BIS' New Standards To Pave Way For Common Chargers, Reception Of Free-To-Air Channels Without Set-Top Box

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has released three new standards in the field of electronics, aimed at improving the functionality and sustainability of devices in India.

The first standard is for digital television receivers with built-in satellite tuners, which will allow the reception of free-to-air TV and radio channels without the need for a set-top box.

The standard, according to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, will facilitate the transmission of government initiatives, educational content, and cultural programs to a wider segment of the population.

At present, viewers in India must use a set-top box to access both paid and free channels.

With the phasing out of analog transmission by Doordarshan, the national broadcaster, free-to-air channels will be transmitted digitally via satellite. The new standard will enable the reception of these channels without the need for a set-top box.

The second standard is for USB Type C receptacles, plugs, and cables, which will provide a common charging solution for electronic devices. This will reduce the need for multiple chargers, saving consumers money and reducing e-waste.

"This would facilitate in reduction in number of charger per consumer as consumers will no longer need to buy different chargers every time they buy a new device," the ministry said.

The third standard is for video surveillance systems, which are widely used to capture any unwanted activity.

The new standard, IS 16910, is based on the international standard IEC 62676 series and provides guidelines for the installation and performance of these systems.

It will assist customers, installers, and users in establishing their requirements and choosing the appropriate equipment for their intended applications, as well as evaluating the performance of the systems objectively.

The standard aims to make video surveillance systems more secure, robust, and cost-effective.