to provide picture on picture capability control signal decompression enhanced channel switching or like features in addition to menu information the set top terminal 220 may also store text transmitted from the cable headend 208 or the operations center 202 the text may inform the subscriber about upcoming events billing and account status new subscriptions or other relevant information the text will be stored in an appropriate memory location depending on the frequency and the duration of the use of the textual message also optional upgrades are available to enhance the performance of a subscriber 39 s set top terminal 220 these upgrades may consist of a cartridge or computer card not shown that is inserted into an expansion slot in the set top terminal 220 or may consist of a feature offered by the cable headend 208 or operations center 202 to which the user may subscribe available upgrades may include on line data base services interactive multi media services access to digital radio channels and other services in the simplest embodiment available converter boxes such as those manufactured by general instruments or scientific atlanta may be modified and upgraded to perform the functions of a set top terminal 220 the preferred upgrade is a circuit card with a microprocessor which is electronically connected to or inserted into the converter box the primary conduit for communication between the subscriber and the set top terminal 220 is through the subscriber interface preferably a remote control 900 through the remote control 900 the subscriber may select desired programming through the system 39 s menu driven scheme or by directly accessing a specific channel by.