A system for receiving and processing digital video information such as a digital television broadcast, includes a modular platform which receives a plurality of hot pluggable cards. The platform is coupled by a high data rate graphics bus to a digital television display. The bus may provide encrypted information to prevent piracy of the video. Because the platform is modular in design, upgrades to the digital video system may be easily implemented using hot pluggable technology without changing the display. Thus, advances in electronics may be incorporated into the platform without necessitating that the owner replace the display.