Buying A Sky Box

[j0nb0y]

I have just moved into a new property which doesn't have a TV aerial, only a sky dish. I do not wish to pay for sky, so I am wondering if I bought a second hand sky box (plenty for sale in the local paper), would I be able to watch free to air channels without registering with sky? failing that I will have to pay for a new aerial to be fitted.

any advice much appreciated.

[Mattk]

As long as it comes with a viewing card you will get plenty of freesat channels..

[puternut]

Failing that look for a free sat box. Still no monthly charge and loads of channels.

http://www.freesat.co.uk/channels

[SpikeyBush]

You could buy a Freesat box from Tesco for not very much and have no worries about viewing cards expiring. Sky viewing cards expire every so often and Sky send new ones out to current subscribers. I have an old Sky Digital box that will not work without a viewing card inserted.

[Buenchico]

As has been (partly) indicated, if you're using an old Sky box you either need an old viewing card (or though some models do seem to work without them) or a 'Freesat from Sky' card. (£25, direct from Sky, by calling 08448 244 400).

Any generic satellite receiver will receive all of the channels listed here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_free-to-air_channels_at_28%C2%B0E
(That includes a Sky box with an old card in it). 'Freesat from Sky', which isn't exactly the same as 'Freesat', simply adds in a few extra 'red button' channels and interactive facilities. True 'Freesat' actually only gives you a subset of the channels in the list I've linked to (plus red button channels and the Freesat programme guide).

Brand new generic receivers don't cost very much more than secondhand Sky boxes. e.g. this one is £26.10
http://cpc.farnell.com/ross/dvbs-ro/satellite-receiver-fta-sd/dp/AP02506?Ntt=AP02506

[j0nb0y]

Thanks for all the answers. very informative and very much appreciated.
will nip to Tesco and buy a freesat box. Didn't even know they existed. I am such a Ludite! Thanks again. Merry Christmas to all.