A decoder device has a control unit for decoding encoded TV programs. The decoder device has an input for entering an encoded TV program, a decryption device for decoding an encoded TV program into a format which can be played on a television set, an output which can be connected to the television set and is designed to enter the encoded TV program into the television set for play, an interface for an identification or key component, to be used for validation of the decoding device, as well as an interface for a control unit. The interface for the identification or key component is located in the control unit.