Does the Thompson recorder need a top up card inserted in it to work? I have bought one without a top up card in it. It's flashing a red light so I have tried switching the power off & pressing the sequence of buttons as the others have suggested.

Berni, September 2009

My apologies if it is a Freeview Box the the question is in the right 'ole. I must have early onset dementia.

T, September 2009

There first question is: is it a satellite box (Sky+) or Freeview box? (Your question is in the satellite receiver box.)

If it is Freeview box you only need the TopUp TV card if you want the TopUp TV services. Other than that it is plain vanilla Freeview recorder. (BTW, these forums are awash with people with broken Thomson Freeview recorders so the future doesn't look bright.)

If it is a satellite receiver then it will not work as a Recorder, without a Sky subscription. However the lack of a card will not stop it booting.

T, September 2009