Freesat 4K set top boxes are latest products to pass DTG testing and CAI’s European IRS Certification Scheme (EICS)

Leading TV 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.

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 commented:

“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”.

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 the 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.

Alex Buchan, Strategic Technologist at the DTG, said "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."

Peter Sealey, Chairman of CAI, said "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."

About DTG Testing (part of the Digital Television Group)

DTG Testing is a not-for-profit and vital test laboratory resource for the TV and satellite industries. Based in London, it is the only test lab in Europe to be ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited by UKAS to carry out testing against an amplifier and antenna testing for RED compliance. DTG Testing also provides expert input on international standards development as well as Notified Body and test services for a range of technologies including broadcast FM and AM radio, digital terrestrial television and satellite.

About CAI

CAI was formed in 1978 to represent, and establish standards in, the rapidly growing TV signal reception industry.  Although the technologies which members work with have developed beyond anyone’s expectations, CAI core strengths remain the same. Because we set industry standards, and vet applications to join, consumers who use a CAI member can be confident that the member they choose will have the skills and expertise necessary to complete their work to the expected standard.

CAI now represents businesses of all sizes, from sole traders to multinationals, and specialising in many different areas of our industry. Members work in both the domestic and commercial sectors, and whether the member is an installing company, consultant, distributor or manufacturer, they are all experts in their area of the audio, video and data reception and distribution industry.