TV antenna module. Benefits of using a self-module for TV

Now a buyer of a satellite television system with modern TV with CI+ support and built-in DVB-S2 tuner, there is a choice - to purchase a CI + CAM module from one of the satellite TV operators for viewing, placed directly on the TV, or buy a full-fledged satellite receiver. We have been working with both solutions for watching satellite TV for a long time, and I must say that both solutions have its advantages and disadvantages. That is what we will consider in this article.

CAM module CI + for satellite TV - pros and cons.

In order for satellite channels to be viewed directly from the TV, the TV itself must be equipped with a built-in DVB-S2 tuner. The module itself, placed on the TV, performs the function of decoding the stream received from the satellite.

Advantages of using the module are that the processing of the resulting image occurs directly on the TV. And the resulting image is immediately displayed on the screen. Thanks to this approach, there is no loss of image quality during transmission. Such loss of image quality is typical for a bundle of satellite receiver-TV.

Another plus of using the module on a TV is the ability to perform all actions with just one remote control - turn it on with one remote control, set the sound volume with it, and switch channels with it.

Another advantage of the module is the compactness of the solution. There is no need to invent a shelf for the receiver, how to fix the receiver if the TV itself is hung on the wall. There is also no mass of annoying connecting wires - connecting the receiver to the power supply and connecting from the receiver to the TV.

Now about the cons of using the CAM module CI +

1. There is no way at all (or conveniently) to view the EPG - electronic program guide, i.e. the satellite program guide that is transmitted from the satellite and received by your antenna.

2. There is no way to call a large and convenient list of channels like on a satellite receiver. On the receiver for Tricolor, with the "OK" button, you can call up a list of 32 channels and scroll through it conveniently. The TV menu does not allow such a convenient display of the list of satellite channels.

Plus, only the satellite receiver has the ability to create a list (s) of favorite channels and navigate only through these favorite channels.

Among other things, both on the receiver from Tricolor and on the receiver for NTV + it is possible to impose a thematic filter on the channel list - i.e. display, for example, only federal or only educational channels. A TV with a module will not be able to do this. At least this functionality is not provided on the 2013-2014 models.

3. Satellite channels are more difficult to register on a TV using the module. When you buy a receiver for Tricolor or NTV +, the channels are already registered on it or are registered on the machine in 2-3 simple steps.

If you are using a module, then channels to the TV you have to prescribe yourself - the TV is universal- it allows you to add channels of any sat TV operator - Tricolor, NTV +, Telecard, Continent. And at the same time he does not know himself what to add to you - you do it yourself. The exception is LG smart TVs on the latest firmware.- they distinguish between different TV operators and in a step-by-step setup wizard they ask which operator's channels to register on your TV. TVs Samsung and Philips by the end of 2014 are lagging behind in this matter.

4. If the sat TV operator changes the list of channels (one was added, others were removed), then on the satellite receiver it is enough to rescan the channels in two steps, but on the TV this action will take longer and will require more tuner skills from you.

In case of receiver NTV + Humax 3100, then this receiver itself rescans channels every time it starts and adds new ones, removes those that have left the broadcast list - we really like and impress this functionality.

These are the difficulties and pleasures that lovers of satellite TV will face using compatible TV and CAM module CI +

Using a satellite receiver to watch satellite TV - the pros and cons

In the case of the receiver and its pluses and minuses, everything is exactly the opposite.

Consider the cons:

1. Dimensions of the receiver and the need for its convenient installation. There is not always a convenient place to install the receiver.

2. The need to use two remotes - for the TV (turn on / off, select the TV input and adjust the volume) and for the receiver (volume, program guide, channel selection)

To connect satellite or cable TV directly to a TV receiver, the user will need a CAM module for the TV. Connecting it to a TV is easy if you know what to do to solve this problem.

Modern Smart TVs are becoming more and more convenient and no longer require the connection of auxiliary equipment to broadcast cable or satellite channels.

The built-in tuners receive streaming video and decode various signal formats, but they need help to work. It is provided by the KAM module ( ) - a miniature computer that first converts the digital stream, and then coordinates it with the TV signal system. The device requires a smart card, which can be purchased from your service provider, to function properly.

By purchasing a TV with a CAM module, the consumer receives a number of additional benefits. Firstly, this is a cost savings, because you do not have to buy or rent a receiver from a provider to watch cable or satellite TV. Second, it's easy to set up.

The device is placed in a special slot on the TV, after which you just need to automatically tune the TV channels. Thirdly, it saves free space that would be required to install a satellite receiver, as well as the absence of extra wires and the need to allocate an additional outlet or connect a surge protector. Fourthly, control is carried out using one remote control from a television receiver. When you connect the receiver, there will be two of them.

There are several types of CAM modules for TVs:

simplest. Works with only one coding system. If the user changes provider or switches to a satellite with a different broadcast system, this unit will need to be replaced. Most pay TV channels are broadcast in various encoding systems, so such CAM modules are not able to recognize them;
the most common. Such a device is independently updated and rebuilt to the desired system when a new smart card is connected. If the user has several smart cards from different providers, he will be able to switch between them if he wants to watch certain TV channels;
universal. Flashed and configured for a range of encoding systems and works with various smart cards. It is able to independently tune TV programs, as well as automatically adjust the signal parameters. Used to work with paid software packages.

Principle of operation

To use the CAM module to broadcast satellite or cable TV channels, the user will need to purchase a Smart Card from the provider. This is a small plastic card with a microchip that identifies the subscriber and gives him access to digital television and pay TV channels.

It must be inserted into the CAM module, and then installed into the television receiver. Next, the user will need to configure the channel list, after which he will be able to start watching.

Top Models

Irdeto (SCM).
CAM MTS TV module with a card.
Access Module (CAM) Tricolor CI+ with Ultra HD support

How to connect

To connect the CAM module does not require the help of a specialist. The user will be able to do all the connection steps on his own if the TV has the appropriate CL-slot.

Installing the module on a Samsung, LG or other brand TV is exactly the same and looks like this:

put a smart card into the CAM module. To do this, you need to turn the device to face you and put the card inside, turning it over with the electronic chip up;
disconnect the TV screen from the mains and connect the CAM module to the CL slot face up;
turn on the TV. The display will show an inscription about the installation of new equipment;
perform automatic TV channel tuning.

If the steps are performed correctly, the user will be able to start watching TV programs. If, after tuning, there are no channels or nothing happens after turning on the TV receiver, this means that the smart card or CAM module is not installed correctly. It is recommended to remove them from the connector and reconnect.

Conclusion
Knowing what a CAM module is, what it is for, how it works and how to connect it to a TV, the user will set up satellite or cable TV in the TV receiver without using additional equipment.

The connection process is simple if you know the correct procedure. More detailed instructions can be found in the user manual of the device.

Some modern television sets are capable of processing digital signals without the help of special set-top boxes. The article will tell you what the CI slot, CAM module and Smart card are for, and what to do if the error “there is no CI module on the LG TV” suddenly occurs.

(the abbreviation means “Common Interface”) is a special slot into which a digital pay TV access card is inserted.

Using this interface, the video stream received from the provider is decoded and the signal is coordinated with the TV system.

The device connected via the CI slot is called the CAM module (Conditional Access Module), and it is this device that performs the function of unlocking encrypted channels: CI is just a port for CAM, which in turn is an adapter between a TV and a Smart card.

The smart card contains a special password that allows a person to access cable TV. It is worth saying that manufacturers declare support for CI and CAM only in those TV models that also have their own DVB tuner.

Among the advantages of buying such a Smart TV:

Saving money. If the TV device is equipped with a CAM module, then the user does not have to additionally purchase an external digital set-top box - to access the broadcast of high-definition TV channels, you will need to pay for the selected TV package and receive a Smart card from the provider for free.
Easy hardware setup. The process of connecting a Smart card to an LG or Samsung TV is similar to installing a regular microSD card in a smartphone, and setting up the equipment usually takes no more than 2 minutes.
The compactness of the system. Outwardly, CAM resembles a bank card a few centimeters thick, which is much smaller than a conventional digital set-top box. Also, to use this module, there is no need to connect additional wires to the display.
Easy TV program management. When using CAM, TV viewing is controlled through the TV remote control, not the DVB-T2 remote control.

A little more about the principle of operation of the CI-card Smart-card adapter for Samsung and LG TVs will be described in the next section of the article.

Principle of operation

The Smart Card contains a special microchip that allows the provider to identify the customer of a paid TV program package.

The card is inserted into the CAM module, which in turn is connected to the TV set via the CI interface. After installing the assembled system, the user needs to set up a playlist of channels.

A device with its own CAM module, like a special digital set-top box, is capable of playing high-definition video and recording offline TV programs that the user, for one reason or another, did not have time to watch on the air. The Conditional Access Module also allows you to manually set content display options.

What to do with the error "No CI module in LG TV"

You can download instructions for setting up a list of TV channels for TVs with a CI module from the official website of the provider. If the user is sure that his device is equipped with a CAM module, but when trying to set up the LG TV, the “No CI module” error occurs, then it is recommended to check the selected signal source - the password stored on the Smart card can only be read in the “Cable TV” mode. To avoid repeating a system error, the new settings must be saved to the TV's memory.
The failure may also occur due to an outdated version of the software of the television set.

To update the firmware, the user will need:

download the latest version of webOS from LG official website;
transfer the downloaded file to a USB drive previously formatted in FAT32;
connect the flash drive to TB and start the manual software update.

Once webOS is updated, all that's left to do is complete the pay TV playlist. Another solution to the problem is to change the region where the user is located in the TV settings - when editing an account, it is recommended to select "Germany" or "Finland" as the country of residence. It is worth noting that setting a new parameter will not affect the functionality of webOS in any way.

Conclusion

Now the user knows what CAM and CI modules are for a TV. For successful installation of the Smart-card, it is necessary to use only the network parameters proposed by the provider - otherwise the microchip will not be read, and the TB-device system will definitely give an error.

Modern TVs provide their users with great opportunities, including watching TV channels in high definition with excellent sound, but this requires additional equipment as a module for a TV and a subscriber's personal smart card. It should also be taken into account that not all models provide a CI slot, therefore, in order to be able to connect digital television with a large selection of TV channels, it is necessary to purchase and install a TV receiver, into which a smart card with a module will be installed.

Many TV models from leading manufacturers such as Samsung, LG, Sony have long had a number of built-in designs that provide TV screens with advanced features. Developers are trying to equip their TVs with convenient devices, thereby freeing the user from having to connect additional equipment that takes up space. For example, built-in tuner or in another way, a digital receiver allows you to receive streaming video and decorate a signal of a different broadcast format. However, in order for it to cope with its tasks, it definitely needs external signal support - this is provided by the CAM module.

This device resembles a small computer that first conducts digital stream decoding, and then sends a signal to match it with a specific TV model. This electronic device, equipped with a special card, is designed to play digital signal and pay channels in high definition. And, if the TV model has a built-in DVB-C tuner, the device in question will save users from additional wires, installing a separate set-top box and a second remote control.

How does he work

In order for a technical device to independently read the information it receives (meaning, for example, paid media content), the service provider's client needs to purchase a Smart card. This is a plastic card with a microchip that identifies the subscriber and provides him with access to digital TV and paid channels. It is inserted into the CAM module. After the adapter with the card inside is installed in the TV. The user only needs to configure the list of received TV channels.

The configured equipment makes it possible to receive media content with various expansion and quality options, while the image will be automatically adjusted to certain parameters. The latest models of the considered electronic devices can independently record streaming video and play it back at the time necessary for the subscriber.

What are CAM modules

According to technical specifications, the entire range of manufactured conditional access devices for coded channels is divided into types. The simplest modules are T2 and single-channel modules with support for only one coding system. Multi-channel and universal models are also offered.

Single channel module is able to decode pay channels broadcast only by the selected provider (satellite). If you change the service provider or satellite with a different broadcast system, the module becomes inoperative.
Multichannel Models devices allow you to switch from one coding system to another using SIM cards from different providers. The device automatically recognizes the inserted SIM card, rebuilds and updates the software.
Universal module manufacturers are flashing to work with several signal encoding systems. The device can automatically correct signal parameters, configure programs, work with SIM cards of any provider. Suitable for working with paid software packages.

If speak about module cost, then in specialized stores you can see a fairly large range of prices. As a rule, the cost of the first option ranges from 1500 - 3000 rubles. The price of more modern models varies in the region of 5000-6000 rubles. Experts recommend not to opt for too cheap options. Otherwise, this will lead to an early replacement, as they will not cope with the latest technology, and the purchase will be much more expensive than planned.

The advantages of such equipment

Before buying a new LG, Philips or Sony TV, it is worth considering purchasing a model with a built-in receiver and a slot for a CAM module, since such electronic equipment has undeniable advantages.

More profitable for the price. Purchasing a conditional access module will cost less than a regular TV set-top box or Smart set-top box.
Easy to install and set up. It is enough to simply insert it into the slot along with the subscriber's card and carry out a simple equipment setup.
Doesn't take up space. This device is slightly larger than a plastic card, which is inserted into the CI slot on the TV panel. It does not require additional shelves, especially if the TV panel is mounted on the wall, as for an external set-top box. In addition, such wireless equipment does not take up an extra outlet, since it is powered by TV.
Simple control from the TV remote control.

How to install a CAM module in a TV

Connection and configuration does not require special knowledge. The main thing is to make sure that this is a suitable device for the TV before purchasing the module - there is a CI-slot. The installation algorithm is identical for any TV, be it Lg or Samsung.

First you need to correctly install the smart card into the adapter. i.e. insert a card electronic chip up, while holding the module facing you (the provider's logo is placed on it).
The adapter, complete with the card, is inserted into the PCMCIA slot of the turned off TV, facing outward.
Now you can turn on the TV. A corresponding inscription about connecting new equipment should appear on the screen.
Often you don’t have to configure anything, just start an automatic search for programs.

If nothing happens after turning on the TV, the hardware is most likely installed incorrectly. You should turn off the TV and do all the installation steps again. Health Status can be checked in the TV menu, depending on the manufacturer, the name of the corresponding item in the interface may be called “CA Module”, “CA Interface”, “CAM”, “CI Interface”, “Common Interface”.

If the equipment is connected, the TV sees it, but the channels are not tuned, you should contact your service provider.

Precautions for use

When operating the CAM module, the user is required to comply with the following recommendations:

avoid serious mechanical impacts: falls, squeezing;
when installing the module in the TV receiver, strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions;
make sure that the module does not overheat;
do not store the SIM card near sources of electromagnetic radiation;
if you need to remove the SIM card from the module, strictly follow the instructions;
in order to avoid damage to the connector, do not unnecessarily remove the module from the TV.

Protection of providers from software hacking

Paid content is offered by a large number of providers. Each service provider protects their channel packages with one or another coding system. To make it harder for attackers to break into program codes, providers systematically change the control key in the code combination. The receivers of subscribers who have paid for the service receive a code combination via satellite to decrypt coded channels.

The CAM module is designed for owners of LCD or plasma TV models that are equipped with a built-in receiver and support HD Ready or Full HD digital formats. Such an electronic device, equipped with a smart card, provides the opportunity to watch paid TV channels. Simple installation does not take much time and does not require special knowledge. The main thing is to make sure that the TV has a built-in DVB-C tuner and a CI slot for such an adapter before purchasing.

The development and widespread use of digital television required technical solutions from manufacturers of television receivers that allow them to receive television programs broadcast both directly from satellites and cable or satellite TV providers. Many well-known companies coped with this problem quite easily by equipping television panels with built-in digital receivers (tuners). And the issue of additional viewing of paid video content from different providers was resolved using a special module for the TV. About the types and capabilities of this equipment, as well as the rules for its installation - in the material below.

What is a CAM module

As of the end of 2018, almost all modern TVs (LG, Samsung, etc.) allow you to receive digital television programs, for which you just need to connect a cable coming from a satellite dish (dish) to the appropriate input. However, in this case it is possible watch digital channels only unscrambled- after all, tuners built into TVs do not have the keys necessary for paid video content. Also, television receiver manufacturers, as a rule, do not provide for the possibility of flashing built-in receivers and / or entering keys using a smart card, which excludes the possibility of watching pay TV channels coming from satellite and cable TV providers.

In order for TV owners to be able to view paid content, TV receivers manufacturers provide the ability to connect an external CAM module, with which you can decode the received TV signal and tune channels. In the general case, a CAM module for a TV (Conditional Access Module) is a small computer designed to decode a digital video signal and then match it with the model of the TV receiver on which the owner installed it.

Principle of operation

This device only works with special smart card, which is purchased from the provider and installed in the CAM module. And the module directly connects to the TV through the Common Interface slot (CI-slot) or connects to it using a special CI adapter (5V only), which is usually included in the delivery set of the TV receiver.

Important! After the CAM-module with the inserted smart card is installed and connected to the TV receiver, the subscriber is identified, and the program will start reading the video signal decryption keys and decoding them into a format acceptable for the TV.

Only in this way the user gets the opportunity to receive digital television, both free and commercial channels.

Advantages

According to the reviews of the owners of modern TVs with built-in receivers (Sony Bravia, etc.), CAM modules have a number of advantages, including:

reception of coded TV channels;
the ability to do without the purchase of an expensive external receiver;
ease of installation of the CAM-module and automatic tuning of the TV receiver;
control the module using the TV remote control.

Types of CAM modules

According to technical features and functionality, there are several types of CAM modules.

Installing the CAM module in the TV

Depending on the model of the television receiver, there may be two options for installing the CAM module:

via CI slot.
using a special CI adapter.

Attention! Before you buy a CAM module, you should make sure that your TV panel can receive unencrypted (free) digital channels. If such a translation is not provided, then the installation of the CAM module seems useless.

Algorithm

The installation sequence of the CAM module is the same in all cases and boils down to:

disconnecting the TV receiver from the power supply network;
installing a smart card into the module in such a way that the contact pads of the CHIP are facing the side where the colored label is pasted (in this case, the smart card must be inserted all the way);
connecting the CAM module to a television receiver in accordance with its instruction manual;
turn on the TV and check the reception of scrambled channels.

Precautionary measures

To ensure the safety and performance of the CAM module, you must adhere to some recommendations. Thus, rough mechanical impacts should be avoided, as a result of which damage to the body of the device and the components inside it is possible. And the installation and connection of the modules must be carried out in strict accordance with the instructions attached to the television receiver. In addition, you should:

do not overheat the module;
do not bend the smart card and do not store it near sources of strong electromagnetic radiation;
do not remove the smart card from the module without special need;
do not remove the CAM module from the TV receiver unless absolutely necessary.

ISP protection and the possibility of hacking

Due to the fact that there is quite tough competition among providers offering paid television content, they are forced to somehow label their products. They do this in a variety of ways. signal encoding, which allows you to provide your client with the opportunity to receive the content ordered and paid for by him.

However, the main coding formats have long been known and standardized, thanks to which users deprived of decency can easily crack access codes to broadcast TV channels. To protect against hacking, providers are forced to constantly change code combinations, which naturally complicates hacking. Satellite codes are also changed, which are then transferred to service providers for flashing client smart cards.

Providers most often use the encryption technique, which is based on key redundancy algorithm. It consists in the following - a package of television programs is formed from the corresponding lists of codes. In addition, each channel receives a unique combination, which includes the provider's key and a set of user codes that have paid for the service. Based on this cipher, consisting of a specific digital set, the client is able to accept the software package ordered by him.

However, after a certain period of time, the provider changes his code, and then the whole set of client keys should stop working. By changing the combination, the service provider assigns a new key to smart cards only to those customers who have paid for the commercial channel package on time. For other users, reception of programs is terminated.

Interesting! At present, the BetaCrypt 2 code system, which uses a complicated method of searching and assigning keys, has become widespread. For the previously used Conax and BetaCrypt coding systems, the algorithm for creating digital combinations is completely deciphered.

So, thanks to the CAM-module for television receivers, many paid TV channels from various providers become available to users. As you can see, the installation of such equipment is not particularly difficult, but for its long and successful operation during operation, precautions should be taken.

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