Patent ID: 6052750
Filing Date: 2000-04-18
Classification: H04L,H04N,Y10S

Abstract:
A method for providing future upgradability and expandability of devices in a home audio video network, the method comprising the steps of:a) generating a default control software module for a first device coupled to the network by using a second device coupled to the network, wherein the default control software module is configured to provide a predetermined minimum degree of interoperability between the first device and the second device;b) accessing the first device via the default control software module by using the second device, wherein the default control software module enables the first device to respond to a default set of commands from the second device;c) receiving an updated control software module for the first device;d) replacing the default control software module with the updated control software module by unlinking the default control software module and linking the updated control software module so that the first device can be controlled by commands originating from the devices of the home audio video network that are received by the updated control software module; ande) accessing the first device via the updated control software module wherein the updated control software module enables the first device to respond to an updated set of commands from the second device.