Patent ID: 8863205
Filing Date: 2014-10-14
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. A multimedia distribution network comprising a plurality of set-top-boxes (STBs) configured to request a multimedia channel, the network comprising: a content server; a distribution unit, wherein the distribution unit is configured to transmit on-demand a plurality of requested multimedia channels to an individual STB, wherein the plurality of requested multimedia channels are transmitted on-demand concurrently to the individual STB, and wherein the individual STB is configured to detect whether an end-user display apparatus is inactive, and to transmit a message to the network responsive to the detection, wherein transmission of the plurality of requested multimedia channels is terminated when the end-user display apparatus is determined to be inactive; and a use meter, the use meter is configured to measure a bandwidth consumption of each of the plurality of STBs over a predetermined period of time.