Method and apparatus for delivering consumer entertainment services using virtual devices accessed over a high-speed quality-of-service-enabled communications network

摘要

A virtual storage adapter provides networked data storage to a data processing device for delivering consumer entertainment services using virtual devices accessed over a high-speed quality-of-service-enabled communications network. A data storage device emulation unit emulates the functionality of a data storage device (e.g., a DVD or a CD) and a network interface comprising an IP Small Computer System Interface (“iSCSI”) compatible interface connects the data storage device emulation unit to an iSCSI storage gateway. The virtual storage adapter provides video on demand (“VoD”) services using a video on demand server comprising a video on demand portal for selection and an administration unit for billing. Personal video recorder services are also provided, including data expiration, capacity on demand, consolidated recording and community recording features.