Facts about digital decoders
A decoder converts a digital signal to an analogue output, which can be displayed by an ordinary TV.
Not sure whether to buy a digital decoder?
If you’re not sure whether you need to buy a digital decoder to watch TV when Denmark switches over to the new TV signal, then read more about digital TV, or about the new TV signal here. The general rule is that if you receive TV signals via an aerial, then you need a digital decoder or a TV with a built-in decoder.
The digital TV system offers many advantages
- Possibility of better picture and sound
- Electronic programme guide, where information on present and future programmes, etc. can be viewed
- Select or deselect subtitles
- Sign language translation
- Genuine 16:9 widescreen format
- Interactivity
Some functions will be available at a later date.
Digital decoders are available for:
- Aerial, DVB-T
- Cable TV, DVB-C
- Satellite-TV, DVB-S
- Internet, DVB-IP
Other terms for digital decoders
Digital decoders are also known as set-top boxes, digital receivers and zapper boxes.
3 types of digital decoder
The Trust divides digital decoders into 3 different categories. Read about them below:
This type can receive digital TV signals and converts them to analogue. A basic box may also be able to decode HD (high definition) signals.
2. Digital decoder with card reader
This type can receive digital TV signals and converts them to analogue. It can also decode encrypted signals transmitted by pay TV, and can have an extra built-in decoder/tuner and a hard drive for recording and replaying programmes.
This type of decoder may also be able to decode HD (high definition) signals. A decoder with card reader can be used for pay TV.
3. Advanced digital decoder
This type can receive digital TV signals and converts them to analogue. It can also decode encrypted signals transmitted by pay TV, and can have an extra built-in decoder/tuner and a hard drive for recording and replaying programmes. The decoder may also be able to decode HD (high definition) signals.
This decoder has greater functionality than a decoder with card reader. It can be continually updated by TV programme providers and therefore has a mode called active standby. Consumption in active mode can be high, so advanced decoders therefore often use a lot of electricity.
Standby and other modes for digital decoders
Because the amount of electricity used by digital decoders can vary from one device to another it is worth looking for the Energy Saving Label to be sure of low consumption in both on and standby modes.
Page last updated 15.08.2009