Using a 2nd Sky box for freesat/freeview >>>

[halfasheep]

Hi all, I can see a similar post is on here, but I didn't want to hijack it for my own clarification.

Basically, I already have Sky installed downstairs, but want to run a second cable from the dish and into my bedroom.

I know the dish can take a second cable, but wanted to know whether I needed not only a second Sky box, but also whether I needed to purchase the freeview/freesat card as I'm already a Sky customer?

Many thanks for answering a simple question

[newbuilder]

Running a box without a card will give you certain channels but not all of them that are available. Some of the common channels will also be scrambled.

A freesat card is a one off fee. Google Freesat to find out more.

[Scubbie]

An alternative idea would be to install a proper Freesat STB. New ones are available from around £30.

The cheapest won't record or be the best quality, but it will be sufficient. You could also look on eBay.

[dms05]

Any old second hand Sky Digibox will work without a card and give you the same channels as a Freesar box. Adding a Sky Freesat Card would increase the channels available (some channels are FTV - free to view - because the channels are encrypted but free to watch without subscription). Some very cheap Freesat boxes have terrible reputations for reliability so an old Sky box might be a better buy.

If you want to be able to record and playback then you can find some Sky+ Pace boxes that have had their firmware modified so they will record/playback without subscription - see PACE SKY PLUS FREESAT PVR - RECORD WITH NO SUBSCRIPTION | eBay