Patent US6005850A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US6005850A
Expired / Lapsed
US
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Hybrid access system with remote device monitoring scheme
Assignee: BG SERVICES Ltd
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Filing: 1996-08-21
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Granted: 1999-12-21
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Expires: 2016-08-21
Abstract
Abstract An asymmetric network communication system for use in a client-server environment having independent forward and return channels operating at different speeds and/or under different protocols on the same or different communication media to provide efficient utilization of shared resources. A network manager, such as a hybrid access system, effects transmission of packetized data on a forward (downstream) channel from the host server to multiple client devices coupled with a shared downstream media at 10 or more megabits per second while simultaneously providing selectable multiple lower speeds of operation on shared or dedicated return (upstream) channels from the client devices to the host server depending on bandwidth availability, bandwidth demand, service level authorization, etc. for the return channel. Forward and return channels may be located on the same or different communication medium including a CATV network, direct broadcast satellite network, television or radio RF broadcast network, wireless or mobile cellular facilities or the like. The return channel may reside on a PSTN either directly coupled with the host server or connected with the network manager for subsequent transmission to the host server. The network manager handles or controls the forward and return communication to establish interactive full-duplex real-time network sessions between the host and a selected client device. The network manager switches upstream channel assignment based on quality of signals transmitted to the host. The system effects changes in the upstream transmitted power based on sensed conditions.
Inventors
- 👤 Eduardo J. Moura
- 👤 Jan Maksymilian Gronski
- 👤 Robert L. Packer
- 👤 Robert A. Luxenberg
- 👤 Frederick Enns
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-09 03:41
CPC Classifications
H; H04; H04H; H04H20/00; H04H20/65; H04H20/76; H04H20/77; H04H20/81; H04B; H04B7/00; H04B7/14; H04B7/15; H04B7/185; H04B7/18523; H04B7/18578; H04B7/18584; H04H60/00; H04H60/76; H04H60/81; H04H60/82; H04J; H04J3/00; H04J3/16; H04J3/1682; H04J3/1694; H04L; H04L12/00; H04L12/28; H04L12/2801; H04L12/2854; H04L12/2856; H04L12/2869; H04L12/2898; H04L61/00; H04L67/00; H04L67/01; H04L69/00; H04L69/14; H04L69/16; H04L69/161; H04L69/18; H04L9/00; H04L9/40; H04M; H04M11/00; H04M11/06; H04N; H04N21/00; H04N21/20; H04N21/23; H04N21/238; H04N21/2381; H04N21/239; H04N21/2393; H04N21/24; H04N21/2408; H04N21/25; H04N21/266; H04N21/40; H04N21/43; H04N21/437; H04N21/60; H04N21/63; H04N21/643; H04N21/64322; H04N7/00; H04N7/10; H04N7/16; H04N7/173; H04N7/17309; H04N7/17345; H04H20/38; H04H20/78; Y; Y02; Y02D; Y02D30/00; Y02D30/50; Y10; Y10S; Y10S370/00; Y10S370/908; Y10S370/911
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 152
Claim 1
Independent Claim
171 words
In a two-way asymmetric network communication system for transferring information between a host server and a plurality of remote clients and wherein said remote clients include respective remote interfaces for receiving high speed downstream information from said host server over a downstream channel over a shared medium and for transmitting lower speed return information over a lower speed upstream channel, and wherein said network communication system includes a hybrid access system for managing the downstream and upstream channels in interactive network sessions, a method of dynamic channel allocation comprising the steps of: monitoring an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication of a client and determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; based on said determined absence of activity, directing said client to respond on another upstream channel; and allocating said other upstream channel to said client to continue upstream communication based on operability indications received on said other upstream channel.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
171 words
In a two-way asymmetric network communication system for transferring information between a host server and a plurality of remote clients and wherein said remote clients include respective remote interfaces for receiving high speed downstream information from said host server over a downstream channel over a shared medium and for transmitting lower speed return information over a lower speed upstream channel, and wherein said network communication system includes a hybrid access system for managing the downstream and upstream channels in interactive network sessions, a method of dynamic channel allocation comprising the steps of: monitoring an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication of a client and determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; based on said determined absence of activity, directing said client to respond on another upstream channel; and allocating said other upstream channel to said client to continue upstream communication based on operability indications received on said other upstream channel.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
53 words
The method as in claim 1 further comprising the step of: monitoring the other upstream channel for operability indications with respect to the particular client; and wherein said step of allocating further comprises: allocating the other upstream channel with respect to the particular client based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method as in claim 2 further comprising the steps of: determining the responsiveness of the particular client based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
41 words
The method as in claim 2, further comprising the steps of: determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable channel from the available channels; and switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method as in claim 4, wherein said step of selecting a suitable channel is based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of a client and configuration restrictions.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method as in claim 4, further comprising the steps of: sending a message to a client associated with said communication channel, said message requesting said client to switch to said other channel; and receiving a response from said client on the other channel.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
176 words
In a two-way asymmetric network communication system for transferring information between a server and a plurality of remote clients and wherein said remote clients include respective remote interfaces for receiving high speed downstream information from said server over a downstream channel over a shared medium and for transmitting lower speed return information over a lower speed upstream channel, and wherein said network communication system includes a hybrid access system for managing the downstream and upstream channels in interactive network sessions, a device for channel allocation comprising: a detector for monitoring an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication of a client, and determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; and a controller for directing said client to respond on another upstream channel, based on the absence on activity determined by said detector, and for allocating said other upstream channel to said client to continue upstream communication based on operability indications received on said other upstream channel.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
176 words
In a two-way asymmetric network communication system for transferring information between a server and a plurality of remote clients and wherein said remote clients include respective remote interfaces for receiving high speed downstream information from said server over a downstream channel over a shared medium and for transmitting lower speed return information over a lower speed upstream channel, and wherein said network communication system includes a hybrid access system for managing the downstream and upstream channels in interactive network sessions, a device for channel allocation comprising: a detector for monitoring an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication of a client, and determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; and a controller for directing said client to respond on another upstream channel, based on the absence on activity determined by said detector, and for allocating said other upstream channel to said client to continue upstream communication based on operability indications received on said other upstream channel.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
48 words
The device as in claim 7 wherein: said detector monitors the other upstream channel for operability indications with respect to the particular client; and wherein said controller further allocates the other upstream channel with respect to the particular client based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
26 words
The device as in claim 8 further comprising: means for determining the responsiveness of the particular client based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
44 words
The device as in claim 8, further comprising: means for determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; means for selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable channel from the available channels; and means for switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
44 words
The device as in claim 10, wherein said means for selecting a suitable channel operates based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of a client and configuration restrictions.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method as in claim 10, further comprising: means for sending a message to a client associated with said channel, said message requesting said client to switch to said other channel; and means for receiving a response from said client on the other channel.
Claim 15
Independent Claim
190 words
A method of transferring packets with a plurality of remote devices in an asymmetric network communication system that includes a server, and a plurality of remote devices, and wherein said server transmits data to said plurality of remote devices over a downstream channel in accordance with a downstream channel protocol and said plurality of remote devices transmit data to said server over a plurality of upstream channels in accordance with an upstream channel protocol that is independent of said downstream channel protocol, the method comprising the steps of, by a server in communication over a shared medium with one of said plurality of remote devices: monitoring an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication for one of said remote devices, and determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; based on said determined absence of activity, directing said one remote device to respond on another upstream channel; and allocating said other channel to said one of said remote devices to continue communication based on operability indications received on said second channel.
Claim 16
Independent Claim
190 words
A method of transferring packets with a plurality of remote devices in an asymmetric network communication system that includes a server, and a plurality of remote devices, and wherein said server transmits data to said plurality of remote devices over a downstream channel in accordance with a downstream channel protocol and said plurality of remote devices transmit data to said server over a plurality of upstream channels in accordance with an upstream channel protocol that is independent of said downstream channel protocol, the method comprising the steps of, by a server in communication over a shared medium with one of said plurality of remote devices: monitoring an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication for one of said remote devices, and determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; based on said determined absence of activity, directing said one remote device to respond on another upstream channel; and allocating said other channel to said one of said remote devices to continue communication based on operability indications received on said second channel.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
55 words
The method as in claim 13 further comprising the steps of: monitoring the other upstream channel for operability indications with respect to said one remote device; and wherein said step of allocating further comprises: allocating the other upstream channel with respect to said one remote device based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method as in claim 14 further comprising the steps of: determining the responsiveness of said one remote device based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
42 words
The method as in claim 15, further comprising the steps of: determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable channel from the determined available channels; and switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method as in claim 16, wherein said step of selecting a suitable channel is based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of said one remote device associated with said communication channel and configuration restrictions.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
50 words
The method as in claim 16, further comprising the steps of: sending a message to said one remote device associated with said communication channel, said message requesting said one remote device to switch to said other channel; and receiving a response from said one remote device on the other channel.
Claim 22
Independent Claim
237 words
A method of transferring packets with a plurality of remote devices in an asymmetric network communication system that includes a server, and a plurality of remote devices, and wherein said server transmits data to said plurality of remote devices over a downstream channel in accordance with a downstream channel protocol and said plurality of remote devices transmit data to said server over a plurality of upstream channels in accordance with an upstream channel protocol that is independent of said downstream channel protocol, the method comprising the steps of, by a server in communication over a shared medium with one of said plurality of remote devices: monitoring an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication for one of said remote devices, and determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; based on said determined absence of activity, directing said one remote device to respond on another upstream channel; and allocating said other channel to said one of said remote devices to continue communication based on operability indications received on said second channel, wherein each of said downstream channel and said upstream channels lies in a selected one of: a CATV network, over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, direct broadcast satellite transmission, telephone network, hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system.
Claim 23
Independent Claim
237 words
A method of transferring packets with a plurality of remote devices in an asymmetric network communication system that includes a server, and a plurality of remote devices, and wherein said server transmits data to said plurality of remote devices over a downstream channel in accordance with a downstream channel protocol and said plurality of remote devices transmit data to said server over a plurality of upstream channels in accordance with an upstream channel protocol that is independent of said downstream channel protocol, the method comprising the steps of, by a server in communication over a shared medium with one of said plurality of remote devices: monitoring an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication for one of said remote devices, and determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; based on said determined absence of activity, directing said one remote device to respond on another upstream channel; and allocating said other channel to said one of said remote devices to continue communication based on operability indications received on said second channel, wherein each of said downstream channel and said upstream channels lies in a selected one of: a CATV network, over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, direct broadcast satellite transmission, telephone network, hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
55 words
The method as in claim 19 further comprising the steps of: monitoring the other upstream channel for operability indications with respect to said one remote device; and wherein said step of allocating further comprises: allocating the other upstream channel with respect to said one remote device based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method as in claim 20 further comprising the steps of: determining the responsiveness of said one remote device based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
42 words
The method as in claim 21, further comprising the steps of: determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable channel from the determined available channels; and switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method as in claim 22, wherein said step of selecting a suitable channel is based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of said one remote device associated with said communication channel and configuration restrictions.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
50 words
The method as in claim 22, further comprising the steps of: sending a message to said one remote device associated with said communication channel, said message requesting said one remote device to switch to said other channel; and receiving a response from said one remote device on the other channel.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
190 words
In an asymmetric network communication system that includes a host, a plurality of remote devices and a shared medium for conveying data among the host and the plurality of remote devices, the system including a network manager for enabling the host to transmit data to the plurality of remote devices over a downstream channel that lies in the shared medium in accordance with a downstream channel protocol and for enabling the plurality of remote devices to transmit data destined for the host over a plurality of upstream channels in accordance with an upstream channel protocol that is independent of the downstream channel protocol, a method of transferring data with the plurality of remote devices comprising the steps of: monitoring an operability indication with respect to one of the remote devices; determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; based on said determining, allocating said another upstream channel to said one remote device to continue communication on said other channel and directing said one remote device to respond on said other upstream channel.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
190 words
In an asymmetric network communication system that includes a host, a plurality of remote devices and a shared medium for conveying data among the host and the plurality of remote devices, the system including a network manager for enabling the host to transmit data to the plurality of remote devices over a downstream channel that lies in the shared medium in accordance with a downstream channel protocol and for enabling the plurality of remote devices to transmit data destined for the host over a plurality of upstream channels in accordance with an upstream channel protocol that is independent of the downstream channel protocol, a method of transferring data with the plurality of remote devices comprising the steps of: monitoring an operability indication with respect to one of the remote devices; determining an absence of activity when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications; based on said determining, allocating said another upstream channel to said one remote device to continue communication on said other channel and directing said one remote device to respond on said other upstream channel.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
55 words
The method as in claim 25 further comprising the steps of: monitoring the other upstream channel for operability indications with respect to said one remote device; and wherein said step of allocating further comprises: allocating the other upstream channel with respect to said one remote device based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method as in claim 26 further comprising the steps of: determining the responsiveness of said one remote device based on the number of said operability indications received.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
42 words
The method as in claim 27, further comprising the steps of: determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable channel from the determined available channels; and switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method as in claim 28, wherein said step of selecting a suitable channel is based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of said one remote device associated with said communication channel and configuration restrictions.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
50 words
The method as in claim 28, further comprising the steps of: sending a message to said one remote device associated with said communication channel, said message requesting said one remote device to switch to said other channel; and receiving a response from said one remote device on the other channel.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
234 words
An asymmetric communication system for enabling communication between a host and a plurality of remote clients, said system comprising: a plurality of upstream channels, and a downstream channel that operates at a different speed or under a different protocol than said plurality of upstream channels, wherein said downstream channel includes a shared medium; said plurality of remote clients being in communication with the host over said shared medium, wherein said host transmits data to said plurality of remote clients over said downstream channel according to a downstream channel protocol and said plurality of remote clients transmit data to said host over said upstream channels according to an upstream channel protocol; and a system manager for managing said plurality of upstream channels, and said downstream channel in interactive network sessions, being operable for effectuating monitoring of an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication with respect to one of said remote clients, for effectuating direction of said one of said remote clients to respond on another upstream channel with respect to an operability indication in the absence of activity, wherein said absence of activity is determined when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications, and for effectuating allocation of said other channel to said one of said remote clients to continue communication based on operability indications received on said other channel.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
234 words
An asymmetric communication system for enabling communication between a host and a plurality of remote clients, said system comprising: a plurality of upstream channels, and a downstream channel that operates at a different speed or under a different protocol than said plurality of upstream channels, wherein said downstream channel includes a shared medium; said plurality of remote clients being in communication with the host over said shared medium, wherein said host transmits data to said plurality of remote clients over said downstream channel according to a downstream channel protocol and said plurality of remote clients transmit data to said host over said upstream channels according to an upstream channel protocol; and a system manager for managing said plurality of upstream channels, and said downstream channel in interactive network sessions, being operable for effectuating monitoring of an allocated first upstream channel for an operability indication with respect to one of said remote clients, for effectuating direction of said one of said remote clients to respond on another upstream channel with respect to an operability indication in the absence of activity, wherein said absence of activity is determined when a number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications, and for effectuating allocation of said other channel to said one of said remote clients to continue communication based on operability indications received on said other channel.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
46 words
The system as in claim 31, wherein: said registering includes registering a number of monitored operability indications of said other upstream channel within a predetermined time interval; and allocating said other upstream channel based on said number of monitored operability indications of said other upstream channel.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
29 words
The system as in claim 32 further comprising the determining of the responsiveness of the particular client based on the number of said operability indications received from that client.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system as in claim 32, further comprising: means for determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; means for selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable upstream channel from the available channels; and means for switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system as in claim 34 wherein said means for selecting operates based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of: channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of a client associated with said channel and configuration restrictions.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system as in claim 34, further comprising: means for sending a message to a client associated with said upstream channel, said message requesting said client to switch to said other channel; and means for receiving a response from said client on the other channel.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
294 words
An asymmetric communication system for enabling communication between a host and a plurality of remote clients, the system comprising: a plurality of upstream channels, and a downstream channel that operates at a different speed or under a different protocol than the plurality of upstream channels, wherein the downstream channel includes a shared medium, the plurality of remote clients being in communication with the host over the shared medium, wherein the host transmits data to the plurality of remote clients over the downstream channel according to a downstream channel protocol and the plurality of remote clients transmit data to the host over the upstream channels according to an upstream channel protocol; and a system manager for managing the plurality of upstream channels, and the downstream channel in interactive network sessions, being operable for effectuating monitoring of a first upstream channel for an operability indication with respect to one of the remote clients; for effectuating direction of the one of the remote clients to respond on another upstream channel with respect to an operability indication in the absence of activity on the first channel, wherein each of the downstream channel and the upstream channels lies in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, wherein said absence of activity is determined by registering the number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval and, based on the number of indications registered, effectuating direction of said client to respond on said other upstream channel when said number of monitored operability indications within said predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
294 words
An asymmetric communication system for enabling communication between a host and a plurality of remote clients, the system comprising: a plurality of upstream channels, and a downstream channel that operates at a different speed or under a different protocol than the plurality of upstream channels, wherein the downstream channel includes a shared medium, the plurality of remote clients being in communication with the host over the shared medium, wherein the host transmits data to the plurality of remote clients over the downstream channel according to a downstream channel protocol and the plurality of remote clients transmit data to the host over the upstream channels according to an upstream channel protocol; and a system manager for managing the plurality of upstream channels, and the downstream channel in interactive network sessions, being operable for effectuating monitoring of a first upstream channel for an operability indication with respect to one of the remote clients; for effectuating direction of the one of the remote clients to respond on another upstream channel with respect to an operability indication in the absence of activity on the first channel, wherein each of the downstream channel and the upstream channels lies in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, wherein said absence of activity is determined by registering the number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval and, based on the number of indications registered, effectuating direction of said client to respond on said other upstream channel when said number of monitored operability indications within said predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
46 words
The system as in claim 37, wherein: said registering includes registering a number of monitored operability indications of said other upstream channel within a predetermined time interval; and allocating said other upstream channel based on said number of monitored operability indications of said other upstream channel.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
29 words
The system as in claim 38 further comprising the determining of the responsiveness of the particular client based on the number of said operability indications received from that client.
Claim 47
Independent Claim
45 words
The system as in clam 38 further comprising: means for determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; means for selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable upstream channel from the available channels; and means for switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 48
Independent Claim
45 words
The system as in clam 38 further comprising: means for determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; means for selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable upstream channel from the available channels; and means for switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system as in claim 40 wherein said means for selecting operates based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of: channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of a client associated with said channel and configuration restrictions.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system as in claim 40, further comprising: means for sending a message to a client associated with said upstream channel, said message requesting said client to switch to said other channel; and means for receiving a response from said client on the other channel.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
232 words
A packet delivery system comprising: at least one server; a plurality of upstream channels, and a downstream channel, wherein the downstream channel includes a shared medium; a plurality of remote devices in communication with the at least one server over the shared medium, wherein the at least one server transmits packets to the plurality of remote devices over the downstream channel according to a high-speed downstream channel protocol and the plurality of remote devices transmit packets to the at least one server over the upstream channels according to a lower-speed upstream channel protocol; and a network manager for managing the plurality of upstream channels, and the downstream channel in interactive network sessions being operable to effectuate monitoring of a first upstream channel for an operability indication with respect to one of the remote devices; to effectuate direction of the one of the remote devices to respond on another upstream channel with respect to an operability indication in the absence of activity on the first upstream channel, wherein said absence of activity is determined by registering the number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval and, based on the number of indications registered, effectuating direction of said one of said remote devices to respond on said other upstream channel channel when said number of monitored operability indications within said predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
232 words
A packet delivery system comprising: at least one server; a plurality of upstream channels, and a downstream channel, wherein the downstream channel includes a shared medium; a plurality of remote devices in communication with the at least one server over the shared medium, wherein the at least one server transmits packets to the plurality of remote devices over the downstream channel according to a high-speed downstream channel protocol and the plurality of remote devices transmit packets to the at least one server over the upstream channels according to a lower-speed upstream channel protocol; and a network manager for managing the plurality of upstream channels, and the downstream channel in interactive network sessions being operable to effectuate monitoring of a first upstream channel for an operability indication with respect to one of the remote devices; to effectuate direction of the one of the remote devices to respond on another upstream channel with respect to an operability indication in the absence of activity on the first upstream channel, wherein said absence of activity is determined by registering the number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval and, based on the number of indications registered, effectuating direction of said one of said remote devices to respond on said other upstream channel channel when said number of monitored operability indications within said predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
46 words
The system as in claim 43, wherein: said registering includes registering a number of monitored operability indications of said other upstream channel within a predetermined time interval; and allocating said other upstream channel based on said number of monitored operability indications of said other upstream channel.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
36 words
The system as in claim 44 further comprising the determining of the responsiveness of said one of said remote devices based on the number of said operability indications received from said one of said remote devices.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system as in claim 44 further comprising: means for determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; means for selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable upstream channel from the available channels; and means for switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
49 words
The system as in claim 46 wherein said means for selecting operates based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of: channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of said one of said remote devices associated with said channel and configuration restrictions.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
57 words
The system as in claim 46, further comprising: means for sending a message to said one of said remote devices associated with said upstream channel, said message requesting said one of said remote devices to switch to said other channel; and means for receiving a response from said one of said remote devices on the other channel.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
269 words
A packet delivery system comprising: at least one server; a plurality of upstream channels, and a downstream channel, wherein the downstream channel includes a shared medium; a plurality of remote devices in communication with the at least one server over the shared medium, wherein the at least one server transmits packets to the plurality of remote devices over the downstream channel according to a high-speed downstream channel protocol and the plurality of remote devices transmit packets to the at least one server over the upstream channels according to a lower-speed upstream channel protocol; and a network manager for managing the plurality of upstream channels, and the downstream channel in interactive network sessions being operable to effectuate monitoring of a first upstream channel for an operability indication with respect to one of the remote devices; to effectuate direction of the one of the remote devices to respond on another upstream channel with respect to an operability indication in the absence of activity on the first upstream channel, wherein the shared medium comprises one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, wherein said absence of activity is determined by registering the number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval and, based on the number of indications registered, effectuating direction of said client to respond on said other upstream channel when said number of monitored operability indications within said predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
269 words
A packet delivery system comprising: at least one server; a plurality of upstream channels, and a downstream channel, wherein the downstream channel includes a shared medium; a plurality of remote devices in communication with the at least one server over the shared medium, wherein the at least one server transmits packets to the plurality of remote devices over the downstream channel according to a high-speed downstream channel protocol and the plurality of remote devices transmit packets to the at least one server over the upstream channels according to a lower-speed upstream channel protocol; and a network manager for managing the plurality of upstream channels, and the downstream channel in interactive network sessions being operable to effectuate monitoring of a first upstream channel for an operability indication with respect to one of the remote devices; to effectuate direction of the one of the remote devices to respond on another upstream channel with respect to an operability indication in the absence of activity on the first upstream channel, wherein the shared medium comprises one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, wherein said absence of activity is determined by registering the number of monitored operability indications within a predetermined time interval and, based on the number of indications registered, effectuating direction of said client to respond on said other upstream channel when said number of monitored operability indications within said predetermined time interval is less than a predetermined acceptable number of indications.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
46 words
The system as in claim 49, wherein: said registering includes registering a number of monitored operability indications of said other upstream channel within a predetermined time interval; and allocating said other upstream channel based on said number of monitored operability indications of said other upstream channel.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
36 words
The system as in claim 50 further comprising the determining of the responsiveness of said one of said remote devices based on the number of said operability indications received from said one of said remote devices.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
45 words
The system as in claim 50 further comprising: means for determining the availability of at least one other upstream channel; means for selecting as the other upstream channel a suitable upstream channel from the available channels; and means for switching to the other upstream channel.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
49 words
The system as in claim 52 wherein said means for selecting operates based on suitability factors of the available channels, the factors including at least some of: channel quality, type of service required, operating characteristics of said one of said remote devices associated with said channel and configuration restrictions.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
57 words
The system as in claim 52, further comprising: means for sending a message to said one of said remote devices associated with said upstream channel, said message requesting said one of said remote devices to switch to said other channel; and means for receiving a response from said one of said remote devices on the other channel.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
134 words
In an asymmetric network communication system including a first node, a plurality of second nodes, specially removed from the first node, a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node, and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, a method comprising the step, performed in one of the second nodes, of: sending a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the steps, performed at a location specially removed from the one of the second nodes, of: monitoring the one of the plurality of first channels to generate a result; and conditionally directing the one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel of the plurality of first channels, depending on the result.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
134 words
In an asymmetric network communication system including a first node, a plurality of second nodes, specially removed from the first node, a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node, and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, a method comprising the step, performed in one of the second nodes, of: sending a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the steps, performed at a location specially removed from the one of the second nodes, of: monitoring the one of the plurality of first channels to generate a result; and conditionally directing the one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel of the plurality of first channels, depending on the result.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method of claim 55 wherein the monitoring step includes the step of determining a number of indications occurring within a predetermined interval.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 55 wherein the monitoring step includes the step of determining an absence of activity on the one of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
37 words
The method as in claim 55, wherein the directing step includes: selecting the another channel, depending on at least one of channel quality, type of service required, and operating characteristics of the one of the second nodes.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method as in claim 55, further comprising the step, performed at the location spacially removed from the one of the second nodes, of: receiving the signal on the another channel.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 55 wherein the plurality of first channels are in a telephone network, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the telephone network.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
70 words
The method of claim 55 wherein the second channel is in a cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the cable network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the cable network.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
74 words
The method of claim 55 wherein the second channel is in a wireless broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the wireless broadcast network.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
55 words
The method of claim 55 wherein the second channel is in a satellite broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in a telephone network, each of the plurality of first channels having a respective time slot in the wireless broadcast network, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the telephone network.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
145 words
The method of claim 55 wherein the second channel is in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, and the plurality of first channels are in a selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
112 words
An asymmetric network communication system comprising: a first node; a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node; a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node; and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, wherein each second node includes circuitry that sends a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the system further includes, a monitor, spacially removed from the second nodes, that monitors the plurality of first channels, to conditionally direct one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
112 words
An asymmetric network communication system comprising: a first node; a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node; a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node; and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, wherein each second node includes circuitry that sends a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the system further includes, a monitor, spacially removed from the second nodes, that monitors the plurality of first channels, to conditionally direct one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 65 wherein the monitor includes means for determining a number of indications occurring within a predetermined interval.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 65 wherein the monitor includes means for determining an absence of activity on one of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
38 words
The system as in claim 65, wherein the monitor includes: means for selecting the another channel, depending on at least one of channel quality, type of service required, and operating characteristics of the one of the second nodes.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system as in claim 62, wherein the monitor includes means for receiving the signal on the another channel.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 65 further including: a telephone network, wherein the plurality of first channels are in the telephone network.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
63 words
The system of claim 65 further including: a cable network, wherein the second channel is in the cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the cable network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 65 further including: a wireless broadcast network, wherein the second channel is in the wireless broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
53 words
The system of claim 65 further including: a satellite broadcast network; and a telephone network, wherein the second channel is in the satellite broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the telephone network, each of the plurality of first channels having a respective time slot in the wireless broadcast network.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
97 words
The system of claim 65 wherein the second channel is in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, and the plurality of first channels are in a selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
124 words
In an asymmetric network communication system including a first node, a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node, a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node, and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, a method comprising the step, performed in one of the second nodes, of: sending a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, the step, performed at a network layer or lower, of: monitoring the one of the plurality of first channels to generate a result; and the step of: conditionally directing the one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel, depending on the result.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
124 words
In an asymmetric network communication system including a first node, a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node, a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node, and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, a method comprising the step, performed in one of the second nodes, of: sending a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, the step, performed at a network layer or lower, of: monitoring the one of the plurality of first channels to generate a result; and the step of: conditionally directing the one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel, depending on the result.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method of claim 75 wherein the monitoring step includes the step of determining a number of indications occurring within a predetermined interval.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 75 wherein the monitoring step includes the step of determining an absence of activity on the one of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
37 words
The method as in claim 75, wherein the directing step includes: selecting the another channel, depending on at least one of channel quality, type of service required, and operating characteristics of the one of the second nodes.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method as in claim 75, further comprising the step, performed at the location spacially removed from the one of the second nodes, of: receiving the signal on the another channel.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 75 wherein the plurality of first chanels are in a telephone network, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the telephone network.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
70 words
The method of claim 75 wherein the second channel is in a cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the cable network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the cable network.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
74 words
The method of claim 75 wherein the second channel is in a wireless broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the wireless broadcast network.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
55 words
The method of claim 75 wherein the second channel is in a satellite broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in a telephone network, each of the plurality of first channels having a respective time slot in the wireless broadcast network, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the telephone network.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
145 words
The method of claim 75 wherein the second channel is in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, and the plurality of first channels are in a selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
107 words
An asymmetric network communication system comprising: a first node; a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node; a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node; and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, wherein each second node includes circuitry that sends a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the system further includes, a monitor operating at a network layer or lower to monitor the plurality of first channels, to conditionally direct one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
107 words
An asymmetric network communication system comprising: a first node; a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node; a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node; and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, wherein each second node includes circuitry that sends a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the system further includes, a monitor operating at a network layer or lower to monitor the plurality of first channels, to conditionally direct one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 85 wherein the monitor includes means for determining a number of indications occurring within a predetermined interval.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 85 wherein the monitor includes means for determining an absence of activity on one of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
38 words
The system as in claim 85, wherein the monitor includes: means for selecting the another channel, depending on at least one of channel quality, type of service required, and operating characteristics of the one of the second nodes.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system as in claim 85, wherein the monitor includes means for receiving the signal on the another channel.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 85 further including: a telephone network, wherein the plurality of first channels are in the telephone network.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
63 words
The system of claim 85 further including: a cable network, wherein the second channel is in the cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the cable network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
46 words
The system of claim 85 further including: a cable network, wherein the second channel is in the cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having a respective time slot within the cable network.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 85 further including: a wireless broadcast network, wherein the second channel is in the wireless broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
97 words
The system of claim 85 wherein the second channel is in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, and the plurality of first channels are in a selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
123 words
In an asymmetric network communication system including a first node, a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node, a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node, a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, and a third node, a method comprising the step, performed in one of the second nodes, of: sending a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the steps, performed in the third node, of: monitoring the one of the plurality of first channels to generate a result; and conditionally directing the one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel, depending on the result.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
123 words
In an asymmetric network communication system including a first node, a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node, a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node, a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, and a third node, a method comprising the step, performed in one of the second nodes, of: sending a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the steps, performed in the third node, of: monitoring the one of the plurality of first channels to generate a result; and conditionally directing the one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel, depending on the result.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method of claim 95 wherein the monitoring step includes the step of determining a number of indications occurring within a predetermined interval.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 95 wherein the monitoring step includes the step of determining an absence of activity on the one of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
37 words
The method as in claim 95, wherein the directing step includes: selecting the another channel, depending on at least one of channel quality, type of service required, and operating characteristics of the one of the second nodes.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method as in claim 95, further comprising the step, performed at the location spacially removed from the one of the second nodes, of: receiving the signal on the another channel.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 95 wherein the plurality of first channels are in a telephone network, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the telephone network.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
70 words
The method of claim 95 wherein the second channel is in a cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the cable network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the cable network.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
53 words
The method of claim 95 wherein the second channel is in a cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having a respective time slot within the cable network, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the cable network.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
74 words
The method of claim 95 wherein the second channel is in a wireless broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the wireless broadcast network.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
145 words
The method of claim 95 wherein the second channel is in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and a cellular broadcast system, and the plurality of first channels are in a selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system, and the sending step includes: sending the signal over the selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
101 words
An asymmetric network communication system comprising: a first node; a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node; a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node; and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, wherein each second node includes circuitry that sends a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the system further includes, a third node that monitors the plurality of first channels, to conditionally direct one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
101 words
An asymmetric network communication system comprising: a first node; a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node; a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node; and a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, wherein each second node includes circuitry that sends a signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the system further includes, a third node that monitors the plurality of first channels, to conditionally direct one of the second nodes to send the signal on another channel.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 105 wherein the monitor includes means for determining a number of indications occurring within a predetermined interval.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 105 wherein the monitor includes means for determining an absence of activity on one of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
38 words
The system as in claim 105, wherein the monitor includes: means for selecting the another channel, depending on at least one of channel quality, type of service required, and operating characteristics of the one of the second nodes.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system as in claim 105, wherein the monitor includes means for receiving the signal on the another channel.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
38 words
The system of claim 105 further including: a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes; and a telephone network, wherein the plurality of first channels are in the telephone network.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
63 words
The system of claim 105 further including: a cable network, wherein the second channel is in the cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the cable network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
46 words
The system of claim 105 further including: a cable network, wherein the second channel is in the cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having a respective time slot within the cable network.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 105 further including: a wireless broadcast network, wherein the second channel is in the wireless broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
97 words
The system of claim 105 wherein the second channel is in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system, and the plurality of first channels are in a selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
164 words
In an asymmetric network communication system including a first node, a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node, a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node, a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, an upstream receiver that receives packets from the first channels, a downstream transmitter that sends packets to the second channel, and a manager, a method comprising the steps, performed in the manager, of: sending a first signal to the downstream transmitter; and sending a second signal to the upstream receiver, and the step, performed in one of the second nodes, of: sending a third signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the steps of: monitoring the one of the plurality of first channels to generate a result; and conditionally directing the one of the second nodes to send the third signal on another channel, depending on the result.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
164 words
In an asymmetric network communication system including a first node, a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node, a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node, a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes, an upstream receiver that receives packets from the first channels, a downstream transmitter that sends packets to the second channel, and a manager, a method comprising the steps, performed in the manager, of: sending a first signal to the downstream transmitter; and sending a second signal to the upstream receiver, and the step, performed in one of the second nodes, of: sending a third signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the steps of: monitoring the one of the plurality of first channels to generate a result; and conditionally directing the one of the second nodes to send the third signal on another channel, depending on the result.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
23 words
The method of claim 115 wherein the monitoring step includes the step of determining a number of indications occurring within a predetermined interval.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 115 wherein the monitoring step includes the step of determining an absence of activity on the one of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
37 words
The method as in claim 115, wherein the directing step includes: selecting the another channel, depending on at least one of channel quality, type of service required, and operating characteristics of the one of the second nodes.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
31 words
The method as in claim 115, further comprising the step, performed at the location spacially removed from the one of the second nodes, of: receiving the signal on the another channel.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 115 wherein the plurality of first channels are in a telephone network, and the sending step includes: sending the third signal over the telephone network.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
71 words
The method of claim 115 wherein the second channel is in a cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the cable network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel, and the sending step includes: sending the third signal over the cable network.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
54 words
The method of claim 115 wherein the second channel is in a cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having a respective time slot within the cable network, and the sending step includes: sending the third signal over the cable network.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
75 words
The method of claim 115 wherein the second channel is in a wireless broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel, and the sending step includes: sending the third signal over the wireless broadcast network.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
146 words
The method of claim 115 wherein the second channel is in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system, and the plurality of first channels are in a selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system, and the sending step includes: sending the third signal over the selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
141 words
An asymmetric network communication system comprising: a first node; a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node; a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node; a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes; an upstream receiver that receives packets from the first channels; a downstream transmitter that sends packets to the second channel; a manager that sends a first signal to the downstream transmitter, and a second signal to the upstream receiver, and wherein each second node includes circuitry that sends a third signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the system further includes, a monitor that monitors the plurality of first channels, to conditionally direct one of the second nodes to send the third signal on another channel.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
141 words
An asymmetric network communication system comprising: a first node; a plurality of second nodes, spacially removed from the first node; a plurality of first channels for sending packets from the second nodes to the first node; a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes; an upstream receiver that receives packets from the first channels; a downstream transmitter that sends packets to the second channel; a manager that sends a first signal to the downstream transmitter, and a second signal to the upstream receiver, and wherein each second node includes circuitry that sends a third signal on one of the plurality of first channels, and the system further includes, a monitor that monitors the plurality of first channels, to conditionally direct one of the second nodes to send the third signal on another channel.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
21 words
The system of claim 125 wherein the monitor includes means for determining a number of indications occurring within a predetermined interval.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
24 words
The system of claim 125 wherein the monitor includes means for determining an absence of activity on one of the plurality of first channels.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
38 words
The system as in claim 125, wherein the monitor includes: means for selecting the another channel, depending on at least one of channel quality, type of service required, and operating characteristics of the one of the second nodes.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
19 words
The system as in claim 125, wherein the monitor includes means for receiving the signal on the another channel.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
38 words
The system of claim 125 further including: a second channel for sending packets from the first node to the plurality of second nodes; and a telephone network, wherein the plurality of first channels are in the telephone network.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
63 words
The system of claim 125 further including: a cable network, wherein the second channel is in the cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the cable network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
46 words
The system of claim 125 further including: a cable network, wherein the second channel is in the cable network, and the plurality of first channels are in the cable network, each of the plurality of first channels having a respective time slot within the cable network.
Claim 151
Dependent Claim
67 words
The system of claim 125 further including: a wireless broadcast network, wherein the second channel is in the wireless broadcast network, and the plurality of first channels are in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality of first channels having respective frequencies in the wireless broadcast network, each of the plurality having first channels operating at a lower speed than a speed of the second channel.
Claim 152
Dependent Claim
97 words
The system of claim 125 wherein the second channel is in a selected one of: a CATV network, an over-the-air wireless broadcast, an RF broadcast, an electromagnetic transmission, a coaxial cable network, a direct broadcast satellite transmission, a telephone network, a hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system, and the plurality of first channels are in a selected one of: the CATV network, the over-the-air wireless broadcast, the RF broadcast, the electromagnetic transmission, the coaxial cable network, the direct broadcast satellite transmission, the telephone network, the hybrid fiber coaxial network and the cellular broadcast system.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2002-12-20 | 2003-06-21 | 2003-12-21 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2006-12-20 | 2007-06-21 | 2007-12-21 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2010-12-20 | 2011-06-21 | 2011-12-21 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |