a
display device. The receiver includes a first wireless transceiver,
a video output, and an audio output. The method also includes
establishing a connection between a transmitter and a computer. The
transmitter includes a second wireless transceiver and memory and
the transmitter is operable to operate in a first mode and a second
mode. The method further includes uploading software from the
memory of the transmitter to the computer while operating in the
first mode and transmitting the video content from the transmitter
to the receiver while operating in the second mode.
System Overview
[0019] FIG. 1 is a simplified illustration of elements of a
communications system 100, according to an embodiment of the
present invention. The communications system 100 includes a
receiver 110 operable to communicate with a display device. The
receiver 110, which may be a transceiver, includes the ability to
both transmit and to receive data from a matched transceiver (i.e.,
transmitter 120). Because receiving data for display on the display
device is the primary function of the receiver 110, it is referred
to as a receiver, despite the fact that in some embodiments the
receiver 110 includes the functionality of transmitting data as
well. In one embodiment, the receiver 110 includes a wireless
transceiver 350 as illustrated in FIG. 3. The receiver 110 also
includes one or more video outputs and one or more audio outputs as
described more fully below. As shown in FIG. 1, the receiver
includes a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) output 112
that carries both audio and video signals, as well as RCA outputs
114, including separate output ports for composite video and stereo
audio (left and right). In another embodiment, component video
outputs may be provided as appropriate to the particular
application. Preferably, the RCA audio outputs will be active
concurrently with the HDMI output so that the RCA audio outputs can
be used in parallel with the HDMI output. The receiver includes a
power port 111 to receive power from a power source and to power
the various components of the receiver 110.
[0020] The communications system 100 also includes a transmitter
120. The transmitter 120, which may also be a transceiver, includes
the ability to both transmit and receive data from a matched
transceiver (i.e., receiver 110). Because transmitting data for
subsequent display on the display device is, in some embodiments,
the primary function of the transmitter 120, the transmitter 120 is
referred to as a "transmitter," despite the fact that the
transmitter 120 includes the functionality of receiving data as
well. In a particular embodiment, the transmitter 120 is a dongle
including a connector 122 compliant with the Universal Serial Bus
(USB) standard and operable to be inserted into a USB port of a
computer, for example, a personal computer. As described in greater
detail in FIG. 4, the transmitter 120 includes a wireless
transceiver 450 that is operable to transmit data from the computer
to the receiver 110. For example, the data may include video and
audio data for display on the display device.
[0021] According to embodiments of the present invention, the
receiver 110 and the transmitter 120 are pre-paired during the
manufacturing process. Thus, when a user first sets up the
communications systems, there is no need for the user to pair or
define settings associated with the communication that occurs
between the receiver 110 and the transmitter 120. This embodiment
contrasts with conventional wireless networking equipment, for
which a user typically needs to manually pair the various devices
prior to use. As an example, in a conventional 802.11-based
network, a user needs to set the Service Set Identifier (SSID),
password, and/or other network parameters that enable the various
network elements to communicate. In the embodiments described
herein, such settings are pre-set at the time of manufacturing as
part of the manufacturing process or at other time prior to
delivery to the user. Thus, when the user first installs the
equipment, the parameters necessary for two-way communications
between the receiver 110 and the transmitter 120 are already set.
As a result, the user is provided with a fully functioning
communications system straight "out-of-the-box."
[0022] In some embodiments, the communications system 100 may also
include a remote control 130. The remote control is operable to
communicate with receiver 110 and may be used to control the
playback of video footage on the display device. Like the
transmitter 120, the remote control 130 is also pre-paired with the
receiver 110 prior to delivery to the user. In some embodiments,
the remote control 130 is also able to control operation of the
transmitter 120, although this feature is not required by
embodiments of the present invention. As described in more detail
in FIG. 2, the receiver 110, transmitter 120, and/or the remote
control 130 provide a system used to view video footage stored in
various manners, such as on a computer, stored on a remote site
such as a web server, or the like.
[0023] The remote control 130 includes user input buttons including
play, pause, fast forward, rewind, next track, previous track,
volume up, volume down, mute, and the like. Other functionality as
appropriate to the particular embodiment can be implemented in the
remote control 130 as needed. For example, a "favorites" button may
be provided that allows a user to mark a particular media item as a
favorite. A signal is transmitted from the remote control 130 to
the receiver 110 that indicates that a selected media item should
be marked as a favorite. The receiver 110, then, transmits a signal
to the transmitter 120 indicating that the selected media item
should be marked as a favorite. The transmitter 120, in turn,
conveys this information to the software executing on the computer
220 by sending a signal to the computer 220. The software executing
on the computer 220 updates the metadata associated with a local
copy of the selected media item to indicate that the selected media
item should be marked as a favorite. If the selected media item is
also stored on a remote server and is being accessed remotely, then
metadata associated with the copy of the media item stored on the
remote server is updated as well. As another example, another
button may be provided on the remote control 130 that allows a user
to mark a selected media item to be transmitted to a particular
person or stored on a remote server. One of ordinary skill in the
art would recognize many variations, modifications, and
alternatives.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a simplified illustration of an exemplary use of
the communications system, according to an embodiment of the
present invention. As shown, the receiver 110 is connected to
display device 210, for example, a television or other video
display monitor. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 utilizes an
HDMI cable carrying both audio and video data from the receiver 110
to the display device 210. In one embodiment, in order to view
content received by the receiver 110, the user may select an input
on the display device 210 corresponding to the input connector to
which the HDMI cable or other cable(s) is connected. In another
embodiment, composite video and stereo audio RCA outputs, component
video outputs, analog audio/visual outputs, or the like are
utilized. In one embodiment, the receiver 110 communicates with the
transmitter 120 as a dedicated solution. One of the benefits
provided by embodiments of the present invention is that the
various components of communications system 100 can be configured
to not interact with other, non-system components and devices. In a
typical use case of an embodiment of the invention, there may be
additional wireless devices in the proximity of communication
system 100. However, embodiments of the present invention provide a
"walled garden" approach in which no configuration actions on the
part of the user are needed. Because the receiver 110, the
transmitter 120, and/or the remote control 130 are pre-paired prior
to shipment from the manufacturer and/or delivery to the user, the
user does not need to configure these devices and the user
experience is more streamlined--the user just plugs-in the devices
and they operate as intended. As an example, the receiver 110 is
coupled to a television using an HDMI cable, the transmitter 120 is
inserted into the USB port of a computer containing video files,
and with no wireless setup actions, the user is able to watch the
videos on the television. This contrasts sharply with conventional
wireless networking system setup procedures.
[0025] Target customers for the products described herein include
owners of digital video cameras. As described more fully in
relation to FIG. 4, the transmitter 120 may includes software that
is configured to access video footage stored on a computer or on a
web server accessible through the Internet. In some embodiments,
when the transmitter 120 is plugged into the computer for the first
time, the software may be uploaded to and installed on the computer
(automatically in some embodiments). Using the installed software,
the user is able to access video footage or other media stored on
the computer, transmit the media to the receiver 110, and view
and/or listen to the media on the display device 210. In other
embodiments, a user is able to download the appropriate software
from the Internet.
[0026] The ease of installation and use enables users that are not
particularly technology savvy to enjoy the benefits of more widely
present video footage. As an example, it may be desirable to share
videos on a user's computer with a family member without a digital
video camera or a wireless network, but with a television, a
computer, and an Internet connection. The family member purchases a
system as described herein, couples the receiver 110 to the
television and couples the transmitter 120 to the computer. After
the installation of software resident on the transmitter, typically
only requiring an acceptance of a click-through license agreement
by the family member, the family member is able to receive videos
from the user and then watch them on their television. In other
implementations, a user account may be created or other setup
procedures may be performed. Other content that is downloaded to
the computer can also be viewed on the television, which is
typically a more comfortable viewing environment than the computer,
using the communications system described herein. It should be
noted that various methods for identifying the receiver 110 as a
network element may be used, as described in greater detail
herein.
[0027] Embodiments of the present invention provide for a variety
of sources of media for viewing using communications system 100. As
an example, videos may be stored on the computer or on a web server
accessible through the Internet. Additionally, in some embodiments,
a user is able to define one or more channels and associate other
users with these channels. Video content is then shared using these
channels to the associated users.
[0028] Although the system illustrated in FIG. 2 includes receiver
110, other embodiments replace the receiver 110 with a router that
is operable to communicate with the transmitter 120. The router can
serve other functions than delivering content to the display
device, for example, other wireless communications functions. The
router in this embodiment is operable to interact with not only the
transmitter but the software resident on the computer. In still
further embodiments, the receiver 110 may be replaced by any device
that would typically be plugged into a computer and would typically
require a driver, such as a computer peripheral (e.g., a printer or
a scanner), among others. For example, a transmitter 120 (i.e., a
dongle) may be provided that is configured to communicate with one
or more of other devices.
[0029] Referring once again to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the
display device 210 may show a user interface generated either by
the receiver 110, the transmitter 120, the computer 220, or some
combination thereof. As an example, the user interface displayed
could be a version of software executing on the computer 220
modified for display on a television. Depending on the particular
implementation, the processing load for generating the user
interface and processing of the video signal may be distributed
between the receiver 110 and/or the combination of the transmitter
120 and/or computer 220. Since the computer typically has
significant computing resources available, a specific embodiment
utilizes the computer 220 to perform the vast majority of
processing, merely relying on the receiver 110 to receive and
display the received data. In this specific embodiment, the
computer renders the information to be displayed as the user
interface, the computer renders video footage at 30 frames per
second (or another appropriate frame rate) that is broadcast to the
television, and the like. Since a broadcast-ready video signal is
transmitted to the receiver in this embodiment, the receiver only
needs to pass this video signal through to the display device,
greatly reducing the processing load on the receiver 110.
[0030] In another embodiment, at the other end of the processing
spectrum, much of the processing may be performed in the receiver
110. In this alternative embodiment, the receiver 110 may have
significant computing resources. Video processing, buffering,
storage, and the like may be performed in the receiver. Other
embodiments also fall at other points along the spectrum, dividing
the processing tasks between the computer 220, the transmitter 120,
and the receiver 110.
[0031] As an example use case, a user uses remote control 130 to
control the receiver 110. The user interface is displayed on the
display device 210 and two-way communication is established between
the receiver 110 and the transmitter 120. Requests from the user
may pass from the remote control 130 to the receiver 110, through
the wireless connection to the transmitter 120, and then from the
transmitter 120 to the computer 220. For an application executing
on the computer 220, information related to the available videos
(i.e., metadata) may be transmitted from the transmitter 120 to the
receiver 110 and displayed on the display device 210. Using the
remote control 130, the user may select a video to be played and
the selected video footage may be transmitted from the computer 220
through the transmitter 120 to the receiver 110 and then displayed
on the display device 210.
[0032] In various embodiments, metadata associated with the video
content stored on the computer 220 or on the Internet is available
to the system and can be used to sort, categorize, or otherwise
manage the video content. As an example, if a particular video is
marked as a favorite, given a name, placed in one or more
particular folders, or the like, this information may be available
to the user through the user interface displayed on the display
device 210. The availability of this metadata contrasts with
conventional media extenders in which only video content is
available. Additionally, since embodiments of the present invention
provide custom software solutions, the methods and systems
described herein make available proprietary features such as
user-defined channels that are not available using conventional
techniques.
[0033] In one embodiment, the user interface displayed on the
display device 210 is simple to use and requires little or no
training. Some embodiments provide for customization of the user
interface although this is not required by embodiments of the
present invention. As an example, keyboard shortcuts could be
included, although not used by all users. Additionally, in some
embodiments, changes made by a user interacting with the software
executing on the computer 220 may be reflected in the user
interlace displayed to the user on the display device 210. For
example, one or more media items may be marked as "favorites" or
"new." Media items that are marked as new, in some embodiments,
include those media items that have not yet been viewed.
[0034] In some embodiments, the communications channel between the
transmitter 120 and the receiver 110 is provided in accordance with
commercially available wireless communications standards. For
example, using the IEEE 802.11n wireless standard, bandwidth
suitable for high definition (HD) videos (e.g., 10 megabits per
second) is provided. Other wireless standards providing suitable
bandwidth can also be utilized. One of ordinary skill in the art
would recognize many variations, modifications, and alternatives.
For example, the bandwidth of the connection between the
transmitter 120 and the receiver 110 may be limited to a predefined
level when the content being transmitted over the communication
channel is being transmitted from a remote server, e.g., 1 megabits
per second. The predefined level, in some embodiments, may be
configurable by the user.
[0035] In some implementations, the bandwidth of the communications
channel can be conserved by performing some video processing at the
receiver 110. For example, if video content is stored on the
computer 220 at a resolution of 480p, up-scaling could be performed
on the receiver 110 to provide a 720p signal for display on the
display device 210 (e.g., the television). A benefit of using an
HDMI connector to couple the receiver 110 and the display device
210 is that the television is able to scale video content received
over an HDMI connection to a scale appropriate for the particular
television. For example, if the television can display 1080p video
content and the content provided by the HDMI connection is 720p,
then the television can upscale the content to 1080p for
display.
[0036] Embodiments of the present invention provide for
personalization of content provided in channels the user has
established. For example, if a channel is associated with a hockey
team of a user, the display on the display device 210 could be
personalized with hockey-related themes or the like. The background
of the user interface, generated either at the computer 220 or the
receiver 110, could be hockey-based. More sophisticated
environments and attributes related to hockey could also be
provided, such as news or information feeds. One of ordinary skill
in the art would recognize many variations, modifications, and
alternatives.
[0037] According to embodiments of the present invention, the
connection between the remote control 130 and the receiver 110 is a
radio frequency (RF) connection so that line-of-sight is not
required between the remote control 130 and the receiver 110. This
feature enables the receiver 110 to be placed at a location behind
other components, for example, at the back of an entertainment
center in a user's home. Thus, the receiver 110 does not have to be
a "front row" device, competing for shelf space with other
audio-visual system components. In addition to non line-of-sight
communications, the range for RF connections is typically greater
than that available with infrared connections. The RF nature of the
remote control 130 allows the remote control to also be used in
conjunction with the transmitter 120, which may be coupled to a
computer 220 that is not located in the room with the receiver 110
and display device 210. In an alternative embodiment, the remote
control operates using infrared technology.
[0038] The pre-pairing of the remote control with the receiver also
solves potential problems with cross-talk between adjacent systems.
As an example, if a user is installing communications system 100 in
an apartment complex in which another user has already installed a
similar communications system, it would be undesirable to have one
user's remote control controlling another user's receiver. The
pre-pairing of the remote control and receiver during manufacturing
prevents this undesirable cross-talk, thereby enhancing the user
experience.
[0039] In one embodiment, the receiver is configured to operate in
a "pass-through" mode. In the pass-through mode, the receiver is
installed between another user device (e.g., a set-top box, a DVD
player, or the like) and the display device (e.g., a television).
The signal from the user device passes through the receiver during
normal operation of the user device. However, when the receiver
begins to receive data from the transmitter, a switch in the
receiver switches the video path from the user device to the
transmitter. In another embodiment, when the receiver is powered
on, the receiver could switch the video path. In yet another
embodiment, the switch includes a sensor responsive to incoming
video signals and switches to the active video signal, with
priority being given to video from the transmitter. In these
embodiments, the user does not need to switch the input on the
display device in order to view content received by the receiver.
Referring to FIG. 1, an optional pass-through HDMI input 116 and
optional pass-through RCA inputs 118 are illustrated. In other
embodiments, these optional inputs are not utilized and data is
received at the receiver using only the wireless connection to the
transmitter.
[0040] In addition to switching from one video input to another
video input in the pass-through configuration, overlay technologies
are included within the scope of the present invention. Using these
overlay technologies, a signal from a set-top box or other user
device could be provided to the television, but overlaid with a
signal from the transmitter. Typically, the overlaying of the
signal would be performed using a processor in the receiver and
would not involve processing of the video signal received from the
set-top box, but merely overlaying of an additional signal. As an
example, if a new video is available for viewing, a logo could be
displayed on the television, overlaid on the video signal from the
set-top box, indicating the availability of the new video. One of
ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
modifications, and alternatives.
[0041] According to some embodiments of the present invention,
status indicators 115 are provided on the receiver, through the
user interface, or combinations thereof. As an example, LED status
indicators 115 are illustrated on the receiver in FIG. 1 and may be
used to indicate lack of connection to a paired device (e.g., a
transmitter or remote control), presence of connection, but at a
data rate unsuitable for video signals or certain types of video
signals (e.g., HD signals), or the presence of a suitable
connection, among others. Additional status indicators could be
provided on the transmitter indicating similar or other
characteristics. Moreover, status indicators could be provided
through software on the computer, delivered to the user through the
user interface.
[0042] It should be noted that communications both downstream
(i.e., transmitter to receiver) and upstream (i.e., receiver to
transmitter) are provided by embodiments of the present invention.
In addition to control commands transmitted from the remote control
to the receiver and then to the transmitter, status information is
also transmitted upstream, providing the user with enhanced control
in comparison with conventional systems.
[0043] Utilizing the system illustrated in FIG. 2, users can enjoy
multimedia content after minimal setup requiring little technical
know-how. The system includes one or more of the following features
and benefits: (1) no cables between the TV and the computer; (2) no
need for wireless network setup or configuration by the user; (3)
no complex software installation or online setup; (4) no long
delays, video download, or general "wait time;" and/or (5)
completely secure (e.g., no one else can view personal videos).
Once the system is operational, in some embodiments, the user can
access some or all of the videos, movies, and/or photos stored on
their computer, as well as online content accessible through the
Internet. Using the remote control, users can easily play back
videos on their TV as well as potentially interact with the
computer, opening up many possibilities for future features and
services.
[0044] The system illustrated in FIG. 2 can be characterized by a
number of technical specifications. The following specifications
are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the present
invention but merely to provide an example of system specifications
for a particular embodiment. Specifications for the overall system
are provided in Table 1, specifications for the receiver are
provided in Table 2, specifications for the transmitter are
provided in Table 3, and specifications for the remote control are
provided in Table 4.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Feature Specification Wireless Range Up to
200 ft with clear line of sight with up to 50 ft reduction per wall
(construction material dependent) Wireless Bandwidth 12 Mbits/sec
Wireless Security Proprietary streams; No access to computer
through transmitter Wireless Interference Compliance with FCC and
WiFi requirements Pairing Pre-pairing of receiver, transmitter, and
remote control as a component of the manufacturing process Response
Durations No longer than 3 seconds of latency for starting playback
on the display device; Minimal latency for selection/navigation,
preferably less than 1/10th of a second; Pause and continue playing
- nearly instantaneous; Skip next/previous - up to 3 seconds; Enter
new folder (populate one screen's worth of thumbnails) - nearly
instantaneous; Display a screen's worth of folder names -- nearly
instantaneous; Boot time for receiver - up to 10 seconds; Initial
sync or re-sync between transmitter and receiver - nearly
instantaneous feedback that syncing is underway, syncing complete
within 5 seconds. Localization Country specific Co-existence
Multiple systems can co-exist within range of each other; no
cross-talk between systems Updates Software and firmware update
process similar to Flip camcorder products; Receiver updates are
sent remotely via wireless connection; Remote control and
transmitter are not anticipated to require firmware upgrades Video
Pass-through Overlay of graphics on video passed through receiver;
Notification of newly arrived videos Video Controls Play; Pause;
Fast Forward; Rewind; Skip next/previous Out-of-the-box user
Components can be connected in any order; On-screen experience
guide (PC or TV) to assist with setup and/or troubleshooting;
Signal strength indicator on receiver and/or shown graphically as a
signal meter on the TV and/or PC as part of setup and
troubleshooting
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Feature Specification Inputs Optional HDMI;
Optional RCA Composite Video + Stereo Audio; Power Outputs HDMI;
RCA Composite Video + Stereo Audio; Optional DVI Optional Pass- RCA
Composite Video + Stereo Audio pass-through; through HDMI
pass-through; Pass-through functionality is active when receiver is
not in use Display Resolution NTSC: 720 .times. 480 interlaced, 30
fps; PAL: 720 .times. 576 interlaced, 25 fps; HDMI (US): 1280
.times. 720 progressive, 30 fps; HDMI (EU): 1280 .times. 720
progressive, 25 fps TV Standards NTSC; PAL Status LED(s) OK
(Wireless connection; Acceptable bandwidth); Reduced Bandwidth;
(Wireless connection; Bandwidth lower than specification); No
connection (No wireless connection); Power indicator File Format
Playback 640 .times. 480, 30 fps MPEG-4 AVI; 640 .times. 480, 30
fps Compatibility MPEG-4 AVI; 1280 .times. 720, 30 fps H.264 MP4;
640 .times. 4 80, 30 fps H.264 MP4; 480 .times. 360 H.264 MP4; 480
.times. 270 H.264 MP4; 1280 .times. 720, 30 fps H.264 MP4; 640
.times. 480, 30 fps H.264 MP4 Boot Time Less than 10 seconds
Playback Mode Pause/Play/Previous Clip/Next Clip/Exit; Ability to
mark favorites Screen Saver Plays videos with no audio
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Feature Specification Range Non-line of
sight (RF); Up to 50 ft Battery Life More than 1 year Battery
Indicator Notification to receiver when batteries are low Buttons
Up/Down/Left/Right; Select/Enter Universal Compatibility
Programmable into universal remote controls Find my Remote
Activated through software on computer; Beeps beeper in remote
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Feature Specification Interface USB 2.0
Power USB bus power Co-existence Can co-exist with Flip camcorder
Storage 256 MB capacity; Pre-loaded with software
[0045] FIG. 3 is a simplified schematic diagram of a receiver 110,
according to an embodiment of the present invention. The receiver
110 includes a power connector 310 configured to receive power from
a power supply, such as a 110-volt electric supply. In one
embodiment, a power port 111 on the side of the receiver 110, as
illustrated in FIG. 1, is utilized as the power connector 310. The
receiver 110 also includes processor 330 and transceiver 350, which
is coupled to antenna 352. The transceiver 350 is operable to
provide two-way communications with a matched transceiver in the
transmitter 120. In some embodiments, the receiver 110 provides for
two-way communications. However, since the dominant operation of
the receiver is receiving video content transmitted by the
transmitter 120, the nomenclature of "receiver" is used herein to
describe this component of the communications system.
[0046] The receiver 110 includes one or more audio outputs 370 and
one or more video outputs 372. The audio outputs 370 provide an
audio signal to a display device, such as a television. The video
outputs 372 provide a video signal to the display device. A wide
variety of audio and video outputs are included within the scope of
embodiments of the present invention. For example, the audio and
video outputs can be combined in an HDMI output configured to
connect to an HDMI cable. Since HDMI cables carry both audio and
video signals, only a single cable is needed to couple the receiver
110 to the display device. In other applications, RCA component
video outputs, optical-fiber based outputs, composite video
outputs, S-Video outputs, or the like are utilized. One of ordinary
skill in the art would recognize many variations, modifications,
and alternatives.
[0047] Optional audio inputs 380 and video inputs 382 are
illustrated in FIG. 3. These optional inputs, which correspond to
optional HDMI input 116 and optional RCA inputs 118 illustrated in
FIG. 1, are utilized, in some embodiments, when the receiver 110 is
employed in a "pass-through" configuration. In a pass-through
configuration, audio and video signals from a device, such as a
set-top box, are provided to the audio in 380 and the video in 382,
respectively, of the receiver 110, which then pass these signals to
the audio out 370 and the video out 372, respectively, in a first
mode of operation. Alternatively, when video content from the
transmitter 120 is received by the transceiver 350, the signal
passed to the audio and video out is changed to display the video
content received through the wireless connection on the display
device. In some embodiments, this is a second mode of operation.
Thus, in configurations where the number of inputs to the display
device is limited, only a single input or cable is needed to
display content from either the other device or from the
transmitter 120. The mechanism for transitioning from one input
signal to another may depend on the particular application and
should not be understood to limit embodiments of the present
invention. For example, the receiver may include non-volatile
memory 320 used to store settings and the like. In a particular
embodiment of the present invention, the receiver 110 may be
integrated into the display device, thus further reducing
complexity and the need of providing a cable between the receiver
110 and the display device.
[0048] FIG. 4 is a simplified schematic diagram of a transmitter
120, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The
transmitter 120 includes a USB connector 410 connected to processor
430. Although the USB connector 410 is illustrated in FIG. 4, the
USB connector 410 is not required by embodiments of the present
invention and other suitable communications protocols and standards
can be utilized by other embodiments of the present invention. The
ubiquity of the USB standard and the availability of USB ports,
either on the computer or on a USB extender connected to the
computer, make the use of a USB connection a suitable connector for
embodiments of the present invention. The transmitter 120 also
includes transceiver 450 and antenna 452, providing for two-way
communications with the receiver 110 paired with the transmitter
120. In some embodiments, the transceiver 450 and antenna 452
provide for two-way communications. However, since the dominant
operation of the transmitter 120 is transmitting video content to
the receiver 110, the nomenclature of "transmitter" is used to
describe this component of the communications system.
[0049] In some embodiments, when the transmitter 120 is coupled to
computer 220 for the first time, the transmitter 120 may identify
itself to the computer 220 as a mass storage device, such as a
removable disk drive. In one embodiment, for instance, after the
transmitter 120 is coupled to the computer 220, the transmitter 120
may identify itself as a removable disk drive to an operating
system executing on the computer 220. The operating system can then
treat the internal non-volatile memory 420 of the transmitter 120
like any other removable disk. This behavior is similar to the
behavior discussed in relation to the camcorder described in U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/497,039, filed on Jul. 31, 2006, the
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety for all purposes.
[0050] In one embodiment, a resident software application is stored
in the non-volatile memory 420 of the transmitter 120. When a
connection between the transmitter 120 and the computer 220 is
detected by the computer 220, an operating system executing on the
computer may automatically execute the resident software
application. For example, a Windows.RTM. operating system may be
configured to check the contents of the non-volatile memory of the
transmitter for an "autoplay.inf" file upon detecting a connection
between the transmitter and the computer. The "autoplay.inf" file
then directs the operating system to the resident software
application, which is stored in the non-volatile memory 420 of the
transmitter 120. The operating system of the computer 220 then
executes the resident software application.
[0051] In some embodiments, upon execution, the resident software
application may check the computer 220 to determine whether
required software components are available on the computer 220, and
then install the software components in the computer 220 when the
software components are not available on the computer 220. If
appropriate software is already installed on the computer 220, then
the resident software application may check the installed software
to determine if the software is a current version and then update
the computer, if needed. For example, the resident software
application may determine whether certain compression/decompression
algorithms (codecs) are available on the computer 220. If the
resident software application determines that the codecs are not
available on the computer 220, the resident software application
may then automatically install the codecs on the computer 220
without additional user intervention. In other embodiments, the
resident software application may wait for verification from a user
before installing the software components. The resident software
application may also install other software components such as
software libraries or application files. The resident software, in
one embodiment, may also cause data to be written to memory in the
computer 220 for tracking purposes. For instance, the resident
software may add entries or keys to the registry of a computer 220
running the Windows.RTM. operating system so that upon a subsequent
connection to the same computer 220, the resident software
application can simply check the registry entries or keys to
determine which codecs or software components were previously
installed. In still further embodiments, if the version of the
resident software application stored in the non-volatile memory 420
is older than the version of the software application installed on
the computer, then the resident software application stored in the
non-volatile memory 420 may be over-written to update the software
stored in the non-volatile memory 420 to the most recent
version.
[0052] In one embodiment, the resident software application may
produce a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display associated
with the computer 220. The GUI may present a user with graphical
controls to help the user to perform various tasks. Such tasks may
include playing digital video footage present on the computer 220,
and the like.
[0053] As described above, in some embodiments, during an initial
connection, the transmitter 120 may identify itself to the computer
220 as a mass storage device and a resident software application
present on the transmitter 120 may be used to install software on
the computer 220. After completion of these tasks, the transmitter
120 may modify its own operation to function as a transmitter 120
of video footage. This dual-purpose use of transmitter 120 differs
from conventional systems in which pluggable devices serve only one
of the two roles.
[0054] In one embodiment, the processor 430 and switch 460 are
operable to convert the use of the transmitter 120 from a mass
storage device, as described above, to a wireless transceiver.
Logic stored in the non-volatile memory 420 may be utilized in
making this switch from the first state of operation (e.g., mass
storage device mode) to the second state of operation (e.g.,
wireless transceiver mode). In an embodiment, after installation of
the software on the computer 220, the transmitter 120 may "eject"
itself, ceasing to function as a mass storage device, and may begin
operation as a wireless transceiver in communication with receiver
110.
[0055] It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the
transmitter 120 includes not only the functionality of switching
from a mass storage device to a wireless transceiver, but also the
functionality of switching back to a mass storage device as
appropriate. For example, if after use with a first computer, the
transmitter is moved to another computer, then the transmitter may
repeat the processes described above, acting as a mass storage
device, determining if appropriate software is installed,
installing and/or updating the software if needed, and/or then
switching into the wireless transceiver mode.
[0056] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of method steps for operating a
communications system, according to an embodiment of the present
invention. The method 500 includes establishing a connection
between a receiver and a display device (510). The receiver
includes a first wireless transceiver, a video output, and an audio
output. An exemplary receiver is illustrated as receiver 110 in
FIG. 1 in which the video and audio outputs can be combined as an
HDMI connector or kept separate in the form of component RCA
video/audio outputs. In some embodiments, as described in relation
to FIG. 1, the receiver provides for two-way communications.
However, since the dominant operation of the receiver is receiving
video content from the transmitter 120, the nomenclature of
"receiver" is used to describe this component of the communications
system. An example of a display device is a television.
Establishing the connection between the receiver and the display
device may take the form of connecting the two devices using one or
more cables, for example, an HDMI cable.
[0057] The method 500 also includes establishing a connection
between a transmitter and a computer (512). The transmitter
includes a second wireless transceiver and a memory. An exemplary
transmitter is transmitter 120 with USB connector 122 (i.e., a USB
dongle) illustrated in FIG. 1. The transmitter is operable to
operate in a first mode and a second mode. In some embodiments, as
discussed in relation to FIG. 1, the transmitter provides for
two-way communications. However, since the dominant operation of
the transmitter is transmitting video content to the receiver 110,
the nomenclature of "transmitter" is used to describe this
component of the communications system.
[0058] The transmitter initially operates in a first mode
associated with a mass storage device. Thus, when the transmitter
is connected to the computer, for example, by plugging the USB
connector of the transmitter into a USB port on the computer, the
transmitter appears or is registered as a mass storage device in
the operating system. In some embodiments, software stored on the
memory of the transmitter can be uploaded and installed on the
computer while the transmitter is operating in the first mode
(514). This feature of the transmitter enables for distribution of
desired software for use in conjunction with embodiments of the
invention.
[0059] The method 500 also includes an optional process of
modifying a state of the transmitter (516) from a first state to a
second state. In the second state, the second wireless transceiver
is activated and the mass storage device characteristics of the
transmitter are turned off. This can be considered as dismounting
or ejecting the mass storage device from the computer. Although the
transmitter is not physically disconnected from the computer, the
transmitter ceases to appear as a mass storage device in the
operating system of the computer. This "ejection" operation is
similar to ejecting a mass storage device through operating system
commands, at which point the mass storage device ceases to be
listed as an available disk. In alternative embodiments, the
transmitter continues to be displayed as a mass storage device.
[0060] The method further includes transmitting the video content
from the transmitter to the receiver while operating in the second
mode (518). The second mode of operation continues while the
transmitter is connected to the computer. The video content can be
displayed on the display device (520) as an optional process.
[0061] As illustrated in FIG. 1, a remote control 130 is provided
in some embodiments of the present invention. In these embodiments,
the method 500 can include transmitting one or more control signals
from the remote control to the receiver. In turn, the one or more
control signals, some subset of the control signals, or additional
control signals based on the one or more control signals, can be
transmitted from the receiver to the transmitter. Thus, user
control over software executing on the receiver or executing on the
computer can be provided by use of the remote control. In
alternative embodiments, the software application executing on the
computer may be configured to allow the user to control the
transmitter and/or receiver from the computer. For example, the
user may cause a video to be displayed on the display device
coupled to the receiver, which is in communication with the
transmitter, by selecting the video from the software application
executing on the computer.
[0062] It should be appreciated that the specific steps illustrated
in FIG. 5 provide a particular method of transmitting video content
according to an embodiment of the present invention. Other
sequences of steps may also be performed according to alternative
embodiments. For example, alternative embodiments of the present
invention may perform the steps outlined above in a different
order. Moreover, the individual steps illustrated in FIG. 5 may
include multiple sub-steps that may be performed in various
sequences as appropriate to the individual step. Furthermore, steps
may be added or removed depending on the particular applications.
One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
modifications, and alternatives.
Transmitter and Receiver Implementation
[0063] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of method steps for operating a
transmitter in two different modes of operation, according to an
embodiment of the present invention. Persons skilled in the art
will understand that, even though the method 600 is described in
conjunction with the systems of FIGS. 1-4, any system configured to
perform the steps of the method 600 illustrated in FIG. 6, in any
order, is within the scope of the invention.
[0064] As shown, the method 600 begins at step 602, where an
operating system of a computer determines that the transmitter
(i.e., the dongle) is plugged-in to the computer. For example, the
transmitter may include a USB connector and may be plugged-in to a
USB port on the computer. At step 604, the operating system
enumerates the transmitter as a mass storage device. In one
embodiment, the operating system enumerates the transmitter as a
HID (human interface device).
[0065] At step 606, the resident software application on the
transmitter determines whether the appropriate software components
are installed on the computer. If, at step 606, the resident
software application determines that the appropriate software
components are not installed on the computer, then, at step 608,
the resident software application causes the appropriate software
components to be copied to the computer. At step 610, the software
components are installed on the computer. If, at step 606, the
resident software application determines that the software
components are already installed on the computer, then the method
600 proceeds to step 612.
[0066] At step 612, the resident software application determines
whether the software components already installed on the computer
are older, newer, or the same as the software components stored in
the non-volatile memory of the transmitter. In one embodiment, the
software components are associated with a version number, and
determining whether the software components already installed on
the computer are older, newer, or the same as the software
components stored in the non-volatile memory of the transmitter
includes comparing the version numbers of the software
components.
[0067] If, at step 612, the resident software application
determines that the software components already installed on the
computer are older than the software components stored in the
non-volatile memory of the transmitter, then the method 600
proceeds to step 608, described above. If, at step 612, the
resident software application determines that the software
components already installed on the computer are newer than the
software components stored in the non-volatile memory of the
transmitter, then the method 600 proceeds to step 614. At step 614,
the resident software application causes the software components
from the computer to be copied to the non-volatile memory of the
transmitter. In this manner, the version of the software components
stored in the non-volatile memory of the transmitter is updated to
reflect a newer version of the software components. Thus, if the
transmitter were to be plugged-in to a different computer that does
not include any of the software components, then the updated
software components stored in the non-volatile memory of the
transmitter would be copied to the different computer.
[0068] If, at step 612, the resident software application
determines that the software components already installed on the
computer are the same (e.g., the same version) as the software
components stored in the non-volatile memory of the transmitter,
then the method 600 proceeds to step 616. As step 616, a processor
included in the computer executes the software components.
[0069] At step 618, the software components executing on the
computer read network parameters from the non-volatile memory of
the transmitter. In one embodiment, the transmitter and receiver
are pre-configured to be paired with one another, as described
herein. An SSID (Service Set Identifier) and/or a network password
may be stored in the non-volatile memory of the transmitter.
Reading the network parameters may include reading the SSID and/or
network password from the non-volatile memory. In some embodiments,
the SSID and/or network password may be encrypted, and the software
components executing on the computer are configured to decrypt the
encrypted SSID and/or encrypted network password.
[0070] At step 620, the software components executing on the
computer send a command to the transmitter to switch the
transmitter from mass storage device mode to radio mode. At step
622, the transmitter switches to radio mode in response to
receiving the command from the software components executing on the
computer. In one embodiment, the switch 460, shown in FIG. 4, is
operable to convert the transmitter from mass storage device mode
to radio mode. In one embodiment, the switch 460 is a software
switch, and logic stored in the non-volatile memory is utilized in
making the switch from the first state of operation (e.g., mass
storage device mode) to the second state of operation (e.g.,
wireless transceiver/radio mode). In an alternative embodiment, the
switch 460 is a physical hardware switch. For example, the switch
460 may comprises one or more transistors. In further embodiments,
the switch 460 comprises a latch or a slider located on the outside
of the transmitter that can be toggled by a user to manually switch
the transmitter from a first mode to a second mode.
[0071] At step 624, the transmitter initializes a connection to the
receiver using the network parameters. In one embodiment, the
software components executing on the computer are operable to
configure the network connection between the transmitter and the
receiver based on the SSID and the network password read from the
non-volatile memory at step 618. Once the network connection is
established, the transmitter and receiver are operable to allow
content to be transmitter from the transmitter to the receiver for
playback on a display device coupled to the receiver.
[0072] According to another embodiment of the invention, the
receiver comprises an embedded system that includes a memory and a
processor. The memory stores an operating system that is executed
by the processor. As described above, the receiver may be in
wireless communication with the transmitter. This communication may
be supported by software (e.g., firmware) executing on the
receiver.
[0073] In some embodiments, the transmitter may be capable of
switching back to mass storage device mode from wireless
communications mode. In these embodiments, the software stored on
the mass storage device can be updated when the software executing
on the computer detects that an update is available. For example,
the software executing on the computer may detect that an update is
available while the transmitter is operating in wireless
communications mode. The software executing on the computer may be
configured to transmit a signal to the transmitter to switch the
transmitter back to mass storage mode. Then, the software stored on
the transmitter can be updated. Advantageously, with these
embodiments, the software can be updated without the user having to
unplug the transmitter from the computer and then re-connect the
transmitter to the computer.
Updating Receiver Firmware
[0074] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of method steps for updating
firmware on the receiver, according to an embodiment of the present
invention. Persons skilled in the art will understand that, even
though the method 700 is described in conjunction with the systems
of FIGS. 1-4, any system configured to perform the steps of the
method 700 illustrated in FIG. 7, in any order, is within the scope
of the invention.
[0075] As shown, the method 700 begins at step 702, where an
operating system executing on the receiver sends a request to the
software executing on the computer for a firmware update. In one
embodiment, the request for the firmware update is transmitted from
the transceiver included in the receiver to the transceiver
included in the transmitter. The transceiver included in the
transmitter then transmits, or "relays," the request to the
software executing on the computer.
[0076] At step 704, the software executing on the computer
determines whether a firmware update is available. In one
embodiment, the request includes metadata that corresponds to the
current version of the firmware installed on the receiver.
Determining whether a firmware update is available may include
comparing the metadata included in the request against data stored
on the computer or in a remote location. For example, the software
executing on the computer may access a location stored on a remote
server (e.g., on a webpage or web server) to determine the most
recent version of the firmware and compare the most recent version
to the version included in the request. If, at step 704, the
software executing on the computer determines that a firmware
update is available, then the method 700 proceeds to step 706.
[0077] At step 706, the software executing on the computer returns
a URL (uniform resource locator) associated with the firmware
update to the receiver. At step 708, the receiver requests the
firmware update by accessing the URL. In an alternative embodiment,
the software executing on the computer returns the firmware update
to the receiver, instead of returning the URL, and step 708 is
omitted. At step 710, the receiver receives the firmware update. At
step 712, the receiver installs the firmware update.
[0078] Referring again to step 704, if the software executing on
the computer determines that no firmware update is available, then
the method 700 proceeds to step 714. At step 714, the software
executing on the computer returns a message to the receiver
indicating that no firmware update is available. The method 700
then returns to step 702. In one embodiment, the receiver is
configured to periodically transmit a firmware update request that
inquires about a potential firmware update. For example, the
receiver may transmit a firmware update request once a month.
Dual-Function Device Implementation
[0079] Further embodiments of the invention provide for a
dual-function device. In these embodiments, the receiver 110 is not
necessarily included in the system since there is no longer a
transmitting device.
[0080] In such embodiments, a device is provided that includes a
non-volatile memory and a data connector. Once the device is
coupled to a computer system via the data connector, the device may
be enumerated as a mass storage device, as a CD-ROM device, or as
any other storage device accessible by the computer system. A
software package and/or drivers for operating the device may be
included in the non-volatile memory (e.g., NAND memory) included
within the device. The software package and/or drivers are then
installed on the computer system. Once the software package and/or
drivers are installed, a signal is transmitted from the computer
system to the device to switch the device from a storage device to
"another" device having some other useful functionality. For
example, the device may switch from a storage device to a printer
device, a scanner device, or any other technically feasible device
having some other useful functionality. Thus, in the second
operating mode, the device may provide the actual intended
functionality of the device, whereas, in the first operating mode,
the device itself, configured as a mass storage device, provides a
delivery mechanism for installing the necessary software or drivers
necessary for operating the device in the second operating
mode.
[0081] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of method steps for operating a
dual function device, according to an embodiment of the present
invention. Persons skilled in the art will understand that, even
though the method 800 is described in conjunction with the systems
of FIGS. 1-4, any system configured to perform the steps of the
method 800 illustrated in FIG. 8, in any order, is within the scope
of the invention.
[0082] As shown, the method 800 begins at step 802, where an
operating system of a computer determines that a device is coupled
to the computer. For example, the device may include a USB
connector that may be plugged-in to a USB port on the computer. At
step 804, the operating system enumerates the device as a storage
device. In one embodiment, the operating system enumerates the
device as a USB mass storage device. In alternative embodiments,
operating system enumerates the device as a CD-ROM drive.
[0083] At step 806, a resident software application stored in
non-volatile memory included in the device determines whether the
appropriate software components and/or drivers are installed on the
computer. If, at step 606, the resident software application
determines that the appropriate software components and/or drivers
are not installed on the computer, then the method 800 proceeds to
step 808. At step 808, the resident software application causes the
appropriate software components and/or drivers to be copied to the
computer and installed on the computer. If, at step 806, the
resident software application determines that the software
components are already installed on the computer, then the method
600 proceeds to step 810.
[0084] At step 810, the device receives a command from the software
components and/or drivers that are now executing on the computer to
switch the device from storage device mode to a second mode of
operation. In some embodiments, a software application, a driver, a
service, or a daemon executing on the computer system may detect
that the device in mass storage mode is coupled to the computer
system and may cause the command to be transmitted to the device.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the command is a HID (Human
Interface Device) command to switch the device to the second mode
of operation. In alternative embodiments, where the device is
enumerated as a CD-ROM device, the command may be an eject command
to eject the CD-ROM drive. In still further embodiments, the
command may be a dismount or disconnect command. In yet further
embodiments, the command may be a SCSI (Small Computer System
Interface) mass storage class command. As described herein, the
second mode of operation may include the device acting as a printer
device, a scanner device, or any other device that may require
initial configuration information to function properly.
[0085] At step 812, the device switches to the second mode of
operation in response to receiving the command from the software
components executing on the computer. In one embodiment, the switch
460, shown in FIG. 4, is operable to convert the transmitter from
mass storage device mode to radio mode. In one embodiment, the
switch 460 is a software switch, and logic stored in the
non-volatile memory is utilized in making the switch from the first
state of operation (e.g., mass storage device mode) to the second
state of operation (e.g., printer or scanner mode). In an
alternative embodiment, the switch 460 is a physical hardware
switch.
[0086] In some embodiments, when the device is operating in the
second mode of operation, the device may be operable to communicate
with one or more other devices (e.g., a transmitter device that
communicates with one or more receiver devices).
[0087] One advantage of these embodiments is that manufacturing
costs are reduced since a CD (compact disc) or DVD (digital
versatile disc) that includes the drivers and/or software does not
need to be shipped or sold with the device. Moreover, the user will
always have access to the installation or configuration files for
the device since the installation or configuration files are
included in the device. Thus, the user can never "lose the CD" that
includes the appropriate installation files. Another advantage is
ease of installation, since no user input is required to install
and configure the device. Yet another is a better user experience,
since the "real" device (e.g., operating the device in the second
mode of operation) is hidden from the user and the computer until
all the necessary software and/or drivers for proper operation are
installed on the computer. Still another advantage is that since
the non-volatile memory is not accessible to the user in the second
mode of operation, the user is prevented from performing
destructive actions (either accidentally or intentionally) to
configuration information or settings stored in the non-volatile
memory.
[0088] Various embodiments of the invention may be implemented as a
program product for use with a computer system. The program(s) of
the program product define functions of the embodiments (including
the methods described herein) and can be contained on a variety of
computer-readable storage media. Illustrative computer-readable
storage media include, but are not limited to: (i) non-writable
storage media (e.g., read-only memory devices within a computer
such as CD-ROM disks readable by a CD-ROM drive, flash memory, ROM
chips or any type of solid-state non-volatile semiconductor memory)
on which information is permanently stored; and (ii) writable
storage media (e.g., floppy disks within a diskette drive or
hard-disk drive or any type of solid-state random-access
semiconductor memory) on which alterable information is stored.
[0089] It is also understood that the examples and embodiments
described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that
various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested
to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the
spirit and purview of this application and scope of the appended
claims.
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