Patent ID: 7970000
Filing Date: 2011-06-28
Classification: H04L,H04N

Abstract:
1. A network device, comprising: a port to allow the device to communicate with a downstream device through an upstream channel and a downstream channel on a cable network, wherein the network device is configured to provide content for a user on the downstream channel; a processor to receive a message on the upstream channel indicating that the downstream device in communication with the network device is assuming a dormant state; and a memory to store data related to the upstream channel while the downstream device is dormant, wherein the data comprises data about service flows and service identifiers associated with the upstream channel and the downstream channel remains active while the downstream device is dormant and the network device continues to provide the content for the user on the downstream channel while the downstream device is dormant; wherein the processor is configured to release resources for the upstream channel in response to the message on the upstream channel indicating that the downstream device in communication with the network device is assuming the dormant state, the released resources comprising the service identifiers associated with the upstream channel.