CA2366677C - System for providing signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver using a wireless link - Google Patents
System for providing signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver using a wireless link Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2366677C CA2366677C CA002366677A CA2366677A CA2366677C CA 2366677 C CA2366677 C CA 2366677C CA 002366677 A CA002366677 A CA 002366677A CA 2366677 A CA2366677 A CA 2366677A CA 2366677 C CA2366677 C CA 2366677C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- radio
- radio frequency
- receiver
- audio signals
- user
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B1/00—Details of transmission systems, not covered by a single one of groups H04B3/00 - H04B13/00; Details of transmission systems not characterised by the medium used for transmission
- H04B1/38—Transceivers, i.e. devices in which transmitter and receiver form a structural unit and in which at least one part is used for functions of transmitting and receiving
- H04B1/3805—Transceivers, i.e. devices in which transmitter and receiver form a structural unit and in which at least one part is used for functions of transmitting and receiving with built-in auxiliary receivers
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B1/00—Details of transmission systems, not covered by a single one of groups H04B3/00 - H04B13/00; Details of transmission systems not characterised by the medium used for transmission
- H04B1/06—Receivers
- H04B1/16—Circuits
- H04B1/20—Circuits for coupling gramophone pick-up, recorder output, or microphone to receiver
- H04B1/207—Circuits for coupling gramophone pick-up, recorder output, or microphone to receiver with an audio or audio/video bus for signal distribution
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04H—BROADCAST COMMUNICATION
- H04H40/00—Arrangements specially adapted for receiving broadcast information
- H04H40/18—Arrangements characterised by circuits or components specially adapted for receiving
- H04H40/27—Arrangements characterised by circuits or components specially adapted for receiving specially adapted for broadcast systems covered by groups H04H20/53 - H04H20/95
- H04H40/90—Arrangements characterised by circuits or components specially adapted for receiving specially adapted for broadcast systems covered by groups H04H20/53 - H04H20/95 specially adapted for satellite broadcast receiving
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04H—BROADCAST COMMUNICATION
- H04H60/00—Arrangements for broadcast applications with a direct linking to broadcast information or broadcast space-time; Broadcast-related systems
- H04H60/76—Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet
- H04H60/78—Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet characterised by source locations or destination locations
- H04H60/80—Arrangements characterised by transmission systems other than for broadcast, e.g. the Internet characterised by source locations or destination locations characterised by transmission among terminal devices
Abstract
An apparatus and method are provided for transmitting audio signals from an auxiliary source (16) such as a satellite broadcast receiver or a CD or cassette player to a radio receiver (24) located, for example, in a vehicle, using a wireless link (15). The apparatus comprises a scanning device for locating open radio frequencies in the RF spectrum of the radio receiver. The apparatus displays plural RF channel options on a display device (36) and provides a selection device (30, 32 and 34) with which a user selects an RF channel. The apparatus modulates the audio signals using the selected radio frequency, and the user tunes the vehicle radio receiver to the selected RF channel. The scanning device continuously scans for open RF channels and monitors the quality of the RF channel already selected for use as the wireless link. The apparatus provides the user with an indication to select another open channel when the RF channel in use degrades.
Description
Patent Application For SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING SIGNALS FROM AN AUXILIARY AUDIO
SOURCE TO A RADIO RECEIVER USING A WIRELESS LINK
By Stelios Patsiokas Field of the Invention:
The invention relates to a system for providing audio signals from an auxiliary source to a radio receiver, particularly a vehicle radio receiver, using a wireless link.
The invention further relates to a method of providing audio signals to a radio receiver by automatically selecting a number of low noise radio frequencies for wireless signal transmission from the auxiliary source to the radio receiver and providing user controls to select one of the frequencies for transmission.
Background of the Invention:
A number of systems exist which use an existing audio system in a vehicle for playback of audio signals from a compact disc (CD) player, tape cassette player, satellite broadcast receiver, or other auxiliary audio source. These existing systems are designed to play back the signals from the auxiliary audio source using a number of different methods. For example, one system receives satellite broadcast signals and provides them to the optical head of a CD player, or the magnetic head of a tape cassette player, already installed in the vehicle. This system is disadvantageous because it requires the user to install a removable adapter to couple the satellite broadcast signal to the optical or magnetic head of the vehicle audio system.
In other systems, signals from an auxiliary audio source such as a CD or cassette player are coupled to a vehicle radio receiver via a wireless link such as an FM
wireless link. In one system, for example, signals from the auxiliary audio source are frequency translated to the FM frequency band and are then broadcast from a transmitter in the vehicle on several fixed frequencies for reception by the vehicle radio receiver. A user then selects one of these frequencies on the vehicle radio receiver to listen to the transmitted signals. In another system, a user first selects a radio frequency in the FM band that is not being utilized in the local area, and then tunes the existing vehicle radio receiver to the selected frequency. The user then tunes a transmitter in the vehicle to the same frequency. The transmitter receives a signal from a CD player and transmits the signal at the selected frequency.
The two types of wireless FM systems described above are disadvantageous because they do not provide for automatic monitoring of the radio frequencies used for retransmitting signals from the auxiliary audio source via the wireless link to the existing vehicle radio receiver. The radio frequencies selected by the user, or the fixed frequencies used by the transmitter, may be subject to interference and poor signal quality. In addition, the manual selection of a suitable radio transmission frequency is inconvenient to users.
A need therefore exists for an audio coupling system that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks of the existing systems. Specifically, a need exists for a radio frequency or RF-coupled satellite broadcast receiver for vehicles which provides a wireless link to an existing vehicle radio receiver. In addition, a need exists for an RF-coupled satellite broadcast receiver for vehicles which automatically selects optimal radio frequencies for wireless transmission to the vehicle radio receiver.
SOURCE TO A RADIO RECEIVER USING A WIRELESS LINK
By Stelios Patsiokas Field of the Invention:
The invention relates to a system for providing audio signals from an auxiliary source to a radio receiver, particularly a vehicle radio receiver, using a wireless link.
The invention further relates to a method of providing audio signals to a radio receiver by automatically selecting a number of low noise radio frequencies for wireless signal transmission from the auxiliary source to the radio receiver and providing user controls to select one of the frequencies for transmission.
Background of the Invention:
A number of systems exist which use an existing audio system in a vehicle for playback of audio signals from a compact disc (CD) player, tape cassette player, satellite broadcast receiver, or other auxiliary audio source. These existing systems are designed to play back the signals from the auxiliary audio source using a number of different methods. For example, one system receives satellite broadcast signals and provides them to the optical head of a CD player, or the magnetic head of a tape cassette player, already installed in the vehicle. This system is disadvantageous because it requires the user to install a removable adapter to couple the satellite broadcast signal to the optical or magnetic head of the vehicle audio system.
In other systems, signals from an auxiliary audio source such as a CD or cassette player are coupled to a vehicle radio receiver via a wireless link such as an FM
wireless link. In one system, for example, signals from the auxiliary audio source are frequency translated to the FM frequency band and are then broadcast from a transmitter in the vehicle on several fixed frequencies for reception by the vehicle radio receiver. A user then selects one of these frequencies on the vehicle radio receiver to listen to the transmitted signals. In another system, a user first selects a radio frequency in the FM band that is not being utilized in the local area, and then tunes the existing vehicle radio receiver to the selected frequency. The user then tunes a transmitter in the vehicle to the same frequency. The transmitter receives a signal from a CD player and transmits the signal at the selected frequency.
The two types of wireless FM systems described above are disadvantageous because they do not provide for automatic monitoring of the radio frequencies used for retransmitting signals from the auxiliary audio source via the wireless link to the existing vehicle radio receiver. The radio frequencies selected by the user, or the fixed frequencies used by the transmitter, may be subject to interference and poor signal quality. In addition, the manual selection of a suitable radio transmission frequency is inconvenient to users.
A need therefore exists for an audio coupling system that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks of the existing systems. Specifically, a need exists for a radio frequency or RF-coupled satellite broadcast receiver for vehicles which provides a wireless link to an existing vehicle radio receiver. In addition, a need exists for an RF-coupled satellite broadcast receiver for vehicles which automatically selects optimal radio frequencies for wireless transmission to the vehicle radio receiver.
Summary of the Invention In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, an RF-coupled satellite broadcast receiver is provided which scans a radio frequency (RF) band in which a radio receiver, preferably but not necessarily in a vehicle, can be tuned for signal reception. The RF-coupled satellite broadcast receiver selects at least one open RF
channel having the lowest noise floor for retransmission of the received satellite broadcast signal to the radio receiver.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the RF-coupled satellite broadcast receiver selects a plurality of open RF channels having low noise floors and is capable of retransmitting the received satellite broadcast signal on any of these available RF channels. The available RF channel information is provided to the user. The user selects one of these channels and then tunes the vehicle radio receiver to the selected channel to listen to the satellite broadcast program.
Brief Description of Drawings:
The various aspects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will be more readily comprehended from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the appended drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an auxiliary audio system constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention to provide audio signals to an existing radio via a wireless link;
Fig. 2 illustrates the installation of the system depicted in Fig. 1 in a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 3 is a block diagram of an interface circuit constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 is a flowchart depicting a sequence of operations for implementing the system in Fig. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 5 is a block diagram of a satellite broadcast receiver for use with the system depicted in Fig. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
channel having the lowest noise floor for retransmission of the received satellite broadcast signal to the radio receiver.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the RF-coupled satellite broadcast receiver selects a plurality of open RF channels having low noise floors and is capable of retransmitting the received satellite broadcast signal on any of these available RF channels. The available RF channel information is provided to the user. The user selects one of these channels and then tunes the vehicle radio receiver to the selected channel to listen to the satellite broadcast program.
Brief Description of Drawings:
The various aspects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will be more readily comprehended from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the appended drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an auxiliary audio system constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention to provide audio signals to an existing radio via a wireless link;
Fig. 2 illustrates the installation of the system depicted in Fig. 1 in a vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 3 is a block diagram of an interface circuit constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 4 is a flowchart depicting a sequence of operations for implementing the system in Fig. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 5 is a block diagram of a satellite broadcast receiver for use with the system depicted in Fig. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 6. is a block diagram of a level control and de-emphasis circuit for use with the system depicted in Fig. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 7 illustrates a scanning receiver constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 8 illustrates an auxiliary audio signal processing and display device constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Throughout the drawing figures, like reference numerals will be understood to refer to like parts and components.
Detailed Description Of The Preferred Embodiments:
A system 10 for providing satellite broadcast signals 13 or audio signals from another auxiliary audio source to an existing radio receiver 24 (e.g., in a vehicle) using a wireless link 15 in accordance with the present invention is depicted in Fig. 1. The system 10 comprises an antenna 12 such as a satellite S-band antenna (operable at about 2.3 Gigahertz) for receiving satellite broadcast signals. The antenna 12 is connected via a coaxial cable 14, for example, to an auxiliary audio signal processing and display device 16, which is hereinafter referred to as the interface device 16.
Another antenna 18 is connected to the interface device 16 to transmit signals therefrom to a radio receiver 24 comprising a tuner 20 and an antenna 22.
The antenna 12 and its associated circuitry (e.g., a low noise amplifier) can be connected internally or externally with respect to a vehicle. The antenna 12 can be used to receive satellite digital audio radio service (SDARS), a satellite broadcast service recently established by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in a vehicle. As shown in Fig. 2, the antenna 12 can be mounted on the roof 17 or rear window 19 of a vehicle 23, for example. The cable 14 connects the antenna 12 to a remote unit 11 forming a part of the interface unit 16 of Fig. 1. The remote unit 11 can comprise, for example, an SDARS receiver. The remote unit 11 can be placed in the cab 25 of a car or truck, for example. To avoid having to drill a hole in the truck or car 23 to install the cable 14, a device 21 can be mounted on the exterior of the vehicle's rear window 19 using an adhesive material which supports the antenna 12 and associated circuitry. The device 21 can be capacitvely coupled with another device 29 which is connected to the cable 14. The other device 29 can be mounted on the inside of the window 19 opposite the first device 21 using the same adhesive material. The remote unit 11 is connected to a display and control unit 27, also forming a part of the interface device 16 of Figs. 1 and 8, via a wireline 31 or wireless link to the dashboard or other location in view of the driver. The display and control unit 27 can comprise the scanning receiver, the RF modulation and transmission devices and the display and control devices. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the channels of the SDARS receiver can be changed remotely using the display and control unit 27. Alternatively, the interface device 16 can be installed as a single unit on or near the dashboard and therefore accessible to the driver of the vehicle 23. As described below and illustrated in Figs. 1 and 8; the interface device 16 (or, in the two-part installation shown in Fig.
2, the display and control unit 27) comprises a display 36 for indicating one or more RF
channels to which the user can tune the radio receiver 24 to complete the wireless link 15. The display and control unit 27 can also be provided with channel selection buttons 38, which are described below.
As shown in Fig. 1, the system 10 of the present invention comprises a DC
power supply adapter 26 which can be inserted in the cigarette lighter socket provided in the dashboard of most vehicles to provide power to the system 10.
The interface unit 16 can also be configured as a portable device which can be disconnected from the vehicle and operated from an AC outlet (using a suitable AC/DC converter) or from batteries. Thus, the interface device 16 can be used inside a home, for example, or in conjunction with a portable radio.
With continued reference to Fig. 1, the radio receiver 24 is preferably a conventional amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FIVl") radio provided as standard equipment in many vehicles. The antenna 22 is configured to receive AM and/or FM signals. In accordance with the present invention, the radio receiver 24 need not be modified in any way to output the audio programming provided by the satellite broadcast signals or by another auxiliary audio source. The antenna 18 is preferably an FM antenna, and the interface 16 device is operable to convert the satellite broadcast signals received via the antenna 12 to FM-band signals for retransmission from the antenna 18 to the radio receiver 24. Thus, the system 10 of the present invention operates with existing radios. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention can be configured to operate with other types of receivers using wireless links at radio frequencies other than the AM and FM
bands.
The interface device 16 preferably comprises a display 36 for indicating one or more radio frequencies that are selected by the interface device for providing the wireless link 15. In the example illustrated in Figs. 1 and 8, the interface device 16 has determined that the radio frequencies of 88.5 Megahertz (MHz), 98.7 MHz and 103.5 MHz are relatively low noise, open channels which can be used for the wireless link 15. The user can select one of these channels (e.g., 88.5 MHz) for transmission by the interface device 16 by selecting one of the corresponding buttons 30, 32 and provided on the interface device 16. The buttons 30, 32 and 34 can be implemented as touch screen buttons, for example. The user then selects the same frequency (88.5 MHz in the present example) on the vehicle tuner 20 using a tuning dial 42 or one of a number of preset buttons 35 provided on the radio receiver 24 for selecting a radio station. The selected radio channel (e.g., 88.5 MHz) is indicated on the tuner display 46 in a conventional manner. The tuner 20 can also be a chassis with a tuner and a tape cassette player as indicated by the cassette slot 40. A CD player can be provided in lieu of, or in addition to, the cassette player. A volume control dial 44 is provided in a conventional manner.
The interface device 16 will now be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the interface device 16 includes an auxiliary audio source such as an S-band satellite receiver 50. The satellite receiver 50 can also be operated in other RF bands and have, for example, an L-band or UHF front-end for use with direct audio broadcast (DAB) systems in different countries. The auxiliary audio source can also be a CD or cassette player 52 or other device, and can be located external to the interface device 16 via an external source input if desired.
The satellite receiver 50, described below in connection with Fig. 5, preferably downconverts and processes the received satellite broadcast signal to obtain a baseband signal.
Alternatively, the satellite receiver 50 can downconvert the satellite broadcast signal to an intermediate frequency (1F). The output signal from the satellite receiver is processed via a level control and pre-emphasis circuit 54, which is described below in connection with Fig. 6. The level control and pre-emphasis circuit 54 provides a composite stereo signal to an RF modulator 56.
In accordance with the present invention, the RF modulator 56 converts the composite signal to a radio frequency selected using a scanning receiver 58.
The scanning receiver 58 preferably continuously monitors the RF spectrum of the geographic area in which the vehicle is located via an antenna 61 for open RF
channels (i.e., RF channels that have no transmitted broadcast signals). The scanning receiver 58 also determines which of the open frequencies satisfy predetermined criteria for low noise (e.g., comparatively small signal strength). In other words, the scanning receiver 58 locates RF channels having a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) below a pre-determined level (e.g., below about 5 decibels). These RF channels are generally not used by broadcast stations in a particular geographic area and do not exhibit the hissing or muting often associated with a weak broadcast signal that is unacceptable to a listener. When an RF channel is located which meets these criteria, the scanning receiver 58 provides the radio frequency to a microcontroller 60. The microcontroller 60 is programmed to display at least one, and preferably several, radio frequencies on the display 36 which represent possible low noise, open channels for the wireless link 15. The microprocessor 60 is also programmed to provide a user with a user interface 66 with which to select one of the possible open channels (e.g., buttons 30, 32 and 34). For example, the microcontroller 60 can implement the three buttons 30, 32 and 34 as a touch screen interface in conjunction with the display 36 for selecting any of three open channels (i.e., 88.5 MHz, 98.7 MHz or 103.5 IVIHz in the example shown in Fig. 1). Other aspects of the display 36 which represent advantages of a satellite receiver are described below with reference to Fig.
8.
After the user selects one of the channel options provided by the scanning receiver 58 for the wireless link 15, the microcontroller 60 provides an output signal to the RF modulator to modulate the baseband or IF signal from the level control and pre-emphasis circuit 54 using frequency mixing. Accordingly, the audio signal from the auxiliary audio source 50 or 52 is modulated onto the selected RF channel for transmission via the wireless link 15, following amplification by an RF power amplifier 64.
The starting point of the scanning receiver 58, that is, the first RF channel of the algorithm controlling the scanning receiver 58, is selected automatically and randomly to avoid all receivers selecting the same unused channels in a particular geographic area and to minimize vehicle-to-vehicle interference. It is to be understood that the RF channel need not be in the FM radio broadcast spectrum.
For example, the wireless link 15 can be implemented in the AM radio broadcast spectrum. In that case, the scanning receiver 58 and the RF modulator are operated using AM radio broadcast frequencies. The scanning receiver 58 preferably commences scanning upon power-up of the interface device 16. The interface unit 16 also comprises a scan button 70, as shown in Figs. 1 and 8, which allows a user to manually initiate scanning via the scanning receiver 58.
An exemplary scanning receiver 58 is depicted in Fig. 7. The scanning receiver 58 comprises an amplifier 72 to amplify the signals received via the antenna 61. A scanning device 73 can be provided with an input to receive signals from the microcontroller 60. When the scan button 70 is activated by a user or the interface device 16 is turned on (i.e., via button 41), the microcontroller 60 responds by sending a signal to the scanning receiver 58 to initiate the scanning algorithm for the scanning device 73. The scanning device 73 is preferably programmed to scan every 200 kHz for operation in conjunction with an FM broadcast transmission system in the United States. The scanning device 73 can be programmed to operate in accordance with different channel spacing allocations and radio frequency broadcast bands in other countries so as to scan every 100 kHz of the FM broadcast band in Europe, for example. The scanning device 73 is connected to a received signal strength detector 74 which provides a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) to the microcontroller 60. The microcontroller 60 determines if any of the scanned frequencies meet the pre-defined criteria for the wireless link is described previously.
Weak channels are detected as low voltage signals, whereas strong signals are detected at higher voltage signals. The microcontroller 60 preferably selects the three lowest energy or weak channels having the lowest voltages measured by the detector 74.
Selected scanned frequencies which meet the pre-defined criteria are indicated on the display, as shown in Figs. 1 and 8, by the microcontroller 60.
As shown in Fig. 8, the display 36 can provide additional information other than the radio frequencies of channels from which a user can select for implementing the wireless link 15. The microcontroller can receive data 43 from the satellite receiver relating to SDARS services via an input line 75, as shown in Fig. 3.
The SDARS services data 43 can include, for example, satellite broadcast channel number 45, artist name, audio program title and data channel information. The interface device 16 also comprises the power button 41, the scan button 70, the satellite broadcast channel selection buttons 38, as well as volume control and tuning buttons 37 and 39. The microcontroller 60 can indicate via the display 36 the random channel selection of the scanning receiver 58, the signal strength (i.e., RSST) of satellite or terrestrially repeated SDARS signals, and visual effects (e.g., a dynamic bar graph display corresponding to the output levels of the audio program from the auxiliary audio source), among other displayable information. The display 36 can also indicate the user's current frequency selection 33 for the wireless link 15. In addition, selected open channels in metropolitan areas such as New York City or Los Angeles can be preset on the interface device 16 and selected via a button 47, for example.
Fig. 7 illustrates a scanning receiver constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and Fig. 8 illustrates an auxiliary audio signal processing and display device constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Throughout the drawing figures, like reference numerals will be understood to refer to like parts and components.
Detailed Description Of The Preferred Embodiments:
A system 10 for providing satellite broadcast signals 13 or audio signals from another auxiliary audio source to an existing radio receiver 24 (e.g., in a vehicle) using a wireless link 15 in accordance with the present invention is depicted in Fig. 1. The system 10 comprises an antenna 12 such as a satellite S-band antenna (operable at about 2.3 Gigahertz) for receiving satellite broadcast signals. The antenna 12 is connected via a coaxial cable 14, for example, to an auxiliary audio signal processing and display device 16, which is hereinafter referred to as the interface device 16.
Another antenna 18 is connected to the interface device 16 to transmit signals therefrom to a radio receiver 24 comprising a tuner 20 and an antenna 22.
The antenna 12 and its associated circuitry (e.g., a low noise amplifier) can be connected internally or externally with respect to a vehicle. The antenna 12 can be used to receive satellite digital audio radio service (SDARS), a satellite broadcast service recently established by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), in a vehicle. As shown in Fig. 2, the antenna 12 can be mounted on the roof 17 or rear window 19 of a vehicle 23, for example. The cable 14 connects the antenna 12 to a remote unit 11 forming a part of the interface unit 16 of Fig. 1. The remote unit 11 can comprise, for example, an SDARS receiver. The remote unit 11 can be placed in the cab 25 of a car or truck, for example. To avoid having to drill a hole in the truck or car 23 to install the cable 14, a device 21 can be mounted on the exterior of the vehicle's rear window 19 using an adhesive material which supports the antenna 12 and associated circuitry. The device 21 can be capacitvely coupled with another device 29 which is connected to the cable 14. The other device 29 can be mounted on the inside of the window 19 opposite the first device 21 using the same adhesive material. The remote unit 11 is connected to a display and control unit 27, also forming a part of the interface device 16 of Figs. 1 and 8, via a wireline 31 or wireless link to the dashboard or other location in view of the driver. The display and control unit 27 can comprise the scanning receiver, the RF modulation and transmission devices and the display and control devices. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the channels of the SDARS receiver can be changed remotely using the display and control unit 27. Alternatively, the interface device 16 can be installed as a single unit on or near the dashboard and therefore accessible to the driver of the vehicle 23. As described below and illustrated in Figs. 1 and 8; the interface device 16 (or, in the two-part installation shown in Fig.
2, the display and control unit 27) comprises a display 36 for indicating one or more RF
channels to which the user can tune the radio receiver 24 to complete the wireless link 15. The display and control unit 27 can also be provided with channel selection buttons 38, which are described below.
As shown in Fig. 1, the system 10 of the present invention comprises a DC
power supply adapter 26 which can be inserted in the cigarette lighter socket provided in the dashboard of most vehicles to provide power to the system 10.
The interface unit 16 can also be configured as a portable device which can be disconnected from the vehicle and operated from an AC outlet (using a suitable AC/DC converter) or from batteries. Thus, the interface device 16 can be used inside a home, for example, or in conjunction with a portable radio.
With continued reference to Fig. 1, the radio receiver 24 is preferably a conventional amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FIVl") radio provided as standard equipment in many vehicles. The antenna 22 is configured to receive AM and/or FM signals. In accordance with the present invention, the radio receiver 24 need not be modified in any way to output the audio programming provided by the satellite broadcast signals or by another auxiliary audio source. The antenna 18 is preferably an FM antenna, and the interface 16 device is operable to convert the satellite broadcast signals received via the antenna 12 to FM-band signals for retransmission from the antenna 18 to the radio receiver 24. Thus, the system 10 of the present invention operates with existing radios. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention can be configured to operate with other types of receivers using wireless links at radio frequencies other than the AM and FM
bands.
The interface device 16 preferably comprises a display 36 for indicating one or more radio frequencies that are selected by the interface device for providing the wireless link 15. In the example illustrated in Figs. 1 and 8, the interface device 16 has determined that the radio frequencies of 88.5 Megahertz (MHz), 98.7 MHz and 103.5 MHz are relatively low noise, open channels which can be used for the wireless link 15. The user can select one of these channels (e.g., 88.5 MHz) for transmission by the interface device 16 by selecting one of the corresponding buttons 30, 32 and provided on the interface device 16. The buttons 30, 32 and 34 can be implemented as touch screen buttons, for example. The user then selects the same frequency (88.5 MHz in the present example) on the vehicle tuner 20 using a tuning dial 42 or one of a number of preset buttons 35 provided on the radio receiver 24 for selecting a radio station. The selected radio channel (e.g., 88.5 MHz) is indicated on the tuner display 46 in a conventional manner. The tuner 20 can also be a chassis with a tuner and a tape cassette player as indicated by the cassette slot 40. A CD player can be provided in lieu of, or in addition to, the cassette player. A volume control dial 44 is provided in a conventional manner.
The interface device 16 will now be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the interface device 16 includes an auxiliary audio source such as an S-band satellite receiver 50. The satellite receiver 50 can also be operated in other RF bands and have, for example, an L-band or UHF front-end for use with direct audio broadcast (DAB) systems in different countries. The auxiliary audio source can also be a CD or cassette player 52 or other device, and can be located external to the interface device 16 via an external source input if desired.
The satellite receiver 50, described below in connection with Fig. 5, preferably downconverts and processes the received satellite broadcast signal to obtain a baseband signal.
Alternatively, the satellite receiver 50 can downconvert the satellite broadcast signal to an intermediate frequency (1F). The output signal from the satellite receiver is processed via a level control and pre-emphasis circuit 54, which is described below in connection with Fig. 6. The level control and pre-emphasis circuit 54 provides a composite stereo signal to an RF modulator 56.
In accordance with the present invention, the RF modulator 56 converts the composite signal to a radio frequency selected using a scanning receiver 58.
The scanning receiver 58 preferably continuously monitors the RF spectrum of the geographic area in which the vehicle is located via an antenna 61 for open RF
channels (i.e., RF channels that have no transmitted broadcast signals). The scanning receiver 58 also determines which of the open frequencies satisfy predetermined criteria for low noise (e.g., comparatively small signal strength). In other words, the scanning receiver 58 locates RF channels having a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) below a pre-determined level (e.g., below about 5 decibels). These RF channels are generally not used by broadcast stations in a particular geographic area and do not exhibit the hissing or muting often associated with a weak broadcast signal that is unacceptable to a listener. When an RF channel is located which meets these criteria, the scanning receiver 58 provides the radio frequency to a microcontroller 60. The microcontroller 60 is programmed to display at least one, and preferably several, radio frequencies on the display 36 which represent possible low noise, open channels for the wireless link 15. The microprocessor 60 is also programmed to provide a user with a user interface 66 with which to select one of the possible open channels (e.g., buttons 30, 32 and 34). For example, the microcontroller 60 can implement the three buttons 30, 32 and 34 as a touch screen interface in conjunction with the display 36 for selecting any of three open channels (i.e., 88.5 MHz, 98.7 MHz or 103.5 IVIHz in the example shown in Fig. 1). Other aspects of the display 36 which represent advantages of a satellite receiver are described below with reference to Fig.
8.
After the user selects one of the channel options provided by the scanning receiver 58 for the wireless link 15, the microcontroller 60 provides an output signal to the RF modulator to modulate the baseband or IF signal from the level control and pre-emphasis circuit 54 using frequency mixing. Accordingly, the audio signal from the auxiliary audio source 50 or 52 is modulated onto the selected RF channel for transmission via the wireless link 15, following amplification by an RF power amplifier 64.
The starting point of the scanning receiver 58, that is, the first RF channel of the algorithm controlling the scanning receiver 58, is selected automatically and randomly to avoid all receivers selecting the same unused channels in a particular geographic area and to minimize vehicle-to-vehicle interference. It is to be understood that the RF channel need not be in the FM radio broadcast spectrum.
For example, the wireless link 15 can be implemented in the AM radio broadcast spectrum. In that case, the scanning receiver 58 and the RF modulator are operated using AM radio broadcast frequencies. The scanning receiver 58 preferably commences scanning upon power-up of the interface device 16. The interface unit 16 also comprises a scan button 70, as shown in Figs. 1 and 8, which allows a user to manually initiate scanning via the scanning receiver 58.
An exemplary scanning receiver 58 is depicted in Fig. 7. The scanning receiver 58 comprises an amplifier 72 to amplify the signals received via the antenna 61. A scanning device 73 can be provided with an input to receive signals from the microcontroller 60. When the scan button 70 is activated by a user or the interface device 16 is turned on (i.e., via button 41), the microcontroller 60 responds by sending a signal to the scanning receiver 58 to initiate the scanning algorithm for the scanning device 73. The scanning device 73 is preferably programmed to scan every 200 kHz for operation in conjunction with an FM broadcast transmission system in the United States. The scanning device 73 can be programmed to operate in accordance with different channel spacing allocations and radio frequency broadcast bands in other countries so as to scan every 100 kHz of the FM broadcast band in Europe, for example. The scanning device 73 is connected to a received signal strength detector 74 which provides a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) to the microcontroller 60. The microcontroller 60 determines if any of the scanned frequencies meet the pre-defined criteria for the wireless link is described previously.
Weak channels are detected as low voltage signals, whereas strong signals are detected at higher voltage signals. The microcontroller 60 preferably selects the three lowest energy or weak channels having the lowest voltages measured by the detector 74.
Selected scanned frequencies which meet the pre-defined criteria are indicated on the display, as shown in Figs. 1 and 8, by the microcontroller 60.
As shown in Fig. 8, the display 36 can provide additional information other than the radio frequencies of channels from which a user can select for implementing the wireless link 15. The microcontroller can receive data 43 from the satellite receiver relating to SDARS services via an input line 75, as shown in Fig. 3.
The SDARS services data 43 can include, for example, satellite broadcast channel number 45, artist name, audio program title and data channel information. The interface device 16 also comprises the power button 41, the scan button 70, the satellite broadcast channel selection buttons 38, as well as volume control and tuning buttons 37 and 39. The microcontroller 60 can indicate via the display 36 the random channel selection of the scanning receiver 58, the signal strength (i.e., RSST) of satellite or terrestrially repeated SDARS signals, and visual effects (e.g., a dynamic bar graph display corresponding to the output levels of the audio program from the auxiliary audio source), among other displayable information. The display 36 can also indicate the user's current frequency selection 33 for the wireless link 15. In addition, selected open channels in metropolitan areas such as New York City or Los Angeles can be preset on the interface device 16 and selected via a button 47, for example.
The selection of an RF channel for the wireless link 15 will now be described with reference to the flow chart depicted in Fig. 4. As stated previously, the scanning receiver 58 commences scanning an RF spectrum (e.g., the FM radio broadcast band) upon power-up or after the user activates the scan button 70 on the interface device 16 (block 78). The scanning receiver 58 preferably determines a number of RF
channels (e.g., between one and three RF channels) to be open and to have sufficiently low noise for use as the wireless link 15 (block 80). If no RF channels can be located, the scanning receiver 58 continues to scan, as indicated by the positive branch of decision block 82. The scanning receiver 58 preferably continuously scans even if suitable RF
channels are reported to the microcontroller 60 since conditions may change over time. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the scanning receiver 58 can interrupt scanning if a number of RF channels are located which are suitable for the wireless link 15. The scanning receiver 58 can then resume scanning after the scan button 70 is activated or sound quality on the RF channel selected by the user for the wireless link 15 decreases below a predetermined threshold.
In the meantime, only the transmitting antenna 18 is operating, and the receiving antenna 61 is not functional. In this case, the antenna 18 can serve as both a transmitting and receiving antenna with a splitter connection to the RF, power amplifier 64 and the scanning receiver 58, respectively, and the antenna 61 can be eliminated. In other words, the antenna 18 is connected to the scanning receiver 58 during the scanning mode and is disconnected from the RF amplifier 64. When a number of RF
channels have been located for the wireless link 15, the antenna 18 is used for transmitting on a selected one of the RF channels and scanning through the antenna 18 is interrupted.
With continued reference to Fig. 4, the microcontroller 60 displays the channels selected by the scanning receiver 58 on the display 36 (block 84).
The user selects one of the channels indicated on the display 36 and then tunes the radio receiver 24 to that channel (block 86). The user then commences monitoring the sound quality of the wireless link 15 (block 88). As stated previously, the scanning receiver 58 preferably continuously scans. When the selected RF channel is WO 00/52984 PCTfUS00/05439 determined by the scanning receiver to be above a predetermined noise threshold, the scanning receiver 58 provides a signal to the nucrocontroller 60 to indicate to the user via the display 36 and/or a sound generating device that sound quality is poor (blocks 90 and 92). The user can then select another RF channel indicated on the display device 36.
An exemplary satellite receiver 30 is depicted in Fig. 5. The S-band signals received by the antenna 12 of Figs. 1-3 are amplified by amplifier 96 prior to downconversion to an IF via a mixer 98 and a local oscillator (LO) 100. The recovered IF signal is then processed via an IF filter and amplifier 102 prior to obtaining the digital baseband information transmitted via satellite. For example, the recovered IF signal can be converted to a digital representation thereof using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 104 prior to phase shift keying (PSK) demodulation by a demodulator 106 if the baseband signal is PSK-modulated at the broadcast station. The satellite broadcast signals can be time division multiplexed (TDM) signals and may therefore comprise information from a number of broadcast programs, as well as having TDM data representing the left and right stereo channels corresponding to the same broadcast program. Accordingly, a TDM demultiplexer 108 is provided in the satellite receiver 50 to recover the information from the TDM
broadcast channels. The recovered information corresponds to the satellite broadcast program selected by the user via the user interface 66, for example, as indicated at 107.
The recovered information can be processed at the broadcast stations to provide forward error correction (FEC) coding, which is decoded using an FEC 110 decoder at the receiver 50. Finally, the recovered baseband data can be converted into analog audio signals using an audio decoder 112 such as an MPEG decoder.
In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the interface device 16 can be implemented to convert the radio receiver 24 into a dual-mode receiver in a satellite broadcast system in which measures such as time and space diversity and terrestrial retransmission have been taken to improve satellite signal reception at the vehicle. Space and time diversity are useful when a mobile satellite receiver is traveling in a suburban or rural area where line of sight blockage with respect to the antenna 12 and the satellite occurs due to bridges, trees and low buildings.
On the other hand, terrestrial retransmission of satellite signals is useful in areas where tall buildings are located, such as central city and metropolitan areas.
In FM broadcasting, high audio frequencies are emphasized to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Thus, a conventional FM tuner such as the tuner 20 is provided with a de-emphasis circuit for obtaining a flat frequency characteristic.
Accordingly, the level of the output signals from the satellite receiver 50 or the CD/cassette player 52 of Fig. 2 are adjusted by the circuit 54 (shown in detail in Fig.
6) to prevent the attenuation of high audio frequencies by the de-emphasis circuit in the tuner 20. Such processing is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,448,757, issued to Hirata on September 5, 1995, incorporated herein by reference. With reference to Fig. 6, the left and right channels in the audio signals recovered by the satellite receiver are processed by a stereo modulator 116 and an automatic level control (ALC) circuit 118 connected to the output of the pre-emphasis circuit 114. The stereo modulator 116 modulates the audio signals from the satellite receiver 50 to a composite signal. The ALC circuit 118 controls the input to the stereo modulator 116 to reduce distortion.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the details thereof. Various modifications and substitutions have been suggested in the foregoing description, and others will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art.
All such substitutions are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
channels (e.g., between one and three RF channels) to be open and to have sufficiently low noise for use as the wireless link 15 (block 80). If no RF channels can be located, the scanning receiver 58 continues to scan, as indicated by the positive branch of decision block 82. The scanning receiver 58 preferably continuously scans even if suitable RF
channels are reported to the microcontroller 60 since conditions may change over time. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the scanning receiver 58 can interrupt scanning if a number of RF channels are located which are suitable for the wireless link 15. The scanning receiver 58 can then resume scanning after the scan button 70 is activated or sound quality on the RF channel selected by the user for the wireless link 15 decreases below a predetermined threshold.
In the meantime, only the transmitting antenna 18 is operating, and the receiving antenna 61 is not functional. In this case, the antenna 18 can serve as both a transmitting and receiving antenna with a splitter connection to the RF, power amplifier 64 and the scanning receiver 58, respectively, and the antenna 61 can be eliminated. In other words, the antenna 18 is connected to the scanning receiver 58 during the scanning mode and is disconnected from the RF amplifier 64. When a number of RF
channels have been located for the wireless link 15, the antenna 18 is used for transmitting on a selected one of the RF channels and scanning through the antenna 18 is interrupted.
With continued reference to Fig. 4, the microcontroller 60 displays the channels selected by the scanning receiver 58 on the display 36 (block 84).
The user selects one of the channels indicated on the display 36 and then tunes the radio receiver 24 to that channel (block 86). The user then commences monitoring the sound quality of the wireless link 15 (block 88). As stated previously, the scanning receiver 58 preferably continuously scans. When the selected RF channel is WO 00/52984 PCTfUS00/05439 determined by the scanning receiver to be above a predetermined noise threshold, the scanning receiver 58 provides a signal to the nucrocontroller 60 to indicate to the user via the display 36 and/or a sound generating device that sound quality is poor (blocks 90 and 92). The user can then select another RF channel indicated on the display device 36.
An exemplary satellite receiver 30 is depicted in Fig. 5. The S-band signals received by the antenna 12 of Figs. 1-3 are amplified by amplifier 96 prior to downconversion to an IF via a mixer 98 and a local oscillator (LO) 100. The recovered IF signal is then processed via an IF filter and amplifier 102 prior to obtaining the digital baseband information transmitted via satellite. For example, the recovered IF signal can be converted to a digital representation thereof using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 104 prior to phase shift keying (PSK) demodulation by a demodulator 106 if the baseband signal is PSK-modulated at the broadcast station. The satellite broadcast signals can be time division multiplexed (TDM) signals and may therefore comprise information from a number of broadcast programs, as well as having TDM data representing the left and right stereo channels corresponding to the same broadcast program. Accordingly, a TDM demultiplexer 108 is provided in the satellite receiver 50 to recover the information from the TDM
broadcast channels. The recovered information corresponds to the satellite broadcast program selected by the user via the user interface 66, for example, as indicated at 107.
The recovered information can be processed at the broadcast stations to provide forward error correction (FEC) coding, which is decoded using an FEC 110 decoder at the receiver 50. Finally, the recovered baseband data can be converted into analog audio signals using an audio decoder 112 such as an MPEG decoder.
In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the interface device 16 can be implemented to convert the radio receiver 24 into a dual-mode receiver in a satellite broadcast system in which measures such as time and space diversity and terrestrial retransmission have been taken to improve satellite signal reception at the vehicle. Space and time diversity are useful when a mobile satellite receiver is traveling in a suburban or rural area where line of sight blockage with respect to the antenna 12 and the satellite occurs due to bridges, trees and low buildings.
On the other hand, terrestrial retransmission of satellite signals is useful in areas where tall buildings are located, such as central city and metropolitan areas.
In FM broadcasting, high audio frequencies are emphasized to improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Thus, a conventional FM tuner such as the tuner 20 is provided with a de-emphasis circuit for obtaining a flat frequency characteristic.
Accordingly, the level of the output signals from the satellite receiver 50 or the CD/cassette player 52 of Fig. 2 are adjusted by the circuit 54 (shown in detail in Fig.
6) to prevent the attenuation of high audio frequencies by the de-emphasis circuit in the tuner 20. Such processing is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,448,757, issued to Hirata on September 5, 1995, incorporated herein by reference. With reference to Fig. 6, the left and right channels in the audio signals recovered by the satellite receiver are processed by a stereo modulator 116 and an automatic level control (ALC) circuit 118 connected to the output of the pre-emphasis circuit 114. The stereo modulator 116 modulates the audio signals from the satellite receiver 50 to a composite signal. The ALC circuit 118 controls the input to the stereo modulator 116 to reduce distortion.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment thereof, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the details thereof. Various modifications and substitutions have been suggested in the foregoing description, and others will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art.
All such substitutions are intended to be embraced within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.
Claims (27)
1. An apparatus for providing a satellite broadcast signal to a radio receiver operating in a different radio frequency spectrum than the satellite, the apparatus comprising:
a satellite broadcast receiver configured to receive said satellite broadcast signal; and a transmitting device connected to said receiver and operable to convert said satellite broadcast signal to a frequency in said different radio frequency spectrum for wireless transmission as a retransmitted signal to said radio receiver, said transmitting device selecting said frequency by scanning said different radio frequency spectrum and selecting a radio frequency channel therein for wireless transmission;
wherein said transmitting device comprises:
a processing device operable to substantially continuously monitor said different radio frequency spectrum to identify radio frequency channels that satisfy a predetermined open channel criteria, and to automatically select at least one radio frequency satisfying said predetermined open channel criteria at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver, and to modulate said audio signals on said selected radio frequency; and an output device for indicating said selected radio frequency to a user to allow said user to tune said radio receiver to said selected radio frequency.
a satellite broadcast receiver configured to receive said satellite broadcast signal; and a transmitting device connected to said receiver and operable to convert said satellite broadcast signal to a frequency in said different radio frequency spectrum for wireless transmission as a retransmitted signal to said radio receiver, said transmitting device selecting said frequency by scanning said different radio frequency spectrum and selecting a radio frequency channel therein for wireless transmission;
wherein said transmitting device comprises:
a processing device operable to substantially continuously monitor said different radio frequency spectrum to identify radio frequency channels that satisfy a predetermined open channel criteria, and to automatically select at least one radio frequency satisfying said predetermined open channel criteria at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver, and to modulate said audio signals on said selected radio frequency; and an output device for indicating said selected radio frequency to a user to allow said user to tune said radio receiver to said selected radio frequency.
2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said transmitting device comprises a scanning receiver for automatically scanning said different radio frequency spectrum and determining a radio frequency channel therein for said wireless transmission.
3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said radio receiver comprises a de-emphasis circuit for high frequencies in said satellite broadcast signal, said transmitting device comprising a pre-emphasis circuit for reducing the effect of said de-emphasis circuit on said retransmitted signal when received at said radio receiver.
4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said radio receiver is operable to receive a radio broadcast in at least one of an amplitude modulation radio broadcast spectrum and a frequency modulation radio broadcast spectrum, and said transmitting device is operable to convert said satellite broadcast signal to one of said frequencies in said at least one of an amplitude modulation radio broadcast spectrum and a frequency modulation radio broadcast spectrum for said wireless transmission.
5. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said output device comprises a display device for displaying at least one of said selected radio frequency for wireless transmission, channel identification data corresponding to said satellite broadcast signal, satellite broadcast program data comprising at least one of an artist name, a program title and ancillary data relating to said satellite broadcast program, output level data corresponding to said satellite broadcast receiver, and received signal strength indication data corresponding to said satellite broadcast signal.
6. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an antenna connected to said transmitting device to transmit said radio signals to said radio receiver using said selected radio frequency.
7. A system for providing audio signals to a radio receiver from an auxiliary audio source comprising:
an input for receiving said audio signals from said auxiliary audio source;
a processing device connected to said input and operable to substantially continuously monitor a selected radio frequency spectrum to identify radio frequency channels that satisfy a predetermined open channel criteria, and to automatically select at least one radio frequency satisfying said predetermined open channel criteria at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver via a wireless link, and to modulate said audio signals on said at least one radio frequency; and an antenna connected to said processing device and operable to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver using said at least one radio frequency; and wherein said processing device further comprises an output device for indicating said at least one radio frequency to a user to allow said user to tune said radio receiver to said at least one radio frequency.
an input for receiving said audio signals from said auxiliary audio source;
a processing device connected to said input and operable to substantially continuously monitor a selected radio frequency spectrum to identify radio frequency channels that satisfy a predetermined open channel criteria, and to automatically select at least one radio frequency satisfying said predetermined open channel criteria at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver via a wireless link, and to modulate said audio signals on said at least one radio frequency; and an antenna connected to said processing device and operable to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver using said at least one radio frequency; and wherein said processing device further comprises an output device for indicating said at least one radio frequency to a user to allow said user to tune said radio receiver to said at least one radio frequency.
8. A system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said at least one radio frequency is selected from one of an amplitude modulation radio broadcast spectrum and a frequency modulation radio broadcast spectrum.
9. A system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said radio receiver comprises a de-emphasis circuit, said processing device comprising a pre-emphasis circuit for reducing the effect of said de-emphasis circuit on said audio signals transmitted to said radio receiver.
10. A system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said processing device is operable to monitor the quality of said at least one radio frequency, to select another radio frequency when said at least one radio frequency degrades, and to generate a second indication signal to instruct said user to tune said radio receiver to said another radio frequency.
11. A system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said processing device is operable to randomly select a first radio frequency which satisfies said predetermined open channel criteria from said selected radio frequency spectrum in response to powering up of said processing device.
12. A system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said processing device comprises a scanning receiver for automatically scanning said predetermined radio frequency spectrum and selecting a radio frequency therein for said wireless link.
13. A system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said processing device is operable to automatically and dynamically identify a plurality of radio frequencies satisfying said predetermined open channel criteria at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver.
14. A system as claimed in claim 13, wherein said processing device is operable to display said plurality of radio frequencies via said output device, and further comprises a selection device to allow a user to select one of said plurality of radio frequencies, said processing device modulating said audio signals using the radio frequency selected via said selection device.
15. A system as claimed in claim 14, wherein said processing device is operable to monitor the quality of the radio frequency selected via said selection device, and to generate a signal to instruct said user to select another of said plurality of radio frequencies when the radio frequency selected via said selection device degrades.
16. A system as claimed in claim 14, wherein said processing device modulates said audio signals using said selected one of said plurality of radio frequencies in response to said selection device.
17. A system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said auxiliary audio source is a satellite broadcast receiver and said output device also indicates at least one of channel identification data corresponding to a satellite broadcast signal received via said satellite broadcast receiver, satellite broadcast program data comprising at least one of an artist name, a program title, and ancillary data relating to said satellite broadcast program, output level data corresponding to said satellite broadcast receiver, and received signal strength indicator data corresponding to said satellite broadcast signal
18. A method of providing audio signals to a radio receiver from an auxiliary audio source comprising the steps of:
receiving said audio signals from said auxiliary audio source;
substantially continuously monitor a selected radio frequency spectrum to identify radio frequency channels that satisfy a predetermined open channel criteria;
automatically selecting at least one radio frequency satisfying said predetermined open channel criteria at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver via a wireless link;
modulating said audio signals to said selected radio frequency;
transmitting said audio signals to said radio receiver using said at least one radio frequency; and indicating said at least one radio frequency to a user to allow said user to tune said radio receiver to said at least one radio frequency.
receiving said audio signals from said auxiliary audio source;
substantially continuously monitor a selected radio frequency spectrum to identify radio frequency channels that satisfy a predetermined open channel criteria;
automatically selecting at least one radio frequency satisfying said predetermined open channel criteria at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver via a wireless link;
modulating said audio signals to said selected radio frequency;
transmitting said audio signals to said radio receiver using said at least one radio frequency; and indicating said at least one radio frequency to a user to allow said user to tune said radio receiver to said at least one radio frequency.
19. A method as claimed in claim 18, further comprising the steps of:
automatically and dynamically identifying a plurality of radio frequencies at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver.
displaying said plurality of radio frequencies;
providing a selection device to allow a user to select one of said plurality of radio frequencies;
monitoring the quality of said at least one radio frequency to determine when said at least one radio frequency degrades; and generating a signal to instruct said user to tune said radio receiver to one of said plurality of radio frequencies.
automatically and dynamically identifying a plurality of radio frequencies at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver.
displaying said plurality of radio frequencies;
providing a selection device to allow a user to select one of said plurality of radio frequencies;
monitoring the quality of said at least one radio frequency to determine when said at least one radio frequency degrades; and generating a signal to instruct said user to tune said radio receiver to one of said plurality of radio frequencies.
20. A method as claimed in claim 18, wherein said step of automatically selecting said at least one radio frequency comprises the step of randomly selecting a first radio frequency which satisfies said predetermined open channel criteria from said selected radio frequency spectrum in response to powering up of said processing device.
21. A method as claimed in claim 18, further comprising the steps of:
monitoring the quality of said at least one radio frequency;
selecting another radio frequency when said at least one radio frequency degrades;
and generating a signal to instruct said user to tune said radio receiver to said another radio frequency.
monitoring the quality of said at least one radio frequency;
selecting another radio frequency when said at least one radio frequency degrades;
and generating a signal to instruct said user to tune said radio receiver to said another radio frequency.
22. A method as claimed in claim 18, further comprising the steps of:
scanning said predetermined radio frequency spectrum; and selecting a radio frequency therein for said wireless link.
scanning said predetermined radio frequency spectrum; and selecting a radio frequency therein for said wireless link.
23. A method as claimed in claim 22, wherein said predetermined radio frequency spectrum is one of an amplitude modulation radio broadcast spectrum and a frequency modulation radio broadcast spectrum.
24. A method as claimed in claim 18, further comprising the steps of automatically and dynamically identifying a plurality of radio frequencies at which to transmit said audio signals to said radio receiver that satisfy said predetermined open channel criteria.
25. A method as claimed in claim 24, further comprising the steps of:
displaying said plurality of radio frequencies on a display device to allow a user to select one of said plurality of radio frequencies; and modulating said audio signals to the selected one of said plurality of radio frequencies.
displaying said plurality of radio frequencies on a display device to allow a user to select one of said plurality of radio frequencies; and modulating said audio signals to the selected one of said plurality of radio frequencies.
26. A method as claimed in claim 25, further comprising the step of modulating said audio signals using said selected one of said plurality of radio frequencies in response to said input device.
27. A method as claimed in claim 25, further comprising the steps of:
monitoring the quality of said at least one radio frequency to determine when said at least one radio frequency degrades; and generating a signal to instruct said user to tune said radio receiver to one of said plurality of radio frequencies.
monitoring the quality of said at least one radio frequency to determine when said at least one radio frequency degrades; and generating a signal to instruct said user to tune said radio receiver to one of said plurality of radio frequencies.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/263,207 | 1999-03-05 | ||
US09/263,207 US6493546B2 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 1999-03-05 | System for providing signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver using a wireless link |
PCT/US2000/005439 WO2000052984A1 (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2000-03-02 | System for providing signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver using a wireless link |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2366677A1 CA2366677A1 (en) | 2000-09-08 |
CA2366677C true CA2366677C (en) | 2008-08-19 |
Family
ID=23000832
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002366677A Expired - Fee Related CA2366677C (en) | 1999-03-05 | 2000-03-02 | System for providing signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver using a wireless link |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US6493546B2 (en) |
AU (1) | AU3391700A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2366677C (en) |
WO (1) | WO2000052984A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (125)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7173721B1 (en) * | 1998-01-08 | 2007-02-06 | Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. | Multifunction machine, server, multifunction machine/server system and program recording medium |
US6493546B2 (en) * | 1999-03-05 | 2002-12-10 | Xm Satellite Radio Inc. | System for providing signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver using a wireless link |
US7769342B2 (en) * | 2000-04-27 | 2010-08-03 | Joseph Akwo Tabe | Mega-telecommunication and information system |
US7020217B1 (en) * | 1999-11-04 | 2006-03-28 | Xm Satellite Radio, Inc. | Satellite digital audio radio receiver with instant replay capability |
JP2003513692A (en) * | 1999-11-09 | 2003-04-15 | コルテックス ビオフェジーク ゲーエムベーハー | Mobile working spirometry system |
US7065342B1 (en) * | 1999-11-23 | 2006-06-20 | Gofigure, L.L.C. | System and mobile cellular telephone device for playing recorded music |
US6526335B1 (en) | 2000-01-24 | 2003-02-25 | G. Victor Treyz | Automobile personal computer systems |
US6587835B1 (en) | 2000-02-09 | 2003-07-01 | G. Victor Treyz | Shopping assistance with handheld computing device |
IT1315831B1 (en) * | 2000-02-14 | 2003-03-26 | Riccardo Migliaccio | TRANSCEIVER APPARATUS WITH SIGNAL CODING UNIT ACCORDING TO STANDARD RDS. |
US7187947B1 (en) | 2000-03-28 | 2007-03-06 | Affinity Labs, Llc | System and method for communicating selected information to an electronic device |
US6937732B2 (en) * | 2000-04-07 | 2005-08-30 | Mazda Motor Corporation | Audio system and its contents reproduction method, audio apparatus for a vehicle and its contents reproduction method, portable audio apparatus, computer program product and computer-readable storage medium |
US6671732B1 (en) * | 2000-07-24 | 2003-12-30 | Comverse Ltd. | Method and apparatus for control of content based rich media streaming |
US20020098813A1 (en) * | 2000-11-01 | 2002-07-25 | George Likourezos | Apparatus and method for generating and transmitting an RF modulated signal having a modulation frequency within the AM and/or FM band |
US6409242B1 (en) | 2000-11-14 | 2002-06-25 | Chung L. Chang | Flat thin screen T/V monitor automotive roof mount |
US20020173274A1 (en) * | 2001-05-21 | 2002-11-21 | Cyrus Haghkar | Talking-Paper |
AU2002316435B2 (en) | 2001-06-27 | 2008-02-21 | Skky, Llc | Improved media delivery platform |
US20030027544A1 (en) * | 2001-08-01 | 2003-02-06 | Donovan David H. | Remote radio receiver |
US7512380B2 (en) * | 2001-08-17 | 2009-03-31 | Intel Corporation | Apparatus and methods for finding and using available transmission frequencies |
FR2831015B1 (en) * | 2001-10-15 | 2004-01-02 | Thomson Licensing Sa | TRANSMISSION CHANNEL DETECTION METHOD AND RECEPTION DEVICE USING THE PROCESS |
US7162215B2 (en) * | 2002-04-12 | 2007-01-09 | General Motors Corporation | Method and system for setting user preference satellite radio music selections in a mobile vehicle |
ES2267962T3 (en) * | 2002-06-05 | 2007-03-16 | Alcatel | A HANDS-FREE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR MOBILE PHONES AS WELL AS A MOBILE TERMINAL AND AN AUDIO SYSTEM FOR THE SAME. |
US6591085B1 (en) * | 2002-07-17 | 2003-07-08 | Netalog, Inc. | FM transmitter and power supply/charging assembly for MP3 player |
US7044546B2 (en) | 2002-08-14 | 2006-05-16 | Johnson Safety, Inc. | Headrest-mounted monitor |
US7263329B2 (en) * | 2002-09-20 | 2007-08-28 | Xm Satellite Radio Inc. | Method and apparatus for navigating, previewing and selecting broadband channels via a receiving user interface |
US6871356B2 (en) | 2002-10-28 | 2005-03-22 | Johnson Safety, Inc. | Mobile video system |
US6909885B2 (en) * | 2002-11-21 | 2005-06-21 | Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. | RF modulator and switch having high antenna isolation |
US20070052792A1 (en) * | 2002-11-29 | 2007-03-08 | Daniel Mulligan | Circuit for use in cellular telephone with video functionality |
US20070055462A1 (en) * | 2002-11-29 | 2007-03-08 | Daniel Mulligan | Circuit for use in a multifunction handheld device with wireless host interface |
US20040104707A1 (en) * | 2002-11-29 | 2004-06-03 | May Marcus W. | Method and apparatus for efficient battery use by a handheld multiple function device |
US20070078548A1 (en) * | 2002-11-29 | 2007-04-05 | May Daniel M | Circuit for use in multifunction handheld device having a radio receiver |
US7062238B2 (en) * | 2002-12-20 | 2006-06-13 | General Motors Corporation | Radio frequency selection method and system for audio channel output |
US6882936B2 (en) * | 2003-03-03 | 2005-04-19 | Lockheed Martin Corporation | Integrated GPS/interference location system with anti-jam processor |
US20040185774A1 (en) * | 2003-03-21 | 2004-09-23 | Scott Bryan A | System, device, and method for receving satellite radio on a handheld computing device |
US7606327B2 (en) * | 2003-07-28 | 2009-10-20 | Delphi Technologies, Inc. | Method to receive local information with a national broadcast service |
KR100549614B1 (en) * | 2003-11-05 | 2006-02-03 | 기륭전자 주식회사 | Wireless remote controller using time division protocol and Satellite radio receiver including the same |
KR100554431B1 (en) * | 2003-11-05 | 2006-02-22 | 기륭전자 주식회사 | Low noise and distortion adapter and system for providing audio output signals from the auxiliary SDARS radio to the in-vehicle AM/FM radio |
US20050107030A1 (en) * | 2003-11-19 | 2005-05-19 | Imtiaz Zafar | Integrated AM/FM/SDARS radio |
US6996395B2 (en) * | 2003-11-20 | 2006-02-07 | International Business Machines Corporation | Voicemail messaging via satellite radio |
US7406294B1 (en) | 2003-11-25 | 2008-07-29 | Frank Kung Fu Liu | Digital audio file reproduction system and method with wireless transfer capability |
US7015858B2 (en) * | 2003-12-03 | 2006-03-21 | Raytheon Company | Antijam module |
US8036609B2 (en) | 2003-12-05 | 2011-10-11 | Monster Cable Products, Inc. | FM transmitter for an MP player |
US7206558B2 (en) * | 2003-12-18 | 2007-04-17 | Delphi Technologies, Inc. | Technique for determining a tuning frequency of an audio receiver |
US7445669B2 (en) * | 2005-09-09 | 2008-11-04 | Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. | Settable compositions comprising cement kiln dust and additive(s) |
US20050181744A1 (en) * | 2004-02-17 | 2005-08-18 | Chung-Hung Lin | Multimedia transmission device |
US20080212785A1 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2008-09-04 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V. | Appliance for Converting Digital Audio Broadcast (Dab) Signals |
JP4232026B2 (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2009-03-04 | ミツミ電機株式会社 | Composite antenna device and moving body including the same |
GB0404728D0 (en) | 2004-03-03 | 2004-04-07 | Pace Micro Tech Plc | System for adaptation of received digital data |
US7260356B2 (en) * | 2004-03-18 | 2007-08-21 | Xm Satellite Radio, Inc. | Method and apparatus for wirelessly coupling a source signal to a radio frequency receiver |
US7366606B2 (en) | 2004-04-06 | 2008-04-29 | Honda Motor Co., Ltd. | Method for refining traffic flow data |
US20060046778A1 (en) * | 2004-08-30 | 2006-03-02 | Hembree Ryan M | System for listening to playback of music files by a portable audio device while in a vehicle |
US20060063524A1 (en) * | 2004-09-21 | 2006-03-23 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Apparatus and method for receiving digital multimedia broadcasting services in wireless communication system |
US20060126716A1 (en) * | 2004-12-15 | 2006-06-15 | Xm Satellite Radio, Inc. | Digital remodulation |
US7400859B2 (en) * | 2004-12-16 | 2008-07-15 | Intellectual Solutions, Inc. | Combined modulator and MP3 player having socket power supply adapter and/or universal connector |
US20060133621A1 (en) * | 2004-12-22 | 2006-06-22 | Broadcom Corporation | Wireless telephone having multiple microphones |
US7983720B2 (en) * | 2004-12-22 | 2011-07-19 | Broadcom Corporation | Wireless telephone with adaptive microphone array |
US8509703B2 (en) * | 2004-12-22 | 2013-08-13 | Broadcom Corporation | Wireless telephone with multiple microphones and multiple description transmission |
US20070116300A1 (en) * | 2004-12-22 | 2007-05-24 | Broadcom Corporation | Channel decoding for wireless telephones with multiple microphones and multiple description transmission |
US20070155440A1 (en) * | 2004-12-23 | 2007-07-05 | Rusty Everett | FM Transmitter for an MP3 Player |
US8776146B2 (en) * | 2004-12-28 | 2014-07-08 | Livetv, Llc | Aircraft in-flight entertainment system including a distributed digital radio service and associated methods |
US20060156343A1 (en) * | 2005-01-07 | 2006-07-13 | Edward Jordan | Method and system for media and similar downloading |
US20060160486A1 (en) * | 2005-01-14 | 2006-07-20 | Xm Satellite Radio, Inc. | Method and system for converting streaming digital data to FM modulated data |
US7386272B2 (en) * | 2005-02-15 | 2008-06-10 | Delphi Technologies, Inc. | System and method for transmitting signals having audio data in a vehicle |
US7312691B2 (en) * | 2005-03-14 | 2007-12-25 | General Motors Corporation | System and method of using telematics units for locking and unlocking vehicle functions |
US7636626B2 (en) * | 2005-03-28 | 2009-12-22 | General Motors Company | Method and system for monitoring and retrieving device usage |
CN100566388C (en) * | 2005-03-29 | 2009-12-02 | 汤姆森许可贸易公司 | The method and apparatus that is used for providing the robustness of wireless communication system to receive |
JP2006279689A (en) * | 2005-03-30 | 2006-10-12 | Denso Corp | Broadcast receiver |
US20060235883A1 (en) * | 2005-04-18 | 2006-10-19 | Krebs Mark S | Multimedia system for mobile client platforms |
US20060258310A1 (en) * | 2005-05-12 | 2006-11-16 | Good Way Technology Co., Ltd | Blank channel searching frequency modulation transmitter |
US20060281401A1 (en) * | 2005-06-13 | 2006-12-14 | Dibiaso Eric A | Method and system to acquire customizable data in a satellite radio system |
US7358851B2 (en) * | 2005-07-01 | 2008-04-15 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Method and system for demonstrating vehicle features and vehicle promotions |
US7715782B2 (en) * | 2005-07-08 | 2010-05-11 | Dell Products L.P. | Channel mapping for mobile media content transmission |
EP1911253A2 (en) * | 2005-08-05 | 2008-04-16 | XM Satellite Radio Inc. | Broadcast signal interface device and method thereof |
WO2007026290A1 (en) * | 2005-09-02 | 2007-03-08 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | Radio broadcasting device |
TWI287369B (en) * | 2005-10-14 | 2007-09-21 | Hon Hai Prec Ind Co Ltd | Radio transmitting system, method and electronic entertainment device |
US7758117B2 (en) | 2005-11-02 | 2010-07-20 | Chung Lung Chang | Headrest-mounted entertainment systems |
US7762627B2 (en) | 2005-11-02 | 2010-07-27 | Chung Lung Chang | Headrest-mounted entertainment systems |
US7812784B2 (en) | 2005-11-02 | 2010-10-12 | Chung Lung Chang | Headrest mounted entertainment system |
US20070097893A1 (en) * | 2005-11-03 | 2007-05-03 | International Business Machines Corporation | Method of delivering personalized streaming content via satellite radio |
JP4277848B2 (en) * | 2005-11-21 | 2009-06-10 | トヨタ自動車株式会社 | In-vehicle receiver |
US7587167B2 (en) * | 2006-03-08 | 2009-09-08 | Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. | Integrated digital radio module |
US8355715B2 (en) * | 2006-04-21 | 2013-01-15 | Vixs Systems, Inc. | Client module, multimedia server and methods for use therewith |
WO2007133190A2 (en) * | 2006-05-01 | 2007-11-22 | Conexant Systems, Inc. | Systems and method for frequency based satellite channel scanning |
US20080003956A1 (en) * | 2006-06-29 | 2008-01-03 | Paul Stanley Rutkowski | Apparatus and method for FM transmitting audio at optimal power levels |
WO2008021305A2 (en) * | 2006-08-10 | 2008-02-21 | Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. | Methods and systems for retransmission of a broadcast signal using a proximity transmitting radiator |
WO2008020383A2 (en) * | 2006-08-14 | 2008-02-21 | Nxp B.V. | Equalizer system for emitting a quas i -constant power output rf signal in a frequency band |
US20080062053A1 (en) * | 2006-08-31 | 2008-03-13 | Xm Satellite Radio, Inc. | Remote fm modulation antenna arrangement |
US20100159836A1 (en) * | 2006-09-05 | 2010-06-24 | Francis Lau | Automatic present tuning using rds protocol |
US20080064347A1 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2008-03-13 | Monster Cable Products, Inc. | Method and Apparatus for Identifying Unused RF Channels |
US7957696B2 (en) * | 2006-09-25 | 2011-06-07 | Silicon Laboratories Inc. | System and method for selecting channels for short range transmissions to broadcast receivers |
WO2008039099A1 (en) * | 2006-09-26 | 2008-04-03 | Joseph Van Oosterum | General-purpose device for interfacing a sound transmitting system and a radio receiver |
US7822380B2 (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2010-10-26 | Alpine Electronics, Inc. | Interference prevention for receiver system incorporating RDS-TMC receiver and FM modulator |
US7773938B2 (en) * | 2006-11-28 | 2010-08-10 | Delphi Technologies, Inc. | Apparatus and method for FM wireless vehicle system interface |
US8041292B2 (en) | 2006-12-04 | 2011-10-18 | Ibiquity Digital Corporation | Network radio receiver |
US7792498B2 (en) * | 2006-12-28 | 2010-09-07 | Texas Instruments Incorporated | Apparatus for and method of automatic radio link establishment |
US8509687B1 (en) * | 2007-01-05 | 2013-08-13 | Marvell International Ltd. | Quiet spot detection for FM transmission |
US20080171536A1 (en) * | 2007-01-17 | 2008-07-17 | Darius Katz | System and method for broadcasting an alert |
US8388060B2 (en) | 2007-04-16 | 2013-03-05 | Chung Lung Chang | Headrest-mounted entertainment systems |
US8150346B2 (en) * | 2007-05-16 | 2012-04-03 | Silicon Laboratories Inc. | Detecting a signal in the presence of noise |
US7801497B1 (en) | 2007-06-06 | 2010-09-21 | RadioShack, Corporation | Frequency scanning radio modulator and method |
US8503937B2 (en) | 2007-07-10 | 2013-08-06 | Belkin International, Inc. | Method and system for selecting, transmitting, and receiving an unused carrier frequency and transmitting over the unused carrier frequency |
AU2008203068B2 (en) * | 2007-07-10 | 2012-05-10 | Belkin International, Inc. | Method of selecting and broadcasting over a transmission frequency and device for the same |
US8428661B2 (en) * | 2007-10-30 | 2013-04-23 | Broadcom Corporation | Speech intelligibility in telephones with multiple microphones |
US8478288B2 (en) * | 2007-12-21 | 2013-07-02 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Systems and methods for automatically searching a database to tune a frequency modulator in a mobile device |
US7979027B2 (en) | 2008-02-28 | 2011-07-12 | Belkin International, Inc. | Method and system for selecting, transmitting, and receiving an unused carrier frequency and transmitting over the unused carrier frequency |
US8238844B2 (en) * | 2008-06-11 | 2012-08-07 | Quintic Holdings | Radio transmitter and radio receiver with channel condition assessment |
US8374134B2 (en) * | 2009-01-30 | 2013-02-12 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Local broadcast of data using available channels of a spectrum |
US8050635B2 (en) * | 2009-03-25 | 2011-11-01 | Denso International America, Inc. | Systems and methods for reducing power consumption in vehicle communication systems |
US20110014872A1 (en) * | 2009-07-16 | 2011-01-20 | Gary Wayne Langham | Apparatus for communicating signals |
US8687648B2 (en) * | 2009-07-17 | 2014-04-01 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Wireless transmission of data using an available channel of a spectrum |
TWI437827B (en) * | 2009-08-03 | 2014-05-11 | Wistron Neweb Corp | Wireless transmitter and related multimedia system |
US8693975B2 (en) * | 2009-08-21 | 2014-04-08 | Sirius Xm Radio Inc. | Docking unit and vehicle power adapter with frequency modulated audio signal injection for connecting portable media player and/or communications device to vehicle FM radio and audio system for playback of digital audio broadcast stream |
US9432442B2 (en) * | 2009-10-02 | 2016-08-30 | Ncomputing Inc. | System and method for a graphics terminal multiplier |
TW201119437A (en) | 2009-11-24 | 2011-06-01 | Grandex Internat Corp | Apparatus and method for automatic wireless link replacement |
KR20110068141A (en) * | 2009-12-15 | 2011-06-22 | 한국전자통신연구원 | Sensing apparatus, network system and controlling method on the basis of satellite |
WO2011094001A1 (en) | 2010-01-26 | 2011-08-04 | Sirius Xm Radio Inc. | Method of improving performance in a hierarchical modulation system |
US8548408B2 (en) * | 2010-06-11 | 2013-10-01 | Panasonic Automotive Systems Company Of America, Division Of Panasonic Corporation Of North America | Method and apparatus for utilizing modulation based audio correlation technique for maintaining dynamic FM station list in single tuner variant and assisting alternate frequency switching methodology in single tuner and dual tuner variants |
KR101269702B1 (en) * | 2010-10-20 | 2013-05-30 | 윤기정 | Device For Audio Control Using Multi-Dimensional Screen and Method of the same |
TW201220724A (en) | 2010-11-09 | 2012-05-16 | Grandex Internat Corp | Apparatus and method for automatic wireless link replacement |
US8571613B1 (en) * | 2011-11-17 | 2013-10-29 | Prospec Electronics of S.C., Inc. | Weatherproof radio receiver |
DE102013015101A1 (en) * | 2013-09-13 | 2015-04-02 | Schaidt Innovations Gmbh & Co. Kg | Method for displaying digital received signals and suitable device therefor |
KR102131862B1 (en) * | 2014-01-03 | 2020-07-08 | 삼성전자 주식회사 | Apparatus and method for providing radio broadcasting |
EP3228014B1 (en) * | 2014-12-05 | 2020-02-05 | Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. | System, method, and module for rf-signal coverage for automotive vehicles |
US9743362B1 (en) * | 2016-10-13 | 2017-08-22 | Intelligent Fusion Technology, Inc | Joint transmission power control method and transponded communication system |
NO345505B1 (en) * | 2017-10-06 | 2021-03-15 | Anywave As | Radio channel identification device and method. |
US10834356B1 (en) * | 2019-09-11 | 2020-11-10 | Silicon Laboratories Inc. | System, apparatus and method for providing remote tuner options in a vehicle entertainment system |
Family Cites Families (34)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3028488A (en) | 1960-02-01 | 1962-04-03 | Hughes Aircraft Co | Satellite communication relay system utilizing modulation conversion |
US3546386A (en) | 1968-12-12 | 1970-12-08 | Nasa | Satellite communication system and method |
US4130801A (en) | 1976-03-31 | 1978-12-19 | Jack Prygoff | Audio message broadcast system |
US4069455A (en) | 1976-11-11 | 1978-01-17 | General Electric Company | Arrangement for maintaining reception of a radio receiver on the stronger of two signals |
SE428338B (en) | 1981-11-16 | 1983-06-20 | Mobiltelefonservice Ab | DEVICE FOR RADIO COMMUNICATION IN ATMINSTONE A DIRECTION IN A LARGER BUILDING OR LIKE |
US4734897A (en) | 1985-11-13 | 1988-03-29 | Recoton Corporation | Cassette adapter for playback device, such as a compact disk player |
US4850034A (en) * | 1987-08-27 | 1989-07-18 | Campbell Mark E | Method and apparatus for installing a cellular telephone in a vehicle |
DE69029619T2 (en) * | 1989-08-11 | 1997-05-22 | Nec Corp | Portable radio transceiver system with improved adapter for transceivers and / or improved received signal control arrangement |
US5073976A (en) | 1989-11-30 | 1991-12-17 | Ford Motor Company | Signal-to-noise ratio indicating circuit for fm receivers |
DE4111705C2 (en) * | 1990-04-28 | 1998-03-19 | Pioneer Electronic Corp | Sound signal modulation system |
US5214787A (en) | 1990-08-31 | 1993-05-25 | Karkota Jr Frank P | Multiple audio channel broadcast system |
US5455823A (en) | 1990-11-06 | 1995-10-03 | Radio Satellite Corporation | Integrated communications terminal |
US5239540A (en) * | 1990-11-27 | 1993-08-24 | Scientific-Atlanta, Inc. | Method and apparatus for transmitting, receiving and communicating digital data signals with corresponding program data signals which describe the digital data signals |
US5408686A (en) * | 1991-02-19 | 1995-04-18 | Mankovitz; Roy J. | Apparatus and methods for music and lyrics broadcasting |
US5161251A (en) * | 1991-02-19 | 1992-11-03 | Mankovitz Roy J | Apparatus and methods for providing text information identifying audio program selections |
US5319716A (en) * | 1991-09-17 | 1994-06-07 | Recoton Corporation | Wireless CD/automobile radio adapter |
JPH05131881A (en) * | 1991-11-13 | 1993-05-28 | Honda Access:Kk | Radio telephone equipment for automobile |
DE69411062T2 (en) | 1993-03-31 | 1999-01-21 | Philips Electronics Nv | Cassette adapter for a playback drive with front loading or side loading |
JP2901170B2 (en) | 1993-05-27 | 1999-06-07 | ケイディディ株式会社 | Satellite / land mobile communication system integration method |
US5572442A (en) | 1994-07-21 | 1996-11-05 | Information Highway Media Corporation | System for distributing subscription and on-demand audio programming |
US5828951A (en) | 1994-08-29 | 1998-10-27 | Nec Corporation | Mobile satellite terminal equipment |
WO1996032783A1 (en) * | 1995-04-11 | 1996-10-17 | Mold-Tech Plastics Limited Partnership | Interface for portable communications device |
US5732324A (en) | 1995-09-19 | 1998-03-24 | Rieger, Iii; Charles J. | Digital radio system for rapidly transferring an audio program to a passing vehicle |
US5862235A (en) | 1995-09-27 | 1999-01-19 | Thomas Consumer Electronics, Inc. | Multiple broadcast channel transmitter arrangment |
US5797088A (en) * | 1995-10-30 | 1998-08-18 | Stamegna; Ivano | Vehicular audio system incorporating detachable cellular telephone |
JP3603493B2 (en) * | 1996-08-16 | 2004-12-22 | ソニー株式会社 | Connection device |
US5867794A (en) * | 1996-09-20 | 1999-02-02 | Ericsson Inc. | Audio-output for a portable radio telephone utilizing a vehicle's AM/FM radio |
US6002924A (en) * | 1996-12-31 | 1999-12-14 | Aor, Ltd. | Full-spectrum all-mode radio receiver apparatus and method |
US5794138A (en) * | 1997-02-26 | 1998-08-11 | Cd Radio Inc. | Satellite broadcast system receiver |
US6023616A (en) | 1998-03-10 | 2000-02-08 | Cd Radio Inc. | Satellite broadcast receiver system |
JP4009789B2 (en) * | 1997-10-09 | 2007-11-21 | ソニー株式会社 | Transmitter |
US6067447A (en) * | 1997-11-18 | 2000-05-23 | Zucker; Leo | Wireless coupled adapter for decoding information from a radio signal to which a receiver is tuned |
US6493546B2 (en) * | 1999-03-05 | 2002-12-10 | Xm Satellite Radio Inc. | System for providing signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver using a wireless link |
US6272328B1 (en) * | 1999-05-12 | 2001-08-07 | Xm Satellite Radio Inc. | System for providing audio signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver via a DC power line |
-
1999
- 1999-03-05 US US09/263,207 patent/US6493546B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2000
- 2000-03-02 CA CA002366677A patent/CA2366677C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2000-03-02 AU AU33917/00A patent/AU3391700A/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-03-02 WO PCT/US2000/005439 patent/WO2000052984A1/en active Application Filing
-
2002
- 2002-11-07 US US10/289,255 patent/US6810233B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2366677A1 (en) | 2000-09-08 |
WO2000052984A1 (en) | 2000-09-08 |
US20030060219A1 (en) | 2003-03-27 |
AU3391700A (en) | 2000-09-21 |
US20020058475A1 (en) | 2002-05-16 |
US6810233B2 (en) | 2004-10-26 |
US6493546B2 (en) | 2002-12-10 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CA2366677C (en) | System for providing signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver using a wireless link | |
US6272328B1 (en) | System for providing audio signals from an auxiliary audio source to a radio receiver via a DC power line | |
US6256303B1 (en) | Wireless broadcast link to remote receiver | |
US6549774B1 (en) | Digital audio service satellite receiver having switchable operating modes for stationary or mobile use | |
US6782239B2 (en) | Wireless output input device player | |
US7062238B2 (en) | Radio frequency selection method and system for audio channel output | |
US5628056A (en) | Apparatus for converting TV audio signals for reception on a nearby AM and/or FM receiver | |
US20080200125A1 (en) | Radio Broadcasting Device | |
US20050003772A1 (en) | IBOC broadcast receiver | |
US20080212785A1 (en) | Appliance for Converting Digital Audio Broadcast (Dab) Signals | |
US5689822A (en) | Wireless coupled adapter for decoding information from a broadcast signal to which a radio is tuned | |
CA2220312C (en) | Radio receiver and rebroadcaster | |
US6067447A (en) | Wireless coupled adapter for decoding information from a radio signal to which a receiver is tuned | |
US20050197083A1 (en) | System and method for the adaptation of received digital data | |
US6950626B2 (en) | Receiver having retransmission function | |
US7095866B1 (en) | Wireless 900 MHz broadcast link | |
JPH0683091B2 (en) | Radio receiver | |
US20110092156A1 (en) | Short Range FM Modulator/Transmitter and System Incorporating Same | |
US7415259B2 (en) | Automatic gain control for satellite digital audio radio service receiver, method of automatically controlling gain and SDARS receiver incorporating the same | |
JP4076912B2 (en) | IBOC broadcast receiver | |
JP4017619B2 (en) | Wireless redistribution system for terrestrial digital TV broadcasting | |
US20060126716A1 (en) | Digital remodulation | |
US20160226609A1 (en) | Device and method for reproducing digital receiver signals | |
KR101086187B1 (en) | Wireless listening system for television and control method thereof | |
KR100698116B1 (en) | Display device capable output intensity check and method for setting radio frequency favourite channel |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
EEER | Examination request | ||
MKLA | Lapsed |