GB2377574A

GB2377574A - Modular software/firmware definable video server

Info

Publication number: GB2377574A
Application number: GB0116994A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Graeme Roy Smith
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2001-07-12
Filing date: 2001-07-12
Publication date: 2003-01-15
Also published as: GB0116994D0

Abstract

Video apparatus, for use for example in a home entertainment system, comprises a plurality of software and or firmware definable logic blocks used to configure the apparatus to implement the desired video-graphic processing functions and video protocols employed in different video systems. The apparatus is also modular allowing expansion and or upgrades through the use of interchangeable PCB, mezzanine and or PC cards, which contain, amongst other things, signal processing logic and programmable logic. Received video data can be stored on a variety of memory media. Interactive TV is enhanced through the use of a web camera. The apparatus optionally contains modem means to allow access to the Internet for downloading software-firmware upgrades, surfing and real-time data reception, such as Internet TV or VOIP. To reduce the need for expensive and cumbersome cables, communication with peripherals can be via wireless means such as Bluetooth. This allows video and graphic distribution to other displays in the home.

Description

MODULAR SOFTWARE/FIRMWARE DEFINABLE VIDEO SERVER This invention relates to a modular software-firmware definable video server.

There are currently several methods of receiving video and television transmissions, namely satellite, terrestrial and cable. These can be divided into both analogue and digital formats. For each scheme there can also be different modulation-demodulation techniques, compression schemes, noise reduction schemes, encryption-decryption, forward error correction and transport protocols.

Transmission of the modulated information can use employ different carrier frequencies. The C-band range is 3. 70-4. 20 GHz, the DBS band (intended for direct TV broadcast is 11. 70-12. 40 GHz, and Ku band is in the range 10. 70-18. 00 GHz. The signals can also be vertically or horizontally polarised to allow more channels. There also exists several television format standards. Digital Video Broadcast (DVB), Multiplexed Analogue Circuits (DMAC/D2-MAC) and Motion Picture Group (MPEG 2 and MPEG4). Some digital channels employ a single transponder. This is known as Single Channel Per Carrier. Others use Multiple Channels Per Carrier (MCPC). For cable television a similar scenario applies. The symbol rate for each channel can also vary and is usually in the range of 2000 to 45000.

For pay to view TV channels, users require a conditional access module which allows decoding of the encrypted video signals. Again, several schemes are available. Viaccess, Conax and Seca Mediaguard are the three most popular.

Apart from direct reception of transmitted television signals, other media exists to watch video information. Videotape, laser discs and Digital Versatile Disc (DVD). The latter supersedes the former two. However, to use these media a dedicated player unit is required. These are expensive and new standards render the equipment obsolete within a few years. Also, many of units employ duplicate electronics. For example, satellite decoders or set top boxes use MPEG 2 decoders, as do DVD players. Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB) also employs the audio section of the MPEG 2 standard as do MP3 players. This is an inefficient and expensive use of electronic circuits. Having a unit that has an MPEG 2 decoder which can be "multiplexed" between the various sources means the peripheral units are less complex and cheaper to produce. Another example would be that separate units require separate power supplies, remote control units, displays, microprocessors and memory.

Having these system functions in a single unit which can be configured for use in different system configurations would be a much more efficient system.

This approach provides a different system partitioning and architecture to that of conventional systems.

One of the main disadvantages of these various systems is that they cannot be upgraded for use with new and or different standards. They do not evolve with changing standards. If a new service is introduced or a user wishes to access different satellites or change to terrestrial broadcast or cable, then they need to purchase a whole new system. A similar problem arises for the network and or service provider. As new technology is introduced the network and service providers usually need to update their equipment. An example would be when BSB was bought out by BskyB and all the squarial dishes and set top boxes need to be replaced. Then when Sky Digital replaced Sky analogue. This is expensive for the network or service provider as they subsidize the cost of the equipment.

This also makes it difficult for consumers to keep up to date with new technology. New standards are constantly being developed e. g. MPEG4 and MP3, which means equipment can quickly become obsolete requiring the consumer to purchase new units if a new media type is adopted. Also the interfaces between units can change so interconnection between legacy equipment means that the units are incompatible. With the introduction of new media formats new systems require interface upgrades, which requires changing more than the interfaces, usually a whole system element needs to be replaced and new hardware and software installed. In fact, interfacing between system elements can be one of the most complex problems to overcome as many new interfaces rely on software protocols to implement their functionality. For example Universal Serial Bus (USB), Firewire (1394 standard) and UTOPIA Level 2 interfaces.

Being able to swap between the different formats without having to substitute whole equipment units would be a great advantage and cheaper for the consumer. Having a video server unit which was modular, softwarefirmware definable in which the hardware devices can be configured to implement new circuits and upgradeable to allow the equipment to evolve with changing standards would provide many advantages over current systems, namely : - Systems that evolve with changing standards-Equipment is more "future proof ; This would provide a greater Return On Investment (ROI) ; Simpler and less expensive peripheral equipment; * Same"circuitry"reconfigured to implement different video formats word resolutions and functions (for example different types of digital filters) ; * Expandable through the use of Plug'n'Play mezzanine cards and modules ; * Internet access for application and MP3 downloads ;

. Modular, programmable and reconfigurable these features promote customisation and hence product differentiation ; * Optional hard drive for storing/retrieving video and audio data.

Removable memory for use in other equipment e. g. MP3 players ; . Wireless connectivity (e. g. Bluetooth) alleviates the need for costly and cumbersome cabling ; * Multi-channel capabilities enable simultaneous use by more than one user.

Interconnection between the various equipment boxes requires many cables and tends to be unwieldy. It also means that a satellite decoder unit is dedicated to the system to which it is attached. Other remote devices cannot access the facilities provided by the satellite decoder apparatus. By employing a local wireless standard, such as Bluetooth, the received television programs could be distributed to remote television or display units in a home. This would alleviate the need for more than one set top box.

The modular software-firmware definable"video server"employs processor and programmable logic devices (PLDs) optionally incorporating embedded cores which allows the video server to be reconfigured to implement various signal processing algorithms, protocols and interfaces. This provides a highly integrated and versatile video/graphics processor. This architecture and efficient system partitioning spells an end to built-in obsolescence.

Consequently, this benefits the consumer as it reduces the need to purchase whole new hi-fi units. Firmware for current and future applications can be downloaded from the Internet via an integrated modem. This facility also allows access to Internet and future broadband services.

According to the present invention there is provided a modular and software/ firmware definable video server apparatus for processing video and related audio and data information comprising: one or a plurality of interchangeable input signal source interface module (s) used to demodulate and or down convert and or filter and or buffer signals to extract the transmitted digital and or analogue video, audio and data streams, one or a plurality of interchangeable signal processing module (s) used to process the extracted data streams be they digital and or analogue data, one or a plurality of interchangeable output processing module (s) used to encode and or format and or condition the signals for transfer with one or more selected peripherals,

a host processor means and associated program memory means for controlling, monitoring and configuring logic and circuits to implement the functions required to receive, process and output a valid selected channel internal or external power supply means to power the apparatus circuits.

With such apparatus, manufacturers will be able to provide card modules for the different system functions. Users will then be able to "construct" a video server apparatus and use existing card modules to build new configurations.

As the card modules and or mezzanine cards can optionally incorporate programmable interfaces, a user will be able to easily add new functions and upgrades to the system by simply replacing, memory devices, mezzanine cards or individual card modules. Any backplane used can transfer data of different format by encapsulation techniques. The backplane is based on high-speed differential serial connections (up to 600 Mega-bits per second). This facility provides adequate means for future system performance. Of course, new, higher speed interface could easily be added to a card module to incorporate future high-speed inter-card module communications.

In another embodiment, certain system functions can be performed in software and or firmware. These types of functions include for example, digital filters, codecs, digital signal processing algorithms such as Fast Fourier Transforms (FFTs), Inverse Fast Fourier Transforms (IFFTs), noise reduction, surround sound algorithms, encryption and authentication.

To perform these functions the software is run on microprocessors, Digital Signal Processors (DSPs) and or Reduced Instruction Set Computers (RISCs). This concept allows different sub functions required to form parts of the overall desired video server to be implemented in software and run on a microprocessor. To allow for maximum flexibility, several processors and associated memory and Input-Output peripheral devices can be provided on a single card module. As different video servers require different subfunctions, the host controller can allocate the various software sub functions to various processors as necessary. For example, depending on the capabilities of the processor and the required functionality, a processor could run several software sub functions if the processing time permits and they are effectively sequential operations or the host controller could allocate different software sub functions to different processors and perform the required group of tasks in parallel.

This concept can be extend to include implementing system sub functions in programmable logic. The use of programmable logic, such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), is sometime required to implement more complex and time consuming algorithms, which are better, suited to hardware implementation. This gives rise to the concept of"Software

Definable Systems". However, the use of programmable logic still requires the host controller to download firmware to program the programmable device to implement the desired sub function or sub functions required in the overall system configuration.

The fact that Software Definable Systems (SDS) provided the greatest flexibility (functional re-use and system re-configuration) in system design means that it is expandable and easily upgradeable. The processor card module can have mezzanine card slots to allow the addition of more processors when a system needs to be expanded. The use of Plug'n'Play facilities means that the host processor can automatically determine the number and capabilities of the processors and or programmable logic devices available and hence allocate the desired resources accordingly.

Such a system can download new software and or firmware functions or upgrade existing functions from the Internet via the internal 3M modem module or the cable modem 3C or external modem module or one of the downlink transmission channels from the satellite or terrestrial link.

A specific embodiment of the invention will now be described by the way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which :- Figure 1 shows a logical block diagram of the video server apparatus and how it is connected, both by cable and wireless means to peripheral units: Figure 2 shows a logical block diagram of the programmable and reconfigurable circuitry blocks used in video server; Figure 3 shows a high-level logical block diagram of how the main blocks of the modular software-firmware definable video server are interconnected; Figure 4 shows a high-level logical block diagram of the input section; Figure 5 shows a high-level logical block diagram of the data storage section; Figure 6 shows a logical block diagram of the signals processing stage; Figure 7 shows a logical block diagram of the output stage of the video server; Figure 8 shows a logical block diagram of the host processor and controller section of the video server; Figure 9 illustrates an example of an overall system in which communications between the various sub blocks is by switching means.

Figure 10 shows an example of an end-to-end ADSL based broadband network architecture in which the video server can transfer image data, together with audio and status information via an Internet connection or mobile phone connection.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention the modular software-firmware definable video server apparatus uses one or more software and or firmware definable logic blocks PS to implement signal processing functions. These logic blocks PS can be based on any combination of Digital Signal Processors (DSP) PD, RISC cores, programmable logic PL, such as FPGA/ CPLD based circuits, hardwired logic PH, programmable interconnection Pi to allow different routing of signals between circuit blocks, memory PM to store programs, data and configuration parameters. The devices can also include test function circuits PT to analyse and test the configured circuits and analogue functions PAF, which can also be programmable. Figure 2 shows a logical block diagram of such an arrangement where the programmable I reconfigurable system PS can be either a single device or more than one device. Though silicon technology now allows mixed signal integration the programmable and reconfigurable function do not necessary have to be confined to a single device. They can be implemented using several devices. The programmable I reconfigurable system can also be implemented using any combination of processing cores, programmable logic, hardwired logic, memory, analogue functions, digital input/output pins PDI and or analogue input/output pins PAL The logic blocks and devices are configured by the host processor based on the selected signal processing algorithm or algorithms required for a particular input output combination.

These algorithms include MPEG2 processing for layers 1,2 and 3 (MP3), MPEG4, decryption and de-scrambling schemes, various conditional access methods, different modulation and demodulation schemes, noise reduction, teletext data processing, audio and data processing, various interfaces and the like. Having programmable logic and processing arrays allows the host processor to configure the logic/circuit blocks and devices so certain signal processing functions can be efficiently allocated to the different blocks. In some cases, where processors and programmable logic devices operate at high frequencies, these logic blocks can implement several different algorithms by being re-configured in real time to perform multi-tasking. The control algorithms are stored in local memory at initialisation by the host processor. Examples of programmable logic to implement these functions include the FLEX and MAX series of devices from ALTERA. Configuration can also be stored locally in configuration EPROMs, such as the EPC1064.

Having the program and re-configuration data stored locally is more efficient and doesn't become a processing burden on the host processor which would have to be a powerful processor operating at many MIPS to cater for all the interrupts and reconfiguring of the logic blocks during operation.

In addition, the use of Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) and System On a Chip (SOC) technology allows the integration of both

programmable logic, standard cell logic, processing cores, such as RISC cores, and analogue functions. The software definable/re-configurable circuitry employed in the video server apparatus 2 can also be based on this type of device technology as it can reduce device count and system costs.

Figure 2 shows a generic programmable and reconfigurable block containing among other things digital logic, analogue logic and 10. Both the digital and analogue logic and circuits respectively can be programmable.

The video server apparatus 2 interfaces to several other peripheral devices. Figure 1 illustrates the concept, but is not limited to the devices shown. The video server apparatus in this example receives video, audio and data information via a cable modem connection, a terrestrial channel or a satellite broadcast channel. The video server apparatus 2 in connected via cables to a television display 1T and audio system 1M, such as hi-fi system or multichannel audio processor 1M which implements digital theatre or surround sound algorithms. The video server apparatus 2 can be controlled and configured by a wireless remote control means 1 R. The wireless communications method can be either infrared or a local wireless scheme, such as Bluetooth or IEEE 802.11 or HomeRF. The wireless remote control unit 1 R also contains a large colour display to allow viewing of web pages when the apparatus is connected to the Internet for downloading web information, home shopping, surfing and updating the video server apparatus with new applications and reconfiguration data.

The video server can be configured to implement video, audio and data information distribution within a home. The remote television/display unit 1 C communicates with the video server via a local wireless link. This arrangement allows a user access the video server apparatus 2 from a remote location. This has the advantage that the user doesn't have to purchase several set top boxes for different locations within a home. It also reduces the need for cumbersome and expensive cables. The wireless communication standards employed for local distribution include Bluetooth, HomeRF and IEEE 802.11.

Satellite, terrestrial and cable service providers optionally include radio and music channels as part of their service bundles. Included as part of the system is a wireless headset 1Y allowing a user to listen to audio signals output from the video server apparatus 2. These audio channels, however, are not limited to just the pure audio services and can be used with the audio channels associated with a video channel.

The video server apparatus 2 can optionally include a modem for Internet access. Modem specifications vary, as do the data transfer rates. For example, the modem could be a V. 90 or an Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) modem or could be based on the programmable and reconfigurable logic so the host processor can configure the available logic circuits to implement different modem types for different applications.

However, having Internet access allows a user to download information of various formats. MP3 files could be downloaded and stored locally on memory means in the video server apparatus 2 or transmitted by wireless means to a MP3 Player 1 P. Likewise, a wireless handset 1 H can be used in conjunction with the video server for audio communications via the Internet.

The programmable and reconfigurable logic/circuits in the video server apparatus 2 can be used to implement the Voice Over Internet Protocol (Vol P), thus allowing inexpensive voice communications worldwide.

The video server apparatus 2 is made up from several sub-blocks. Figure 3 outlines the interconnection of the various sub-blocks, which make up the video server apparatus 2. These are the input stage module 21, the digital signal processing stage 2S, the data storage section 2M, the User selection controls, display and conditional access modules 2U, the host processor and controller section module 2H and the output stage module 20.

A block diagram of the Input Stage module 21 is shown in figure 4. The input stage sub-block or module 21 contains the circuitry to interface peripheral devices to the video server 2. These devices include, but are not limited to, a remote control unit 1 R, a Digital Versatile Disc player or transport 1V, a Low Noise Buffer (LNB) 1L of a satellite dish 1D, an aerial 1A for terrestrial broadcast and a web camera 3WC. Figure 1 shows a system example of how the video server 2 uses wireless communication links to transfer data between itself and peripheral devices. However, the connection between the video server 2 and the peripheral devices in the system do not have to be by wireless means and can be by cable means. Though several peripheral devices are shown in figure 1, this does not exclude other devices.

Input signals from a peripheral device, such as a video cassette recorder (VCR) or transport 1VR can be either an analogue format or a digital format.

As all signal processing is performed in the digital domain any analogue signals have to be first converted into the digital domain using analogue to digital converters (ADCs) 3AD. The analogue to digital converters (ADCs) 3AD will have the data resolution, sampling rate and other characteristics to correctly translate the analogue signals to digital signals without introducing any noise or aliasing affects. Though different systems use different resolutions the ADCs 3AD should have a minimum resolution of 8 bits and a maximum resolution of 32 bits. Devices include the Burr Brown PCM1700 or Crystal Semiconductor CS5394. Analogue signals are first buffered, amplified and filtered by the analogue interface 3AI. These signals are then passed to the analogue to digital converters 3AD via an analogue multiplexer 3AM.

Several analogue input buffer circuits 3AI can be used, one for each analogue peripheral device.

Signal source selection from the analogue input buffers 3AI to the input of the analogue to digital converters 3AD is controlled by the host processor 7H based on user inputs. The apparatus 2 could have several separate digital

serial interfaces, which are applied to a multiplexer. The output of the multiplexer being determined by the selector input. This value is read by the host processor, which then writes a value to the multiplex register (not shown) to select the correct input. The multiplexer register being address mapped.

Digital signals are also buffered using a digital buffer 3D before being input to the digital interface 3S. Source selection to the digital interface 3S is via the digital multiplexer 3DM and is controlled by the host processor 7H based on user inputs. The digital interface 3S performs data formatting and decoding for various digital audio protocols for both transmit and receive data.

The Input stage 21 can optionally have the facilities to allow a modem 3M to be connected to the apparatus 2. The modem 3M could be an Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) modem or cable modem 3C or a low speed modem (say a V. 90 compliant modem) for example and can take the form of a PCMCIA or PC card which can be inserted into a PC TYPE1/2 or 3 slot located on the apparatus 2. The software required to initiate, establish and control an Internet link is performed by the host processor and controller section 2H. Employing a module approach as in the described apparatus allows upgrades to higher performance systems easily and cheaply and access to new media types. The use of reconfigurable logic/circuits allows new modem standards to be implemented using the same devices.

Data received from the various signals sources is output onto the host bus 2HB after being processed by the relevant input circuitry. Commands to configure and select the input circuitry are transferred from the host processor and controller section 2H via the Control I Select bus 2CS.

Alternatively, local decoding can be performed by decoding information presented on the control bus 2CS.

In a further embodiment communication between the video server apparatus 2 and the peripheral devices is by wireless means. This alleviates the need for expensive and cumbersome connection cables between the various signal source devices or peripherals. However, the use of wireless communications between the apparatus 2 and peripheral devices doesn't preclude the use of wired connections. Module 3WM is a wireless link module which is used to allow digital data from a peripheral device, such as a remote control 1 R to be received by the video server 2. These wireless links can be bi-directional allowing two-way communications between the video server 2 and any of the peripheral devices. Such information could include control data to control the peripheral device via the video server 2 using a"universal"remote control unit 1 R, which would be used to select a new track for example. The wireless module 3WM can be integrated as part of the apparatus 2 or be a removable module, similar to a PC TYPE 1,2 or 3 card or mezzanine card. These selfcontained modules would be easily inserted and removed from the apparatus 2 making then very user friendly. The use of "Plug'n'Play" technology means

that at start-up, the host processor 7H will perform a routine to search and establish what hardware is available in the apparatus 2 and configure the apparatus 2 accordingly.

The host processor and controller section 2H performs all the'housekeeping' tasks including reading values input via the input selection controls and display circuitry 2U. The updated and selected values being displayed on display means 7D, such as an LCD display 7D. Figure 8 shows a block diagram of the host controller and controller section 2H together with the user selection controls and display module 2U. An Infra-red remote control interface 1 R allows user commands to be received, demodulated, decoded and passed to the host processor 7H. These values being transferred to the corresponding logic block or blocks so they can be used by the audio processing algorithms. Communication between the video server apparatus 2 and the remote control means 1 R can be either an infrared protocol, such as IrDA or a wireless protocol such as Bluetooth. In the latter cases, a wireless remote interface 7W will be required. However, as wireless protocols such as Bluetooth and HomeRF allow multiplexing of several channels only one wireless module 7W is required for the basic system. Due to the modular nature of the apparatus 2 more wireless modules 7W or 3WM can be added if necessary to implement more complex multi-channel systems. In this case more than one remote control 1 R can be used with the video server apparatus 2.

Pay to view channels are encrypted or scrambled using various encryption algorithms. To de-scramble the received information and view the desired programs the video server apparatus needs a conditional access module which usually employs SMART cards containing viewer information. The conditional access module or circuits 7A can be a plug in module or logic/ circuitry based on programmable and or configurable logic. This architecture allows different conditional access algorithms to be implemented, changed and upgraded either via the Internet or a broadcast channel. This is desirable, as a user may wish to access more than one satellite transponder which are operated by different service providers. Software, such as the DisEqC, is available to control several LNBs or dishes and allow a motorised dish to locate the desired satellite signal.

Any system configuration will require a control means to initialise, control and monitor system performance. This will be provided by the host processor and controller section 2H. Software driver routines to control the various card functions will be stored in non-volatile program memory means 7P, such as FLASH Memory. Figure 8 shows a logical block diagram of a Host Processor and controller section 2H, which incorporates the display 7D and the remote control functions 7R and 7\N. Selecting the desired system configuration and modifying the variable parameters, such as volume and tuning, is either by front panel controls or via a Hand-Held Remote Control unit 1 R. Instructions are transmitted to the video server apparatus 2 using an infrared or wireless

link. These signals are received and decoded by the IR remote control receiver and decoder 7R. Chosen parameters are consequently displayed on the LCD display 7D. Reception of signals or changes to front panel settings causes an interrupt to the Host Processor 7H. The host processor 7H services the interrupt and updates the corresponding system parameters by addressing the relevant function and writing the relevant data to the appropriate control registers. In the case of the display 7D and remote control circuitry 7R/7W, data is passed to the host processor 7H via host bus means 2HB.

The remote control 1 R can also be used for selecting interactive features and sending information back to the service and or network provider via the modem means 3M/3C. This not the only interactive feature provided by the video server apparatus 2. A so-called web camera or web cam 3WC can be connected to the video server apparatus 2. Again, the connection can be either wired or wireless. This facility gives rise to the concept of the virtual contestant. Video data sourced by the web cam 3WC is encoded and transmitted back to the network or service provider via the modem means 3M /3C. This video data can then be processed by the network and or service provider for distribution as part of a program allowing all valid subscribers to view the video data. Due to the limited bandwidth of Internet and return channels the video data would need to be compressed. Various algorithms exist to perform the compression and new ones are constantly being introduced. MPEG2 and MPEG4 are the most popular. The programmable and or reconfigurable logic/circuitry can configured to implement these algorithms to provide this service. The configuration would be implemented by the host processor 7H. Any new application or reconfiguration data can be downloaded from the Internet and stored locally in memory 7P or hard disk drive 4HD.

The remote control 1R can also be used to type in text information for transmission via the modem 3M as emails. The video server 2 can also be configured to receive Internet data, such as emails. These can be stored and viewed on the display means 1T or 1R or 1C. The apparatus 2 can also be used to view other services which are provided by the service provider and licensed by the service provider. One such example would be home banking.

The various programs to implement the different algorithms and configure the logic blocks are stored in host program memory 7P. This has the advantage that the processor 7H can allocate the different sub programs to different logic blocks depending on the number and type used in the video server apparatus 2. The host processor 7H will at start-up or initialisation "interrogate"the various logic blocks to discovery what type and how many logic blocks are available in the system so it can determine how to efficiently configure the system to perform the selected signal processing algorithms and or protocols. Also, certain card modules or mezzanine modules will

incorporate Plug'n'Play means, which allows card modules to initialise and or assist in configuring themselves.

Local memory 7L is used by the host processor 7H for storing parameters and variable used in processing. The address decoder circuitry 7A is used to decode addresses placed on the host bus 2HB by the host processor 7H and generate chip select signals for the various logic blocks in the apparatus 2.

The address decode circuitry 7A is shown in figure 8 as a local block, but the address decoding could be performed elsewhere in the apparatus 2. For example, each section could employ its own address decoding (not shown).

To allow a Personal Computer (PC) to be connected to the apparatus 2 a UART/RS232 interface 7U is provided (Maxim MAX202) for example. This could be used to control the apparatus 2, or perform diagnostic testing, or download new application routines or algorithms to the host program memory 7P via the host processor 7H for example. Though an RS232 interface is shown in figure 7 other interfaces could be used, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface or a Firewire interface.

Though the apparatus 2 allows "video data" (video data can also include audio and alpha-numeric data) to be sourced in various formats from peripheral devices, such as a Digital Versatile Disc player or transport 1V or a VCR 1VR for example, the video server apparatus 2 also has the facilities to store, retrieve and processes"video data"stored internally on a hard disk drive 4HD, non-volatile memory 4NV, volatile 4VM and removable memory cards 4RM. The hard disk drive 4RM can take the form of a magnetic disk drive or an optical disk drive, such as a compact disc or Digital Versatile Disc (DVD). These can also be read I write-able allowing stored or edited"video data"to be stored on the magnetic and or optical disk media. Figure 5 shows a block diagram of the data storage section 2M and how access to the various memory blocks is achieved. Access to the data storage section 2M is via two ports, namely the digital signal processing stage 2S and the host processor and controller section 2H. Therefore, the memory in the data storage section 2M is considered dual port and arbitration logic 4A is required to control access 10 the memory in the data storage section 2M. This will take a conventional form of having bus request and bus grant signals.

Arbitration will however ensure no one block has more than its fair share of accesses to the memory by locking out the other processor.

Hard disk drives 4HD have limited capacity and new drives with greater capacity are constantly being introduced. To allow greater storage the"video data" will be compressed to reduce memory storage. The compression algorithms include MPEG2, MPEG4 and wavelet compression. Again, the programmable and or reconfigurable logic I circuits can be configured to implement new compression algorithms as they are introduced. The"video data" will be written to the hard disk drive 4HD under the control of the host processor 7H or signal processing section 2S. The source of the"video data"

can be from the peripheral device or more likely from a broadcast or the Internet via an internal modem means 3M. For example, the user would open an Internet connection using the apparatus 2 and modem 3M. The selected video data would be downloaded from the Internet and stored on the hard disc drive 4HD or non-volatile memory 4NV or volatile memory 4VM or removable memory card 4RM. This data would be passed to the data storage section 2M via the host bus 2HB. The host processor 7H having to arbitrate (bus arbitration logic 4A) to access the memory. To isolate the non accessing processor from data being either stored or retrieved from internal memory by the accessing processor, bi-directional tri-state buffer 4B are employed. This latter arrangement allows both the host processor 7H and the digital signal processing stage 2S to operate in parallel and both gain access to the data storage section 2M.

In another embodiment, the apparatus 2 has mechanical and electronic interface means to allow the user to insert removable and interchangeable hard disk drives 4HD and or optical drives 4HD and or memory cards 4RM into the apparatus 2. The optical drives can be read or read-writeable. These removable memory means may contain previously stored"video data"which can then be read, processed and output by the apparatus 2. Or new"video data"can be stored onto the removable memory means 4HD or 4RM by the apparatus 2. Having interchangeable hard disk drives 4HD allows the user to upgrade the apparatus 2 easily and cheaply. The host processor 7H will detect the changes and configure the apparatus 2 accordingly. The video server apparatus 2 can be programmed to record data from various sources, such as a satellite broadcast, terrestrial broadcast or Internet broadcast, at a predefined time allowing the user to retrieve and view the stored data at a later date. The data to be recorded is stored on the hard disk drive 4HD or non-volatile memory 4NV. The video data can also be recorded to memory means 4HD and or 4RM in real time.

As the interfaces and processing logic/circuits are programmable and can be reconfigured to implement various standards, protocols and formats much of the logic and or circuitry usually implemented in conventional units can be implemented in the video server 2. For example, satellite decoders or set top boxes use MPEG 2 decoders as do DVD players. Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB) also employs the audio section of the MPEG 2 standard as do MP3 players. This is an inefficient and expensive use of electronic circuits. Having a unit that has an MPEG 2 decoder which can be "multiplexed" between the various sources means the peripheral units are less complex and cheaper to produce. In this example, there would be no need for a conventional DVD player. Only a DVD transport would e required, which could be inserted into the apparatus 2. Another example would be that separate units require separate power supplies, remote control units, displays, microprocessors and memory. Having these system functions in a single unit which can be configured for use in different system configurations would be a much more efficient system. This approach provides a different system partitioning and

architecture to that of conventional systems which is more efficient, flexible and versatile.

Once the user has selected the"video data"source the video apparatus 2 needs to process the"video data"and output the data streams to the selected peripherals. The processing required depends on the format of the source data and the settings of the controls. The data could be encrypted, need filtering and reformatting. Signal processing will need to be applied to implement the various decompression algorithms. In some cases analogue signals to need be processed. Associated audio data will also need processing and can also take one of several formats. Providing standard logic circuitry to process the various formats would be expensive and unwieldy. Employing programmable logic, such as FPGAs and digital signal processors would allow the same hardware to be re-configured to implement and process the selected data format and protocols. This is also true for the input and or output interfaces. Another advantage of employing programmable devices means that upgrades are easily implemented and the apparatus can be configured to use new data formats or interfaces. This concept of"Software Definable Systems"means the video server apparatus 2 is more"future proof'and shouldn't become obsolete as quickly.

As mentioned previously, the programmable logic is not just confirmed to standard products. The use of Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) and System On a Chip (SOC) technology allows the integration of both programmable logic, standard cell logic, processing cores, such as RISC cores, and analogue functions. The software definable/re-configurable circuitry employed in the video server apparatus 2 can also be based on this type of device technology as it can reduce device count and system costs.

Figure 7 shows a block diagram of the output stage section 20. This section formats the processed data from the digital signal processing stage 2S for transmission to the selected peripheral devices. Many of the components in the output stage 20 will need to be initialised and configured to implement the desired interface protocol. These components, such as the wireless link module 6W, the digital output interfaces 6D, are configured by the host processor 7H via the host bus 2HB. Processed digital data from the digital signal processing stage 2S can be output in analogue format, digital format or transmitted in a wireless format. The digital output interfaces 6D receive digital data from the digital signal processing stage 2S and format the received data into an appropriate format for transmission to the selected equipment. Depending on the interface and protocol, the format of the digital means that several digital channels can be multiplexed on the one channel.

Alternatively, a digital output interface 6D can be provided for each channel.

Though a single bus 2HB is shown, this is just an example of the interconnection method. Someone experienced in the art will realise that more than one interconnection bus can be employed where speed and parallel activity is required.

Many legacy peripherals, such as a VCR 1VR or display employing a SCART connector 1T will have analogue inputs. Therefore, signals output from the video server apparatus 2 will need to be converted into an analogue form.

Consequently, digital signals output from the digital signal processing stage 2S are input to digital to analogue converters 6G, such as an Analog Device AD1857.

The output of each digital to analogue converter 6G is then low pass filtered to"smooth"the signal and then amplified, buffered and impedance matched using circuitry 6F. The digital to analogue converter 6G and the filter and amplifier circuitry 6F can be combined to form an analogue output module 6AO. Different analogue output modules are available. Module 6A01 is a UHF output module which takes a video and audio data and modulates it so resultant signal can be applied directly to a conventional television set. Module 6AO2 is provides RGB video signals together with associated audio signals for connection via a SCART connector, for example. Module 601 is an audio output module for use with multi-channel audio processor, such as Dolby Prologic@ or Surround Sound@ systems or THX@ or Digital Theatre Systems@. The audio output module could also be an analogue output module (not shown) for connection to conventional hi-fidelity amplifiers.

Though a separate audio system 1M can be used, the modular softwarefirmware definable video server apparatus 2 can be combined with audio circuitry 1M on the same PCB board or unit.

In some applications, the communication between the video server apparatus 2 and other equipment, such as a headset 1H or power amplifier 1P, will be by wireless means. This allows such equipment to be positioned in a remote location. It also means equipment in other locations in a home can utilise the facilities provided by the video server apparatus 2 negating the need for more than one video server apparatus 2.

Accordingly, digital data output from the digital signal processing stage 2S is input to the wireless link module 6W where it is processed and formatted for transmission to the selected equipment. The wireless protocols used can be DECT or Bluetooth or HomeRF for example, but are not limited to these wireless protocols. As wireless protocols, such as Bluetooth and HomeRF can multiplex many data channels (up to eight for Bluetooth) then the functionality provided by the wireless module 6W could be provided by the other wireless module named in the apparatus. Therefore, wireless blocks 3WM, 7W and 6W can effectively be the same wireless module and are

shown as different functional blocks in the corresponding diagrams to assist in the explanation of the function of the individual sub-blocks.

In another embodiment, the software and or firmware definable logic blocks can be implemented on daughter cards or mezzanine cards, which can be inserted into the main motherboard. This allows the user to easily expand the video server capabilities. For example, the user might have purchased the basic video server apparatus 2 initially for use as a satellite decoder, but would now like to access different transponders or access cable television.

Or he/she may have an analogue decoder and want to swap to a digital decoder. By adding extra functions or swapping plug-in cards to the main motherboard, the video apparatus 2 can be expanded to cater for these new configurations. Other daughter cards or mezzanine cards could include input interface cards, demodulation cards or output interface cards allowing more output channels to be accommodated.

In yet a further embodiment, the software and or firmware definable logic blocks can be implemented in removable cards, such as a PC TYPE 1/2/3 card. These cards can have programmable functions or fixed functions, such as a modem or WorldSpace satellite radio receiver. To reduce the complexity and duplication of circuitry employed in peripheral equipment some of the processing of the received data can be performed by the logic in the video server. For example, in conventional Hi-Fi or home entertainment systems separate equipment units employ the same functional blocks to perform certain signal processing. Set Top Boxes (STBs), Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) players and Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB) receivers each use MPEG 2 audio decoders. The pre-amplifier apparatus 2 can be configured to implement MPEG 2 audio decoding. Therefore, DVD players 1V and WorldSpace receivers, for example, can be manufactured without this circuitry.

Consequently, data streams output from these simpler units can be input to the video server apparatus 2 which would be able to implement and perform these common functions e. g. MPEG 2 audio decoding. This has the advantage of reducing the cost and complexity of the DVD players and WorldSpace receiver units. In the case of the reduce functionality DAB receiver, the unit only needs to perform the RF demodulation, filtering and decoding to extract the data streams from the DAB modulated signal. Another example of reduced functionality peripherals would be a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) transport 1V in which the apparatus implements the electro-mechanics of spinning and controlling the disc, disc loading and ejection, controlling the read/write head and providing an interface for read/write data streams. The read data stream can then be processed by the software I firmware definable logic circuitry. Likewise, processed write data would be transferred from the apparatus 2 to the DVD transport 1V for storing on the DVD media (not shown). The host processor 7H configuring the definable logic and processing elements (software algorithms run on various processors) so the video server apparatus 2 is correctly configured to implement the processing circuitry/functions for the desired system configuration.

In another preferred embodiment, the pre-amplifier apparatus 2 can be configured to be used by one or more users simultaneously. With sufficient processing power (perhaps through the addition of extra plug-in cards) the apparatus 2 can process signal data from more than one source and transmit it to several separate peripheral devices. This would alleviate the need to purchase more equipment. For example, one user could watch a satellite broadcast while the other watches a DVD whose data is transmitted by wireless means to a remote display 1C in another location in the home. In another example, the logic and circuits in the video server 2 can be configured to allow more than one broadcast channel to be decoded, processed and output. In another example, the video server apparatus 2 could be connected to more than one satellite dish 1 D and or terrestrial aerial 1A to allow demodulation, decoding and simultaneous processing of received data from more than one signal source.

Figure 4 shows a logical block diagram of the digital signal processing stage 2S. The digital signal processing stage 2S comprises one or more digital signal processors 5D. Associated with each digital signal processor 5D is the program memory 5M used to store signal processing programs, local memory 5L used to store parameters used in algorithm/protocol calculations and programmable logic 5P which can be configured in real time or non-real time to implement various hardware functions required to for signal processing algorithms. To allow new software and configuration data, for the programmable logic 5P, to be updated the host processor 7H can gain access to the local memory 5L, the program memory 5M and the programmable logic 5P. To achieve this the host processor 7H must use the bus arbitration logic 5A. The host processor 7H will issue a bus request to the bus arbitration logic 5A. If access is allowed a bus grant signal will be sent back to the host processor 7H. Data is passed to the digital signal processing stage 2S using the host bus 2HB.

The digital signal processing stage 2S accepts data from both the input stage 21 and the data storage section 2M. Data from the data storage section 2M is transferred on bus 2DB. Depending on the configuration the user can be more than one bus 2DB. Data from the input stage 21 in transferred on bus 218. These two buses are connected to a demultiplexer 5S whose output is connected to an input fifo buffer 5G. The use of a fifo buffer 5G allows data read and write to and from the buffer 5G to be performed in bursts and at different clock rates. This arrangement improves system operation and partitioning by allowing the different sub-blocks to operate at their own rates and reduces complex sub-block communication. Processed data can be transferred to the output stage 20 directly via the demultiplexer 5T or indirectly via the bi-directional FIFO buffer 5F then through the demultiplexer output stage 20 directly via the demultiplexer 5T or indirectly via the bidirectional FIFO buffer 5F then through the demultiplexer 5T. The use of the FIFO 5F allows the separate sub-blocks to operate at their own rates and also allows intercommunication between the digital signal processors 5D.

Though figure 1 shows a generic block diagram of the video server apparatus 2 other sub-module interconnection methods can be employed. In one preferred embodiment (not shown), data and control transfer from data sources to data processing and data sinks between the various sub-blocks and card modules is by data packets. These card intercommunications are all digital using serial or differential serial communications links so as to reduce the number of signals and reduce signal noise between the sub-blocks and card modules. Therefore, any analogue signals are first converted to corresponding digital signals using appropriate digital to analogue signal conversion means. The selection of such conversion means ensuring the correct sampling and quantization requirements to represent the digital form of the signal with minimal quantization and noise errors. The data packets preferably being of the same length as used in the Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) protocol or can be varying length packets.

The switching means 9SW can take the form of a pure cross bar switch in which signal paths between the switch inputs and switch outputs are dynamically set by the host processor 7H depending on the configuration of the apparatus 2. The switching means 9SW can also be a self routing buffered switch fabric in which data packets are transferred from the switch's input ports to the switch's output ports based on routing information contained in the header section of the data packet. As several inputs could route data packets to the same switch output port, buffering is required. To reduce congestion different priority queues could be used in the switch 9SW to allow higher priority traffic preference over lower priority traffic. This allows real time traffic and traffic requiring a better class of service to pass through the switch fabric 9SW with a lower latency and hence reduce timing errors. The switch paths and header fields are set by the host processor at system startup or if there is a new configuration update.

The advantages of using a switch 9SW to route data packets between different sub-blocks, card modules and devices are that it reduces the complexity of the interconnection. Each card slot does not require connections to all other possible card slot locations. Control and data messages can be switched to the correct sub-block, card module and or device via the switching means. This makes it easier to configure the system and allows the card modules to be placed almost anywhere in the apparatus card slots as the host processor 7H card can interrogate each cards to determine it's function and initialise it and the system accordingly. Also, certain card modules can incorporate Plug'n'Play means, which allows card modules to initialise and or assist in configuring themselves. Another preferable feature is for the card modules to be'hot swappable'. This feature allows cards to be removed or inserted into the apparatus 2 while the system is operational.

In another embodiment, the logic and circuits in the video server 2 can be configured to allow more than one broadcast channel to be decoded,

processed and output. For example, using Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) broadband transmission over an ADSL modem 3M connection numerous channels can be received and decoded. The segmentation and reassembly (SAR) logic 9S can process many separate data streams. The SAR 9S segments data streams into packets of the same length for transmission. Likewise, received packets are combined to retrieve the original data. For ATM system different segmentation and reassembly protocols exist.

These are named AALO-AAL5 and different AALs are used for different types of traffic e. g. variable bit rate (VBR) and constant bit rate (CBR). To ensure quality of service various traffic management, policing and schduling schemes are employed. These functions can be implemented by the SAR 9S, the host processor 7H or the network processor 9N. The network processor 9N can also perform interworking functions. This allows different transmission protocols to be used or data to be encapsulated. Examples of a network processor 9N are the Helium processor from Virata.

Each ATM data packet contains a cell header and channel identifier. The same is true for IP traffic. This allows cells for each channel to be identified, processed and output to the desired destination interface.

Video data transfer can be implemented using one of several protocols. However, for communications over a Plain Old Telephone (POTs) network 8T it is envisaged that the information transfer will be MPEG (2 or 4) over ATM over ADSL for video and Internet access by IP over ATM over ADSL (if an ADSL modem 3M is employed). This type of configuration is outlined in figure 10. This assumes the video server 2 is connected to a Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer (DSLAM) 8D in at the central office 8C, as shown in figure 10. An ADSL modem 3M allows data rates of up to 8Mbits per second across conventional twisted pairs. Once a connection is established to either an Internet Service Provider (ISP) 8G or a video service provider (server farms providing Near Video On Demand (NVOD) for example), video data can be transferred in both real time and non real time to the video server apparatus 2 in the home 8H. A video server 8S could be provided locally in the central office 8C. For non-real time transfers the video data can be stored on the hard disk drive 4HD. For non ADSL modems, such as a V. 90 modem 3M, the video server apparatus 2 is connected to the Internet 8A via the Plain Old Telephone (POTs) network 8T.

In addition, the video server apparatus 2 can have a mobile wireless module 8W for connection to a mobile phone network. The mobile phone module 8W communicates like a normal mobile phone with a base station 81. The base stations are connected to the base station switching centre 8J. These in turn are connected to the mobile switching centre 8K which connect to the Plain Old Telephone (POTs) network 8T. Though a GSM mobile network is shown in figure 10, the mobile network can be any other mobile network standard, such as a third generation (3G) mobile network, UMTS or broadband wireless (HyperLAN 2).

In yet another preferred embodiment, the video server apparatus 2 can be configured to implement the functions of a games console. Games programs stored on memory card, DVDs or CDs can be inserted into the corresponding interface or transport provided by the apparatus 2. The remote control unit 1 R optionally having controls to provide interaction with the games software and manipulate the generated graphics accordingly. In some cases, game software may require different video processing. Much of this can be implemented by the digital signal processor and or the reconfigurable logic in the video server apparatus 2. Alternatively, extra plug-in cards may be required to enhance the performance of the video server 2, such as a graphics processor (not shown). However, a generic plug-in card containing programmable logic and a DSP could be used to implement such functions.

The host processor 7 configuring the logic and circuits to implement the required graphics processing. By selecting the game console configuration, the host processor 7H will allocate the required resources to implement the decoding, processing and outputting of the graphics data to the display means 1T or 1 C. Again, the modular, programmable and reconfigurable nature of the video server 2 means that a separate games console unit is not required. Also, improvements in graphics standards means that whole new games consoles don't have to be purchased each time they are introduced.

Incremental upgrades are possible, making the video server much more"user friendly".

In another embodiment, the video server apparatus 2 incorporates a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. This facility in conjunction with the host processor 7H and conditional access module 7 A allows the apparatus 2 to determine its location and configure the apparatus 2 to automatically select and tune to any terrestrial channels (if terrestrial decoding is selected) or to various satellite transponders for which the subscriber is allowed to view. The apparatus 2 would have available channel information for each region preprogrammed or the apparatus 2 could download this information from the Internet via the internal modem 3M.

The modular software-firmware definable video server 2 can take several forms (not shown). It could be implemented in single equipment box, one or more equipment boxes or on PCBs which are remove-ably insertable into a card frame. The main PCBs having both mechanical and electronic interface means to accept plug-in mezzanine cards.

Although the invention has been described herein with reference to particular preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are illustrative of the aspects of the invention. As such, a person skilled in the art may make numerous modifications to the illustrative embodiments described herein. Such modifications and other arrangements which may be devised to implement the invention should not be deemed as departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described and claimed herein.

Claims

1. A modular and software/firmware definable video server apparatus for processing video and related audio and data information comprising: one or a plurality of interchangeable input signal source interface module (s) used to demodulate and or down convert and or filter and or buffer signals to extract the transmitted digital and or analogue video, audio and data streams, one or a plurality of interchangeable signal processing module (s) used to process the extracted data streams be they digital and or analogue data, one or a plurality of interchangeable output processing module (s) used to encode and or format and or condition the signals for transfer with one or more selected peripherals, a host processor means and associated program memory means for controlling, monitoring and configuring logic and circuits to implement the functions required to receive, process and output a valid selected channel internal or external power supply means to power the apparatus circuits.

2. A modular and software/firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the logic and or circuits on a main motherboard and or any interchangeable plug-in card comprises: one or a plurality of software and or firmware definable circuit blocks, these circuit blocks being based on Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs), such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), which can be configured in real time and or non real time to implement in hardware different signal processing functions required for different digital signal processing algorithms and protocols, such as Dolby noise reduction, MPEG2, MP3, MPEG4, Home Theatre, various types of digital filters, decryption algorithms, thus allowing the apparatus to be used in different system configurations, the programmable logic optionally providing hardware acceleration of complex and software intensive functions, the configuration of the software definable logic blocks being performed by either firmware stored in local memory associated with the programmable logic devices and or by the host processor transferring the configuration data to the programmable logic devices directly or indirectly to local memory associated with the programmable logic devices or via an input/output port of the programmable logic device, the choice of configuration firmware program depending on the user selected parameters, these

parameters being entered into the apparatus via either an integrated keypad and front panel controls and or via remote control means, or personal computer means, the input information optionally being displayed on display means, such as an Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), the software definable logic blocks optionally incorporating digital signal processor (DSP) devices and associated memory devices, the configuration and allocation of the software programs used by each digital signal processor device being performed in real time and or non real time by the host processor or configuration routines stored in non- volatile memory associated with the digital signal processors, the allocation of the specific software program being determined by user inputs;

3. Modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the software and or firmware definable circuit blocks of an integrated circuit devices can contain any combination of programmable digital logic, hardwired logic functions, programmable interconnect, analogue functions, programmable analogue circuits, memory storage means, embedded processor core means, inputoutput pins and programmable input-output circuits.

4. Modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim which includes modem means, allowing Internet access so the user can download upgrade firmware or software for implementing new signal processing algorithms and protocols and or configuring the programmable logic hardware and or signal processing algorithms allowing the programmable logic and processing elements in the apparatus to be reconfigured to implement the new algorithms and or hardware configurations, the new firmware and software being stored in nonvolatile memory optionally under the control of the host processor and controller circuitry, the Internet access also allows the user to download broadcast information, such as real-time video data, which can then be processed and optionally stored by the apparatus before being output to other peripheral apparatus.

5. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in Claim 1, wherein one of the interchangeable input signal source interface modules can be a modem and or a cable modem.

6. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in Claim 1, wherein one of the interchangeable input signal source interface modules provides receiver and demodulation means to receive either analogue and or digital broadcasts from a satellite transponder and or a terrestrial transmission.

7. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in Claim 1, wherein one of the interchangeable input signal source interface modules provides receiver and demodulation means to receive satellite radio transmissions, such as VvondSpace@.

8. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which has one or a plurality of conditional access module which can optionally be based on programmable and or software I firmware definable logic allowing the apparatus to be configured to implement different decryption and descrambling algorithms.

9. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which can simultaneous receive, demodulate, process, optionally store and or output more than one broadcast channel from either the same transponder and or separate transmission source means, the apparatus being able to drive a motorised antenna to select different transponders.

10. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which can receive, demodulate, process, optionally store and output received broadband transmission broadcasts based on broadband mobile phone standards.

11. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which communicates with a remote control means either by wired or wireless means, the remote control means allowing text and command data to be transferred to the apparatus and optionally having display means to display received data.

12. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the input signal to the apparatus from source means and or the output signals from the apparatus to signal sink means is by wireless communication means.

13. Apparatus as claimed in claim 12 in which the wireless protocol used to transfer data to and from the pre-amplifier apparatus is Bluetooth, HomeRF, IEEE 802.11, DECT or Wireless ATM.

14. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which includes mechanical and electronic interface means to accept remove-ably insertable hard disk drive used to store and retrieve video and associated audio and data information received by the apparatus.

15. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in Claim 14, where the received data is compressed before the data is written to the hard disk.

16. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in Claim 14, where the hard disk drive means is an optical disc means.

17. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein semiconductor memory means is employed to store and retrieve received information.

18. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the apparatus can be configured for simultaneous use by more than one user where signal data from one or more signal sources can be processed and output to one or more output circuits.

19. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which can be configured to decode, process and output game software, the output being displayed on display means, the remote control means having input control means to allow interaction with the apparatus to control the processing of the games software.

20. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein interface means is provided to allow connection of a web camera so video and associated audio data can be transmitted via modem means to the service and or network provider for use in their broadcasts.

21. A modular and software I firmware definable video server as claimed in any preceding claim which has the facilities to allow removable memory means, such as a PC TYPE 1/2/3 card or memory stick to be inserted into the apparatus and removed from the apparatus, previously stored data being read from the removable memory means and processed by the apparatus before being output, alternatively processed data and or digitised signals, formatted in the selected format, can be stored in non-volatile memory in the removable memory card allowing the user to play the recorded data on another apparatus which has the facilities to access the data stored on the removable memory card means.

22. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which digital switching means are employed to route and transfer data from different sub-blocks, card modules and or devices in the apparatus.

23. Apparatus as claimed in claim 22 in which the digital switching means takes the form of a cross bar switch or a self-routing switch in which data packets or cells have an appended routing tag to control the flow of the packet or cell through the self-routing switch to its destination.

24. Apparatus as claimed in claim 22 in which the digital switching means uses priority output queues to allow data with different priorities to be queued in separate queues to reduce congestion and head of line blocking.

25. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which digital data for transfer via switching means is encapsulated as a variable length data packet or same length cell.

26. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein more than one remote control means is provided.

27. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which an external modem means is employed to access the Internet.

28. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim which incorporates Analogue to Digital converter (ADC) means to allow analogue input signals to be first converted to digital signals so they can be processed in the digital domain, the sampling frequency of the Analogue to Digital Converter (s) (ADCs) being sufficient to accurately represent the signal in the digital domain.

29. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the interchangeable mezzanine card and or card module interface means are based on programmable logic, for example Field Programmable Logic Arrays (FPGAs) so upgrades can be easily implemented by changing the interface devices of the associated card module and or mezzanine card.

30. Apparatus as claimed in claim 29 wherein the mezzanine cards and or card modules incorporate'Plug and Play'means to allow a mezzanine card and or card module to configure and initialise itself and interact with the host processor means to indicate the configuration, status and functionality of the card module and associated mezzanine card modules.

31. Apparatus as claimed in claim 29 or claim 30 wherein the mezzanine cards and or card modules incorporate the means to be hot swappable allowing card module insertion or removal from the apparatus while the apparatus is operational.

32. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which a personal computer (PC) can be connected to allow control of the apparatus, reconfigure the apparatus, diagnose the apparatus and or download or upload music data, which can be processed or stored in internal memory form future use.

33. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the software and or firmware definable devices are full custom VLSI devices and or Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) which implement any combination of programmable logic, fixed standard cell logic, mixed signal circuitry and processor cores.

34. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the input circuitry and or output circuitry is based on programmable logic devices, such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), allowing the interfaces to be reconfigured to implement the desired interface protocol or format.

35. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the remote control means can be used to control the peripheral signal source apparatus, such as a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) player via the pre-amplifier apparatus.

36. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the apparatus can have some of the programmable circuitry configured to implement functions and or algorithms normally performed in "conventional" peripheral equipment allowing new peripheral equipment which operates with the said modular and software/firmware definable video server apparatus to have reduced functionality.

37. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the apparatus can be programmed to record received data using "non-volatile" memory means at a predefined time so it can be retrieved, processed and output at a later time.

38. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim where peripheral units are situated remotely from the video server apparatus in which control and data messages are transferred by wireless means allowing movement of the said remote peripheral units to different locations within the user's house without the need to re-wire the apparatus.

39. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim which incorporates an integrated read and optionally write-able Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) transport and associated control circuitry to allow stored digitised audio data to be read and or written to a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) media.

40. A modular and software/firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which allows the transmission and reception of electronic mail.

41. A modular and software/firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which allows the transmission and reception of voice data via an Internet connection using the internal modem means.

42. A modular and software/firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which incorporate a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver means which is used in conjunction with the host processor to determine its global location and then select, tune to and program the various available broadcast channels from a range of satellite transponders and or terrestrial broadcast channels and or via a cable modem means.

43. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which is implemented in a single equipment box means or enclosure means.

44. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which is implemented in a more than one equipment box means or enclosure means.

45. A modular and software I firmware definable video server apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, which is implemented in a card frame means with insertably removable printed circuit board means.

46. A modular, software-firmware definable video server apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to Figures 1-10 of the accompanying drawings.