Display interface comprising a channel matrix

Abstract

A channel matrix for use with a television receiver includes rows and columns of channel numbers, each corresponding to one channel in a group of channels. The matrix includes a group selector that is activated to display different groups of channels. The channel matrix is used to tune the television receiver, to perform other functions such as channel locking and favorite channel selection or to display channel status such as including minor channels or having certain V-chip ratings. A desired channel may be selected by navigating a cursor across the rows and columns of the matrix until the desired channel is beneath the cursor and then pressing a selection key. A channel status display, associated with the matrix, displays information about the selected channel or about the channel under the cursor before it is selected. Display enhancements include visual cues such as highlighting, underlining, and displaying of icons; audio cues; and the ability to select an entire group of channels. Display enhancements indicating channel status change in real time to reflect status changes in the channels.