There are several DStv decoder models currently used by viewers, and there is confusion among subscribers as to which decoders can still be fixed and which ones have reached “end of support”.
MultiChoice currently offers two decoders that can be bought new – the HD PVR Explora and the single-view HD Decoder.
The new decoders are manufactured in South Africa – the DStv Explora in East London and the DStv HD decoder in Johannesburg.
DStv decoders which can be fixed or replaced
MultiChoice is able to repair and refurbish the majority of older decoders, it said.
Customers are usually given a refurbished model while their decoder is repaired.
MultiChoice charges a repair fee of:
- R698 for a PVR model
- R350 for a single-view decoder
For customers with decoder insurance, there is no repair fee. Insurance is:
- R35 p/m for an Explora
- R29.50 p/m for a 2-tuner PVR
- R20 p/m for a single-view decoder
MultiChoice offers a 6-month guarantee with a refurbished decoder, which is a repair guarantee.
This is different from the new product guarantee of 12 months, which MultiChoice offers on new decoders.
DStv decoders in “end of support”
Certain older decoders have been classified as “end of support” since November 2014.
PVR decoders currently in end of support are:
- SD PVR
- Dual View
- UEC 4-tuner HD PVR
Single-view decoders currently in end of support are:
- 660
- 720
- 720i
- 910
- 933
- 990
If a decoder in end of support breaks, MultiChoice cannot fix it or replace it with the same model.
These decoders are also no longer able to receive software updates, and customers cannot take out decoder insurance on these models.
Customers can still use these decoders to access the DStv service, activate a new DStv account, and do a transfer of ownership.
If users want to replace their old decoders with a new Explora or HD Decoder, they have the options below.
- Customers with decoder insurance: claim as per the conditions of the insurance when the decoder breaks. Customers will receive a decoder similar to what they have now.
- Customers with no decoder insurance: use one of MultiChoice’s trade-in offers. This includes the R999 for a DStv Explora if an SD PVR or UEC 4 tuner PVR is traded in.
- The decoder payment plan or Price Lock offers: these offers include various decoder options with installation and a fixed-subscription fee for the next two years.
Did You Know : Top 15 Free Online Learning Platforms
-
Free Online Education Degrees : Coursera:
Coursera partners with universities and organizations worldwide to offer a wide range of courses. While many courses are free, a fee is often required for certification.
-
Free Online Education Degrees: edX:
Founded by MIT and Harvard, edX offers high-quality courses from top universities and institutions around the world. Certificates are available for a fee.
-
Free Online Education Degrees : Khan Academy:
Khan Academy provides free educational content in various subjects, especially mathematics and science, using instructional videos and practice exercises.
-
Free Online Education Degrees : Udacity:
Udacity focuses on tech-related courses and nanodegree programs, offering free content as well as more in-depth paid programs.
-
Free Online Education Degrees : MIT OpenCourseWare (OCW):
MIT OCW provides a vast array of MIT's course content for free, covering a wide range of disciplines.
-
Free Online Education Degrees : Harvard Extension School:
Harvard Extension School offers a selection of free online courses. While some courses are free, others may require payment for a certificate.
-
Free Online Education Degrees: Stanford Online:
Stanford Online offers a variety of free courses in different disciplines, including computer science, engineering, and business.
-
Best Free Online Courses : Carnegie Mellon Open Learning Initiative (OLI):
OLI offers free online courses and resources designed to improve learning outcomes through research-based methodologies.
-
Best Free Online Courses : FutureLearn:
FutureLearn partners with universities and institutions to offer a diverse range of free online courses. Certificates are available for a fee.
-
Best Free Online Courses: Alison:
Alison offers a wide range of free online courses, including diploma and certificate programs, covering various subjects.
-
Best Free Online Courses: Open Yale Courses:
Yale University provides free access to a selection of introductory courses through Open Yale Courses.
-
Best Free Online Courses : UC Berkeley Online:
UC Berkeley offers free online courses on a variety of subjects, ranging from computer science to humanities.
-
Best Free Online Courses : Google Digital Garage:
Google Digital Garage provides free courses on digital skills, including online marketing, data analysis, and more.
-
Best Free Online Courses : Codecademy:
Codecademy offers free coding courses, interactive exercises, and coding projects to help individuals learn programming languages.
-
Best Free Online Courses : LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com):
LinkedIn Learning provides a variety of video courses on professional development, technology, and creative skills. It offers a free trial period.
Did you know : International Scholarships 2024
There are several international scholarships available for South Africans to study abroad. Here are a few examples:
- Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program: This program provides fully funded scholarships to study at selected universities in Africa, Europe, and North America. It is open to African students, including South Africans, who are committed to giving back to their communities.
- Commonwealth Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers scholarships for postgraduate study in the UK for citizens of Commonwealth countries, including South Africa. The scholarships cover tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance.
- Fulbright Foreign Student Program: The Fulbright program offers scholarships for South Africans to study at U.S. universities for a Master’s or PhD degree. The scholarship covers tuition, travel, living expenses, and health insurance.
- Erasmus+ Programme: The Erasmus+ programme offers scholarships for South Africans to study in Europe for a Master’s or PhD degree. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.
- Australia Awards Scholarships: The Australian government offers scholarships for South Africans to study at Australian universities. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance.
These are just a few examples of the many international scholarships available to South Africans. It is important to research the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for each scholarship program.