Oak Industries, Inc.

Glenn P Doles

Pieter Den Toonder

Richard G Merrell

Graham S Stubbs

John A Lund

James J Beran

A converter/decoder for use in subscription television includes means for converting any input TV channel to a predetermined output channel. Decoding means are connected to the converter at its output for decoding the selected output channel. The decoder is enabled in response to data carried on the TV signal which describes the program level of the particular selected channel. The means for enabling the decoder includes a comparison circuit which compares the television signal program level data with authorization data and performs an enabling function when there is correspondence between the two data entries. The authorization data may be received by the converter/decoder simultaneously with the program level data, but at a frequency other than that of the television signal, for example, at a frequency in the FM band.

Television coding system with channel level identification

Security means for cable television operators includes an enabling circuit which is located outside of the subscriber premises and is connected in circuit through the television cable with the power supply of the subscriber's cable television converter located within his premises. There is a sensing circuit between the enabling circuit and the power supply which determines the presence or absence of the enabling circuit and thus controls operation of the converter power supply.

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Wonder Lake, IL, United States of America

Glenn P Doles