What is ci. Common interface function on samsung TV what is it: a brief overview

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.

With help 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 a 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:

1. Saving Money. If the TV set 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 TV channels in high resolution you will need to pay for the selected TB-package and receive a Smart-card from the provider free of charge.
2. 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.
3. The compactness of the system. Externally, CAM resembles bank card a few centimeters thick, which is much smaller than a conventional digital set-top box. Also for use this module there is no need to connect additional wires to the display.
4. 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, as well as 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 error “No CI module” 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". To avoid repetition system error, the new settings must be stored in the TV's memory.
Failure can also occur due to outdated version software television apparatus.

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 flash drive to tv and run manual update BY.

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 account it is recommended to select "Germany" or "Finland" as the host country. 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 optional equipment as a module for a TV set and a subscriber's personal smart card. It is also worth considering that not all models provide a CI slot, so for connectivity digital television With great choice TV channels require the purchase and installation of a TV receiver, in 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 digital receiver allows you to receive streaming video and decorate the signal of different broadcast formats. 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 specific model TV. This electronic device, equipped with a special card, is designed to play digital signal and pay channels with 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

To technical device could independently read the information that it receives (meaning, for example, paid media content), the client of the service provider 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. Latest Models considered electronic devices can independently record streaming video, and play it at the time necessary for the subscriber.

What are CAM modules

According to technical specifications, the entire range of manufactured devices conditional access to coded channels are divided into types. Most simple modules- T2 and single-channel 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 imminent replacement, as they will not cope with the latest technologies, 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. Purchasing a conditional access module will cost less than a regular TV set-top box or Smart set-top box.
2. Easy to install and set up. Simply insert it into the slot along with the subscriber's card and swipe simple setup equipment.
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. Besides, such wireless equipment does not take up an extra outlet, because 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 for the TV it is suitable device- the panel has 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 up, while 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 do not have to configure anything, just run automatic search 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. Easy 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.

CAM-module or conditional access module is designed to view scrambled satellite or cable channels. It is inserted into the CI slot of a TV or receiver and decodes channels intended for pay-per-view. Some receivers, such as Skyway Classic 4, have two CI + slots, which allows you to watch pay channels of two different operators at the same time (for example, Tricolor and NTV +). Today, many TVs are equipped with a tuner for receiving a satellite signal and have a slot for a CAM module. However, in order to view the encrypted channels of Tricolor and NTV + operators, the tuner and slot must meet the following characteristics: the tuner must support the DVB-S2 format, and the slot must support the CI + format. Although most brands of TVs meet these requirements, you should carefully study the specifications before buying.

Since the modules are a fairly new development, many people find it difficult to initially set up and operate CAM modules.

I want to start with the fact that installing modules on TVs different manufacturers varies, and sometimes very seriously. LG proved to be the simplest and most loyal to the module. Here it is enough to insert the module into the TV. Select a satellite dish in the menu and search for channels certain operator(Tricolor or NTV) and it will automatically and correctly find the channels of the selected operator.

But the most problematic in terms of settings are Sony and Thomson TVs. You need to manually add the name of the satellite to them (recall that the satellite of the NTV-Plus and Tricolor operators is called Eutelsat W4 or Eutelsat 36E), as well as add the transponder parameters (frequency: 12226 for Tricolor and 12322 for NTV +) and the local oscillator frequency of the converter for both operators: upper and lower frequency - 10750. Then you need to select "search on the network", and the TV will find all channels given operator. If there is no “network search” item in the menu, then all transponders will have to be added manually. Full list transporters are available on the operator's website.

Now let's look at the most common problems and errors when working with the CAM module. The first and most common problem occurs during the initial initialization of the module by the TV. When this happens, the TV sees the module, the menu displays all the information about the module and the card, however, when the channel is turned on, it writes an error (the error code and explanation are different for different brands and TV models). In such a situation, you need to act as follows: turn off and turn on the TV. After turning on the TV, the access rights check between the TV and the module will start again. In most cases, this method is more than effective. However, in some cases, for example, after a voltage drop in the network or a sudden power outage, the settings of the module itself may be lost. Then the access rights check will not be carried out until the CAM module settings are reset to factory settings through the TV menu.

Now as for the problems associated with the software modules and TVs. Problems incorrect work with modules are commonly found on early TVs. But these problems, fortunately, can often be fixed by installing the latest software for your TV. As for updating the module software, it occurs only from the satellite. In the NTV + modules, the update can be forced by simply selecting the required item in the menu. In Tricolor-TV access modules, satellite updates are broadcast for a limited amount of time (1-2 months), if during this time you did not have time to update the software, you will have to wait for the next one.

Despite the simplicity of the design, the CAM module cannot be bent, disassembled, and it is not recommended to reprogram the module, except for the official operator software. You also need to protect the module from moisture, and if you pull the module out of the TV for a long time, make sure that its connector is not clogged.

Despite the complexity initial setup, CAM modules are the ideal alternative to satellite receivers. Due to their simple design, they are more reliable than a receiver, they do not need an outlet, a remote control, and they do not take up space.

Important! Since Tricolor and NTV + use different encodings (NTV + uses Viaccess, and Tricolor DRE-crypt), therefore, NTV modules do not fit Tricolor cards and vice versa.

The standard scheme for connecting Tricolor satellite television is as follows: satellite dish - receiver (receiver) - TV. If you have a modern TV model, then this chain can be simplified: instead of a separate set-top box, use CAM module. What it is, how it works, how to connect and how to set up the Tricolor TV Ci module, we will consider further.

What is a CAM module?

CAM module, or conditional access module, is a special device that is inserted into the Ci or Ci + slot in a TV equipped with a built-in DVB-S2 receiver. The task of the module is only to decode the pay channels of the provider using a smart card with a chip and a unique individual number. The satellite signal is processed by the TV itself.

How does the Tricolor TV CI module work?

How the Tricolor TV Ci module works can be described as follows: it decodes the received signal and then transmits it in decrypted form to the receiver built into the TV. The previously encoded channels of the Tricolor TV operator become available for viewing. When using the module, it is important to follow the software updates of the TV itself, because. the signal is handled by the DVB-S2 tuner built into the TV. If access to channels is terminated (channels are encrypted), and the module and smart card are not damaged, then you need to configure the TV itself.

What are the Tricolor TV CAM modules?

Custom CAM modules for viewing "Tricolor TV" are released in only one format: single-system single-channel. They are easy to set up and operate and provide access to the DRE-crypt coding system on a single TV. Universal multi-channel modules, with which you can watch several channels at the same time on different devices, are too complicated to set up and require special expensive equipment for operation.

Single system variant

Universal option

Universal modules are able to support several channel coding systems and broadcast different channels to subscribers in a television network. You will watch the channels of the operator whose smart card you bought and inserted into the module. But for the operation of such devices, special expensive television stations and complex programming and equipment settings are needed. For this reason, universal modules are only used when connecting a large number subscribers, for example, in apartment buildings.

The advantages of such equipment

The following are the significant advantages of using the CAM module:
- the absence of a second remote control from the TV tuner, as well as himself as a separate element;
- satellite dish is connected directly to the TV, which eliminates unnecessary wires and improves the quality of broadcasting;
— more high quality images - the ability to view channels in both SD and HD formats, as well as in the new ultra-high quality - Ultra HD 4K (UHD).

How to set up the Ci "Tricolor" module on the TV?

Module "Tricolor TV" Ci: how to connect and configure? This procedure is quite simple. To connect the Tricolor TV conditional access module, first you need to make sure that your TV is equipped with a Ci-slot, purchase a CAM module and a smart card. To connect the Tricolor TV Ci module, you need to insert a module with a smart card installed in it into a special port on the TV. You need to do this with the TV turned off.
Now let's figure out how to set up the Ci + "Tricolor" module on the TV.
After turning on the TV, information about the identification of the module and the Tricolor TV smart card should appear on the screen: "Attention, access rights are being checked." If the check did not take place, then go to the Ci settings of the module and click on the "Reset to factory settings" button. The TV will restart. When the module is identified, it will turn green. After that, you need to set up channels. In many modern TVs(especially Samsung and LG) channel tuning is carried out in automatic mode when choosing the operator "Tricolor TV". If your TV does not support this mode, then you need to manually enter the parameters: type of antenna, satellite, converter. If all this turned out to be done, then we proceed to setting up channels in the corresponding section of the menu. Request channel search frequencies in advance at Tricolor TV technical support or look on the Internet. At the end of the channel setup, leave the TV turned on on the Russia-1 channel until the programs are activated (from several minutes to 8 hours).

How to update the Tricolor TV CI module?

For the continuous display of channels and the correct operation of the Tricolor TV Ci module, it is necessary to update in a timely manner: the software of the TV and the module itself.
If the TV is connected to the Internet, put in the settings " Automatic update Software", then it will occur automatically. If it is not possible to connect the TV to the Internet, then follow the updates on the manufacturer's website yourself, download to a USB flash drive and update according to the instructions via the USB connector.
Module software update is done via satellite. You only need to turn on channel number 333 "Telemaster", which will offer to update to the latest version, and click the "OK" button. After installing the update, the module should automatically reboot. If this does not happen, you need to turn off the TV, remove the adapter from the slot and put it back, then turn on the TV. If for some reason you were unable to update automatically, you can download instructions on the Tricolor website that describe how to update the Tricolor TV Ci module yourself by downloading files from latest version software. If all else fails, you can contact the Tricolor TV support service or call the wizard to configure the module.

If you have a huge desire to upgrade or expand the number of channels that you can, then you will have to choose how to achieve this goal. You can, of course, use an external tuner, but it's also easy to do without it, while successfully connecting to satellite or cable TV.

Connecting the CAM module will expand the list of available TV channels.

To implement such a task, you will need to connect the CAM module, as well as have an access card available. The presence of these two components is mandatory, because it is they that provide decoding of paid digital channels broadcast by the provider.

Unfortunately, not everyone can afford such a connection, even with an unlimited desire. It is important to first make sure that your TV is equipped with a special ANT In Satellite connector located on the back of the TV. If you did not find such a connector, you will have to put up with the fact that your TV does not support direct connection To satellite dish, respectively, you will definitely have to purchase an external tuner to solve such a problem.

Rules for connecting and configuring the CAM module

If you purchase a receiver, you can provide satellite broadcasting of channels even on TVs released more than ten years ago. Specialists will be able to choose the appropriate material, cable, ensuring the successful connection of the TV to the satellite dish. However, despite the multiple advantages of the receiver, you still have to face some disadvantages when using it. In particular, you have to adapt to the use of two remotes:

• from the TV
• from the satellite receiver.

If you are tired of such confusion and want to simplify your “life”, we recommend that you connect the CAM module.

Connection algorithm

Modern televisions are already equipped with special satellite receivers, in particular DVB-S2. To ensure a high-quality connection to a satellite dish, all that remains is to purchase a CAM module that allows you to decrypt digital channels.

IMPORTANT. It should be taken into account that different operators create their own channel encoding system, therefore, in order to gain access to these particular channels, one or several operators have to purchase a CAM module, depending on individual viewer preferences. Of course, using a specific CAM module of a specific operator, it is possible to establish contact with the selected operator and view all the satellite channels that this operator broadcasts.

When choosing this method of connecting to satellite television advantages also become noticeable, but along with them, disadvantages. The advantages include the fact that you can successfully control the TV using just one remote control. The disadvantages include that not all TVs are equipped with a CI + module, and they also lack DVB-S2. If you have met all the conditions for a successful connection, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with a completely simple instruction on how to install and configure the CAM module.

Initially, pick up the CAM module and insert the access card tightly into it.

Now unplug your TV electrical network to prevent injury from electric shock. Approach the TV so that you can comfortably inspect its back wall. Take a close look back panel, locate the dedicated PCMCIA slot. It is accompanied by a corresponding inscription, so if you are attentive, you will easily find it.

Insert the module into this slot with its front side facing the wall. Connect your TV to a satellite dish, only then turn on the TV.

Sometimes the TV manufacturer equips it with a special CI adapter. In this case, the connection of the CAM module will be accompanied by small features. In particular, you can easily find the Common Interface sticker on the back of your TV, remove it, and insert the CI adapter into the opened puzzles. Check the quality of the adapter connection, then insert the CAM module into it.

This completes the connection process, but your actions will now be directed to setting up the channels of the operator whose access card you purchased.

Tuning algorithm

Before proceeding with the setup, we recommend that you make sure that everything works fine, that your TV sees the CAM module perfectly. To do this, go to the menu of your TV, then go to the "CI data (CAM)" option. You will now see two suggested actions:

• information;
• settings.

Go to the first line to get information about the module being used. If you have inserted something wrong, your TV will not display any information about the module, therefore, you will have to check if you inserted the CAM module correctly into the special slot.

ATTENTION. Only when you were able to make sure that everything is connected correctly, that the module is working successfully, we suggest that you proceed to the following important steps focused on configuration satellite channels.

Pick up your TV remote control and enter the menu. Most often, just press the Settings button. Go to the "Quick" submenu, stop your choice on the "Search for channels" line. The system will prompt you to select search options, we recommend that you select "Auto Search". Next, you will be asked to specify the channel settings mode. Of course, you need to select the "Satellite" mode.

Of course, you will immediately have to indicate the operator whose access card you have purchased, whose channels you are counting on to view.

After that, you just have to click on the "Run" button and just wait until the search process is completed. In this case, information will appear on the screen, after reading which you will understand how many channels have been detected and, accordingly, they can be connected.

So, if you want to update something in your life, in particular, expand the number of satellite channels, allow yourself to view those channels that were previously unavailable, it will be useful for you to update, and sometimes for the first time, get acquainted with the information on how to connect CAM- module. You will certainly be pleased that you will not find any special difficulties when performing such actions. Do not be afraid of difficulties, take steps, trying to update the broadcast of your satellite dish channels yourself.