Importance

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Abstract

A method of storing video programs, such as movies, for video-on-demand access includes forming a hierarchy for the movies based upon anticipated frequencies of access. Typically, more than one magnetic disk is used to store the video programs, with each disk being partitioned into concentric annular zones. In one embodiment, there is a direct correspondence between the hierarchy and the assignment of video programs to the annular zones. The movies that are anticipated to have the highest frequency of video-on-demand access are placed in the radially outermost zone until it is filled. The next highest video program is then recorded in the next zone. This pattern is followed until the radially innermost zone is filled. In a second embodiment, the same pattern is followed, but with the movies within the outer zones being strategically located within those zones in order to potentially reduce seek time. In a third embodiment, the highest rated video program in the hierarchy is located in a zone somewhat inwardly from the radially outermost zone, again attempting to provide a grouping that reduces seek time. In a last embodiment, the highest rated video programs in the hierarchy are recorded in the outermost zone, but the remaining video programs are recorded in a random fashion. This last embodiment trades some of the high bandwidth benefit at outer zones for the benefit of ease of implementation.

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First Claim