Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for identifying the channel to which a receiver is tuned includes a controller having a microprocessor, a ROM for storage of programs, a RAM for storage of data and a data storage and communication device; a controlled panel mounted adjacent a light emitting diode (LED) display on the receiver that displays the channel to which the receiver is tuned; and a light detection device mounted in association with the panel. The panel normally is maintained transparent so that the LED display may be readily seen through the panel. In order to determine the number being displayed on the LED display, selected portions of the panel are sequentially rendered transparent while the remaining portions of the panel are maintained opaque. The controller determines which selected portions of the panel have light being transmitted therethrough from the LED display. Based on these determinations, the channel being displayed on the LED display can be determined so that the channel to which the receiver is tuned can be identified and information relating thereto can be stored in the data storage and communication device for later evaluation. In one embodiment of the channel identifier apparatus, the light detecting device includes a light sensor mounted in front of and adjacent the panel. In another embodiment of the channel identifier apparatus, the light detecting device includes a photo-resistive wire embedded in or mounted on the panel.

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First Claim