Sky Box Dimensions and Ventilation Advice

Question

I am about to get a Sky set-top box. How big is the box, and how much space will I need in my TV cabinet for the new Sky box?

Our Answer

There’s no one quick answer to this one, as there are a number of different makes and models of Sky box out there, including boxes made by Pace, Amstrad, Samsung and Thomson.

On this page, we’ll list some of the sizes of boxes that we know about. If there’s a model not listed, and you know the size, please let us know in the comments box below.

Note that the sizes here are for the box alone. Allow space at the back for the various connectors, and some space for ventilation. We have some tips on placement below.

The Sky+ HD Box with remote control

Sky+ Box Sizes

• Pace Sky+ Box v1: 422 x 355 x 74 mm
• Pace Sky+ Box v2: 380 x 243 x 72 mm

Sky+ HD Box Sizes:

• Amstrad Sky + HD Box (Model DRX 490): 346 x 255x 73mm
• Pace Sky+ HD Box (Model TDS850NB) : 398 x 283 x 81mm
• Thomson Sky+ HD Box: 380 x 245 x 80 mm

Our understanding is that Sky is typically supplying Amstrad boxes to new customers – but please don’t hold us to that!

For more on the Sky HD boxes, go to sky.com/shop/boxes/sky-hd-box

Positioning Your Sky Box

Sky+ boxes have hard drives and processors, just like a desktop computer, and so they need ventilation and some care. Here are some notes on how to locate your Sky box:

• The Sky+ HD box manual states that in order to ensure a free flow of air around the box, you should allow at least 10 cm of space above the box, and on all sides.
• You should ensure that the ventilation holes and slots are not covered – watch for curtains and paper blocking the holes!
• The manual advises that you should not place a Sky+ HD box in an enclosed cabinet that has more than one other piece of equipment, such as a video recorder or a DVD player. Electronic equipment generates heat, and in an enclosed TV cabinet, the box can cook. Ensuring a good airflow and low temperature is important.
• The Sky HD box should not be in direct sunlight or close to a radiator or heater. The manual states that the box maximum temperature should not exceed 45°C.
• Obvious stuff, but the Sky box needs to be kept away from water – drips, drops and water spills are not a good thing
• The Sky box should not be stored in places that are hot, cold, damp or dusty.

Any tips or measurements for us? Please add a comment below