Apparatus and method for receiving emergency alert signals

Abstract

An apparatus such as a television signal receiver ( 20 ) provides an emergency alert function. According to an exemplary embodiment, the television signal receiver ( 20 ) includes a first tuner ( 23 ) for tuning a first channel when the television signal receiver ( 20 ) is in an on mode. A second tuner ( 25 ) is provided for tuning a second channel when the television signal receiver ( 20 ) is in the on mode and an off/standby mode. The second channel provides emergency alert signals capable of activating the emergency alert function.

1 - 14 . (canceled) 
   
   
       15 . A modem apparatus having an emergency alert function, comprising:
 a modulator operative to modulate upstream signals provided to a network;   a demodulator operative to demodulate downstream signals provided from said network, said downstream signals including emergency alert signals capable of activating said emergency alert function; an alert system operative to provide an alert output when said emergency alert function is activated; and   wherein said emergency alert function is activated if said emergency alert signals indicate an emergency event corresponding to a user selected geographical area and a user selected event type.   
   
   
       16 . The modem apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein said alert system includes a visual output element. 
   
   
       17 . The modem apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein said alert system includes an aural output element. 
   
   
       18 . The modem apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein said network includes a cable network. 
   
   
       19 . The modem apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein said network includes a DSL network. 
   
   
       20 . The modem apparatus of  claim 15 , wherein:
 said modem apparatus is operatively coupled to an external device; and   said external device provides a second alert output when said emergency alert function is activated.   
   
   
       21 . The modem apparatus of  claim 20 , wherein said external device includes a television signal receiver. 
   
   
       22 . The modem apparatus of  claim 20 , wherein said external device includes a computer.