METHOD OF SEARCHING FOR PROGRAMME CONTENT

摘要

There is provided a communication network (10) operable to search for programme content. The network (10) is distinguished in that it comprises: (a) a plurality of mutually interconnected network nodes (100, 110) susceptible to storing programme data content and at least one of electronic programme guides (EPG) and associated meta-data thereat; (b) at least one user-operable node (20) coupled to the network (10), the at least one user-operable node (20) including user-interfacing means (30, 50) for receiving instructions from a user (60) and presenting results to the user (60). The network (10) is arranged such that: (c) the plurality of network nodes (100) and/or the at least one user-operable node (20) are operable to access electronic programme guide (EPG) data and/or associated meta­data providing a record of at least previous programme data content communicated within the network (10); (d) the network (10) is operable to present one or more electronic programme guides (EPG) to the user (60) for generating therefrom a search request susceptible to utilizing meta-data associated with the one or more electronic programme guides (EPG) for use in identifying corresponding data content available in the network (10); and (e) the at least one user-operable node (20) is operable to receive data content thereat corresponding to the search request.