This table-top friendly LCD IDTV is designed specifically with the needs of the travelling punter in mind. The need to house an adequate power supply (there’s a rechargeable battery inside for portable users in addition to the 12V power supply) means it’s a good deal boxier than you’d normally associate with the technology. However, this doesn’t
excuse the aesthetics; the rather plain looking grey plastic casing has a decidedly unsexy Eighties feel. The TV can also be outputted to a larger screen using the included S-video connector much like a conventional adapter.

The menu software is easy to follow, a bonus as the only manual currently available is in German. The EPG supports the DVB eight-day guide and can also be used to schedule up to 32 events on the timer.
You can also create a single favourites list, but there’s no support for MHEG-5 interactive channels as these are not
currently available on Germany’s DTT services (where TechniSat originates).

If you’re having signal problems, there’s an antenna adjust screen where you can waggle the attached aerial and view the results on the onscreen strength and quality meters. The picture quality on the DigiPal’s 6.8 inch screen is comparable to that found on a good quality portable DVD player, exhibiting good contrast levels and little evidence of blurring. Although best results are obtained while the viewer is sat directly in front of it, it also has a satisfying wide viewing angle.

Picture is nothing with a decent signal in the first place, of course, so it’s pleasing to report that we got a good signal even in the metal-strewn Wotsat offices from the built-in aerial. Audio quality, on the other hand, is rather tinny from the mono speaker.

If you can get past its rather uninspiring looks, the DigiPal acquits itself very well in most of the areas that matter – even if it's rather expensive for what’s on offer.

Published July 2005, What Satellite & Digital TV