Graphical user interface for a device having multiple input and output nodes

摘要

A graphical user interface (GUI) is described. The GUI includes first GUI elements that provide a visual representation of the nodes of an audio/video device. In response to user input, a signal is caused to be routed between nodes by manipulating circuitry within the audio/video device. Second GUI elements provide a visual representation of the signals being routed within the electronic device between pairs of first GUI elements (e.g., between nodes). As a result, the user can readily understand which nodes are connected to each other. Thus, for example, a user can easily visualize which source node is providing input to a target node and, by selecting the appropriate GUI elements, can just as easily switch from one source to another or from one target to another.

主权项

1. A method of controlling signals within an audio/video device, said method comprising:
generating a display comprising a graphical user interface (GUI) comprising a plurality of displayed GUI elements that represent source nodes and target nodes and connection paths between said source nodes and said target nodes, wherein said plurality of displayed GUI elements includes a first subset for said source nodes that are coupled to peripheral devices and wherein said plurality of displayed GUI elements also includes a second subset for said target nodes that are coupled to said peripheral devices, wherein said plurality of displayed GUI elements also includes a subset of said connection paths comprising connection paths that are possible between said first subset of source nodes and said second subset of target nodes but not including connection paths between said source nodes and said target nodes that are not possible; and routing a signal between a first node and a second node by manipulating circuitry within said audio/video device in response to user input, wherein said GUI further comprises a first GUI element useful for displaying a first video signal associated with a first source node of said source nodes, wherein said first video signal is displayed in said first GUI element.