UK DTH platform Freesat has become the latest company to have satellite receivers pass the European-wide assurance scheme for TV and satellite distribution equipment known as the European IRS Certification Scheme (EICS).
Its UHD 4X 500 and UHD X receivers passed the test specification, demonstrating the high quality of the Freesat set-top boxes and their compatibility with other products that pass the EICS within an Integrated Reception System, according to the Digital Television Group (DTG).
The first scheme of its kind, the EICS test specification provides ‘reassurance of end-to-end device compatibility, interoperability and robust RF performance within satellite and DTT distribution systems.’
“Freesat is really pleased to work with the DTG and CAI to approve the Freesat 4K products under the scheme. Rolling out to our customers as a software release later in the year, the Freesat 4K set-top boxes are the first products that will work with the range of satellite connections that consumers can find in their home. This will also enable our product to operate seamlessly in a multi-dwelling environment. Freesat has collaborated with equipment manufacturers including Triax and Unitron, and partners like CommScope to provide a solution that allows us to be part of this fantastic EICS scheme,” said a Freesat spokesperson.
The EICS scheme has been developed through an industry collaboration of satellite and DTT platforms, major equipment manufacturers, and led by industry associations DTG and CAI. It consists of a test specification underpinned by international standards and a consumer-facing logo. Manufacturers of equipment such as receivers, dSCRs, multi switches, fibre gateways, launch amplifiers and LNBs can display the logo on their products after successfully passing the required tests.
Supported by leading retailers, the EICS logo will ensure a high quality of experience for the end customer. End-users, such as installers, specifiers, housing associations and platform operators can use the logo to recognise equipment that is compatible with all major satellite and TV services; and therefore interoperable with other EICS equipment.
DTG Testing provides testing against the EICS specification at their UKAS-accredited laboratory based in London. CAI operates the scheme and will include a market surveillance programme to maintain a high standard of EICS-marked equipment.
“DTG Testing is delighted that a major TV platform such as Freesat has shown its support for this scheme. The ongoing uptake of the scheme is great news for TV platforms, manufacturers of satellite and TV distribution equipment, and installers who can select products with confidence when they see the EICS mark,” said Alex Buchan, Strategic Technologist at the DTG.
“CAI are pleased to have worked with DTG Testing to develop this new Product Certification Scheme, which follows on from the success of CAI’s existing Cable and Aerial Certification Schemes. CAI are delighted that Freesat have shown their support for the scheme by submitting their latest 4k set top boxes to be tested. This new scheme will enable our members, as well as other parts of the industry, to select the best products for their installations. The EICS mark will also enable developers, landlords and the specifiers working for them, to ensure that the residents of their developments get systems that work as intended, when combined with CAI Codes of Practice and installation by our members,” added CAI Chairman Peter Sealey.
