Apparatus and methods for accessing information relating to radio and television programs

Abstract

Apparatus and methods are provided for ordering supplemental information about programs playing at a broadcast receiver. One embodiment is a method for providing information to a user from an information depository. The method includes the steps of reproducing in the vicinity of each of a plurality of users, programs from one of a plurality of broadcast stations, recording upon command by a user, an identification of a station and a time of a program on the station for which supplemental information is desired by the user, entering the recorded station identification and time into one of a plurality of information exchange terminals, coupling the information exchange terminal to the information depository to transmit information therebetween; and identifying a correspondence between the entered station identification and time and a program in a station log to obtain the desired supplemental information. The method additionally includes the steps of compiling a station log of stations, program times, and program identifiers for programs on the stations and mapping the program identifiers in the log to supplemental information relating to specific programs.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for providing information to a user from an information depository, the method comprising the steps of:

reproducing in the vicinity of each of a plurality of users, programs from one of a plurality of broadcast stations;

recording upon command by a user, an identification of a station and a time of a program on the station for which supplemental information is desired by the user;

entering the recorded station identification and time into one of a plurality of information exchange terminals;

coupling the information exchange terminal to the information depository to transmit information therebetween; and

identifying a correspondence between the entered station identification and time and a program in a station log to obtain the desired supplemental information; and recording the number of times a first program in the station log is identified as corresponding to entered station identifications and times.

2. The method of claim 1, additionally comprising the steps of compiling a station log of stations, program times, and program identifiers for programs on the stations and mapping the program identifiers in the log to supplemental information relating to specific programs.

3. The method of claim 2 wherein the step of identifying a correspondence between the entered station identification and time to a program in a station log to obtain the desired supplemental information comprises the step of searching the station log for a station, program time, and program identifier of a program that corresponds to the entered station identification and time.

4. The method of claim 3, additionally comprising the step of outputting the obtained supplemental information.

5. The method of claim 4, in which the outputting step comprises printing out the information.

6. The method of claim 4, in which the outputting step comprises presenting the information on a display device.

7. The method of claim 4, in which the station log is compiled at the information exchange terminals and the supplemental information is stored at the information depository, the program identifiers are transmitted from the information exchange terminals to the information depository, and the supplemental information is transmitted from the information depository to the terminals.

8. The method of claim 4, in which the station log is compiled at the information exchange terminals and the supplemental information is stored at the information exchange terminals.

9. The method of claim 2, additionally comprising the step of transmitting program times and program identifiers from each station to the place of compiling the station log.

10. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of transmitting program times and program identifiers from each station to the place of compiling the station log comprises the step of transmitting the program times and program identifiers from each station in a SCA FM band.

11. The method of claim 9 wherein the step of transmitting program times and program identifiers from each station to the place of compiling the station log comprises the step of transmitting the program times and program identifiers from each station in a television vertical blanking interval.

12. A method for providing information to a user from an information depository, the method comprising the steps of:

reproducing in the vicinity of each of a plurality of users, programs from one of a plurality of broadcast stations;

providing users with a memory card having a clock and a plurality of keys on its surface, each key corresponding to a station;

placing over the keys a transparent overlay within an insert receiving pocket, the transparent overlay inserted in the insert receiving pocket and identifying the stations corresponding to the keys;

pressing one of the keys to record in the memory card the station identification and time of the key press;

entering the recorded station identification and time into one of a plurality of information exchange terminals;

coupling the information exchange terminal to the information depository to transmit information therebetween; and

identifying a correspondence between the entered station identification and time and a program in a station log to obtain the desired supplemental information.

13. The method of claim 12 additionally comprising the steps of:

coupling the card to an information exchange terminal;

transmitting the stored station identification and time from the information exchange terminal to the information depository;

obtaining from the information depository the supplementary information;

transmitting the supplementary information from the information depository to the information exchange terminal; and

outputting the supplementary information at the information exchange terminal.

14. The method of claim 13, in which the step of coupling the card to an information exchange terminal comprises the steps of:

reading from the card a data and time (DT1) representing the last time the card was coupled to an information exchange terminal;

reading from the card the current time on the clock;

calculating the difference in time (T1) between the card clock time and time read from a clock in the information exchange terminal;

calculating the difference in time (T2) between DT1 and the information exchange terminal clock current time;

calculating the card clock error rate T1/T2;

applying the error rate to correct the stored time of the combination of station identification and time;

setting the clock in the card to the correct time; and

storing the current date and time (DT1) into the card memory.

15. The method of claim 13, in which the outputting step comprises printing out the information or presenting the information on a display device.

16. The method of claim 13 wherein the information exchange terminal comprises an automated teller machine.

17. The method of claim 13 wherein the information exchange terminal comprises a point of sale terminal.

18. The method of claim 12 additionally comprising the steps of:

coupling the card to an information exchange terminal;

transmitting the stored station identification and time from the information exchange terminal to the information depository; and

merging the supplementary information into a charge card accounting statement.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein the information exchange terminal comprises an automated teller machine.

20. The method of claim 18 wherein the information exchange terminal comprises a point of sale terminal.

21. A method for providing information to a user from an information depository, the method comprising the steps of:

reproducing in the vicinity of each of a plurality of users, programs from one of a plurality of broadcast stations;

coupling a card having a memory to an apparatus for receiving stations, the apparatus having a clock, a station selection controller, and a command key;

selecting a station with the controller;

storing in the memory of the card a station identification for the station selected by the controller and the time read from the clock whenever the command key is activated;

entering the recorded station identification and time into one of a plurality of information exchange terminals;

coupling the information exchange terminal to the information depository to transmit information therebetween; and

identifying a correspondence between the entered station identification and time and a program in a station log to obtain the desired supplemental information.

22. The method of claim 21 wherein the apparatus comprises a radio.

23. The method of claim 21 wherein the apparatus comprises a television.

24. The method of claim 21 wherein the apparatus comprises a remote controller.

25. The method of claim 21 additionally comprising the steps of:

coupling the card to an information exchange terminal;

transmitting the stored station identification and time from the information exchange terminal to the information depository; and

merging the supplementary information into a charge card accounting statement.

26. The method of claim 25 wherein the information exchange terminal comprises an automated teller machine and further comprises the steps of:

assigning a unique identification symbol to each user;

printing the desired supplemental information on a statement that is unique to the user; and

printing the user identification symbol on the statement.

27. The method of claim 25 wherein the information exchange terminal comprises a point of sale terminal and further comprises the steps of:

assigning a unique identification symbol to each user;

printing the desired supplemental information on a statement that is unique to the user; and

printing the user identification symbol on the statement.

28. A method for transferring information between a plurality of users and an information depository, the method comprising the steps of:

recording on portable memory cards user responses and the time of each response;

carrying the memory cards to information exchange terminals that have card receiving slots;

connecting the information exchange terminals to the information depository to transmit information therebetween; and

inserting the memory cards in the slots to transmit the combinations of times and user responses recorded on the cards to the information exchange terminals.

29. The method of claim 28, in which a plurality of responses and the time of the responses are recorded on the cards before the cards are inserted in the slots.

30. The method of claim 28, additionally comprising the step of transmitting to the information depository the responses and time of each response transmitted to a terminal.

31. The method of claim 30, additionally comprising the step of recording at the information depository the number of like responses.

32. The method of claim 30 additionally comprising the step of transmitting from the information depository to the information exchange terminals information relevant to the responses and the time of each response transmitted to such terminals from the cards.

33. The method of claim 32, additionally comprising the step of outputting at the information exchange terminals information transmitted from the information depository.

34. The method of claim 33, in which the outputting step comprises printing out the information.

35. The method of claim 33, in which the outputting step comprises presenting the information on a display device.

36. The method of claim 28, additionally comprising the step of reproducing in the vicinity of the card a broadcast from a radio or a television station, the responses being radio or television stations.

37. The method of claim 36, additionally comprising the step of compiling a log of stations, program times, and program identifiers of programs broadcast from the stations, mapping the program identifiers in the log to supplemental information relating to the specific programs, and transmitting to a terminal supplemental information relating to the program for the station and time recorded on a memory card inserted in the slot of the terminal.

38. The method of claim 37, in which the station log is compiled at the information depository and the supplemental information is stored at the information depository.

39. The method of claim 37, in which the program log is compiled at the information exchange terminals and the supplemental information is stored at the information depository, the program identifiers are transmitted from the terminals to the information depository, and the supplemental information is transmitted from the information depository to the terminals.

40. The method of claim 37, additionally comprising the step of transmitting program times and identifiers for each station from each such station to the place of compilation of the program log.

41. The method of claim 28, in which the card has a plurality of keys on its surface to record the responses, the method additionally comprising the step of placing over the keys a transparent overlay with an insert receiving pocket and placing in the pocket an insert that identifies the responses corresponding to the keys.

42. A system for ordering supplemental information about programs currently playing at a broadcast receiver having a controllable station tuner, the apparatus comprising:

means for controlling the station to which the tuner is set;

a clock for designating current date and current time;

manual input means for issuing a store command;

a broadcast receiver or a remote controller for a broadcast receiver to which the controlling means, the clock, and the manual input means are integral;

a card removably coupled to the broadcast receiver or remote controller;

a memory integral to the card; and

means responsive to the controlling means, the clock, and the manual input means for storing in the memory data (SDT data) representative of the station to which the tuner is set, the current date, and the current time when a store command is issued.

43. The system of claim 42 wherein the means for controlling the station to which the tuner is set, the clock for designating current date and current time, and the manual input means for issuing a store command are integral to the broadcast receiver or a remote controller for the broadcast receiver.

44. The system of claim 42 further comprising:

an information depository for storing the supplemental information;

means for communicating between the information depository and the memory; and

means for mapping the SDT data read from the memory into the information depository to obtain the specific supplementary information about the respective programs represented by the SDT data.

45. The system of claim 44 wherein the means for communicating between the information depository and the memory comprises an automated teller machine (ATM).

46. The system of claim 45 further comprising means for outputting the supplementary data at the ATM.

47. The system of claim 45 further comprising means for merging the supplementary data onto an ATM accounting statement.

48. The system of claim 44 wherein the means for communicating between the information depository and the memory comprises a point of sale (POS) terminal.

49. The system of claim 48 further comprising means for outputting the supplemental data at the POS.

50. A system for ordering supplemental information about programs currently playing at a broadcast receiver, the apparatus comprising:

a clock for designating current date and current time;

a memory;

a card for issuing a store command designating a station on which the current program is playing on the broadcast receiver, the card being integral to the clock and the memory;

a plurality of keys on the surface of the card for issuing a store command designating particular stations;

a transparent overlay for placing over the keys;

a pocket for receiving the transparent overlay to identify the stations corresponding to the keys; and

means responsive to the clock and the means for issuing a store command designating the station for storing in the memory data (SDT data) representative of the station to which the tuner is set, the current date, and the current time when the store command is issued.

51. The system of claim 50 further comprising:

an information depository for storing the supplemental information;

means for communicating between the information depository and the memory; and

means for mapping the SDT data read from the memory into the information depository to obtain the specific supplementary information about the respective programs represented by the SDT data.

52. The system of claim 51, further comprising means for outputting the supplementary data.

53. A method for providing information to a user from an information depository, the method comprising the steps of:

reproducing in the vicinity of each of a plurality of users, programs from one of a plurality of broadcast stations;

recording upon command by a user, an identification of a station and a time of a program on the station for which supplemental information is desired by the user;

entering the recorded station identification and time into one of a plurality of information exchange terminals;

coupling the information exchange terminal to the information depository to transmit information therebetween;

transmitting the entered station identification and time from the information exchange terminal to the information depository;

compiling a station log of stations, program times, and program identifiers for programs on the stations, the station log being resident in the information depository;

mapping the program identifiers in the log to supplemental information relating to specific programs, the supplemental information being resident in the information depository;

searching the station log for a station, program time, and program identifier of a program that corresponds to the entered station identification and time to identify a correspondence between the entered station identification and time and a program in the station log;

transmitting the entered station identification and time from the information exchange terminal to the information depository;

obtaining from the information depository the supplementary information;

merging the supplementary information into a charge card accounting statement;

transmitting the supplementary information from the information depository to the information exchange terminal; and

outputting the supplementary information at the information exchange terminal.

54. The method of claim 53, in which the responding step comprises repeating an action a number of times in rapid succession.

55. The method of claim 54, in which the action is depressing an answer key on a control panel.

56. A method for collecting audience responses to broadcast inquiries comprising the steps of:

broadcasting from a station a program that includes one or more questions to be answered by the program audience;

receiving the broadcast program at the location of each member of the audience;

reproducing the program at the member location;

responding to a question included in the reproduced program;

storing in a memory at the member location data including the day and time of the response, the station from which the reproduced program is being received when the response is made, and the answer to the question; and

downloading the stored data to a common file to count the answers.

57. The method of claim 56, in which the responding step comprises executing an action at a particular time.

58. The method of claim 56, in which the responding step comprises depressing an answer key on a control panel, the number of times the key is depressed representing the answer to the question.

59. The method of claim 56, in which the responding step comprises depressing an answer key on a control panel, the instant in time relative to the reproduction of the question that the key is depressed representing the answer to the question.

60. An apparatus for ordering auxiliary information about programs transmitted or broadcast from a radio or television station, the apparatus comprising:

clock means comprising a clock/calendar for maintaining a current date and a current time;

a plurality of input keys for activating a station selection, each of the input keys corresponding to one of a plurality of stations;

a memory removable from the remainder of the apparatus for transport to a central location; and

control means responsive to an activation of one of the plurality of input means for storing into the memory the current date and the current time from the clock means and an identifier for the station corresponding to the activated input means.

61. An apparatus for ordering auxiliary information about programs transmitted or broadcast from a radio or television station, the apparatus comprising:

a first keyboard mounted to a first side of the apparatus for providing a first plurality of keys for activating a station selection, each of the keys corresponding to one of a plurality of stations;

a first transparent holder overlaying the first keyboard and attached to the apparatus for holding a media identifying the keys on the first keyboard;

a first electrical contact on the first side of the apparatus;

a second electrical contact on a second side of the apparatus, the second side essentially parallel to the first side and the second electrical contact aligned to be along a line normal to the first and second sides, the line passing through the first electrical contact;

clock means for maintaining a current date and a current time;

a memory; and

control means responsive to an activation of one of the plurality of keys for storing into the memory the current date and the current time from the clock and an identifier for the station corresponding to the activated key.

62. The apparatus of claim 61 further comprising:

a second keyboard mounted to the second side of the apparatus for providing a second plurality of keys for activating a station selection, each of the keys corresponding to one of a plurality of stations; and

a second transparent holder overlaying the second keyboard and attached to the apparatus for holding a media identifying the keys on the second keyboard.

63. The apparatus of claim 62 further comprising:

a first printed media inserted into the first transparent holder; and

a second printed media inserted into the second transparent holder.

64. The apparatus of claim 62 wherein:

the first keyboard comprises a membrane keyboard; and

the second keyboard comprises a membrane keyboard.

65. The apparatus of claim 61 further comprising a beeper.

66. An apparatus for retrieving auxiliary information about programs transmitted from a radio or television station, the apparatus comprising:

means for reading from a device at least one first data set, each first data set having a date, time and station identification and each first data set stored on the device, the date and time of a first data set being stored on the device upon a command from a user to store a current date and time and a station identification corresponding to a station;

the reading means comprising a slot for accepting the device, the slot having two terminals for mating with two electrical contacts on the device;

means for receiving a station log from at least a first station, the station log listing a station identification and second data sets, each second data set having a date, time and program identifier for a program transmitted on the first station;

means for comparing the date, time and station identification for a first data set read from the device to a station log having a corresponding station identification to determine whether a second data set listed in the station log has a date and time equal to the date and time for a first data set read from the device and, if so, reading the program identifier for the second data set; and

means for accessing auxiliary data for the program corresponding to the program identifier.

67. The apparatus of claim 66 further comprising means for displaying the accessed auxiliary data; and

means for printing the accessed auxiliary data.

68. The apparatus of claim 66 wherein the means for receiving a station log from at least a first station comprises a modem.

69. The apparatus of claim 66 wherein the means for receiving a station log from at least a first station comprises a scanning SCA FM receiver.

70. The apparatus of claim 66 wherein the means for receiving a station log from at least a first station comprises a vertical blanking interval decoder.

71. The apparatus of claim 66 wherein the means for comparing comprises a computer.

72. The apparatus of claim 66 wherein the means for accessing auxiliary data for the program corresponding to the program identifier comprises:

a computer server having storage of the auxiliary data; and

a modem for communicating to the computer server.

73. The apparatus of claim 66 wherein the means for accessing auxiliary data for the program corresponding to the program identifier, comprises means for accessing a memory in the apparatus.

74. The apparatus of claim 66 further comprising:

means for determining that a series of first data sets read from the device have the same station identification and each first data set in the series has a date and time within a preset time of another first data set in the series;

means for counting the number of first data sets in the series to obtain a count;

means for receiving a station data log from at least a first station, the station data log listing a station identification and third data sets, each third data set having the dates, times and a number corresponding to a transmission on the first station; and

means for comparing a date and time and the station identification in the series read from the device and the obtained count to the station data log having a corresponding station identification to determine whether a third data set listed in the station data log has a date and time approximately equal to the date and time in a first data set read from the device and a number equal to the obtained count.

75. The apparatus of claim 74 further comprising means for issuing a reward, if the means for comparing determines that a third data set listed in the station data log has a date and time approximately equal to the date and time in a first data set read from the device and a number equal to the obtained count.

76. The apparatus of claim 75 wherein the means for issuing a reward comprises a means for printing a coupon.

77. The apparatus of claim 66 further comprising:

means for storing a plurality of information sets for radio stations, each information set including for a radio station, station call letters, station frequency, and programming type;

means for displaying the station information to a user;

means for a user to select stations from the displayed station information; and

means for printing the station information for the user selected stations on a media in a format adaptable for placing the printed media adjacent to keys on a device for identifying the stations corresponding to the keys.

78. The apparatus of claim 66 further comprising:

means for storing a plurality of information sets for television stations, each information set including for a television station, station call letters, station channel, and programming type;

means for displaying the station information to a user;

means for a user to select stations from the displayed station information; and

means for printing station information for the user selected stations on a media in a format adaptable for placing the printed media adjacent to keys on a device for identifying the stations corresponding to the keys.

79. A system for providing auxiliary information about programs transmitted or broadcast from at least one station, the system comprising:

A. means for ordering auxiliary information about programs, the means comprising:

clock means for maintaining a current date and a current time;

a plurality of input means for activating a station selection, each of the input means corresponding to one of a plurality of stations;

a memory; and

control means responsive to an activation of one of the plurality of input means for storing into the memory first data sets each having a current date and the current time read from the clock means and a station identifier for the station corresponding to the activated input means;

B. at least one station, each station comprising:

a means for maintaining a station log listing a station identification and second data sets each having dates, times and program identifiers for each program transmitted from the station; and

means for communicating the station log; and

C. a plurality of automated information machines comprising:

means for receiving station logs from the means for communicating;

means for reading from the memory at least a first data set having a date, time and station identification; and

means for comparing the first data sets to the received station log having an identical station identification to determine whether a second data set listed in the station log has a date and time equal to the first data set date and time read from the memory and, if so, reading the program identifier for the data set; and

means for accessing auxiliary data for the program corresponding to the program identifier.

80. The system of claim 79 wherein the means for maintaining a station log comprises:

a memory;

a clock/calendar for maintaining a current date and current time; and

a means for storing a program identifier in the memory and the current date and the current time read from the clock/calendar when the program is transmitted from the station.

81. The system of claim 79 wherein the means for communicating the station log comprises a modem.

82. The system of claim 81 wherein the means for receiving station logs from the means for communicating comprises a modem.

83. The system of claim 79 wherein:

the means for communicating the station log comprises an SCA generator; and

the means for receiving station logs from the means for communicating comprises a scanning SCA FM receiver.

84. The system of claim 79, wherein:

the means for communicating the station log comprises means for inserting data into a vertical blanking interval of a video signal; and

the means for receiving station logs comprises a vertical blanking interval decoder.

85. A method for providing auxiliary information about programs transmitted or broadcast from stations, the method comprising the steps of:

initializing a first device having a clock/calendar by setting the clock/calendar to the correct date and time and loading into the first device a plurality of station identifications for identifying stations;

storing first data sets in the first device including a date and time read from the clock/calendar and a station identification whenever a user activates one of a plurality of input devices corresponding to the station identification;

maintaining a station log for each station, the station log listing a station identification and second data sets each second data set having a date, time and program identifier corresponding to a date and time for transmitting a program on a station;

communicating the station logs to a second device;

reading from the first device into the second device the stored first data sets each including a stored date, time and station identification;

comparing the date, time and station identification for each read first data set to the received station log having an identical station identification to determine whether a second data set listed in the station log has a date and time equal to the first data set date and time;

reading the program identifier for a second data set in the station log, if the step of comparing determines a second data set listed in the station log has a date and time equal to the date and time for a first data set; and

accessing auxiliary data for the program corresponding to the program identifier.

86. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of initializing a first device comprises the step of loading user identifier data and a first device identifier data into the first device.

87. The method of claim 86 wherein the step of initializing a first device comprises the step of selecting the stations for which station identifications are loaded into the device.

88. The method of claim 87 wherein the step of initializing a first device comprises the step of printing station data onto a media attachable to the first device for identifying the plurality of input devices on the first input device.

89. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of maintaining a station log for each station comprises the step of maintaining a station data log listing third data sets, each third data set having a date, time and number corresponding to a transmission from a station.

90. The method of claim 89 wherein the step of storing data in the first device comprises the step of activating an input device corresponding to a station identification N times to input a number in response to a transmission from the station, and storing a first data set including a current date and time read from the clock/calendar and a station identification each time an input device corresponding to the station identification is activated.

91. The method of claim 90 wherein the step of reading from the first device into the second device stored first data sets each including a stored date, time and station identification comprises the step of:

determining that a series of first data sets read from the first device have the same station identification and each first data set in the series has a date and time within a preset time of an another first data set in the series;

counting the number of first data sets in the series to obtain a count; and

comparing a date and time in one of the first data sets in the series and the station identification in the series read from the device and the obtained count to a station data log listing third data sets, each third data set having a date, time and number corresponding to a transmission from a station to determine whether a third data set listed in the station data log has a date and time approximately equal to the date and time in a first data set read from the first device and a number equal to the obtained count.

92. The method of claim 91 further comprising the step of issuing a reward, if the step of comparing determines that a third data set listed in the station data log has a date and time approximately equal to the date and time in a first data set read from the first device and a number equal to the obtained count.

93. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of communicating the station log to a second device comprises the step of sending the station log via telephone.

94. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of communicating the station log to a second device comprises the step of sending the station log via a SCA FM transmission.

95. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of communicating the station log to a second device comprises the step of sending the station log via data inserted in a vertical blanking interval.

96. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of storing data in the first device further comprises the steps of:

beeping periodically, if it determined that a maximum amount of data is stored in the first device; and

counting the number of times the step of storing is performed on a day and preventing the step of storing, if the number of times data the step of storing is performed on the day exceeds a predetermined number.

97. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of reading from the first device into the second device comprises the step of updating the clock/calendar in the first device to the correct time.

98. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of reading from the first device into the second device the stored first data sets each including a stored date, time and station identification comprises the step of determining whether the number of first data sets read from the first device indicates an abnormal rate of using the first device.

99. The method of claim 98 wherein the step of determining comprises the steps of:

counting the number of read first data sets to obtain a count;

reading a last readout date from the first device;

reading a number of last data sets read from the first device;

calculating a ratio by adding the number of last data sets and the count to obtain an addend, subtracting the last readout date from the current date to obtain the number of days since the last readout, and dividing the addend by the number of days since the last readout;

comparing the ratio to a threshold; and

identifying the first device as being misused, if the ratio exceeds the threshold; and

refusing to perform the steps of reading the program identifier for the data set in the station log and accessing auxiliary data for the program corresponding to the program identifier, if the ratio exceeds the threshold.

100. The method of claim 85 further comprising the step of printing the accessed auxiliary data.

101. The method of claim 85 wherein the step of reading from the first device into the second device the stored first data sets each including a stored date, time and station identification comprises the step of monitoring the date, time and station identification data for audience usage.

102. The method of claim 85 further comprising the steps of:

comparing the current date in the clock/calendar in the first device to a last clock update date stored in the first device; and

periodically beeping to warn a user to have clock updated by the second device, if the current date is greater than a set number of days from the last clock update date.

103. The method of claim 85 further comprising the steps of:

comparing the current date in the clock/calendar in the first device to each first data set stored in the first device to determine if a first data set having a date, time and station identification has a date that is greater than a set number of days from a last readout date stored in the first device; and

deleting a first data set, if the first data set has a date that is greater than the set number of days from the last readout date.

104. A system for tracking data, the system comprising:

a first device comprising:

clock means for maintaining a current date;

means for storing at least one data set, the data set including a merchant identification, a date of last visit to a merchant and a count; and

a second device comprising:

means for reading from the first device into the second device the stored first data sets each including a merchant identification, a date of last visit to a merchant and a count;

means for comparing the read merchant identification to a merchant identifier stored in the second device;

means for writing the merchant identifier into the first device to store the merchant identifier as a merchant identification and setting a count equal to zero in the first device, the count associated with the merchant identification written into the first device, if the read merchant identification does not compare to a merchant identifier stored in the second device;

means for increasing the count by 1, if a transaction is performed with the merchant corresponding to the merchant identification;

means for comparing the count to a threshold value;

means for storing the count in the first device and setting the date of last visit to the merchant in the first device to the current date, if the count is less than the threshold; and

means for rewarding a user of the first device, setting the count in the first device to zero, and setting the date of last visit to the merchant in the first device to the current date, if the count is equal or more than the threshold.

105. A method for tracking data, the method comprising the steps of:

storing at least one first data set in a first device, the first data set including a merchant identification, a date of last visit to a merchant and a count;

reading from the first device into a second device the stored first data sets each including a merchant identification, a date of last visit to a merchant and a count;

comparing the read merchant identification to a merchant identifier stored in the second device;

writing the merchant identifier into the first device to store the merchant identifier as a merchant identification and setting a count equal to zero in the first device, the count associated with the merchant identification written into the first device, if the read merchant identification does not compare to a merchant identifier stored in the second device;

increasing the count by 1, if a transaction is performed with the merchant corresponding to the merchant identification stored in the first device;

comparing the count to a threshold value;

storing the count in the first device and setting the date of last visit to the merchant in the first device to the current date, if the count is less than the threshold; and

rewarding a user of the first device, setting the count in the first device to zero, and setting the date of last visit to the merchant in the first device to the current date, if the count is equal or more than the threshold.

106. A system for ordering auxiliary information about items published in publications, the system comprising:

a first device comprising:

clock means for maintaining a current date;

a plurality of publication keys for selecting a publication;

a plurality of number entry keys;

a memory; and

control means responsive to a entry of a number using the number entry keys and to an activation of one of the plurality of publication keys for storing into the memory the current date from the clock means, the number, and an identifier for the publication corresponding to the activated publication key; and

a second device comprising:

means for reading from the memory data sets each having a date, a number, and an identifier for a publication; and

means for comparing each data set to a publication log for a publication corresponding to an identifier for a publication in the data set and approximately corresponding to a date in the data set, to determine whether a second data set listed in the publication log has a number matching the number for a data set read from the memory; and

means for accessing auxiliary data for the item in the publication by using a matched number.

107. The system of claim 106 further comprising means for printing the auxiliary data.

108. A system for storing and accessing a list of book identifiers, the system comprising:

a first device comprising:

clock means for maintaining a current date;

a booklist key;

a plurality of number entry keys;

a memory; and

control means responsive to a entry of a number using the number entry keys and to an activation of the booklist key for storing into the memory the current date from the clock means and the entered number; and

a second device comprising:

means for reading from the memory data sets each having a date and a number;

means for comparing a number of each data set to a number identifying a transaction;

means for canceling a transaction, if a number of a data set compares to a number identifying a transaction; and

means for completing the transaction, if a number of a data set does not compare to a number identifying a transaction.

109. The system of claim 108 wherein the number is an ISBN number.

110. A system for storing and accessing a list of book identifiers, the system comprising:

a first device comprising:

clock means for maintaining a current date;

a booklist key;

a plurality of number entry keys;

a memory; and

control means responsive to a entry of a number using the number entry keys and to an activation of the booklist key for storing into the memory the current date from the clock means and the entered number; and

a second device comprising:

means for reading from the memory data sets each having a date and a number;

means for comparing a number of each data set to a number identifying a transaction;

means for canceling the transaction, if a number of a data set compares to a number identifying a transaction; and

means for completing the transaction, if a number of a data set does not compare to a number identifying a transaction.

111. The system of claim 110 wherein the number is an ISBN number.

112. A system for storing and accessing a list of card numbers, the system comprising:

a first device comprising:

clock means for maintaining a current date;

a card key;

a plurality of number entry keys;

a memory; and

control means responsive to a entry of a number using the number entry keys and to an activation of the card key for storing into the memory the current date from the clock means and the entered number; and

a second device comprising:

means for reading from the memory data sets each having a date and a number; and

means for displaying the data sets to a user.

113. The system of claim 112 further comprising means for selecting a number in the data set for use.

114. A method for ordering auxiliary information about items published in publications, the method comprising the steps of:

maintaining a current date;

using number entry keys for entering a number and an activation of one of a plurality of publication keys for storing into a memory the current date, the entered number, and an identifier for the publication corresponding to the activated publication key;

reading data sets in the memory each having a date, a number, and an identifier for a publication;

comparing each data set to a publication log for a publication corresponding to an identifier for a publication in the data set and approximately corresponding to a date in the data set, to determine whether a second data set listed in the publication log has a number matching the number for a data set read from the memory; and

accessing auxiliary data for the item in the publication by using a matched number.

115. The method of claim 114 further comprising the step of printing the auxiliary data.

116. A method for storing and accessing a list of book identifiers, the method comprising the steps of:

maintaining a current date;

using number entry keys for entering a number and an activation of a booklist key for storing into a memory the current date and the entered number;

reading from the memory data sets each having a date and a number;

comparing a number of each data set to a number identifying a transaction;

canceling the transaction, if a number of a data set compares to a number identifying a transaction; and

completing the transaction, if a number of a data set does not compare to a number identifying a transaction.

117. The method of claim 116 wherein the number is an ISBN number.

118. A method for storing and accessing a list of card numbers, the method comprising the steps of:

maintaining a current date;

using number entry keys for entering a card number and an activation of a card key for storing into a memory the current date and the entered card number;

reading from the memory data sets each having a date and a card number;

displaying the card numbers; and

selecting a number from a data set for a transaction.

119. Apparatus for collecting audience responses to broadcast inquiries comprising:

a clock for designating current date and current time;

a broadcast receiver having a controllable station tuner;

means for reproducing programs to which the tuner is set, including inquires;

manual input means for issuing responses to inquiries in the reproduced programs;

a memory for storing data; and

a microprocessor coupled to the clock, the tuner, the input means, and the memory, the microprocessor being programmed to store in the memory responses issued by the input means, the date and time designated by the clock when the responses are issued, and the station to which the tuner is set when the responses are issued.

120. The apparatus of claim 119, in which the input means comprises a single command key and the microprocessor is programmed to count the number of times the command key is actuated as the response.

121. The apparatus of claim 119, in which the input means comprises a plurality of command keys and the microprocessor is programmed to sense which key or keys are actuated as the response.

122. A method for collecting audience responses to broadcast inquiries comprising the steps of:

broadcasting from a station a program that includes one or more questions to be answered by the program audience;

receiving the broadcast program at the location of each member of the audience;

reproducing the program at the member location;

responding to a question included in the reproduced program;

storing in a memory at the member location data including the day and time of the response, the station from which the reproduced program is being received when the response is made, and the answer to the question; and

downloading the stored data to a common file to process the answers.

123. An apparatus for retrieving auxiliary information about programs transmitted from a radio or television station, the apparatus comprising:

means for reading from a device at least one first data set, each first data set having a date, time and station identification and each first data set stored in the device, the date and time of a first data set being stored in the device upon a command from a user to store a current date and time and a station identification corresponding to a station;

the reading means comprising a slot for accepting the device, the slot having means for electrically mating with the device;

means for receiving a station log from at least a first station, the station log listing a station identification and second data sets, each second data set having a date, time and program identifier for a program transmitted on the first station;

means for comparing the date, time and station identification for a first data set read from the device to a station log having a corresponding station identification to determine whether a second data set listed in the station log has a date and time equal to the date and time for a first data set read from the device and, if so, reading the program identifier for the second data set; and

means for accessing auxiliary data for the program corresponding to the program identifier.

124. A system for collecting information about programs currently playing at a broadcast receiver having a controllable station tuner, the apparatus comprising:

means for controlling the station to which the tuner is set;

a clock for designating current date and current time;

manual input means for issuing a store command;

a broadcast receiver or a remote controller;

a card removably coupled to the broadcast receiver or remote controller;

a memory integral to the card; and

means at least partially responsive to the controlling means and the clock for storing in the memory data representative of the station to which the tuner is set, the current date, and the current time when a store command is issued.

125. The system of claim 124, in which the storing means is also response to the controlling means.

126. The system of claim 124, in which the controlling means and the clock are integral.

127. The system of claim 124, additionally comprising means for downloading the data stored in the memory to an external device.

128. A method for transferring information between a plurality of users and a central information depository, the method comprising the steps of:

recording on portable memory cards user responses and the time of each response;

carrying the memory cards to information exchange terminals that have card receiving slots;

connecting the information exchange terminals to the central depository to transmit information therebetween; and

inserting the memory cards in the slots to transmit the combinations of times and user responses recorded on the cards to the information exchange terminals.

129. The method of claim 128, in which a plurality of responses and the time of the responses are recorded on the cards before the cards are inserted in the slots.

130. The method of claim 128, additionally comprising the step of transmitting to the central information depository the responses and time of each response transmitted to a terminal.

131. The method of claim 130, additionally comprising the step of recording at the central information depository the number of like responses.

132. The method of claim 128, additionally comprising the step of transmitting from the central information depository to the terminals information relevant to the responses and the time of each response transmitted to such terminals from the cards.

133. The method of claim 128, additionally comprising the step of outputting at the terminals information transmitted from the central information depository.

134. The method of claim 133, in which the outputting step comprises printing out the information.

135. The method of claim 133, in which the outputting step comprises presenting the information on a display device.

136. The method of claim 128, additionally comprising the step of reproducing in the vicinity of the card a broadcast from a radio station, the responses being radio stations.

137. The method of claim 136, additionally comprising the step of compiling a log of stations, program times, and program identifiers of programs broadcast from the stations, mapping the program identifiers in the log to supplemental information relating to the specific programs, and transmitting to a terminal supplemental information relating to the program for the station and time recorded on a memory card inserted in the slot of the terminal.

138. The method of claim 137, in which the station log is compiled at the central depository and the supplemental information is stored at the central depository.

139. The method of claim 137, in which the program log is compiled at the terminals and the supplemental information is stored at the central information depository, the program identifiers are transmitted from the terminals to the central information depository, and the supplemental information is transmitted from the central information depository to the terminals.

140. The method of claim 137, additionally comprising the step of transmitting program times and identifiers for each station from such station to the place of compilation of the program log.

141. The method of claim 128, additionally comprising the step of reproducing in the vicinity of the card a broadcast from a television station, the responses being television stations.

142. The method of claim 128 in which the card has a plurality of keys on its surface to record the responses, the method additionally comprising the step of placing over the keys a transparent overlay with an insert receiving pocket and placing in the pocket an insert that identifies the responses corresponding to the keys.

143. A method for collecting audience responses to broadcast information comprising the steps of:

broadcasting from a station information which may be responded to by the program audience;

receiving the broadcast program at the location of each member of the audience;

reproducing the program at the member location;

responding to the information included in the reproduced program by storing in a memory at the member location data including the day and time of the response, the station from which the reproduced program is being received when the response is made, and the response; and

transferring the stored data to a file for post-response analysis.

144. The method of claim 143, in which the step of storing the response comprises repeating the storage of response data a number of times in rapid succession.

145. The method of claim 144, in which the step of repeated storage of response data includes actuating one or more keys on a control panel.

146. The method of claim 144, in which the number of times the response data is stored represents the response.

147. The method of claim 143, in which the step of storing the response includes storing the response data at a particular time.

148. The method of claim 143, in which the step of storing the response includes the storage of response data, the instant in time relative to the reproduction of the information that the response data is stored representing the response.

149. A method of electronically controlling the use of premiums by a consumer comprising the steps of:

recording on a memory card data identifying a broadcast station, time, and day;

transmitting the recorded data to central data collection center;

relating the recorded data to a premium for a designated product at the center;

crediting a specified account with the premium at the center;

recording a purchase transaction for the product at a point of purchase;

transmitting the recorded transaction and an identification of the specified account to the center; and

debiting the account with the premium at the center.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates in general to broadcast media which includes radio and television and to apparatus and methods for obtaining information for transmitted programs.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A listener of radio may hear a song of interest and decides to buy it, but does not know the title or artist. Frequently the announcer of the radio station does not state the title, artist or other information of the song, or even if the information was announced, it was before the song played. The listener must wait until the song is heard again and hope that the title and artist are announced after the song. Even when the information of the song are announced and heard, there are situations where such information cannot easily be retained (such as when a listener is operating an automobile or simply when a listener does not have something to write on or write with).

The problem is especially true for commercials, for which the listeners usually must memorize information that are difficult to memorize, such as telephone numbers and addresses for ordering the products advertised. If listeners fail to remember these items of information, the effects of the commercials are diminished.

Similarly, a viewer of television may be scanning through different channels or stations and start watching a program that is already in progress. After a few minutes, the viewer may decide to view the show the next time it is on, because the viewer wants to see it in its entirety or the viewer may be watching something else. Therefore, the viewer must physically search through the current and subsequent TV program listings until the next showing of the program is found. This is time consuming and if several months pass, the viewer may forget the name of the show.

Despite the above described long-felt inconvenience to so many in the audience, no satisfactory solution has so far been found.

Another problem is the high cost of advertisements. An advertiser may only be able to finance a half-minute prime time commercial on television or radio. If a less expensive alternative communication channel is available for providing additional information (e.g. price quotes, store hours, details of a product, etc.) to listeners, the advertiser can then have more flexibility on how to spend the limited time and money available for media commercials. The listeners would access other information using the less expensive alternative communication channel.

The same alternative channel is also needed for newspapers and magazine advertisements which have a limited lifetime. For example, the Sunday paper real estate section typically lists homes which may only be available for viewing on that day. If a second channel of information is available, then information about the home can still be available to the readers even when the advertisement is taken off.

Despite the above identified economic benefits, a satisfactory and less expensive alternative channel of communication has yet to be found.

Prior art systems in this regard all require a station to broadcast the information in a secondary signal, concurrently with the broadcasting of the main program, and the listeners must be equipped with special decoder circuits for recovering the information. For example, the European radio broadcast systems (RDS) broadcast the identification of a program in the SCA band and require the listeners to have special receivers to decode and display this identification.

There is also a proposal to transmit identification of a television program during the vertical blanking interval (VBI) period. Unfortunately, special decoders are also needed under such method.

In a system described in patent application Ser. No. 07/806,152, filed Dec. 11, 1991 now abandoned, auxiliary information relating to a broadcast program or printed material is retrieved using a code which is broadcast or printed along with the program or print material. The code number is used for delayed recording from a television or a radio of a broadcast program containing the auxiliary information. However, this system does not retrieve information until the next day, and it requires a television and VCR for such retrieval.

Advertising rates for commercials of television programs are determined by the expected size of viewer audience for a predetermined number of television programs. These expectations are usually determined by the estimated audience sizes of previously broadcast shows. For example, for a weekly television series, the estimate of audience size for upcoming episodes is based on the estimated size of previously broadcast shows. In addition, advertising rates may be adjusted based on an "after the fact" estimation of the market share for the televised program.

The present systems for estimating market share involve survey evidence such as the Nielsen ratings. Previous market data was taken by selecting households to record their viewing habits. For example, a selected household might record in a written journal or diary when the television is turned on and turned off, what channels or stations are selected and the number of viewers in the room. This data may alternatively be collected by providing the user with an electronic device having a button that indicates turning on or off the television and the channel selected. Other systems are connected directly to the television that will monitor power on and off and the channel and time of the selected programs. The system is wired to a dedicated telephone line. When instructed, the electronics dump their memory over the phone line to a central computer for analysis. Each of these systems requires selecting individual households that represent an adequate sample of the general viewing audience and requires physically setting up the monitoring apparatus. These systems are inaccurate because the sample size is small, diary entries may be erroneous, or require viewer action.

However, despite its importance to advertisers and the media, a satisfactory method for gathering such data has yet to be found.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, this invention discloses apparatus for facilitating access of auxiliary information relating to a selected program broadcast from radio and television and to selected articles in a publication. The apparatus for facilitating access of auxiliary information from broadcast media comprises a memory, means for receiving an input signal, means responsive to the input signal for providing an instantaneous identification of the program as a function of the time instance at which the input signal is received and means for storing the identification in the memory.

In another aspect, this invention discloses a system for communicating information between an audience and at least one broadcast station. The system comprises an electronic program information retrieval system storing information relating to programs broadcast from the station, means coupled to the electronic program information retrieval system for receiving a request from the audience, and means responsive to the request for retrieving the information from the electronic program information retrieval system and transmitting the information to the audience. In an embodiment of this invention, means are provided in the electronic information retrieval system for collecting requests from an audience as data for estimating the size of the audience of a program.

In yet another aspect, this invention relates to a receiver of broadcast programs. The receiver comprises means for receiving broadcast programs from one of a plurality of stations at different frequencies, a clock continually providing a time measure in day, hour and minute, and means for instantaneously identifying a broadcast program, comprising a memory, means for receiving an input signal from a user, and means responsive to the input signal for storing a program identification into the memory. The program identification includes the time at which the input signal is received and an identification of the station broadcasting the program.

According to the invention, apparatus and methods are provided for ordering supplemental information about programs playing at a broadcast receiver. One embodiment is a method for providing information to a user from an information depository. The method includes the steps of reproducing in the vicinity of each of a plurality of users, programs from one of a plurality of broadcast stations, recording upon command by a user, an identification of a station and a time of a program on the station for which supplemental information is desired by the user, entering the recorded station identification and time into one of a plurality of information exchange terminals, coupling the information exchange terminal to the information depository to transmit information therebetween; and identifying a correspondence between the entered station identification and time and a program in a station log to obtain the desired supplemental information. The method additionally includes the steps of compiling a station log of stations, program times, and program identifiers for programs on the stations and mapping the program identifiers in the log to supplemental information relating to specific programs. The step of identifying a correspondence between the entered station identification and time to a program in a station log to obtain the desired supplemental information includes the step of searching the station log for a station, program time, and program identifier of a program that corresponds to the entered station identification and time.

Other objects and many of the attendant features of this invention will be more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed descriptions and considered in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference symbols designate like parts throughout the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the central processing station shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a radio/recorder unit which is one form of the receiver of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the radio/recorder unit of FIG. 3 in more detail;

FIGS. 5A-5C is a flow chart illustrating the steps performed by the CPU of the unit in FIG. 4 in response to actuation of keys on the unit 100 shown in FIG. 3;

FIGS. 6A-6D show different menus displayed on the radio/recorder unit of FIG. 3 during setup;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating the steps performed by a program information retrieval system to send information to the user;

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of another implementation of this invention for identifying a broadcast program;

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a design of an automatic information machine (AIM) wherein information on broadcast programs can be retrieved;

FIG. 10 is a diagram of another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an internal design of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10; and

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an internal design of an embodiment incorporated into a remote controller for a radio or television receiver.

FIGS. 13A-13C show a front and rear, and cross-section view, respectively, of an information card according to the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of an information card according to the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a diagram of the memory contents of an information card after initialization according to the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a diagram of a portion of the memory that has stored date, time, and station identification data according to the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a diagram of a system including TV and radio stations, a central station, automated information machines (AIMs), and information cards according to the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a diagram of an alternate system including TV and radio stations and automated information machines (AIMs) having wireless communication with the TV and radio stations according to the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram illustrating an interlaced raster scanning pattern of a conventional television;

FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram of a television video and data transmission system;

FIG. 21 is a timing diagram showing the vertical blanking interval (VBI) lines of field 1 and field 2 of a interlaced raster scanning pattern of a conventional television and data in the VBI according to the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a timing diagram of the standard data format (1.times.) for transmitting data in the VBI;

FIG. 23 is a timing diagram of the accelerated data format (2.times.) for transmitting data in the VBI.

FIG. 24A is a block diagram of a radio or TV station showing the maintenance of a station log and means for communicating the station log according to the present invention;

FIG. 24B is a diagram illustrating an entry in a station log according to the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a frequency spectrum illustrating SCA FM bands;

FIG. 26A is a diagram of an automated information machine (AIM) according to the present invention;

FIG. 26B is a block diagram of an automated information machine according to the present invention;

FIG. 27 is an alternate block diagram of an automated information machine using a personal computer according to the present invention;

FIG. 28 is a layout of a memory having stored, in the automated information machine, station information according to the present invention;

FIG. 29A is a diagram illustrating the format of the station information according to the present invention;

FIG. 29B is a diagram illustrating station information stored in a memory in the automated information machine according to the present invention;

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating the mapping of a station identification to a station log according to the present invention;

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing auxiliary information for a program according to the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a flow diagram for a method for maintaining a station log and periodically communicating the station log to automated information machines according to the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a flow diagram of a method for initializing an information card via an automated information machine according to the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a flow diagram of a method for selecting stations whose station identifications are stored in the information card and for which the automated information machine prints an insert for identifying keys on the information card keyboards according to the present invention;

FIGS. 35A-35J are example display screens shown on the automated information machine while initializing the information card according to the present invention;

FIG. 36 is a flow diagram of a method for storing a station identification, date and time (SDT) in an information card according to the present invention;

FIG. 37A is a flow diagram of a method for storing a number associated with a station identification in an information card according to the present invention;

FIG. 37B is a flow diagram of a method for storing a YES or NO answer in a information card according to the present invention;

FIG. 38 is a flow diagram of a method for indicating that the information card memory is full and for disabling the information card if the usage is abnormally high according to the present invention;

FIG. 39A is a flow diagram of a method for monitoring whether the clock/calendar in the information card has been updated according to the present invention;

FIG. 39B is a flow diagram of a method for erasing date, time and station identification entries in the information card that are older than 30 days according to the present invention;

FIG. 40A is a flow diagram of a method for the automated information machine to read data from an information card according to the present invention;

FIG. 40B is a flow diagram of a method for the automated information machine to compare the data read from the information card to station logs and accessing auxiliary data for programs according to the present invention;

FIG. 40C is a flow diagram of a method for determining that a series of entries in an information card represents a number according to the present invention;

FIG. 40D is a flow diagram of a method for determining that a validation code has been entered by user in the information card in response to a validation announcement according to the present invention;

FIG. 40E is a flow diagram of a method for determining that the use of an information card is abnormally high according to the present invention;

FIG. 41 is a flow diagram of a method for using the information card to record the number of transactions with a merchant according to the present invention;

FIG. 42 shows an information card having an insert for publications, cards, book lists, and a numerical keyboard according to the present invention;

FIG. 43 shows a portion of memory in the information card containing a mapping of keys to publication, a card, cancel, book list and number functions according to the present invention;

FIG. 44 is an advertisement having an information number printed in the advertisement for obtaining auxiliary information associated with the advertisement according to the present invention;

FIG. 45 shows a portion of memory in the information card containing entries as a result of a user pressing keys on the information card according to the present invention;

FIG. 46 shows a portion of memory in the auxiliary information memory according to the present invention;

FIGS. 47 and 48 are flow diagrams of methods for using the information card to access auxiliary information related to a publication according to the present invention;

FIGS. 49 and 50 are flow diagrams of a method for using the information card for book lists according to the present invention; and

FIG. 51 is a flow diagram of a method for using the information card to store card numbers according to the present invention.

FIG. 52 is a diagram illustrating a system of ATM and point-of-sale (POS) terminals interconnected via interchanges. A modified ATM terminal and a modified POS terminal are included according to the present invention.

FIG. 53 is a block diagram of a modified ATM terminal according to the present invention.

FIG. 54 is a block diagram of a modified POS terminal according to the present invention.

FIG. 55 is an unlabeled information card according to the present invention.

FIG. 56 is a station set-up worksheet according to the present invention.

FIG. 57 is a rear view of an information card according to the present invention.

FIG. 58 is a front view of an information card according to the present invention.

FIG. 59 is an example of a monthly credit card statement including data related to information card activity according to the present invention.

FIG. 60 is a flow diagram of a method for correcting clock errors according to the present invention.

FIG. 61 is a diagram illustrating the use of a smart card with a remote controller, television, or radio according to the present invention.

FIG. 62 is a block diagram of a remote controller, television, VCR, or radio or other similar apparatus for use with a smart card in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The various embodiments of this invention can all be used to provide auxiliary information concerning a program being played on a station to a user. In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3, a receiver includes a radio receiver, a memory, a clock, and a port for connection to a central station via a telephone line. When the user wishes to obtain auxiliary information concerning a received program, the user presses a button, which causes the station (the station the radio is tuned to), the day and the time (SDT), to be stored in the memory, which can later be downloaded to the central processor station for accessing the auxiliary information associated with the SDT for the program. In FIGS. 3 and 4, the memory and clock are housed with the radio. In the embodiment of FIG. 8 the memory and clock are separate from a radio or a television and the memory and clock are coupled via a connector to the radio or television. To access the auxiliary information the memory is uncoupled from the radio or television and plugged into an automated information machine (AIM) for accessing the auxiliary information associated with the SDTs for the programs stored in the memory. In FIG. 12, it is illustrated that the memory and clock can be incorporated into a remote controller for a radio or television. Since the remote controller controls the tuning of the radio, television, or other devices, the station is known and SDT information can be stored in memory upon command. The memory can be removed from the remote controller and plugged into an AIM for accessing the auxiliary information associated with the SDTs for the programs stored in the memory. In another embodiment, shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the clock and memory are in a stand alone information card, with a keyboard with keys that have been set up to correspond to certain stations. The user presses a key to store SDT information in the memory and then the information card can be connected to an AIM for accessing the auxiliary information associated with the SDTs for the programs stored in the memory.

In all the embodiments the auxiliary information can be obtained from an AIM, a central computer server, or a distributed data base accessed over a network. In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 53 and 54, the auxiliary information can be obtained from an automated teller machine (ATM) or a point of sale (POS) terminal. In another embodiment the auxiliary information is provided to a user with the user's credit card statement, as shown in FIG. 59.

In yet another embodiment a smart card with memory only, can be coupled to a radio, television, or remote controller, which contain a clock and a station controller for providing SDT to the smart card when the user presses a button on the radio, television, or remote controller to obtain auxiliary information about a program. The SDT is read from the smart card at a ATM or POS terminal to obtain the auxiliary information for the user.

The foregoing is a brief summary of some of the embodiments and in all the embodiments the broadcast stations are part of the system. The following is a detailed description of the embodiments.

With reference to FIG. 1, a broadcast transmitter 10 having an antenna 12 broadcasts a radio or television signal represented by 14 to a plurality of receivers 16a, 16b, 16c, . . . , which have respective antennas 18a, 18b, 18c, . . . . The radio or television signal typically carries a program such as news, music, drama, or commercial messages. When a listener or viewer, hereafter called a "user", at one of receivers 16a, 16, 16c, . . . wishes to receive more information about the subject of the program, hereafter called "auxiliary information", the user issues a store command by actuating a manual input device such as key or button. As described below, each receiver has a local real time clock that indicates time and day and a readout device that indicates the station or channel to which the receiver is tuned. Responsive to the store command, the station or channel, day, and time (SDT) is recorded in a memory at the receiver. As represented by a line 19, the recorded station, day and time (SDT) data is transmitted to a central processing station 20 with a user identification tag in one of a number of ways. For example, the SDT data could be stored on a removable memory chip that is carried or mailed to central station 20 by the listener or user. Or the SDT data could be transmitted by modem to central station 20 over a telephone line periodically in response to an interrogation command. The local real time clocks are synchronized to a master clock at central station 20, preferably through line 19. As represented by a line 21, the auxiliary information is transmitted to the particular listener or viewer requesting it in one of a number of ways described below.

Central station 20, which serves as a remote program information retrieval system (PIRS), is shown in FIG. 2. Auxiliary information about the broadcast programs is stored in storage device 22 such as a random access memory or a optical disk. The auxiliary information is organized in storage device 22 so it can be accessed according to the broadcast schedule, i.e., time, day, and station. In other words, the SDT data is mapped in storage device 22 to the auxiliary information for the program uniquely identified by the SDT data. The auxiliary information could take various forms depending upon the nature of the broadcast program. For example, if the program comprises musical selections, the auxiliary information could be the name, artist, and label of the musical piece; if the program comprises a drama, the auxiliary information could be a summary of the dramatic piece; if the program comprises a public interest discussion, the auxiliary information could be a written transcript of the program; and if the program is a commercial, the auxiliary information could be the name and address of a retail or mail order business where the advertised product or service can be acquired or an infomercial about the product or service. Similarly, the auxiliary information could be in textual, graphic, and/or video form. A central processing unit (CPU) 24 controls the storing and retrieving of auxiliary information in storage device 22. If the SDT data is transmitted to central station 20 by a plug in memory chip, the chip is inserted in a compatible memory receiving socket 26 which is connected to CPU 24. If the SDT data is transmitted to central station 20 by modem, the telephone line is connected to a modem receiver 28, which is connected to CPU 24. In any case, the SDT data uniquely identifies the individual programs being broadcast and serves as addresses to access the auxiliary information in storage device 22 relating to the individual programs. The auxiliary information can be transmitted to the listener or viewer in a number of ways. For example, a hard copy of the auxiliary information could be made on a printer 30 under the control of CPU 24 and delivered to the home by mail or messenger; the auxiliary information could be stored in electronic form, i.e. floppy disk, computer tape, audio tape, or video tape, which is delivered to the home or picked up by the user at a service center, the auxiliary information could be sent back to the listener or viewer by a modem transmitter 32; or the auxiliary information could be sent back to the listener by a cable or broadcast television link. The user identification tags can be matched with demographic data about the users stored at central station 20 to provide a demographic profile of the users who responded to each program with a request for auxiliary information.

FIG. 3 illustrates one of the receivers, which takes the form of a portable radio/recorder unit 100. The unit 100 has a conventional radio and a tape recorder. The radio has a tuner for receiving broadcast signals from different radio stations, including amplitude modulation (AM) stations and frequency modulation (FM) stations. As an option, television audio reception is added to the FM tuner so that the unit 100 can receive audio signals from television (TV) stations. (Hereinafter, a "station" may also be referred to as a "channel").

Like many of today's units, unit 100 has a circuit for providing a time-of-day clock in hour, minute and second. Preferably, the clock further measures day, as well as month and year. The time measure of the clock is displayed on a display 101.

Like many conventional units, the unit 100 is equipped with a plurality of station presets. The station presets allow a user to selectively store certain stations into a memory so that the unit 100 can be tuned to any one of the preset stations by simply touching a Station/Publication Preset key 102.

The unit 100 has a circuit for generating dual tone multiple frequency (DTMF) signals so that it can send messages through a telephone. A jack 103 for receiving a telephone plug is provided.

As will be described in reference to FIG. 4, a random access memory (RAM) is provided to store a plurality of telephone numbers, one corresponding to each of the station presets.

The display 101 is preferably one with low power consumption such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). It is normally used to display the frequency of the tuned station and/or the time of day.

The unit 100 also has a conventional magnetic tape recorder PLAYER. As in many standard recorders, a set of keys, including the EJECT 104, STOP 105, FF (fast forward) 106, REW (rewind) 107, PLAY 108 and REC (record) 109 keys are provided. And as in many conventional units, the unit 100 also has a radio-recorder key 110 to allow a user to select either the radio or the recorder, as well as a VOL control 111 to allow a user to change the volume output.

The unit 100 has a set of telephone keys 88-1 through 88-12 to provide a twelve-button key pad similar to that of a conventional telephone. In particular, the telephone keys 88-1 through 88-12 are the number keys "1" through "0", the star "*" key and the pound sign "#" key respectively. The letters of the alphabet are assigned to the telephone keys "2" through "9" as they are for a conventional telephone. For example, the letters ABC are assigned to the telephone key "2". However, unlike the conventional telephone key pad, the letters Q and Z are assigned to the telephone keys "1" and "0" respectively.

Alphabet characters are entered by a double key entry which is well-known to those skilled in the art. Each character is represented by two numbers. For example, the telephone key "2" corresponds to the letters ABC. However, pressing the key "2" once does not uniquely select one of the three letters. By pressing the "1" key, after pressing the "2" key, the first character or "A" is entered. Similarly, if "B" is being selected, the user presses the telephone key "2" and then again presses the telephone key "2" to select the second character "B". Other characters are similarly entered.

Alternatively, a standard keyboard such as used for typewriters or computers may be used.

A set of cursor keys 90 is provided to let a user moves a cursor on the display 101. The cursor keys 90 include a left arrow key for moving the cursor to the left, an up arrow key for moving the cursor upward, a down arrow key for moving the cursor downward and a right arrow key for moving the cursor to the right.

Beside the above described keys, the unit 100 also has a set of keys, including a BROADCAST INFO key 112, a DIAL key 114, a REVIEW key 113, a CANCEL key 118, a HANG UP key 119, a PRINT INFO key 115, a SELECT key 116 and a SETUP key 117. The functions of these keys will be described below along with reference to the flow charts of FIGS. 5A-5B.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of an internal design of the unit 100. Operation of the unit 100 is controlled by a central processing unit (CPU) 201. The CPU 201 can be any one of the many off-the-shelf microprocessors on the market, such as a 8080 microprocessor manufactured by Intel Corporation, or a custom-made chip. It is coupled to a read only memory (ROM) 202 which stores operation software for operating the CPU 201.

The CPU 201 is connected to a random access memory (RAM) 203. The RAM 203 is used for storing the station presets and program identifications. It is also used for providing a scratch pad for the CPU 201 in performing other functions such as in operating the display 101 and for temporary storage of SDT data until it is sent to central station 20. Since it is contemplated that the unit 100 is portable, at least a portion of the RAM 203 is therefore implemented with non-volatile memory, such as a electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) or a volatile memory with a battery backup, so that reusable data can be stored.

The CPU 201 is coupled to a display control circuit 204 which controls the display 101 and a clock circuit 206 which controls the clock. Clock circuit 206 generates the signals representative of time and date. The digital tuner of the unit 100 is controlled by the CPU 201 through a digital tuner circuit 207, and the tape recorder of the unit 100 is controlled by the CPU 201 through a tape recorder control circuit 210. Digital tuner circuit 207 stores the frequency to which the receiver is tuned and thus generates the signal representative of the station to be stored. Designs for these circuits are known to a person skilled in the art, therefore, detail explanation thereof is deemed unnecessary.

Optionally, CPU 201 is also connected to a radio frequency section and audio amplifier, to which a head phone or a speaker can be connected.

The unit 100 has a microphone which is controlled by the CPU 201 through a conventional microphone interface 205. The CPU 201 also has control of a telephone and acoustic coupler circuit 208, and a DTMF generator and decoder through a DTMF circuit 209. The circuit 208 can be connected directly to telephone jack 103, or optionally to an acoustic coupler located on the rear surface of the unit 100. These devices are used to connect the unit to central station 20 and to receive from central station 20 auxiliary information on a broadcast program. Each of the circuits 208 and 209 can use one of the designs available in the art. Although all three devices are shown in FIG. 4, not all of them are needed.

As represented by block 220, the CPU 201 controls and receives the plurality of input keys shown on FIG. 3, specifically the BROADCAST INFO key 112, the DIAL key 114, the REVIEW key 113, the CANCEL key 118, the HANG UP key 119, the PRINT INFO key 115, the SELECT key 116 and the SETUP key 117.

When BROADCAST INFO key 112 (FIG. 3) is pressed by the listener or viewer to indicate an interest in auxiliary information, the SDT data from clock circuit 206 and tuner 207 are immediately coupled by CPU 201 to RAM 203 for temporary storage until the unit is later interrogated to transmit the SDT data to central station 20 via circuit 208. When the unit is interrogated to transmit the SDT data to central station 20, CPU 201 retrieves the SDT data from RAM 203, adds a user identification tag unique to the particular user, and supervises the transmission process.

In addition to its function as a regular radio or a recorder PLAYER, unit 100 also operates to provide instantaneous identification and registration of broadcast programs of interest to a user as described above and in more detail below with reference to the flow charts of FIGS. 5a-5b.

When powered up, preferably by batteries (not shown), the unit 100 operates as a standard radio or a standard recorder, depending on the setting of the radio-tape key 110. An identification of the tuned station and the time-of-day clock may be shown on the display 101.

When any one of the enhancement keys is actuated, the CPU 201 is interrupted and a corresponding interrupt subroutine is executed.

When the SETUP key 117 is activated, step 401 is performed in which a setup menu similar to that illustrated in FIG. 6a is put on the display 101. The setup menu allows a user the options of: (1) setting the preset keys 102 to preferred stations by selecting the "BROADCAST STATIONS" option, (2) setting the preset keys to preferred publications by selecting the "PUBLICATIONS" option, (3) setting a user identification by selecting the "USER ID" option and (4) setting the clock 206 by selecting the "CLOCK" option. A user can select any one of these options by using the cursor keys 90 to move the cursor to a desired option and then pressing the SELECT KEY 116. When the SELECT KEY 116 is pressed, the position of the cursor (step 422) is noted and this position is used to set a pointer to point to a location in the RAM 203 (step 423). Under the setup operation, the pointer would point to a routine in memory to be executed by the CPU 201 for setting the unit 100.

If the user selects the "BROADCAST STATIONS" option, step 402 is entered and a menu similar to that illustrated in FIG. 6B is displayed. Under this menu, a user can use the cursor key 90 to select any one of the entries corresponding to the preset keys 102. When the cursor key 90 is positioned at the selected entry, the user can then press the SELECT KEY 116. In step 403, the user can set the corresponding preset keys 102 to a selected station by entering the name and frequency of that station.

In step 403, the user can enter a telephone number which will be used for retrieving information from a program information retrieval system wherein programs broadcast from that station is stored. It is contemplated that the telephone number is provided by the television or radio station through publication in newspapers (e.g. the TV/radio section) or the television guides, etc. The telephone number may be the number for the station itself which has its own program information retrieval system, or it may be the number of a central location which keeps schedules and information of broadcast programs of several different stations in a PIRS.

The name, frequency and telephone number entered by the user at step 403 are stored into the non-volatile portion of the RAM 203.

The user can set another preset key 102 or execute the exit option which causes the CPU 201 to re-display the set-up menu of FIG. 6a.

If the user selects the "PUBLICATIONS" option, step 404 is entered and a menu similar to that shown in FIG. 6C is displayed. Under this menu, the user can set any of the preset keys 102 (steps 404 and 405) in a similar way as in steps 402 and 403, with the exception that in step 405, the user is no longer prompted to enter a station frequency. Instead, the name of the publication and a corresponding telephone number for the publication PIRS are entered. The data entered by the user are stored in the RAM 203 in similar a manner as that described in the previous paragraph.

If the user selects the "USER ID" option, step 406 is entered and a menu similar to that shown in FIG. 6d is displayed. Under this menu, the user can optionally enter his name, address and telephone using the alphabet option of the telephone keys 88. The entered data are stored in the RAM 203.

If the user selects the "CLOCK" option, steps 408 and 409 are executed and the CPU 201 prompts the user to enter a new clock value. As setting of the clock is similar to that found in many existing television and VCR remote controls, detail explanation thereof is thus deemed unnecessary.

When the user finishes with the setup operation, the "EXIT" option can be selected from the setup menu of FIG. 6a to terminate the setup. The station frequency and the clock value are again displayed.

A user can tune the unit 100 to any one station and listen to the broadcast using headphones. When a program (including, music, commentary, commercial, etc.) from that station is of interest to the user, the BROADCAST INFO key 112 can then be actuated. Thereupon, step 411 is entered. In step 411, the CPU 201 stores into the non-volatile portion of the RAM 203 an identification of the station, along with the time of the clock at which the BROADCAST INFO key 112 is pressed.

The station can be identified by its broadcast frequency or the name of the station (e.g. using 105.1 to retrieve the name KKGO). Using the station name is considered more advantageous because it is easier for the listener to recognize the station name than recognizing the frequency.

From the identification stored in the RAM 203, the user can retrieve auxiliary information of an identified program. This is performed by connecting the unit 100 to a telephone using a modular connector or an acoustic coupler. When the unit 100 is connected, the user can press the REVIEW KEY 113.

When the REVIEW KEY 113 is actuated, program identifications previously stored in the RAM 203 are retrieved (step 414) and displayed on the display 101 (step 415). There are several formats in which this information can be displayed. For example, the stored identifications may be displayed with the identifications organized by stations. The advantage of this format is that the user can now review the identified programs for one station before the corresponding telephone number is dialed. Another format is to organize the identifications by dates. This format may help the user to more easily find a particular program previously registered.

When the previously identified programs are displayed, the user can use the cursor keys 90 to select the particular program of, or a particular station from, which the user is interested in getting the auxiliary information. When the program or the station is selected, the user can actuate the DIAL KEY 114 and the corresponding telephone number is retrieved (step 416) and dialed (step 417). When telephone connection is established, the CPU 201 retrieves the station identification from the RAM 203 and activates DTMF generator and decoder circuit 209. DTMF tones are then generated to send the program identification(s) to the PIRS of the station or central location (step 418). After the program identification is sent, the CPU 201 waits for the PIRS to transmit the information back (step 419).

In step 418, a user identification, which was entered previously under the USER ID option, may optionally be sent to the PIRS. The user identification may be a name, address and telephone number as described previously, or it may simply be a number such as his social security number. Transmitting the user identification has the advantage that it allows the PIRS to send bulky written information through mail or by direct telephone call.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating the steps of the PIRS when a request is received.

Upon receiving a request (step 501), the PIRS uses the station ID from the program identification to locate data for that station (step 503). (However, if the PIRS is an in-house system of a station step 503 may not be needed.)

In step 504, the clock value from the program identification is decoded to search the identified program. When the identified program is found, the PIRS retrieves auxiliary information (step 505) thereof.

Advantageously, the PIRS makes a record of the request. This record can then be used to provide statistical data for determining the popularity of the program, the station or other audience monitoring type data (step 506).

The PIRS sends the auxiliary information to the user by first sending a DTMF tone to unit 100 (step 507). The DTMF tone is received by the DTMF generator and decoder circuit 209 of the unit 100, which then interrupts the CPU 201. The CPU 201, upon interrupted by circuit 209, starts the tape recorder through control of the circuit 210. When the tape recorder is started, a signal is sent to the PIRS to initiate transmission of the auxiliary information (step 508). When the auxiliary information from the PIRS is received by the unit 100, they are stored on the tape.

If the auxiliary information relates to a musical selection, it might include the album, artist and title along with a short (e.g. 10 second) audio segment of the selection so that the user can relate the melody to the title. This concept is disclosed in my U.S. Pat. No. 5,119,507. If the auxiliary information relates to an advertisement, a portion of the ad may be repeated along with the auxiliary information to relate the product or service to the additional information.

At completion of the transmission, the PIRS generates a DTMF tone to the unit 100 to stop the tape recorder and terminate the telephone connection (step 509). A signal can also be generated at the unit 100 so that the user is alerted to the completion and availability of the auxiliary information.

Referring back to the flow charts of FIGS. 5a-5b, if the user at any point during the retrieval of the auxiliary information decides to cancel the operation, the Hang Up key 119 can be actuated, and the telephone connection is cut (step 421).

When the program identifications are displayed upon actuation of the REVIEW KEY 113, a user may select to cancel a previously stored program identification from the RAM 203. This may be done by first using the cursor keys 90 to select the program identification the user wishes to cancel. Once the program identification is selected, the CANCEL KEY 118 can be actuated and the data corresponding to the selected program identification is thereby erased from the RAM 203 (step 420).

When the transmission is completed, the user can either hear the information directly from the tape recorder, or, optionally, the signals stored on the tape may be interpreted by the CPU 201 to produce text data which can then be displayed on the display 101.

Although the above is described with reference to identifying a radio program, the invention is not so limited. As described above, during setup of the unit 100, a user can also program the preset keys to store names of different publications (such as the Los Angles Times, Newsweek, Barrons, etc.), along with a corresponding telephone number for each publication. When reading an article, the user can press the corresponding preset key 102. When the user reads an article or an advertisement of interest, the PRINT INFO key 115 can be actuated to store the name of the publication into the RAM 203 (step 424). The CPU 201 then prompts the user for a code number such as an I PLUS number (step 425), which may be found printed in the article or the advertisement. The user enters the I PLUS number through the telephone keys 88, which is then stored into the RAM 203 (step 426).

To retrieve information on the identified article or advertisement, the user connects the unit 100 to a telephone. The REVIEW KEY 113 can be actuated to display the identification and then the DIAL KEY 114 to connection the unit to the PIRS as described above. The information is then retrieved through the telephone connection as disclosed previously.

In the above described embodiment, the identification of a broadcast program is recorded as a number so that it is sent over the DTMF tone. However, if unit 100 has a modem, more detail program identification can be entered and sent to a PIRS, and a PIRS can send text information to unit 100. Moreover, if unit 100 has a modem, the transmitted information need not be stored on the tape, but directly in the RAM 203 which can then be displayed at display 101.

As an option, the unit 100 can be implemented to have keys commonly found in a calculator, as shown in FIG. 3. The CPU 201 can then be implemented to be able to perform mathematics so that the unit 100 can be used as a calculator.

A user need not be listening to the unit 100 in practice, but can be listening to any radio or television (including a car radio), with the unit 100 set to the same tuned station. Then, if there is program of interest, the BROADCAST INFO key 112 can be actuated to identify the program.

Preferably, the clock 206 is set to correspond to the local time. An audible DTMF tone can be broadcast by a local station on the hour a few times each day, so a user can synchronize the unit 100 using its internal radio circuit or from another radio, using the microphone of the tape recorder to detect the audible tone and reset the clock to the hour. Alternatively, a synchronizing DTMF tone can be downloaded to unit 100 via a telephone link to the central processing station through coupler circuit 208.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating schematically another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is a receiver 600 which is a modification of a common radio or television. The receiver 600 comprises a radio receiver circuit 601, a digital tuner 603 and a tuner control circuit 604 all of which can be found in standard radio or television sets. As in many common units, the receiver 600 may have a clock 602. If a clock is not present, one can be built easily. Preferably, the clock 602 measures and indicates date in addition to hour, minute and second.

In accordance with the present invention, the receiver 600 has a CPU 606 coupled to the digital tuner 604 and the clock 602. This CPU 606 has means 608, such as a socket for receiving a non-volatile memory chip 607 such as a EEPROM, or a magnetic strip recorder receiving a card with a magnetic strip. If a clock and battery are incorporated into chip 607 as described below, a less expensive volatile memory could be used.

The CPU 606 is activated when a "BROADCAST INFO" key 609 is actuated. When activated, the CPU 606 operates to store an identification of the tuned station (e.g. its frequency from the digital tuner 604) to the memory chip 607, along with the value of the clock 602 at the time the key 609 is actuated.

Since the memory 607 may be used separately (i.e. in different receivers), it becomes necessary to have a memory management scheme so that the CPU 606 can know where to write new data thereon each time. One such memory management scheme is to maintain a pointer in the memory 607. The pointer is kept at a predefined location, such as the first address. It points to a location in the memory for inputting the next data. When the memory 607 is inserted into the socket 608, the pointer is read by the CPU 606.

When a user hears a program of interest, the BROADCAST INFO key 609 can be actuated, which causes the station identification and the clock to be stored into the memory 607. Optionally, a user identification, which may be preset into the receiver 600, is also stored for purposes described above.

As described above, the user can retrieve information about the broadcast program by removing the memory 607 from the socket 608 and inserting it in a retrieval device (hereinafter called an Automatic Information Machine), which is one useful form of central station 20.

It is contemplated for this embodiment that a plurality of these Automatic Information Machines (AIMs) will be installed in different locations, such as in record stores and other retail establishments.

In the AIM, the time and station of the broadcast program is retrieved from the memory 607. From such identification, information such as the title (and/or other information, such as the singer) of a song is output in print form. With this information, the user can, for example, either purchase a record of the song, or other records by the same singer.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a design of an AIM 700. The AIM 700 is controlled by a central processing unit (CPU) 701. Its operation is performed through execution by the CPU 701 of operating software stored in a read only memory (ROM) 702. The AIM 700 also has a clock 713 and memories (such as an audio tape drive 703, a disk 704 or semiconductor memory 705) for storing schedules of broadcast programs of AM, FM and TV stations. Means are provided in the AIM 700 so that the schedules and auxiliary information stored in the tape 703, the disk 704 or semiconductor memory 705 can be updated periodically. The updating means may be a floppy drive 706 and/or a modem 707 coupled to a telephone line which is in turn coupled to an information provider.

Clock 713 can serve as a master time standard to update the clocks in the receivers of the individual listeners or viewers via the memory chips plugged into the AIM. Specifically, there is incorporated into the memory chips a clock circuit 720 that serves as a slave clock when it is plugged into the AIM and as a master clock when it is plugged into a receiver. Clock circuit 720 is powered by a small battery 722 on board chip 607. CPU 701 is configured to synchronize the clock circuit on the memory chip to clock 713 when the memory chip is plugged into the AIM. CPU 606 (FIG. 8) is configured to synchronize clock 602 (FIG. 8) to the clock circuit on the memory chip when the memory chip is plugged back into the receiver 600.

A display 708, a printer 710, and headphones 712 coupled to audio circuitry 711 are provided to facilitate communication with a user.

The CPU 701 is coupled to a socket 709 where the memory 607 from a user can be inserted.

In operation, upon registering the programs of interest into the memory 607 as described above, a user can insert it into the socket 709 of the AIM 700. The CPU 701 reads the identification (channel or station, date and time (SDT)) of the program from the memory 607 and uses this identification to search its memory, 703, 704 or 705 for information relating to the identified program. The information may include, for example, the title of a song, author or singer, price of a record or album for the song, etc. It may also be the program itself or a program related to the identified program.

The information can be stored in an AIM 700 in different formats. For example, if the information to be provided is for identifying an album of a song, then the information may simply be a standard UCC product identification bar code number which most record stores have been using to monitor their inventory. This UCC number can be incorporated as part of the information stored in the AIMs in the form of a broadcast station program schedule for a particular day as follows:

    ______________________________________
    Station Frequency (e.g. FM 98.7)
    Date (e.g. 11/9/1991)
    ______________________________________
    Start Time (e.g. 13:01:03)
    End Time (e.g. 13:05:06)
                          UCC number/Track
    Start Time (e.g. 13:05:06)
    End Time (e.g. 13:08:18)
                          UCC number/Track
    Start Time (e.g. 13:08:18)
    End Time (e.g. 13:08:48)
                          station commentary
    ______________________________________