Method and apparatus for thumbnail generation for a video device

An apparatus for generating a thumbnail image comprising:

• a video input configured to receive an encoded video packet including a packet header and a video frame;
• a processor configured for generating a modified packet header by setting a value of max_num_ref_frames to zero in the packet header and designating the video frame as unused for reference in the packet header by setting a value of memory_management_control_operation, decoding the video frame in response to the modified packet header to extract the video frame, and generating the thumbnail image comprising the video frame;
• and
• a memory configured for storing the thumbnail image by bypassing a decoded picture buffer in response the value of max_num_ref_frames and the value of memory_management_control_operation.

An apparatus for generating and transmitting a thumbnail image comprising:

• a tuner configured for receiving and demodulating a video signal including a video packet having a packet header and a video frame;
• a processor configured for generating a modified packet header by modifying the packet header to set a value of max_num_ref_frames to zero and to designate the video frame as unused for reference by setting a value of memory_management_control_operation, decoding the video frame in response to the modified packet header to extract the video frame, and generating the thumbnail image in response to comprising the video frame;
• a memory configured for storing the thumbnail image by bypassing a decoded picture buffer in response the value of max_num_ref_frames and the value of memory_management_control_operation;
• and
• a video output configured for coupling the thumbnail image to a display in response to a user video search request.