The regulation for simple set top boxes entered into force in February 2009. The requirements shall be revised not later than 2014.

The basic function of simple set top boxes (SSTB) is to convert digital broadcast signals to analogue broadcast signals suitable for analogue television or radio. Simple set top boxes have a short lifetime and are easier to use than complex set top boxes.

The Member states has agreed to replace all analogue broadcasting with digital broadcasting before 2015, which means that the number of simple set top boxes in use will rise dramatically over the coming years.

Some of the requirements are:

• One year after the regulation has come into force, the maximum allowed power consumption is 5 W for on mode, and 1 W for standby and off-mode.
• Three years after the regulation has come into force, the limit will still be 5 W for on-mode but 0,5 W for stand by and off mode.

One year after the regulation has come into force all simple set top boxes shall provide standby mode and be equipped with automatic power-down or similar function.

The introduction of the requirements are expected to deliver EU-wide electricity savings of 9 TWh by 2014, (corresponding to a decrease in energy use from 14 TWh to 9Twh, or 64% for this product group), 4 million ton CO2 and savings of 1,4 billion Euro (with today’s energy prices).

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