A system and method for controlling the operation of a television using a cable
broadcasting network is disclosed. The presence of a viewer in front of the television
is sensed, presence information is then transmitted to a cable broadcasting service
center via the cable broadcasting network, a control signal is sent to the television
adapted to receive same, and regular cable programming is suspended. The present
invention allows the cable broadcasting company to provided additional services
to the cable subscriber to retain and attract additional customers. These additional
services may be tailored to the specific needs of the cable subscriber, thus a
higher quality cable service is provided.
