Digital Networks North America, Inc.

Zipit Wireless, Inc.

Michael P Dean

Rafael Heredia

Frank U Greer, Iv

Sean S Priddy

Randolph G Young

Control of audio/video equipment is provided by an apparatus constructed like a computer, with audio and video subsystems. The audio subsystem includes a programmable analog mixer and several analog and digital multiplexers to route and mix multiple inputs to multiple outputs. Databases are stored in computer mass storage to record preferences for playback of digital versatile discs, compact discs and audio files stored in the mass storage device, such as MP3 files. The playback preferences may include video output format, language, surround sound mode, etc. for DVDs and surround sound effects for CDs and audio files.

Apparatus, method and database for control of audio/video equipment

A handheld instant messaging terminal manages multiple conversation sessions across multiple instant messaging services. The handheld terminal includes a handheld terminal housing, a data entry device integrated in the terminal housing, the data entry device generates textual characters and graphical symbols in response to actuation of the data entry device, a display mounted in the terminal housing to display textual characters and graphical symbols including the textual characters and graphical symbols generated by the data entry device, an Internet protocol communications module located within the handheld terminal housing to generate instant messaging (IM) data messages in an Internet protocol that include the textual characters and graphical symbols generated by the data entry device, a wireless transceiver mounted within the handheld terminal housing and coupled to the Internet protocol communications module to generate wireless data messages corresponding to the IM data messages that radiate from an antenna coupled to the wireless transceiver, and a control module located within the housing and coupled to the Internet protocol communications module, the control module including at least one processor that executes an application program to implement instant messaging and session protocols for IM data messages communicated during at least one conversation session through the Internet protocol communications module and the wireless transceiver.

Instant messaging terminal adapted for wireless communication access points

An instant messaging terminal manages multiple conversation sessions across multiple instant messaging services. The terminal includes a display for conversation session windows, a data entry device, a communications module for wireless network communication, and a control module for coordinating network access and controlling conversation session management. The data entry device includes programmable keys for emoticons and the control module automates the generation of a key sequence for generation of a graphical symbol that is compatible with the service being used by a message recipient.

Growing community of inventors

Easley, SC, United States of America

Michael P Dean