PCMCIA Card Slot on Sony TV

mburke

The sony lcd tv I have has a PCMCIA Card Slot, will a CAM card work in this slot and if so is there a web site that I can look at with regards to different CAM cards ?
I am not looking for anything illegal here, just wondering what use this slot can be for.

The Cush

This slot will be used for the future Boxer DTT terrestrial Pay-TV service expected to launch Autumn 2009 provided your digital tv is MPEG-4 capable and Boxer make available a CAM as promised in their submission to the BCI in May (this of course will depend upon Boxer ever launching the service).
The slot serves little purpose until then.

What is the model no. of your Sony TV?

The_Conductor

mburke wrote: »

The sony lcd tv I have has a PCMCIA Card Slot, will a CAM card work in this slot and if so is there a web site that I can look at with regards to different CAM cards ?
I am not looking for anything illegal here, just wondering what use this slot can be for.

Mburke- yes, you can put any MPEG4 CAM into the slot.
I have a Conax Neotion CAM in an S-Series working fine.
The S-Series is definitely only MPEG-2.

As per some of the other threads here- there is no reason to get a Conax one (unless its only the Freeview mux that you intend to pull).

S.

homer911

Has anyone tried the VIACCESS CAM? Any problems like smcarrick reported like having to reboot the TV when switching from satellite to digital?

watty

Conax will be no use at all. The CAMless version is cheapest, or else one with viaccess.

But Boxer will likely make a CAM + MPEG4->MPEG2 convertor availalbe as part of subscription.

homer911

watty wrote: »

Conax will be no use at all. The CAMless version is cheapest, or else one with viaccess.

But Boxer will likely make a CAM + MPEG4->MPEG2 convertor availalbe as part of subscription.

Watty - you seem to know what you are talking about (?) Why will Conax be no use? What if someone just wants to use DTT for the free Irish stations and use BBC/ITV-Freesat or FTV satellite for the rest of their channels? What do you mean by "CAMless"? (Decrypt Vs Convert??) What does Viaccess contribute?

Sorry for all the questions...

STB

homer911 wrote: »

Watty - you seem to know what you are talking about (?) Why will Conax be no use? What if someone just wants to use DTT for the free Irish stations and use BBC/ITV-Freesat or FTV satellite for the rest of their channels? What do you mean by "CAMless"? (Decrypt Vs Convert??) What does Viaccess contribute?

Sorry for all the questions...

I'll answer that if you like. Conax is an Encryption system. Conax will not be used by Boxer who will operate the commercial multiplexes. Boxer will be more than likely be using Viaccess as their encryption system as they do in Sweden and as they are about to in Denmark.

The Viaccess version of that card also transcodes MPEG4 to MPeg 2 and ALSO give you the option of subscribing to boxer channels by just inserting the card into that slot in the future (should they allow that as a stand alone). The Conax version will only allow viewing of the PSB multiplex for those just wanting to trancode MPEG4 to MPEG 2.

Same thing, near enough same price, more possibilities.

The_Conductor

I think the point was- if there is a Conax CAM floating around that its fine for picking up the Free mux operated by RTENL. There is no necessary need to pick up the Viaccess one (though of course if you can- you have far more possibilities open to you). When I bought the Conax one- the Viaccess one was out of stock. Had it been in stock, I would have gotten the Viaccess one. From a practical viewpoint, seeing as I have zero intention of forking over a red cent to Boxer- its irrelevant whether I use a Conax or a Viaccess one.......

watty

The Neotion gadget can have two functions:

1) CAM = Conditional Access Module
This takes a key (usually two part, one via transmission and one optionally via viewing card) and decrypts any encrypted data.

2) Converter
This decodes (not decrypts) FTA or decrypted stream from CAM to video and re-encodes as MPEG2 for an MPEG2 only TV or set box.

CAM features
Conax was used by trial. It will not be used again
Viaccess will be used by Boxer. Even if you have an MPEG4 TV/Setbox you need Viaccess CAM for Boxer viewing card.


If you only want FTA ever, you don't need a CAM, just a plain convertor. Admittedly it fits in CI slot (Common Interface) as if it is a CAM. The CI slot has the MPEG-TS (transport stream) in from set box and back to set box. If a Module (PCMCIA physical connector & size) is inserted then the MPEG-TS should automatically loop through it from Tuner back to the MPEG2 decoder that feeds HDMI, SCART, Composite, RF Modulator, S-Video, Component, RCA audio, optical or RCA digital Audio or whatever video & audio outlets the Set box has, or direct to video drive/source select & audio amp if inside a TV set.


There are many kinds of CAM. (PowerVU, Niagra, SECA, Mediaguard viaccess, NDS, conax etc..)

With payTV either the provider sells/rents/loans/subsidises a setbox with built in CAM (Sky, Premiere, Chorus, NTL etc) or sells/rents/loans/subsidises a CAM for a TV or setbox you already have.

The French TNT (DTT) supply either a setbox, a CAM only (for MPEG4 TV or setbox receivers) or CAM+Converter combo(the Neotion actually) for existing MPEG2 TV or setbox receivers.

So if you ever might want Boxer, or Boxer is doing a good trial pack for 3months cheap (puppy dog routine) it is better to wait and maybe get a combo CAM/Converter then cheap or free.


Also since the RTE or Boxer services have not launched, it's much better to wait till they do in case any last minute changes in specification and prices this time next year (the official launch period) will be much much less.

There is an additional trick for Module in a CI slot. It's possible via ethernet to record or replay the entire transport stream (or part of it). The Neotion Pocket Duo has ethernet connector. It can be CAM-less or be preloaded as viaccess, conax etc.. but sadly not as Sky/NDS cam.

You won't get PowerVU either on an Neotion. It's not for public and you have to register the receiver serial number.

The CAM / Security for the 2000line+ cinema HD for cinema distribution includes GPS in the sat receiver. It only works in registered location! Worldwide all cinema is changing to video Projection instead of film. There is a network of about 20 or 30 Boeing Satellites for it. It means saving in costs of prints (runs to $$milions) and simultaneous world wide releases to reduce losses due to piracy as world wide DVDs /BluRay release can then also be simultaneous and sooner outside USA.

mburke

I have a sony 40w4000, mpeg 4 cable.

watty

smccarrick wrote: »

I think the point was- if there is a Conax CAM floating around that its fine for picking up the Free mux operated by RTENL. ..... , seeing as I have zero intention of forking over a red cent to Boxer- its irrelevant whether I use a Conax or a Viaccess one.......

Though one with no CAM, only a converter is cheaper still!

Boxer may hand out CAM and 3 month sub for less than price of Converter as an incentive. Also prices will drop.

So I think no rush.

STB

except for those who MUST have DTT now as their MPEG2 "HD Ready" TV is a brick without an STB or quick fix device! I think that has been the theme here. Many people have bought LCDs etc over the last year that were MPEG2.

Not much difference in the prices....

watty

Yes, but buying more gear now (like those lemmings that bought UK STBs) is risky as there is no official service yet.

Anything could happen in next 10 months.

There is NO HD. If you want HD you need Satellite.

Actually a lot of those "HD Ready" TVs are only really any good for SD. They will work with an aerial for Analogue TV , UPC cable/MMDS digital box, Sky digibox or Freesat/FTA box.

I'd not waste money on a converter for engineering tests.

homer911

watty wrote: »

Though one with no CAM, only a converter is cheaper still!

Boxer may hand out CAM and 3 month sub for less than price of Converter as an incentive. Also prices will drop.

So I think no rush.

Thanks Watty - much appreciated. For those with c**p analogue service on their LCD/Plasma screens, it might still be tempting for the improved, but by no means guaranteed, DTT service from RTE before next year (assuming in the proximity of a DTT signal)

One last question - would a CAM module provide support MHEG-5 (interactive services, red button, teletext) or would you need a set top box for this?

I note on the Boxer website that they do plan on bringing out "a selection of portable card options for different customer requirements"

barnicles

How much are the mpeg4 to 2 converters

The_Conductor

Around 55 + shipping (from Germany or the UK- which is probably another 10-15, if you shop around you might get slightly better- but at seems to be the going price).

taung

barnicles wrote: »

How much are the mpeg4 to 2 converters

The best deal on a Viaccess MPEG 4 card I could get was coming in at €67, including postage, here.

The_Conductor

Same one is EUR47 + Shipping on dvbshop here

taung

watty wrote: »

The Neotion gadget can have two functions:

1) CAM = Conditional Access Module
This takes a key (usually two part, one via transmission and one optionally via viewing card) and decrypts any encrypted data.

2) Converter
This decodes (not decrypts) FTA or decrypted stream from CAM to video and re-encodes as MPEG2 for an MPEG2 only TV or set box.

CAM features
Conax was used by trial. It will not be used again
Viaccess will be used by Boxer. Even if you have an MPEG4 TV/Setbox you need Viaccess CAM for Boxer viewing card.


If you only want FTA ever, you don't need a CAM, just a plain convertor. Admittedly it fits in CI slot (Common Interface) as if it is a CAM. The CI slot has the MPEG-TS (transport stream) in from set box and back to set box. If a Module (PCMCIA physical connector & size) is inserted then the MPEG-TS should automatically loop through it from Tuner back to the MPEG2 decoder that feeds HDMI, SCART, Composite, RF Modulator, S-Video, Component, RCA audio, optical or RCA digital Audio or whatever video & audio outlets the Set box has, or direct to video drive/source select & audio amp if inside a TV set.


There are many kinds of CAM. (PowerVU, Niagra, SECA, Mediaguard viaccess, NDS, conax etc..)

With payTV either the provider sells/rents/loans/subsidises a setbox with built in CAM (Sky, Premiere, Chorus, NTL etc) or sells/rents/loans/subsidises a CAM for a TV or setbox you already have.

The French TNT (DTT) supply either a setbox, a CAM only (for MPEG4 TV or setbox receivers) or CAM+Converter combo(the Neotion actually) for existing MPEG2 TV or setbox receivers.

So if you ever might want Boxer, or Boxer is doing a good trial pack for 3months cheap (puppy dog routine) it is better to wait and maybe get a combo CAM/Converter then cheap or free.


Also since the RTE or Boxer services have not launched, it's much better to wait till they do in case any last minute changes in specification and prices this time next year (the official launch period) will be much much less.

There is an additional trick for Module in a CI slot. It's possible via ethernet to record or replay the entire transport stream (or part of it). The Neotion Pocket Duo has ethernet connector. It can be CAM-less or be preloaded as viaccess, conax etc.. but sadly not as Sky/NDS cam.

You won't get PowerVU either on an Neotion. It's not for public and you have to register the receiver serial number.

The CAM / Security for the 2000line+ cinema HD for cinema distribution includes GPS in the sat receiver. It only works in registered location! Worldwide all cinema is changing to video Projection instead of film. There is a network of about 20 or 30 Boeing Satellites for it. It means saving in costs of prints (runs to $$milions) and simultaneous world wide releases to reduce losses due to piracy as world wide DVDs /BluRay release can then also be simultaneous and sooner outside USA.

Great post Watty, this 'brave new world' Neotion Pocket Duo doesn't appear to be on the market yet, correct?

taung

smccarrick wrote: »

Same one is EUR47 + Shipping on dvbshop here

The price you've listed excludes VAT and they don't have them in stock, but you can save yourself a few euro. The total including shipping, if you do a PayPal, is €63.83.

The_Conductor

taung wrote: »

The price you've listed excludes VAT and they don't have them in stock, but you can save yourself a few euro. The total including shipping, if you do a PayPal, is €63.83.

Sorry- thats 47.99 + 12 + 2.5% Paypal charge = 61.49 incl. VAT (unless something has changed). Ex-VAT incl. shipping they come to 94.98 all inclusive for 2. I've just ordered another 2- and they reported them as "in stock"- as per below:

Dear Shane McCarrick,

Thanks for your order!


Your ordered following products:
pcs
Product Article Nr. Singleprice
Price
2

x
Viaccess NP4 MPEG2+MPEG4 (HDTV) * Pocket * CAM
Delivery time: in stock
CAM-ViaMPEG4
40,33 EUR
80,66 EUR
Sub-Total, no-tax: 80,66 EUR

German Post (Dispatch to IE: (1 x 0.45 kg)): 12,00 EUR

2.5% Handling-Fees special paymentmethod: 2,32 EUR

Total, no tax: 94,98 EUR

mburke

What channels will you pick up with this card ?

The Cush

mburke wrote: »

I have a sony 40w4000, mpeg 4 cable.

The Sony KDL-40W4000 I believe has an MPEG-4 decoder built in so it should not require the Neotion CAM as discussed in the other posts to receive the current RTE engineering test transmissions provided of course you are within range of a transmitter broadcasting the MPEG-4 tests.

Check the specification of your tv in the manual and if the following is included your tv is MPEG-4 compliant

Digital: ... H.264/MPEG-4 AVC HP@L4.0, MP@L3.0

If this is the case my original post applies, the CI slot is of little use until Boxer DTT launches.

sesswhat

watty wrote: »

The Neotion gadget can have two functions:

1) CAM = Conditional Access Module
This takes a key (usually two part, one via transmission and one optionally via viewing card) and decrypts any encrypted data.

2) Converter
This decodes (not decrypts) FTA or decrypted stream from CAM to video and re-encodes as MPEG2 for an MPEG2 only TV or set box.

Can a TV with an inbuilt MPEG2 tuner plus a converter (MPEG4 to MPEG2) provide the same functionality, in theory at least, as one with an inbuilt MPEG4 tuner?

watty

The TUNER is never MPEG4 or MPEG2. The Tuner is DVB-t (or DVB-s, or DVB-s2 or DVB-c or DVB-t2).

It's the video codec (MPEG2) that is the problem. Yes it may work, but quality is always lower than getting a proper DVB-t + MPEG4 set box.

watty

mburke wrote: »

What channels will you pick up with this card ?

From None up to 4 (RTE, TV3, TG4) depending on tests. Wait till RTE and Boxer actually launch!

thomasking22008

i was been contact dealer tv repair man today explain about sony lcd will allow change new part chip square to mpeg2 to mpeg 4 for any model tv built in free view will work BUT there is no slot cam that 50 50 but i go for new model mpeg4 then i have to sell sony 50 inch rear projector for €350 cos it hard to see if sunshine too bright for tv i go for flat screen in wall make easy to visible

The_Conductor

?? I'm confused.

watty

thomasking22008 wrote: »

i was been contact dealer tv repair man today explain about sony lcd will allow change new part chip square to mpeg2 to mpeg 4 for any model tv built in free view will work BUT there is no slot cam that 50 50 but i go for new model mpeg4 then i have to sell sony 50 inch rear projector for €350 cos it hard to see if sunshine too bright for tv i go for flat screen in wall make easy to visible

If there was an Infraction for lack of punctuation, Capitals and paragraphing, then you would win one.

Does the RPTV do HDTV?

Fat_Fingers

lol, :D, leave a guy alone. He already stated that English is not his first language.. Mind you, its not my either but i don't run everything through google translator.