System for distributing broadcast television services identically on a first bandwidth portion of a plurality of express trunks and interactive services over a second bandwidth portion of each express trunk on a subscriber demand basis

摘要

An interactive television information system having a node in television communication between a source of television information services and a plurality of home interface controllers. Each subscriber television is associated with a home interface controller. The home interface controllers receive the television information signals and include a data transceiver for data communications with the node. Express trunks deliver television information services to groups of subscribers. Each trunk includes a first bandwidth portion for carrying broadcast television signals in the same manner on each trunk. A second bandwidth portion carries television information services on a demand basis. The node responds to subscriber requests by selecting television information services for delivery over the second bandwidth portion of the express trunk coupled to the requesting home interface controller.