Abstract: A descrambler or decoder for premium scrambled television signals compares the tier of the received signal with the contents of a memory associated with the descrambler. The memory of each descrambler establishes the tiers which are to be decoded according to what the user of the descrambler has requested or paid the system operator for. The memory is in the form of a small plug which mates with a receptacle which is coupled to a tier comparator within the descrambler. The memory plug includes a predetermined circuit for each tier arrangement which a user or subscriber may request. Due to its small size and physical arrangement, the tier-establishing memory is resistant to tampering by the user, thereby preventing access to premium programming by unauthorized subscribers.