Multi-user, on-demand video storage and retrieval system including video signature computation for preventing excessive instantaneous server data rate

摘要: A plurality of movies are distributively stored in digitally encoded form on a mass storage unit such as Redundant Array Inexpensive Drives (RAID) disk drive array that they can be viewed demand by multiple users. video server receives movie requests from users, and retrieves transmits the requested data RAID to processors at respective user locations. The decode retrieved produce picture audio information display corresponding monitors. Temporal instantaneous digital rate signatures for computed stored, current composite signature is summing all currently being shown. When an additional requested, combined with new signature. If any part exceeds maximum capability server, shifted forward time predetermined increment, again recalculated This repeated required until obtained no thereof exceeding retrieval showing initiated total shift.