Abstract: A method and apparatus are claimed that separate network-dependent from network-independent functions in set-top boxes (STBs), including digital consumer appliances and PCs. A receiver subsystem integrates network-dependent tuner, digital demodulation, Forward Error Correction (FEC), descrambling/decryption, and conditional access functions into a very small format (e.g., any of the PCMCIA Type I, II, or III form-factor). This combination of functions comprises a Digital Interface Conditional Access Module (DICAM). The DICAM interfaces with a Set-Top Universal Box (STUB) that includes network-independent functions. The STUB functionality may also be integrated with a consumer electronics (CE) appliance such as a TV, PC, DVD player, etc. The DICAM may also include an interface for "Smartcards" that implement any of the many different varieties of CA functions currently found around the world.