BT improves on-demand TV hardware with Vision+ box

Posted on 5 Jan 2010 at 13:08

BT has launched an updated version of its on-demand set-top box. Dubbed Vision+, it's a glossy black PVR that's more in keeping with most audio visual hardware than the original - and slightly ugly - silver box.

The Vision+ box is also more energy efficient that the older model, with BT claiming a 12 per cent reduction when in use. However, we're more concerned about the fact that BT has introduced a 'proper' standby mode as the original version had none at all, drawing a continuous 21W and leaving the hard disk spinning permanently. When you press the power button on the Vision+'s remote, the hard disk stops spinning after a minute, reducing power consumption to 7W. This is still much higher than we'd expect from a modern device as the majority consume less than 1W.

Inside, there's a 160GB hard disk to store up to 80 hours of TV shows from the twin Freeview tuners. The launch of the Vision+ comes at an awkward time, since Freeview HD set-top boxes are due any moment. Unfortunately, this means you won't be able to receive high definition broadcasts with the Vision+.

To watch on-demand TV and films, the box connects to your router (the new design matches BT's Home Hub) via an Ethernet cable. Powerline networking adaptors are included if your router isn't near your TV.

The new Vision+ box is free when you buy BT Vision online until 15th January 2010 with any value pack. For more information go to www.bt.com/telly. We'll bring you a full review of Vision+ as soon as we can.

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