MULTI-MODE RING CLOCK

摘要

A multi-mode ring clock can be embodied as a ring of illuminable segments, each of which can be individually controlled to display time and timer information associated with using a digital video recorder (DVR) in a set top box. Time and timer information can include displays for time of day, for starting and stopping recordings, for measuring elapsed time and remaining time, and for setting a playback time for a recording. The multi-mode ring clock is responsive to control signals from clock circuitry inside the set top box that is already provided for purposes other than controlling the multi-mode ring clock. Special time and timer indications can be related to different aspects of managing DVR recordings.

主权项

1. A set top box, comprising:
a digital video recorder (DVR); first circuitry for processing and generating time control signals for said DVR; second circuitry for generating a user interface enabling implementation of DVR recording modes, said DVR recording modes requiring different ones of said time control signals; and, a front panel having a multi-mode ring-shaped clock formed by a plurality of independently illuminable segments operable in response to said time control signals generated for said DVR and in accordance with said DVR recording modes.