CRD card sharing: setting up CCcam and OScam from scratch

CRD card sharing is a convenient way to share access to television using legal smart cards. If you want to understand this technology and set up a CCcam or OScam server on your own, you have come to the right place. I will tell you how to do it correctly and without unnecessary costs.

What is CRD card sharing and how does it work

CRD (card reader/card sharing daemon) is a system that allows exchanging control words DCW between a server with a legal smart card and clients. In simple terms, when your receiver requests access to protected content, it sends an ECM request to the server, which uses the card to decrypt the data and returns the DCW. This happens within 300-600 ms, which is fast enough for normal operation.

The abbreviation CRD and its relation to card sharing

CRD is a key part of card sharing that allows organizing data exchange between the client and the server. It is important to understand that you will need a legal subscription and a smart card to operate.

Key exchange scheme: DCW, ECM, and EMM

ECM (Entitlement Control Message) is a message sent by the receiver to request an access key. The server, upon receiving the ECM, decrypts the data and sends back the DCW (Decryption Control Word). EMM (Entitlement Management Message) is responsible for updating the keys on the smart card. This exchange occurs continuously to maintain access relevance.

The role of the server and client in the decryption chain

The server holds the legal smart card and decrypts the data, while the client is your receiver that requests access. It is important that both devices are properly configured for correct operation.

How the CCcam protocol differs from newcamd and CS378x

CCcam uses port 12000 by default, while newcamd uses 15000. The CS378x protocol is used in OScam. Different protocols have their own features and may support different types of devices and cards.

Setting up the OScam server: step-by-step instructions

Setting up OScam may seem complicated, but if you follow the instructions, everything will work out. Configuration files are usually located in /etc/tuxbox/config/oscam/ or /var/etc/. Let's start with installing OScam.

Installing OScam and the directory structure /etc/tuxbox/config/oscam/

To install OScam on a Linux server, run the command:

sudo apt-get install oscam

After installation, check that the configuration files are in the directories mentioned above. It is important that the permissions on these files are set correctly.

File oscam.conf: sections [global], [cs378x], [newcamd]

In the oscam.conf file, configure the following sections:

[global]

These parameters enable the web interface, which will be available on port 8888.

File oscam.server: reader description and card connection

Example configuration for oscam.server:

[reader]

Here we specify the protocol type and the location of the device to which the card is connected.

File oscam.user: creating client accounts and groups

In oscam.user, add users:

[account]

First, create a group, then link it to the user. This is important for routing requests.

Checking via the web interface on port 8888

Start OScam and open a browser. Go to the addresshttp://your-server-ip:8888to check the status of the server and users. Logs can be found at /var/log/oscam.log.

Setting up the CCcam client and server

Now let's move on to setting up the CCcam client. The CCcam.cfg configuration file has a simple syntax, but it is important to specify all parameters correctly.

The CCcam.cfg file and the F: directive for local accounts

Example CCcam.cfg:

C: myserver.example 12000 user pass no { 0500:032830 }

Here, the C: line is responsible for connecting to the server, while F: is for local users.

The C: line for connecting to the server

Make sure to check the accuracy of the specified data to avoid connection errors.

Parameters hops and distance for reshare

The hops and distance parameters help control the number of request forwards. Set them according to your network.

Compatibility of CCcam and OScam via cccam protocol

OScam can accept CCcam clients. In the OScam configuration, add the [cccam] section and specify the reader with protocol = cccam. This will ensure compatibility.

Diagnosis of common problems and what really doesn't work

Various problems may arise when setting up card sharing. Let's consider them and ways to diagnose.

Error 'card not found' and problems with the reader

If the card is not recognized, check the permissions on /dev/ttyUSB0. The PCSC driver may be incorrectly installed.

Freeze and stuttering of the picture: DCW timings and ping

If the picture freezes, check the ping. High ping (>400 ms) can cause problems with DCW transmission. Use the ping command for diagnosis.

Problems with ports, NAT, and firewall

Make sure the ports are forwarded correctly. Check the iptables and NAT settings to avoid blocks.

Why simple copying of someone else's configs doesn't help

Each config is individual. Outdated keys or mismatched caid/ident can lead to non-functionality. It's better to adapt the config to your needs.

How to choose a card sharing provider: criteria, not names

Choosing a provider is an important step. Look at specific criteria, not names.

Stability of uptime and DCW response time

Pay attention to the claimed uptime. The provider should guarantee stable operation and minimal DCW response time.

Transparency of conditions and legality of card sources

Make sure the provider operates legally and does not use stolen cards.

Support for necessary caid and protocols

Check if the provider supports the caid and protocols you need. This is important for compatibility.

Trial period and technical support

Having trial access is a big plus. It's also important that the support is at a proper level to help in case of problems.