CCcam TV: server and client setup from scratch

If you have decided to engage in CCcam TV setup, you probably already possess some technical skills. In this article, I will explain how to properly configure the CCcam server and client, what users often encounter, and what errors may arise. We will cover configuration files, ports, protocols, and diagnostics so that you can quickly establish a working connection between the server and the receiver.

What is CCcam and how does the sharing protocol work

CCcam is a card sharing protocol that allows the client to request ECM (Entitlement Control Message) from the server, and the server, in turn, returns the control word (CW) for decrypting the stream. CCcam uses its own protocol over TCP, and the default port is 12000.

The principle of client-server sharing of control words

When the client requests access to an encoded channel, it sends a request to the server. The server, having the necessary rights, returns the control word that allows the client to decrypt the stream. This happens instantly, and if everything is set up correctly, you will see the picture on the screen.

The role of ECM and EMM in decryption

ECM is a message that informs the client how to decrypt a specific stream. EMM (Entitlement Management Message) is used to update access rights and manage subscriptions. Without these messages, CCcam cannot function.

The difference between CCcam and OScam and mgcamd

CCcam is easier to set up but less flexible compared to OScam, which supports multiple protocols and has advanced logging capabilities. MgCamd is also quite popular, but CCcam remains the most widely used solution due to its simplicity.

Configuring CCcam.cfg on the server: syntax of N-lines and F-lines

The CCcam.cfg configuration file is the heart of your system. It is located at/var/etc/CCcam.cfg on Enigma2 and/usr/local/etc/CCcam.cfg on some Linux servers. Let's break down how to properly configure the lines.

Path to the configuration file /var/etc/CCcam.cfg

The CCcam.cfg file must be located in the specified directory. If you did not find it there, it may be worth creating a new file or copying it from a template. Make sure you have the rights to edit it.

Client line syntax F: username password uphops downhops

An example of an F-line might look like this:F: myuser mypass 1 0. Hereuphops is equal to 1, which means the client can see one level up, anddownhops is equal to 0, which prohibits sharing the line further.

Connection line to another server C: host port user pass

To connect to another server, you need to add the line:C: server.host 12000 login password no { 0:0:2 }. The parameterno indicates that resharing is not allowed, and the blockcaid:ident can be added to restrict access by CAID.

SERVER LISTEN PORT parameters and global options

Do not forget to specifySERVER LISTEN PORT, if you want to use a non-standard port. Usually, this is12000, but you can choose any other, for example,12345. However, it is important to remember that such a port must be forwarded on the router.

Connection check and diagnostics: why the line shows OFF

If your line shows status OFF, do not panic. First, check the web interface, which can be enabled using the lineWEBINFO LISTEN PORT : 16001. This will give you access to information about the status of the lines.

CCcam web interface on port 16001

After enabling the web interface, go to the addresshttp://your-server-ip:16001. Here you will be able to see the status of the lines and any errors, if there are any.

Reading line status in the Servers/Shares section

Pay attention to the Servers/Shares section. If the line is OFF, check the login and password. They may be entered incorrectly.

Checking port openness via telnet and netstat

To check the openness of the port, use the commandtelnet host 12000. If the connection cannot be established, the port may be closed on the router or firewall.

Log analysis and ECM time counter

Check the CCcam logs to see information about ECM time. If the delays are high, this may indicate problems with the network or server. The normal value should be below 300 ms.

Configuring the client on the Enigma2 receiver

On the Enigma2 receiver, the fileCCcam.cfg should also be located in/var/etc/. If you have changed it, do not forget to restart CCcam. This can be done using the commandkillall -9 CCcam or through the init script in/etc/init.d/.

Installing the emulator and placing the config

Install the necessary CCcam emulator and place the config in the correct directory. Make sure that the file permissions are set correctly.

Binding CCcam to the required CAID through priorities

If you have multiple emulators, set the priorities so that CCcam processes the required CAID. This can be done in the fileoscam.dvbapi.

Restarting the service and checking via init

After all changes, do not forget to restart the service. This can be done through the init script for the changes to take effect.

Cooperation of CCcam and OScam on one receiver

CCcam can work together with OScam on the same receiver. This allows you to take advantage of both protocols and provides greater flexibility in settings.

Criteria for choosing a server for stable sharing

If you are looking for a reliable server for CCcam TV, pay attention to several key points. Low ping and stable ECM time are what you need. Ideally, the ping should not exceed 100 ms, and the ECM time should stay below 300 ms.

Ping and geographical proximity of the server

Ping plays an important role in the stability of the connection. The closer the server, the less latency. This is especially important for comfortable viewing without interruptions.

Stability of ECM time and uptime of the line

Check how often the server is online. Frequent disconnections can cause access issues to content. Make sure the server operates stably and supports the necessary CAID.

Support for necessary CAID and local cards

If you have a local card, make sure the server supports it. This can significantly improve connection stability and picture quality.