SES-Astra has launched a new website in Germany to inform customers about the possibility to upgrade their legacy satellite receivers for reception of the HD+ channels.
Reception of the HD+ platform of encrypted HD channels is only possible with a special smart card and a dedicated receiver. However, legacy HD receivers with a CI slot can be upgraded with a software update. Viewers can then buy a special CI module for the HD+ platform including the card.
On the website, customers can find information about if their receiver is suitable for such a software update. See the website for the list of compatible receivers.
The HD+ platform currently offers HD versions of RTL GD, Sat1 HD, ProSieben HD, kabel eins HD and Vox HD.
The list of participating manufacturers and the receivers is constantly updated. The CI modules for HD + will be available sometime later this year for €99.
The CI module for HD + does not work in television sets with built-in tuners or satellite receivers with the new CI Plus slot. For these devices, a special CI Plus Module for HD + will come on the market later this quarter.
About Robert Briel
"In an industry that experiences rapid change and often a confusing subsequent
constant supply of news, it is often refreshing to read an insightful perspective. Broadband
TV News and its editorial team regularly provide a context and
helpful analysis to breaking news.”
Broadband TV News is the must-read publication for those working in the Business of the Multiscreen Television. We deliver news, insight and data direct to your desktop. As well as our constantly updated website you can sign-up to our Daily and Weekly email bulletins. 
Connected TV Forecasts NEW REPORT. The number of TV sets connected to the Internet will reach 551 million by 2016 for the 40 countries covered in this report from Digital TV Research, up from 124 million at end-2010. The report states that this translates to 20% of global TV sets by 2016, up from only 6% at end-2010. Published in November 2011, this 83-page PDF report is the most geographically comprehensive to ever be published.