[mythtv-users] "Odometer" Threads

[Brian Wood]

Brian Steele wrote:
>> Wow.
>>
>> Does anyone have that patent number handy?  I haven't read it, but I'm
>> pretty sure it's actually bogus.  Anyone an EFF member?
>>
>> Excellent point, though, Brian; I hadn't thought of that.
> 
> 
> Here's a link to the text of the patent:
> http://www.google.com/patents?id=IeoIAAAAEBAJ&dq=6233389
> 
> If you read it, the patent explicitly refers to separating the audio
> and video streams of the incoming TV signal and storing them
> separately, then recombining them later during playback.  My
> understanding is that Myth doesn't do that and therefore would not be
> infringing on the patent.  Of course, I'm not a lawyer so what do I
> know?

Hmmm... It could be argues that the separate A and V streams would qualify.

When lawyers are involved there is no logic involved, only tactics and 
funding.

The whole thing is crazy, that patent should never have been granted as 
it was an obvious application of prior art, IMHO of course.

Can you imagine trying to explain this technology to a jury? Or even the 
judge? Especially when the "explanation" would be delivered by an attorney?

Some attorneys do understand these things, some are on this list, but I 
suspect they would not be hired by TiVo.

I think the EFF should get involved.

beww