Importance

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Abstract

A multi-user system, method, and computer-usable medium facilitate time-shifting of television program viewing for users. Each user is identified by an associated user profile, and a program schedule, including a list of desired programs to be recorded, is maintained for each user. The television programs are recorded and stored on a hard disk, or other nonvolatile storage, for later viewing by the users. The television programs are preferably stored in a compressed format. Each user can log into the system, at his convenience, and view any of the television programs that have been recorded for him. There is no shuffling through numerous videocassette tapes or skipping over other users' recorded programs to find a desired television program. An option may be used to specify how long to save a recorded television program before it can be erased and overwritten with another program. A master user or users, such as a parent or parents, can add a new user to the system by setting up a new user profile. The master user may set options or restrictions for the new user. If a permanent copy of a television program is desired, it can be written to another medium, such as a compact disk, a DVD, or a videocassette tape.

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First Claim