The digital TV broadcasting services are received by subscriber using a Set Top Box (STB), connected with the TV set. The STB receives TV signals from distribution network and decodes them into viewable form for TV set. STB enables the subscriber to view only those TV channels which he has subscribed.
Presently the STBs deployed in the network are non-interoperable, i.e. the same STB cannot be used interchangeably across the different service providers. The lack of interoperability of STBs between different service providers has not only compromised the competition in the Pay-TV market but also a major hindrance to technological innovation, improvement in service quality, and sector growth.

TRAI is in the process of laying down a framework of interoperable STBs. With this framework, the subscriber would be able to change its service provider without any need to re-invest in the new STB. The Center for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), the telecom technology development centre of the Government of India, in close coordination with TRAI, has developed solution architecture for interoperable STB. The framework ensures that existing STBs deployed in the networks will continue to work without any interruption.

Through this consultation note, TRAI presents the solution architecture for technically interoperable STB to concerned stakeholders for seeking their comments on proposed solution. Further, through this consultation note, TRAI has also invited stakeholders to participate in the proposed workshop and pilot project for implementation and testing of STB interoperability.

The consultation note along with solution architecture document can be viewed here.

Stakeholders are requested to provide their written comments on the proposed solution architecture for technical interoperable STB by 25th August 2017, midnight.