Importance

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Abstract

A digital program insertion technique for analog video services. In one aspect, a method and apparatus are provided for message insertion and delivery of video signals. A digital video program signal is received. A digital video message signal is inserted into the digital video program signal in response to an insertion cueing message. The inserting is performed while the digital video program and message signals remain in digital format, thereby forming a combined digital video signal. The combined digital video is then converted to an analog video signal. The analog video signal is distributed to a plurality of viewers using analog distribution equipment. Thus, the invention provides for the continued use of existing legacy equipment that distributes video signals in analog format. The combined digital video signals may also be delivered in digital format using equipment designed for digital video delivery. Accordingly, the present invention provides for use of newer equipment that processes and distributes video signals in digital format while retaining legacy equipment that distributes the video signals in analog format.

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First Claim