The Digital TV Group (DTG) is upgrading its DTG Testing centre by providing manufacturers with a single facility for checking the test and conformance of Connected TVs and HbbTV, Freeview and Freesat devices.

DTG Connected TV test suites will be available to purchase from DTG Testing in March 2011 with product testing launching in May 2011.

Richard Lindsay-Davies, the director general of the DTG said: “A robust and reliable test and conformance regime is crucial if consumers are to put their faith in emerging technologies such as Connected TV.

“By applying our proven approach to test and conformance - developed through testing for the Freeview, Freesat and more recently Freeview HD services, to Connected TV and HbbTV, the DTG is continuing to fulfill its crucial role in enabling the development of fully reliable and compliant digital TV and media products and services.”

At the same time, DTG Testing is also working with Project Canvas on the development of a test and conformance regime for the service.

The DTG is working with its members to develop the technical specification for UK Connected TV that will form the 7th edition of the DTG D-Book.

D-Book 7, to be published in December 2010, will provide the core technical specification that service providers such as Canvas, Sky and Virgin Media can build their trademark requirements on.

Richard Halton, director, Project Canvas said: “Part of that engagement is to ensure a robust standard for connected TV devices and we are pleased to be exploring with the DTG how that may be evolved into a conformance and compliance regime for connected TV more widely.”