Purchasing Toolkit – Consumer Electronics

ENERGY STAR® – Set-top Boxes (STB)

Product Types (Base Type):

The primary means of access to video content for a STB. All base types may be configured as a simple STB that provides a single primary function, or as part of a complex STB that provides a primary function and one or more additional functionalities.

Cable: A STB whose principal function is to receive television signals from a broadband, hybrid fiber/coaxial, community cable distribution system with conditional access (CA) and deliver them to a consumer display, thin-client/remote STB, and/or recording device.

Satellite STB: A STB whose principal function is to receive television signals from satellites and deliver them to a consumer display, thin-client/remote STB, and/or recording device.

Cable Digital Transport Adapter (DTA): A minimally-configured STB whose primary function is to receive television signals from a broadband, hybrid fiber/coaxial, or community cable distribution system and deliver them to a consumer display and/or recording device.

Internet Protocol (IP) : A STB whose principal function is to receive television/video signals encapsulated in IP packets and deliver them to a consumer display, thin-client/remote STB, and/or recording device.

Terrestrial STB: STB whose principal function is to receive television signals over the air (OTA) or via community cable distribution systems without conditional access (CA) and deliver them to a consumer display, thin-client/remote STB, and/or recording device.

Thin-Client/Remote: A STB that (1) is designed to interface between a Multi-Room STB and a TV (or other output device), (2) that has no ability to directly interface with the a Service Provider, directly and (3) relies solely on a Multi-Room box for content. Any STB that meets the definition of Cable, Satellite, IP or Terrestrial STB is not a Thin-Client/Remote STB.

Criteria for ENERGY STAR Qualified Set-top Boxes

Base Type Typical Energy Consumption (TEC) Allowance
Base Functionality Tier 1 Annual Energy Allowance
(maximum kWh/year)
Cable 60
Satellite 70
Cable DTA 35
Internet Protocol (IP) 50
Terrestrial 22
Thin-Client/Remote 35

 

Additional Functionality Typical Energy Consumption (TEC) Allowance
Base Additional Functionality Maximum TEC
(kWh/year)
Adv. Video Processing1 12
Cable CARD2 15
Digital Vedio Recorder (DVR) 45
DOCSIS3 20
High Definition (HD)4 25
Home Network Interface 10
Multi-Room5 40
Multi-stream – Cable/Satellite6 16
Multi-stream – Terrestrial/IP6 8
Removable Media Player 8
Removable Media Player/Recorder 10

1 May only be applied once per STB, regardless of the number of advanced video processing options offered by the device.
2 May only be applied once per STB, regardless of the number of CableCARDs installed in the STB.
3 May only be applied to STBs that are installed in a Service Provider network with DOCSIS capability.
4 Is the only additional functionality allowance that may be applied to STBs with CABLE DTA base functionality.  Shall not be applied to STBs with TERRESTRIAL base functionality.
5 May only be applied once per STB, regardless of the number of remote outputs served by the device.  May not be combined with the HOME NETWORK INTERFACE allowance on a single device.
6 The MULTI-STREAM allowances may only be applied once per STB, regardless of the number of simultaneous streams supported by the device.

External Power Supply

If a product is shipped with an EPS, the EPS shall meet the level V performance requirements under the International Efficiency Marking Protocol and include the level V marking. Additional information on the Marking Protocol is available at oee.nrcan.gc.ca.

Maintenance Activities

  1. Products may automatically exit Sleep Mode and/or Deep Sleep State on a regular schedule to download content, scan for program and schedule information, and perform maintenance activities. The total time spent performing maintenance activities shall not exceed an average of two hours in any 24-hour period, exclusive of activities scheduled by the end-user (e.g., video recording of a regularly scheduled program). Video downloads that are not user-requested (e.g., “speculative recording”, or “push”) shall be counted against the two hour average per day requirement.
  2. Products that have exited Sleep Mode or Deep Sleep State and completed maintenance or other user-requested activities shall automatically return to Sleep Mode or Deep Sleep State in less than 15 minutes.
  3. Products that provide a speculative recording function shall provide a user-accessible menu option to permit users to disable the functionality. Instructions for disabling speculative recording shall be included in printed and/or electronic product manuals.

Auto Power Down (APD)

Products that offer an APD feature shall meet the following requirements:

  1. Products shall be shipped from the manufacturer with APD enabled by default, with APD timing set to engage after a period of inactivity less than or equal to 4 hours.
  2. All energy-related default settings shall persist until an end-user chooses to manually either (1) disable APD, or (2) modify the default settings.

Deep Sleep

  1. For a power state to qualify as a Deep Sleep, measured power consumption (PDEEP_SLEEP) shall be less than or equal to 15% of the power consumption in On Mode (as measured per the ENERGY STAR test procedure for “Watching Live TV” [PTV]), or 3.0 watts, whichever is greater.
  2. For STBs with a user interface, a means of manually activating Deep Sleep shall be accessible to the end user via a clearly marked button or switch on the remote control and/or the front face of the STB. Alternative button configurations will be acceptable with written approval from EPA.
  3. For STBs with no user interface (e.g., “set-back boxes”) and for STBs that can switch between power states only via external network stimuli (e.g., thin client remote STBs) to qualify for ENERGY STAR Deep Sleep benefits; Deep Sleep functionality shall be enabled by default upon shipment to the end user, and shall be initiated automatically via timer or other means not requiring direct end user manipulation of the device (e.g., detecting demand of a downstream device via HDMI link, network message). Alternate means of detection/communication must be broadly applicable and not limited to a specific brand of TV or downstream device.
  4. If Deep Sleep capability is enabled in the as-shipped default product configuration, an override function may be provided to allow the end-user to disable Deep Sleep functionality.

Cost Savings for ENERGY STAR Qualified Set-top Boxes

The ENERGY STAR Simple Savings Calculator does not include calculator worksheets for Set-top Boxes.

The high-level summary data presented below are based on the most current data maintained by US EPA:

  • An average non-qualified Set-top Box consumes 240 kWh/year.
  • An average ENERGY STAR qualified Set-top Box consumes 167 kWh/year.

Sample Procurement Language for ENERGY STAR Qualified Set-top Boxes

You may wish to use the following procurement language in contracts to ensure you receive ENERGY STAR qualified set-top boxes. As with all purchases, be sure to ask the appropriate questions to ensure that you get exactly what you want.

The vendor must

  • Verify that the set-top box model has been qualified to bear the ENERGY STAR symbol by a manufacturer participating in the ENERGY STAR initiative.
  • Provide set-top boxes that meet ENERGY STAR specifications for annual energy allowances, reflecting the base and additional functionality allowances, as outlined in the Criteria section above.
  • Ensure that ENERGY STAR qualified products meet user requirements for performance, reliability and cost-effectiveness.

For bulk purchases and/or lease/maintenance agreements, include the provisions that - where applicable - the vendor must

  • Deliver all qualified products properly configured for current ENERGY STAR specifications.
  • Ensure that installation services include the full activation and proper configuration of any automatic energy-saving, power-down and/or power management features in order to maximize energy efficiency.
  • Ensure that maintenance services include the full re-activation and proper re-configuration of any automatic energy-saving, power-down and/or power management features to the terms of the current ENERGY STAR specifications at the time of service.
  • Customize sites and train users in order to maximize the energy efficiency of installed products.
  • Not disable power-management features except at the specific request of site staff.
  • Provide on-going customer support on all energy-saving, power-down and power management features.

Information Resources on Set-top Boxes

List of Models

Canada and the United States share ENERGY STAR qualified product lists.

On-line and downloadable lists of qualified models include the following information:

  1. Company Name
  2. Brand Name
  3. Model Name
  4. Model Number
  5. Base Functionality
  6. Tested Power in On Mode
  7. Tested Power in Sleep Mode
  8. Does Product Incorporate Auto-Power Down? (Y/N)
  9. Tested Power in Off Mode
  10. Total Energy Consumption (TEC)
  11. Additional Functionalities Present
  12. Date Available on the Market
  13. Available at Retail?
  14. Market in Which Product is Sold

How to Access

The list of qualified models on the U.S. ENERGY STAR website at http://energystar.gov

Product specifications for set-top boxes are available on the ENERGY STAR website.

Original Data Source

Data supplied to NRCan and EPA by participating manufacturers. Manufacturers are required to perform tests and self-certify those products that meet the ENERGY STAR requirements. This is confirmed by testing for ENERGY STAR qualification while the product is connected to the system, either on a live system or at a representative system in a laboratory.

Update Frequency

ENERGY STAR criteria are updated as required.

The list of qualified models on the USEPA ENERGY STAR website is updated as manufacturers report new information.

Definitions

Product Features

Base Functionality – The primary functionality that defines the ENERGY STAR criteria applicable to a particular STB. Base Functionality is one of the following: Cable, Satellite, IP, Terrestrial or Thin-Client/Remote

Additional Functionality

  1. Advanced Video Processing – The capability to encode, decode, and/or transcode audio/video signals in accordance with standards H.264/MPEG 4 or SMPTE 421M.
  2. CableCARD – The capability to decrypt premium audio/video content and services and provide other network control functions via a plug-in conditional access module that complies with the ANSI/SCTE 28 HOST-POD Interface Standard*. *http://www.scte.org/standards/
  3. Digital Video Recorder (DVR) – The capability to store video in a digital format to a rewritable disk drive or other non-volatile storage device integrated into a STB. This definition excludes video capture software for personal computers or server-based DVR capabilities.
  4. DOCSIS® - The capability to distribute data and audio/video content over cable television infrastructure in accordance with the CableLabs® Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification**.
    **http://www.cablelabs.com/specifications/
  5. High Definition (HD) Resolution – The capability to transmit or display video signals with resolution greater than or equal to 720p.
  6. Home Network Interface – The capability to interface with external devices over a high bandwidth network (e.g., IEEE 802.11 (WiFi), MoCA, HPNA). For purposes of this specification 580 Booth, IEEE 802.3 wired Ethernet is not considered a Home Network Interface.
  7. Multi-room – The capability to provide independent audio/video content to multiple devices within a single family dwelling. This definition does not include the capability to manage gateway services for multi-subscriber scenarios.
  8. Multi-stream – The capability to deliver two or more simultaneous audio/video streams to a consumer display, thin-client/remote STB, or recording device. The simultaneous streams may be delivered via a physically separate input or via the primary input. This definition does not include out-of-band tuners.
  9. Removable Media Player – The capability to decode digitized audio/video signals on DVD or Blu-ray Disc optical media.
  10. Removable Media Player / Recorder – The capability to decode and record digitized audio/video signals on DVD or Blu-ray Disc optical media.

Automatic Power Down (APD) – The capability of a device to switch itself from On mode to Sleep mode after a predetermined period of time (APD timing) has elapsed. APD timing begins when the following criteria have been met:

  1. The device has ceased performance of all primary functions; or
  2. The last user input has been received (e.g., remote control signal, volume adjustment).

Primary Function

  1. Delivery of live or recorded audio/video content to a thin-client/remote STB or local/remote recording device is considered a primary function;
  2. Delivery of live or recorded audio/video content to a consumer display within 4 hours of last user interaction/input is considered a primary function;
  3. Continuous device functions (e.g., clocks, status displays, indicator lamps) are NOT considered primary functions.

Operational Modes

  1. On Mode – Where the product is connected to a mains power source, has been activated and may be providing one or more primary functions. The common terms “active”, “in-use” and “normal operation” also describe this mode.
  2. Sleep Mode – Where the product is connected to a mains power source, is not providing a primary function, and offers one or more of the following user oriented or protective functions which may persist for an indefinite time:
    1. To facilitate the activation of other modes (including activation or deactivation of On mode) by remote switch (including remote control), internal sensor, timer;
    2. Continuous function: information or status displays including clocks;
    3. Continuous function: sensor-based functions.
  1. Deep Sleep State – A power state within Sleep Mode characterized by reduced power consumption and increased time required to return to full On Mode functionality.

Other Definitions

Service Provider – A business entity that provides audio/video content to subscribers with whom it has an ongoing contractual relationship. A Service Provider distributes ENERGY STAR qualified STBs to end users under a lease or rental arrangement.

Conditional Access – The encryption, decryption, and authorization techniques employed to protect content from unauthorized viewing. CableCARD and Downloadable Conditional Access System (DCAS) are examples of conditional access technology.

Digital Television Adapter (DTA) – A device that receives terrestrial (over the air) digital signals and converts them to an analog output suitable for analog TVs. DTAs do not provide digital signal output. This definition does not include converters for satellite or cable digital signals or devices that perform multiple functions (e.g., DVD players with DTA capability).

Game Console – A stand-alone device whose primary function is to process video game content. The primary inputs for game consoles are special hand-held controllers rather than the mouse and keyboard used by a conventional computer. Game consoles are equipped with audio/video outputs for use with televisions as the primary display, rather than an external monitor or integrated display. Game consoles typically do not use a conventional general-purpose operating system, but often perform a variety of multimedia functions such as: DVD/CD playback, digital picture viewing, and digital music playback.

Out-of-band Tuner – A tuner compliant with standards ANSI/SCTE 55-1 2002, ANSI/SCTE 55-2 2002, or similar, that is used to gain access to data channels outside of the primary audio/video source signal. These tuners may facilitate two-way communication to allow a STB to exchange data (e.g., diagnostics) with the Service Provider, and may enable access to Pay-Per-View or other rich-media interactive content.

Typical Energy Consumption (TEC) – A means for evaluating energy efficiency through a calculation of expected energy consumption for a typical user over a one year period, expressed in units of kWh/year.

Unit Under Test (UUT) – The device being tested.

Product Family – A group of product models that are (1) made by the same manufacturer, (2) subject to the same ENERGY STAR qualification criteria, and (3) of a common basic design. Product models within a family differ from each other according to one or more characteristics or features that either (1) have no impact on product performance with regard to ENERGY STAR qualification criteria, or (2) are specified herein as acceptable variations within a product family. For Set-top Boxes, acceptable variations within a product family include aesthetic housing changes that do not affect the thermal characteristics of the device (e.g., color, labeling, or other cosmetic modifications).

Test Method

ENERGY STAR Test Method for Set-top Boxes, Rev. Jan-2011

Product Specification Summary
Name of current specification ENERGY STAR Qualifying Criteria for Set-top Boxes - Version 3.0
Effective date of current specification September 1, 2011
Notes on future updates

EPA intends to investigate the following topics during the next revision of the STB specification:

  1. Delete the removable media playback/record options from the TEC assessment due to lack of relevance to the STB market.
  2. Implement a mandatory Deep Sleep requirement for all qualifying STBs.
  3. Address potential new STB base types such as “Gateway STBs.”
Reminder: Always check the ENERGY STAR website to ensure you have the most current product specifications and other program information.

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