What is this card I have heard about?

There are two types of viewing card but both look identical and have "SKY" printed on them. They are dark blue with a yellow house outline. (Earlier pale blue cards are now useless).

To obtain a card you need a UK postcode address - and please note that buying a card automatically triggers a TV licence check on that address!

The first type of card is called a FTV (Free To View) card, although some refer to it as "free-to-air". You don't need a card for programmes like the BBC that are "free-to-air".

The other type of card is the standard Sky Subscription card. If you already have a Sky Digibox you can phone Sky and ask for "a second hand contract" which will be sent to your UK address. This can take up to FOUR WEEKS to arrive!

As stated previously, using the card outside the UK is considered to be a breach of contract so, if Sky find out, they'll transmit a signal to disable your card. Do not be alarmed though as the chances of this happening are slim.

Activating your viewing card

Once the Sky Digital receiver has been installed insert the Sky card into the slot at the front of the receiver and telephone Sky's Customer services on 08702 404020. You will be asked for the serial number and version number of the receiver along with the viewing card number. To obtain these details go to the "Services" menu, then "System Setup", then "System Details", here you will find all the information required about your receiver. Your card should then be activated within one to two hours.

One important point to remember is, that a "Wakeup Signal" is sent out to all cards from time to time. If your receiver is disconnected from the mains for a period of time and not in "Standby", your card may no longer function and require re-activation.

If for some reason you need to change your Sky receiver, you will have to call Sky's Customer Services to have your Subscription viewing card "Married" to your new receiver. FTV Cards once intialised can be swapped from receiver to receiver.