Patent ID: 6459793
Filing Date: 2002-10-01
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
A decoder, for detecting and descrambling scrambled CATV channel signals, for use in conjunction with a cable-ready receiver which receives a multichannel signal; wherein the cable-ready receiver includes a frequency agile tuner which receives said multichannel signal and outputs a selected CATV channel signal, the tuner output coupled to a video display and speaker unit; a receiver output port coupled to said tuner output for outputting the selected CATV signal; and an override input port for receiving a descrambled CATV channel signal from the decoder and for overriding the selected CATV signal output by the tuner to the video display and speaker unit when a descrambled signal is received at the override input port; the decoder comprising:means for receiving a CATV channel signal output by the receiver output port; means for detecting whether said received CATV channel signal is scrambled; descrambling means for descrambling a scrambled CATV channel signal; decoder output port means for outputting a descrambled CATV channel signal; and decoder output control means for controlling the output of said decoder output port means such that a signal is output therefrom only when a descrambled signal is detected, whereby the content of the selected CATV channel signal directly controls the operation of the decoder.