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Digibox

The Digibox is a branded developed and marketed by (now Sky Group Limited) to enable households in the and to receive, decode, and display broadcasts on standard analogue televisions. It functions by converting incoming signals from Sky's satellite network into a format compatible with conventional TV sets, supporting features such as channel selection, electronic programme guides, and services. Launched alongside Sky Digital—the UK's inaugural digital satellite TV service—on 1 October 1998, the Digibox marked a pivotal shift from analogue , initially offering access to 140 channels and rapidly gaining popularity with over units sold in its first month. Early models, such as those produced by manufacturers like , featured basic hardware designs that remained largely consistent through subsequent iterations, evolving to include personal video recording (PVR) capabilities in later variants like Sky+ and high-definition support. Over its lifespan, the Digibox has been integral to Sky's subscriber base, growing from 225,000 digital customers in to nearly seven million by , and continues to underpin the provider's TV ecosystem despite the transition to newer platforms like and streaming services. However, Sky phased out support for first-generation Digiboxes in , with services ending in October 2024 to encourage upgrades to or IP-based systems.

Overview and History

Introduction

The Digibox is a developed and branded by and to receive digital broadcasts transmitted from SES satellites positioned at 28.2°E. It serves as the primary receiver for Sky's digital TV service, decoding encrypted signals to deliver content to connected televisions. Launched in October 1998 alongside the platform, the Digibox marked Sky's entry into and represented the UK's first widespread TV service. To operate, it requires installation of a compatible , (LNB), and a Sky Viewing Card for authentication and decryption of subscription-based content. This technology facilitated the transition from analog satellite broadcasting to , overcoming limitations in picture and while enabling a vast expansion in channel capacity—from an initial offering of around 140 channels at launch to over 300 channels as of 2025, encompassing programming and interactive services such as viewing and programme guides. Early models also featured interactive services, including and , via connection, which were discontinued in 2015 as alternatives proliferated. Over time, the Digibox evolved into advanced variants like , incorporating personal video recording capabilities.

Development and Launch

The development of the Digibox began as part of British Sky Broadcasting's (BSkyB) transition from analog to digital television in the late , with among the initial manufacturers to design and produce the first set-top boxes for this switchover, including the DRX100 model. , which had supplied satellite receivers and dishes for since the service's analog launch in 1989, adapted its expertise to create the DRX100, optimized for receiving digital signals from the 2A satellite at 28.2° East. This design shift was driven by the need to deliver more channels and interactive features, marking a pivotal upgrade from the bulky analog decoders. The launch saw over 100,000 Digiboxes sold in the first month, indicating strong early demand. Key partnerships underpinned the Digibox's technical foundation: BSkyB collaborated with NDS (now part of ) to integrate the system for encryption and content protection, ensuring secure pay-TV delivery, while licensing the OpenTV operating system from OpenTV, Inc., to power the and . These integrations allowed the Digibox to support DVB-S (Digital Video Broadcasting - ) standards, the European norm for digital satellite broadcasts, and complied with UK regulatory requirements overseen by the Independent Television Commission () at the time, as well as similar approvals in Ireland for cross-border service. The system also mandated viewing card pairing, where each was uniquely linked to a specific Digibox via backend authorization to prevent unauthorized use. Sky Digital, featuring the Digibox, officially launched on October 1, 1998, with initial shipments of Amstrad-manufactured units bundled with mini-dishes and installation for new subscribers at an upfront cost of £199, plus monthly subscriptions starting at £8.99 for basic packages. Early adoption was swift, surpassing the analog subscriber base by late 1999 and reaching over 3 million digital subscribers by mid-2000, fueled by promotions offering discounted to existing customers at £159. However, the rollout faced challenges, including widespread customer complaints about intermittent signal reception and installation issues in the first weeks, exacerbated by high demand and the novel card pairing process that required remote activation.

Technical Specifications

Hardware Components

The standard Digibox employs a to receive satellite broadcasts from the satellites at 28.2° East, enabling decoding of Sky's signals. It incorporates an video decoder for processing standard-definition content and a built-in V.34 operating at 33.6 kbps via the RJ11 telephone port, which facilitates periodic software updates and viewer interaction callbacks to Sky's systems. The tuner supports symbol rates of 22 Ms/s and 27.5 Ms/s, aligned with Sky's transmission parameters for reliable reception of authorized channels. Connectivity on the rear panel includes dual sockets—one for direct output supporting and RGB, and another for VCR integration with input/output—as well as an compliant with CCIR PAL System I on UHF channels 21 to 69 (factory default channel 68) for aerial distribution. Additional ports comprise phono () jacks for left and right audio output, an F-type connector for LNB input, an IEC 169-2 female aerial input, two IEC 169-2 male RF outputs, a DB-9 female serial port for diagnostic purposes at up to 115.2 kbit/s, and a digital interface slot dedicated to the (CAM) for decryption. The device draws power from a standard 230 V AC mains input at 50 Hz, with maximum consumption of 36 W. Internally, early Digibox models are paired with 4 MB of SDRAM, sufficient for channel tuning and functionality. Base models include no built-in , limiting storage to volatile channel memory that supports fewer than 50 non-Sky channels due to predefined allocation for Sky services. The unit is constructed with a casing incorporating slots for , operating within a temperature range of 0°C to 40°C. Typical dimensions are 36 cm wide by 6.4 cm high by 23.5 cm deep, with a packed weight of approximately 3.5 kg.

Software and Security Features

The Digibox primarily operates on the OpenTV platform, which handles the (EPG) and interactive services such as on-screen menus and basic applications. Developed by NDS (now part of ), OpenTV enables seamless integration of broadcast data with user navigation, allowing viewers to access channel information and simple interactivity without additional hardware. For variants introduced later, the system transitioned to Project Darwin, a proprietary operating system developed by and NDS to support enhanced features like HD decoding and improved processing efficiency, reducing dependency on the older OpenTV framework. Sky's proprietary EPG, known as Sky Guide, initially provided up to 2 days of program listings at launch in 1998, later expanded to 7 days across channels, organized by time, category (e.g., movies, sports), or search functions for quick navigation. Users can set reminders for upcoming shows directly from the guide, which notifies them via on-screen alerts before airtime, enhancing viewing planning without requiring external devices. The interface displays 7 days of data for optimal usability on the Digibox's limited memory. Security is enforced through NDS VideoGuard, a conditional access system (CAS) that encrypts satellite broadcasts and requires authentication via a smart card inserted into the Digibox's viewing card slot. This setup prevents unauthorized access to premium channels by verifying subscriber entitlements in real-time, with the card communicating decryption keys securely to the receiver. Over-the-air (OTA) software updates, delivered via satellite signal, further bolster security by patching vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance with evolving encryption standards. As of November 2025, support for first-generation SD Digiboxes is being phased out, with services ending by October 2025. Key user features include , which allow setting a 4-digit PIN to lock specific channels or content rated above a chosen age threshold (e.g., 15 or 18), restricting access during certain hours like pre-watershed periods. (PPV) ordering, such as for movies, is facilitated through the EPG by selecting content and confirming via phone line or connection for billing authorization, often requiring the parental PIN for adult-rated events. support is integrated for compatible channels, accessed by pressing the TV and Text buttons on the remote to display pages using the , leveraging the connected television's for rendering. Firmware updates occur automatically via satellite-delivered OTA signals, typically rolling out monthly to address bugs, enhance stability, and apply security fixes without user intervention. These patches are broadcast on dedicated data streams, with the Digibox downloading and installing them during idle periods, ensuring the viewing card remains synchronized for ongoing .

Design and Manufacturing

Manufacturers and Variations

The Digibox, Sky's proprietary digital satellite receiver, has been produced by multiple manufacturers since its introduction in 1998. was the original producer, developing early models like the DRX100 in collaboration with to meet initial launch demands. emerged as the most prolific manufacturer, supplying the majority of units throughout the due to its expertise in satellite technology and ability to scale production efficiently. Other key producers included Thomson, which handled significant volumes from the mid-2000s onward, as well as , , and , the latter active primarily from 1998 to 2007 before its operations were absorbed by Thomson. In July , BSkyB acquired for £125 million, gaining control over its production facilities and to internalize and accelerate product development. This move allowed to reduce reliance on external suppliers and integrate Amstrad's R&D capabilities, with subsequent models initially bearing Amstrad branding before transitioning to Sky labels. Amstrad had previously manufactured millions of Digiboxes, supporting Sky's growth to over 8 million direct-to-home subscribers by mid-, while the shift to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like and Thomson helped optimize costs through competitive bidding and volume efficiencies. Model variations reflected manufacturer-specific design choices, though external aesthetics became standardized after for a uniform Sky appearance. Grundig units featured dedicated outputs for improved analog video quality on compatible displays. Sony models included optical audio ports for digital stereo audio output, enhancing compatibility with audio systems. Early Pace models from the 2000s were prone to capacitor leaks due to the widespread "" affecting electrolytic components in , causing power supply failures and swollen s that necessitated repairs or replacements.

Standardized Design

In late 2005, introduced the "" design as a standardized aesthetic for its Digibox set-top boxes to ensure consistency across models produced by manufacturers and , with joining in late 2006. This initiative aimed to unify the external appearance and usability features, moving away from the varied designs of earlier models. The design featured a casing with an integrated front for status indicators and subtle ventilation slots to maintain without compromising the sleek profile. Representative models included the Thomson DSI4214, DRX550, and DS440/DS445, all sharing these visual elements to create a cohesive brand identity. Complementing the box, the accompanying adopted a white body with blue accent keys for primary functions, incorporating universal TV control codes to simplify setup across different television brands. This design overhaul included an improved button layout, positioning navigational controls more intuitively for thumb access during use. Ergonomically, the Digiboxes were refined to a more compact size, enhancing shelf placement and overall integration into home entertainment setups while preserving essential port access. The had a notable impact by facilitating easier recognition among users and streamlining processes, which reduced the number of variants after 2005 and supported 's growing subscriber base.

User Interface and Controls

Remote Control

The remote controls for Sky Digiboxes have undergone several iterations since the system's launch in , reflecting changes in branding and partnerships. The earliest models, such as the SKY100 series issued from to 2002, featured a blue casing with the original incorporating a element (phased out from the main logo in late 2000). During the period when manufactured certain Digibox models in the early 2000s, black-colored remotes were introduced to match the hardware aesthetics. Following subsequent rebrands in the mid-2000s, which updated the font and styling, remotes shifted to silver and white designs, aligning with a more modern, streamlined appearance that persisted in subsequent variants. These remotes typically incorporate 40 to 50 keys, encompassing directional arrows, and adjustment buttons, a full for direct input, and a dedicated button that provides quick access to the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG). To maintain broad compatibility, Sky periodically updates the () codes embedded in the remotes, with annual refreshes supporting over 1,000 television brands through pre-programmed 3- or 4-digit codes entered via on-screen setup. Later Digibox models supported operation with effective ranges up to 10 meters in direct line-of-sight. Premium variants of the remote, such as those paired with Sky+ HD Digiboxes, include advanced features like backlit keys that illuminate in low-light conditions for easier navigation, activated by a or press. Additionally, a learning mode allows users to capture and replicate custom signals from other devices, facilitating with non-standard equipment through a setup sequence involving the select and color buttons. Powered by two AA batteries, Digibox remotes generally offer 6 to 12 months of usage under normal conditions, though actual lifespan varies based on frequency of use and quality; low warnings appear on-screen to prompt replacement. Common user-reported issues include rapid drain due to faulty units or environmental factors, and remote loss, which Sky addresses through on-screen pairing diagnostics accessible via the services menu to verify signal strength and reconfigure controls without hardware replacement.

Viewing Card Pairing

The viewing card pairing process for a Digibox links the of the Sky Viewing Card to the device's during initial , ensuring the card can only authorize content on that specific unit and preventing unauthorized card sharing across multiple Digiboxes to enforce single-subscription policies. This pairing occurs via a with Sky's headend system, where a secret key is transmitted to bind the card and Digibox, typically initiated through the built-in modem's callback function when the card is inserted and the activation menu is accessed. Early Digibox models from utilized -based viewing cards, which evolved over time with enhanced security measures in later designs, such as improved algorithms to counter piracy threats. The system underpins this pairing, verifying subscription entitlements through encrypted control words. Physical viewing cards were used until the introduction of cardless IP-based in successor platforms like in 2016. Until October 2024, re-pairing a viewing card to a different Digibox required intervention via Sky's call center or an engineer visit, as options were limited for ; this process could involve up to 24-48 hours of service while the headend updated the binding. However, as of 29 October 2024, Sky discontinued re-pairing capabilities, locking cards to their last paired box, with full support for Digiboxes and viewing cards ending in October 2025. was maintained through firmware-level authenticity verification of the card upon Digibox boot-up, with mismatched or invalid pairings triggering on-screen codes such as "This viewing card is not authorised" or "This is the wrong card for this ," prompting users to contact support for resolution.

Usage and Compatibility

Integration with Sky System

The integration of a Digibox with the system begins with proper installation to ensure reliable signal reception from the 2 satellites. Users must align the precisely to 28.2° east , typically using a signal meter or the Digibox's built-in strength indicator for fine-tuning and based on location-specific angles. The (LNB) on the dish connects via to the Digibox's satellite input port, enabling the reception of encrypted signals. Once connected, the viewing is inserted into the designated slot on the Digibox, which pairs with Sky's system to decrypt subscribed channels and authorize service access. Within the official Sky ecosystem, the Digibox provides access to a comprehensive lineup of premium content, including over 300 television channels by the mid-2000s, encompassing entertainment, news, and specialized programming. Key services include dedicated packs for , offering on-demand and scheduled film viewings across multiple genres, and , delivering live coverage of major events in , , and other sports. Prior to 2015, interactive features via Sky Active allowed users to engage with enhanced services such as programme guides, voting, and basic apps directly through the Digibox interface, enhancing the viewing experience without additional hardware. Sky's subscription model for Digibox users operates on tiered packs tailored to varying preferences, with automatic billing linked to the viewing card for seamless renewals. packages, such as the entry-level mix providing core s, typically cost around £10 per month in the early , while premium tiers adding Sky Movies or Sports ranged from £15 to £25 monthly, depending on the combination selected. These subscriptions unlock specific channel bouquets, with upgrades managed via Sky's customer or to adjust entitlements reflected on the card. Multiroom functionality in the Digibox era is limited to a single primary receiver, with secondary viewing enabled through add-on setups using the box's RF1 and RF2 outputs. These radio frequency ports distribute the modulated signal via coaxial cabling to additional televisions, often paired with infrared "magic eye" extenders for remote control operation in other rooms, prior to the introduction of Sky Q's wireless minis. This configuration supports synchronized viewing of the same channel across locations but requires professional wiring for optimal performance and compliance with Sky's terms. Sky provided support for Digibox integration through over-the-air (OTA) software updates until August 2024, when services for first-generation SD Digiboxes ended, including OTA updates to maintain compatibility with evolving services and fix issues like signal glitches. Customers could previously access a dedicated helpline for troubleshooting faults, such as card pairing errors or dish misalignment, with engineer visits available under active subscriptions. As of November 2025, support is limited to HD and later models, and SD Digibox users must upgrade to continue receiving Sky services. The average operational lifespan of a Digibox is 5-7 years, after which hardware degradation, particularly in internal components, may necessitate replacement, though supported units continued receiving basic updates until end-of-life.

Use Outside Sky's System

The Digibox adheres to the DVB-S standard, enabling users with HD-capable models to receive free-to-air (FTA) channels transmitted on the Astra 2A/2B/2D satellites at the 28.2°E orbital position without an active Sky subscription or viewing card. However, first-generation SD Digiboxes lost access to major public broadcasters like BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 following their switch to HD-only satellite broadcasts in 2024 (BBC in January, ITV in October). Remaining SD FTA channels are limited, and functionality now primarily supports basic satellite viewing of any surviving SD transmissions, provided the dish is correctly aligned and connected via the LNB ports detailed in the hardware specifications. However, the device's software is tailored to Sky's proprietary channel bouquet, limiting seamless access to alternative services. Full compatibility with , a subscription-free platform using the same orbital position, is restricted due to the Digibox's support for only the symbol rates and modulation schemes employed by Sky Digital transmissions, such as 27.5 Msym/s for many channels, and lack of native Freesat EPG integration. Freesat requires broader parameter handling, including certain streams, which older Digibox models cannot natively process without external adjustments. Additionally, the 2024 HD-only switches by major broadcasters further limit SD Digibox usability for Freesat channels. As a result, users may miss some Freesat channels or experience incomplete electronic programme guides when attempting independent operation. To extend functionality beyond Sky's ecosystem, enthusiasts have developed software modifications, including hacks to tune into non-Sky satellites like Hotbird at 13°E for additional content from . Channel lists can also be edited manually via the serial port using compatible PC software, allowing custom additions outside the default Sky lineup. These alterations, however, contravene Sky's , which prohibits unauthorized software changes, and pose risks such as rendering the device inoperable (bricking) through failed updates or incompatible code. Operational limitations persist in standalone mode, including a cap of fewer than 50 channels in the favorites storage for quick access, frequent PIN prompts for non-Sky or age-restricted content due to embedded , and the absence of over-the-air (OTA) software updates without an active subscription, potentially leading to . With the end of SD support in 2024, older Digiboxes have even more limited standalone viability. Despite these constraints, HD-capable Digiboxes find practical applications in remote or rural areas with poor terrestrial for basic FTA viewing, and are often resold post-contract as generic DVB-S receivers for similar independent setups. SD models are largely obsolete for FTA public channels as of November 2025.

Advanced Models and Features

Sky+ Recording Functionality

The Sky+ Digibox introduced personal video recorder (PVR) functionality to Sky's service in September 2001, marking a significant advancement in capabilities. The initial model featured a 40 GB , providing approximately 40 hours of standard-definition recording capacity. This allowed users to store programs digitally without the need for tapes, revolutionizing how viewers interacted with live broadcasts by enabling playback. Key features included the ability to pause, rewind, and fast-forward , with recordings buffered temporarily for immediate review. Equipped with dual tuners, the Sky+ Digibox supported recording one channel while simultaneously watching or recording another, facilitating flexible viewing options such as time-shifted programming. The series link function automatically detected and scheduled recordings for entire program series based on the (EPG), streamlining the process for ongoing shows. Additionally, a built-in editor allowed users to trim recordings, enabling manual removal of unwanted segments like advertisements to create customized clips. Pricing for Sky+ involved a one-off hardware fee ranging from £89 to £199, depending on promotions and options, with standard installation free for new subscribers or those adding multiroom setups. From launch until July , an additional £10 monthly subscription applied to customers with fewer than two channel packs, though it was waived for those with two or more; this fee was eliminated in for all users to broaden . Later models, introduced around , upgraded to a 160 GB hard drive for expanded storage, while advanced variants reached up to 2 TB capacities in subsequent iterations, supporting hundreds of hours of recordings. Some later Sky+ models incorporated USB ports, primarily for accessories like adapters, though unofficial expansions via external storage were explored by users. Sales of Sky+ Digiboxes were phased out by October 2016, as Sky transitioned to the platform, which offered enhanced multiroom and on-demand features; existing users could continue with their legacy hardware without interruption.

Sky+ HD and Other Variants

The Digibox was introduced by Sky on 22 May 2006 as the company's first high-definition personal video recorder, enabling access to HDTV channels broadcast via satellite. This model incorporated a tuner for receiving signals, an output for connecting to compatible televisions, and support for MPEG-4 (H.264) video to handle the higher data rates required for high-definition content. Initial configurations featured a 160 GB for recording, with later variants offering up to 500 GB, and it supported playback at resolution, though users could configure it to downscale to if preferred. To access HD channels, subscribers paid an additional £10.25 per month for the Sky HD pack on top of their standard subscription. Beyond the core Sky+ HD model, Sky offered specialized variants to cater to different user needs. In , a non-personal video recorder (non-PVR) version of the Sky HD Digibox was launched, providing HD viewing without built-in recording capabilities; this model was discontinued as Sky shifted focus to integrated PVR solutions. Later iterations, such as the Amstrad-manufactured DRX890 and DRX895 models introduced around , enhanced storage options with capacities ranging from 500 GB to 2 TB and included an eSATA port for connecting external hard drives to expand recording space. These variants maintained compatibility with Sky's infrastructure while prioritizing HD delivery. Key features of the Sky+ HD and its variants included on-demand content access through Sky Anytime, a push-video service that allowed downloading of programs for later viewing, available to Sky+ HD users prior to its expansion and rebranding in 2012. Multiroom HD streaming was also supported, enabling HD content from a primary Sky+ HD box to be viewed on secondary HD receivers within the same household via Sky's network. Building on the recording capabilities of the standard Sky+ Digibox, these models allowed pausing and rewinding live HD broadcasts alongside scheduled recordings. As of 2024, Sky+ Digiboxes no longer receive new software updates, though existing units continue to function for channel reception. Following the shutdown of standard-definition broadcasts in 2024, these HD models retained legacy compatibility for receiving and viewing remaining HD channels without interruption. In October 2024, Sky extended its capacity contract with SES until 2029, ensuring continued operation for legacy HD Digiboxes.

Operational and Environmental Aspects

Power Consumption

The power consumption of Digibox models varied significantly across generations, influenced by hardware components like hard disk drives (HDDs) and tuners, with measurements primarily derived from independent tests conducted in the 2000s and 2010s. Base models without recording capabilities, such as early and variants, typically drew 10-18 W during active use for tuning and decoding, dropping to 2-5 W in standby mode, as these lacked features and maintained minimal connectivity for guide updates. Later base models like the Amstrad DRX550 (introduced around 2012) achieved lower averages of about 9.9 W in normal operation, reflecting incremental efficiency gains without HDD-related loads. Sky+ models, which incorporated 160 GB or 250 GB HDDs for personal video recording (PVR), consumed 20-30 during active recording sessions due to HDD activity and dual-tuner operation, with normal viewing around 24 and standby at approximately 12.3 . These boxes implemented HDD spin-down mechanisms in standby to reduce power by idling the drive, though no true mode was available, leading to higher baseline draw compared to non-recording units. Independent assessments confirmed these figures for Thomson-manufactured Sky+ units, highlighting the impact of recording on overall energy use. Sky+ HD variants, supporting high-definition content and larger HDDs (up to 500 GB initially), exhibited higher demands, reaching up to 60 W in active modes with HDD spinning and multiple tuners engaged, though typical normal operation measured around 35.5 W and standby at 18.5 W for Thomson models. Advanced units like the DRX895 (2013 onward) introduced a "deep sleep" or off mode compliant with EU standby regulations, achieving as low as 0.5 W by fully powering down non-essential components, including the HDD. This addressed earlier inefficiencies where standby could approach 30 W if the disc remained active. Measurements from the era indicated annual costs of £10-20 for typical use (assuming 4-6 hours daily active and 24/7 standby) at rates of approximately 0.12-0.15 GBP/kWh. Post-2010 models across the lineup aligned with EU Ecodesign Directive 2009/125/EC requirements, mandating below 1 W from 2013, through features like scheduled low-power modes and efficient power supplies; earlier generations often exceeded this without manual intervention. These improvements prioritized compliance while preserving PVR functionality, though base models without HDDs inherently used less energy overall.

Current Status and Successors

As of 2025, support for standard definition () Digiboxes has been fully phased out, with the ending SD satellite broadcasts on January 8, 2024, and completing the shutdown of remaining SD channels by August 31, 2024, resulting in automatic service cancellations for affected subscribers by October 2024. High-definition (HD) models, such as , ceased being available for new subscriptions after October 2016 when they were succeeded by , though legacy users retained access until broader transitions. Legacy Digiboxes from before 2016 remain in use by a significant portion of the over 6 million households still relying on Sky's service, primarily for channels, as paid content requires upgrades to compatible . Sky's service is expected to continue at least until the end of 2029. Sky has shifted to successor platforms that eliminate the need for traditional satellite dishes and Digiboxes. , introduced in 2016, supports IP-based delivery and multiroom viewing across devices. , launched in 2021 as an integrated 4K TV, combines streaming with built-in Sky services. The most recent, from 2023, is a compact streaming that delivers content over broadband without any aerial installation. In 2025, Sky released the second-generation Sky Glass, featuring an upgraded 4K HDR display with full-array local dimming and enhanced audio via a seven-speaker system, available in 43-, 55-, and 65-inch sizes starting at £14 per month over 48 months. To encourage migration from older systems, Sky previously offered free upgrades to for SD users until October 2024, with ongoing promotions for newer hardware. Environmentally, operates a return and program for old equipment, allowing customers to send back Digiboxes via for or sustainable disposal in compliance with the WEEE Directive. This addresses e-waste concerns, as the hoards over 20 million unused electrical items in homes, contributing to the nation's 1.6 million tonnes of annual e-waste, much of which risks improper disposal.

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