How to install and configure the TV module

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.

What is CAM — module

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 decodingand 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 can only 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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

1. More profitable for the price. The purchase of a conditional access module will cost less than a regular set-top box or Smart set-top box.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

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

If nothing happens after you turn 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 more difficult 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.