Patent ID: 6069621
Filing Date: 2000-05-30
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
A distributed computer system for receiving one of an audio signal, a video signal, and an information signal at a central location and for supplying said one of said audio signal, said video signal, and said information signal to one of a plurality of locations remote from said central location, comprising:a central computation unit provided at said central location, said central computation unit being adapted to receive said one of said audio signal, said video signal, and said information signal, said central computation unit including:a microprocessor,a non-volatile memory,a volatile memory,a modem for connecting to an internet service provider,display means,input means,an audio/video port,a hard disk drive,a floppy drive, anda CD-ROM drive;bi-directional data transfer means; anda plurality of remote modules provided at said plurality of locations, wherein one of said plurality of remote modules is provided in a kitchen environment and is connected to said central computation unit through said bi-directional data transfer means for receiving said one of said audio signal, said video signal, and said information signal, and said one remote module being devoid of hard disk drives, floppy drives and CD-ROM drives and being adapted to utilize said hard disk drive, said floppy drive, and said CD-ROM drive of said central computation unit.