Ip stb prefix. IPTV Set-Top Box - MAG250 Hardware Brief

Satellite or conventional television with the use of TV towers, antennas and special receivers, despite high demand, does not meet the expectations of consumers. The video signal supplied with the help of such technologies is poor, and not all channels can be tuned well.

The development of electronic networks, the global web of the Internet, has radically changed the situation. The video signal can now be transmitted over the IP protocol directly from a web resource without distorting the image and sound in high-quality HD using a special device - an IPTV set-top box or your personal personal computer.

Digital TV capabilities

Before proceeding directly to a detailed study of IPTV set-top boxes, photos of which can be seen in any online store selling modern electronics, we will consider the architecture of the complex itself, which allows you to view widescreen videos with excellent resolution and high-quality sound.

The main components that make up any modern digital video system operating over IP are as follows:

• IPTV Middleware. Software that is used to manage and control a variety of services, resources and applications;
• Module for receiving and processing transmitted digital data;
• A complex for the protection of all data received and sent over the network;
• System for interacting with web resources and servers;
• Devices that directly control the equipment, the signal quality on the side of the consumer, not the service provider.

After connecting and configuring the IPTV set-top box, the following options appear:

• Make a request to view any video that is open for viewing. Or get this access for a fee.
• Coordinate, group your current and future views, compose your personal TV program guide.
• Pause, rewind a movie or video channel you like.
• Do a delayed scheduled viewing,
• Save a list of TV programs in a specific place (folder, directory).
• Viewing photos and videos from external media.

In short, there is direct access to content management that you want to view, which is virtually impossible to do on a regular TV!

How to set up and connect

We need a high-speed WiFi router and the device itself for IP-TV.

Typically, the kit includes many components necessary for a full connection, the number of which depends on the manufacturer. Some may not be there, and you will have to buy them yourself.

Before directly connecting the IPTV set-top box, consider what we have to deal with:

• Front and rear USB ports located on the walls of the device;
• RC connector. May be absent. An infrared receiver is connected to it.
• Ethernet connector (LAN) for connection to the provider's cable network (100 Mb / s).
• Jack for connecting a set-top box directly to a TV (HDMI connector)
• HDMI cable. Usually it is not included in the package. Sold separately.
• AV connector for connecting audio and video systems (cable with three pins). Designed exclusively for older TVs. The quality is much worse. Modern TVs are connected via an HDMI connector.
• Socket (input) for the power supply.

Only one connector is on the front, all the others are on the back, on the box.

The device is connected to video resources either using a local cable through a LAN connector or through a high-speed router (router) with the same input.

After docking the IPTV set-top box with the TV, we connect the power supply and plug the device's plug into the outlet. Navigation is carried out on the screen by pressing buttons from the control panel.

Going to the menu and navigating through various links, we customize the software for ourselves. After saving all the changes, restart the console. When connected correctly, everything will work perfectly!

Features of choice

Interactive television is gaining more and more popularity every year. However, the important question is "What is the best IPTV set-top box to choose in 2018?" as relevant as ever.

The main thing is to choose what you need, to save as much as possible, not to buy unnecessary components that were not provided in advance by the manufacturer.

It is important that the purchased IPTV set-top box is compatible with the TV and has a full-fledged browser. A rewind button is also needed.

The ISP can provide a connection kit, which can include a router, all the necessary cords, cables and software right away. It can even be cheaper than buying everything yourself, understanding the instructions and setting it up.

The STB MAG-250 IPTV set-top box is considered the best. It has a number of advantages that distinguish it from other devices. Plus, the provider's specialists themselves can configure it and connect it for an appropriate, usually not too high fee.

The IPTV set-top box Tiger i250 deserves attention, as well as Rostelecom released its brainchild - IPTV HD mini, manufactured by the Ufa plant Promsvyaz.

A serious drawback of the last device is the firmware exclusively for its own operator. This point is not the only problem for Rostelecom.

Many operators also try to monopolize their product in the fight against competitors and limit their service to licensed use, without all kinds of pirate thefts.

Ultimately, it is now possible to connect to digital TV with any Internet provider. Having weighed your financial capabilities, you can enjoy excellent television with excellent sound and picture, forget about antennas and all sorts of problems with finding your favorite channels and TV shows.

Photos of IPTV set-top boxes

Despite the fact that the device, which will be discussed in this article, is no longer quite new, in any case, it deserves special attention. Since, today, this is one of the most popular models of IPTV set-top boxes, in the entire post-Soviet space, and not only.

As you probably already understood, we will talk about an IPTV set-top box - produced by the Ukrainian company Infomir. And in this article, we will get acquainted with its hardware, appearance and delivery set. And right away I want to say a separate thank you to ASP24 for providing a sample for tests.

Contents of delivery

Let's start our review, as it has already been done, with the packaging and delivery set.

The MAG250 is delivered in a bright and beautiful box, with color printing. On different sides of which, both the set-top box itself and various logos of the supported services and standards are depicted. Also, there is a factory sticker with barcodes, serial number and MAC address of the Ethernet interface.

Inside the package, in special compartments, the device itself is located, as well as everything that comes with it. Everything is neatly arranged, so that during transportation, whistle to a minimum the possibility of damage.

The MAG250 delivery set includes:

- STB MAG250
- Remote control
- Power Supply
- AA batteries for the remote control
- A / V cable
- Manual

In fact, this kit is self-contained. However, the lack of an HDMI cable is disappointing. Because, to use the set-top box with modern TVs, it is simply necessary. But given the not very high cost of these cables at the moment, you can turn a blind eye to this.

Appearance and interfaces

The trend towards miniaturization of modern electronic devices is especially noticeable in the case of the MAG250 Micro. Immediately, what is striking is the "modest", if I may say so, the dimensions of the console. It has dimensions, only 125x86x28mm (WxDxH), and its weight does not exceed 156 grams.

The body of the set-top box has a classic rectangular shape and is made of very high quality black plastic, in some places it is glossy, and in some places it is matte. At the same time, the build quality is very high. There are no defects, nothing creaks, no flaws or gaps.

On the front panel of the device, there is one USB connector and LED indicator and IR receiver of the remote control hidden under the translucent plastic.

On the upper side of the case, against a matte background, there is a glossy inscription MAG250. And on the bottom, in addition to the standard legs and holes for mounting on a vertical surface, you can see ventilation slots and a label indicating the model, serial number and MAC address of a particular device. In the same place, you can see a small but rather curious inscription Made in Ukraine and a holographic warranty sticker covering one of the screws.

Well, as usual, all the fun is on the back of the MAG250. Here, from left to right, we see: another USB port, a connector for an external IR receiver, an RJ-45 Ethernet port, an HDMI connector, an optical S / PDIF connector, A / V output (Jack) and a power connector.

In general, the appearance of the MAG250 set-top box is quite attractive. And its miniature size allows you to simply hide it behind the TV, without flaunting it. Although it is not a shame to show it.

Remote control

If we talk about the remote control, the IPTV set-top box MAG-250, then it can be safely called convenient and thoughtful. And despite the absence of any ergonomic delights and a completely square shape, it fits comfortably in the hand.

In addition, the location of the buttons on the remote control is common for most set-top boxes, media players and receivers. Therefore, getting used to the remote control presents no difficulties. Literally after an hour of communicating with the MAG250, you start operating the device without looking at the remote control.

Another feature of this remote control is the learning curve. In the upper right corner, there is a block of buttons designed to control the TV. These buttons can be taught with the original remote control. And despite the fact that they are mainly labeled as volume (+/-), mute (mute), power and TV / AV, they can be taught any commands to control your TV or even an audio system.

In the upper part, there are also buttons for the virtual keyboard, settings, mute on the set-top box and a number of colored buttons.

In the central part of the remote control, according to the established tradition, there are menu control buttons with OK in the center, as well as the Menu, Back, Exit and Info service buttons. Even lower, there are three rows of buttons to control the media player, channel list and volume level. And finally, a standard block of numeric buttons.

All buttons are pressed clearly, with a characteristic "click", while at the top of the remote control, green (for MAG250) or red (for TV control) indicators light up.

The remote control is powered by two AA batteries that come with the kit.

Specifications

And of course, the most important thing in any electronic device is its technical characteristics. And in the case of the MAG250 IPTV set-top box, the hardware specification is as follows:

And in spite of not the most outstanding characteristics, this configuration is quite enough to ensure the normal operation of all existing web and online services and even playback of any video formats.

Video modes — 1080i, 1080p, 720p, 576p, 480p, PAL, NTSC
Video codecs - MPEG1 / 2 [email protected], H.264 [email protected] 4.1, MPEG4 part 2(ASP) , WMV-9(optional) , VC1 video, XviD; high-bitrate video support(up to 40 Mbps and higher)
Video formats — MKV, MPEG-TS, MPEG-PS, M2TS, VOB, AVI, MOV, MP4, ASF, QT, WMV(optional) Audio codecs — MPEG-1 layer I / II, MPEG-2 layer II, MPEG-2 layer III(mp3) , MPEG-2 AAC(optional), MPEG-4 AAC LC 2-ch / 5.1ch(optional ), MPEG-4 AAC + SBR 2-h / 5.1ch(optional), Dolby Digital
Audio Formats -MP3, MPA, M4A, WMA(optional), Ogg, WAV, AC3, AAC
Image formats — JPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF, RAW
Subtitles — DVB, SRT(support coming soon) embedded text
Playlist formats — M3U

In short, MAG250 fully meets all modern requirements for devices of this kind.

Software and some features

The basis for the MAG250 software is linux 2.6.23. It is on this core that all the "firmware" for this set-top box are built. Both official and alternative. Moreover, everyone who wishes, with certain knowledge, can collect their own image. On the manufacturer's website, you can find not only everything you need, but also detailed instructions. It is this feature that attracts many enthusiasts, and enables IPTV providers to create their own platforms and entire services.

The official software (firmware) MAG250 is available for download or updating the set-top box itself via the Internet. Developers quite often release new versions with changes, improvements and fixes.

You can install almost any official or non-official software in several ways - from a USB disk (flash drive) through the appropriate menu or through the BIOS. Using Multicast, over the network and in several other ways. Also, both automatic and manual updates are available.

And the main feature of allIPTV set-top boxesMAG250, is that almost all functionality depends not so much on the set-top box or firmware itself, but on the content provider. The more "chips" the operator has and the more varied they are, the more extensive are the various options for using the set-top box.

It is for this reason that we have taken out the consideration of the features of the software and operation of the MAG250 in a separate article. Where we will introduce you to them, using specific examples of some IPTV operators and user portals.

In general, MAG250 is able to receive content from sources such as: USB storage devices (USB HDD, USB Flash drive, USB Card-Reader, etc.), PC and NAS in a local network using SMB, NFS, UPnP protocols or HTTP, as well as from local networks and the Internet by broadcasting via HTTP, UDP / RTP Unicast / Multicast. And it fully supports such Stream media protocols - RTSP, RTP, UDP and IGMP.

In addition, the set-top box is compatible with the following Middleware systems: Stalker, OFT-Media, Netup, SmartLabs, Netris, ZTE. That gives quite extensive opportunities for operators and providers.

Initial setup

Any IPTV set-top box MAG 250, whether it is an operator's or "pure", has a fairly extensive menu of settings. Which is called by the SET button on the remote control.

Here you can make video output settings, sound settings, get device information, including hardware and software versions, update software, and much more.

Right there, there is a Services section. With which, you can set the addresses of the portals from which you will receive the main content. They can be like third-party portals created by enthusiasts. For example, a very popular portal is ModMenu. So you can use the addresses of paid services or IPTV providers, such as Divan.tv, Bonus-TV, Planeta TV and many others.

In the same section, you can specify the sources of software updates.

Network setting

Since IPTV means receiving content from the Internet, it goes without saying that MAG250 has a number of network settings. The set-top box can be connected to the network using wired or wireless interfaces. Moreover, the second is optional and requires an additional USB Wi-Fi adapter. A wireless adapter can be purchased together with a set-top box for a fee. Or, use a third-party adapter on the meringue of the chip - Ralink RT3070 or Ralink RT5370. Here is a list of the supported models:
- DLink DWA-125 (not all H / W versions are supported)
- ASUS USB-N13 (not all H / W versions are supported)
- Edimax EW-7711UAN
- Tenda W311MI
- TPLINK TL-WN727N
- Dune HD Air

It is also possible to use other models, for example, I used the GI Wi-Fi 11N (WL0224) adapter from Galaxy-Innovations, on the Ralink RT3070 chip.

Also, there is the possibility of raising a PPPoE connection for direct connection to the provider's network.

Moreover, it is possible to select different options for establishing a connection for each of the interfaces. You can use both manual settings and automatic receipt of settings from a DHCP server.

In the case of setting up a wireless connection, you must specify or select from the list, the SSID of your access point and specify the encryption parameters.

But one way or another, setting up a network in MAG 250 does not take much time. And after completing a few simple steps, the set-top box gains access to the network, after which you can start using it.

In short, setting up MAG250 is quite simple and should not cause any difficulties, even for people with low knowledge of network technologies.

conclusions

Summing up, this review of the IPTV set-top box MAG250, we can draw a number of conclusions and highlight several pros and cons. But in any case, it is safe to say that this device is not without reason found a lot of popularity.

First of all, this is, of course, due to the fairly extensive functionality that can be expanded by each specific provider or content provider. Then you can highlight the possibility of self-creation, both internal software and external (portals). And all this is subject to a wide choice of network protocols and compatibility with various systems.

In addition, an attractive appearance, a convenient remote control and simplicity of setting and control add points to the box's piggy bank.

But, nevertheless, one cannot help but pay attention to not the most powerful hardware, which in some cases can become a bottleneck. For example, I would like to have a little more memory and a gigabit Ethernet port.

But in general - MAG250, leaves only positive impressions when using. Especially given the rich selection of potential content providers. About which, we will talk about in our next article. In the same place, we will touch upon the issue of multimedia playback from external sources, image quality and other aspects of device operation.

You can discuss this article and the MAG250 IPTV set-top box on our forum -

The new IPTV technology is based on the transmission of digital television signals via computer IP networks. To this end, the signal is encrypted and transmitted to a playback device, which can be a home computer or special equipment - an IPTV set-top box or STB (IP Set-Top-Box). The broadcast of the image and decryption of the signal on the computer is carried out by means of IPTV players. For this purpose, an STB set-top box uses decoder electronic circuits that convert a digital signal into analog video for a TV.

Advantages of IPTV technology

The main advantage of this technology is open access to digital resources like IP telephony and IP television.

Reliability of data transmission is guaranteed by the similar principle of operation of both technologies and the use of fiber-optic cable for the transmission of a television or telephone signal. Excellent broadcast quality allows you to watch broadcasts in high definition with multi-channel audio and excellent color reproduction.

Interactivity is another advantage of the technology: the IP-connection works in both directions - from the server to the client and vice versa. Thanks to this, the consumer can control the service from an STB or computer.

Functionality of prefixes

The pluggable RT STB HD has the following features:

• Receiving video materials upon request. On the server there is a library of VoD video materials, the call to which allows you to get access to one or another movie. Often, videos are provided for a fee.
• Viewing control using Time Shifted TV technology. Software for a computer or STB HD set-top box for TV allows you to rewind a TV program in any direction and temporarily pause its broadcast.
• An alternative version of the VoD service - the nVoD service - allows you to create a personal TV program. The public cinema allows a group of users to coordinate their screenings with each other.
• TVoD service allows you to postpone watching a movie or video. The user just needs to select the necessary TV programs and TV channels in advance and send a request for viewing in the future.

Features of the set-top box

The main advantage of STB set-top boxes is a large number of interactive services and the ability to directly manage content. The set-top box provides access to most Internet services: Picasa, YouTube and others, plus such devices are equipped with USB ports that allow you to connect external devices. Through the RT STB HD IPTV set-top boxes, it is possible to play video files from external media, view photos and images, and with a Wi-Fi router connected to the device, access the network video resources. The video stream can be redirected to a computer or laptop.

Set-top box complete set

The scope of delivery of the device may differ depending on the specific model: some items may be present, others may not be present.

The approximate set of STB-set-top boxes from Rostelecom includes:

• Universal USB ports, one of which is located on the front panel of the set-top box, the other on the back.
• An RC connector can be placed for an infrared remote receiver. Its presence is determined by the specific model of the STB set-top box.
• Ethernet connector with a maximum connection speed of 100 Mb / s. It allows you to connect the set-top box to the network of an Internet service provider.
• HDMI connector for connecting a set-top box to a TV.
• HDMI cable. It is extremely rare that it comes with an STB set-top box, most often the user has to purchase it on his own.
• The three-prong cable connects to the analog AV connector. One of the connectors is for video broadcast, the other two are for audio.
• Connector for finger batteries.

The listed connectors are located on the rear panel of the set-top box.

Device connection

The set-top box for older TVs is connected via the AV connector using a cable with three connectors. Modern TV models equipped with an HDMI input are connected via an HDMI cable. Accordingly, in the latter version, the sound and image quality is many times better.

The set-top box is connected to the network through a router. Some users connect the provider's cable directly to the network connector of the set-top box, but this move is not always advisable, since various additional devices are most often connected to the set-top box. Accordingly, the LAN connector is connected to the same connector on the router. After correct connection of the set-top box, the corresponding image is displayed on the TV screen.

Navigation in the device menu is carried out using the corresponding keys on the console control panel.

Setting up the STB software

There is a SETUP key on the control panel, with the help of which the set-top box is configured. The device is configured as follows:

• The menu item "Advanced settings" sets the date, time and time zone. To fully use the interactive capabilities of the set-top box, this must be done, since the data is synchronized with the IPTV server.
• If the set-top box is connected via a router, then it must be configured as a network device. This is done through the "Network configuration" menu item: in the window that opens, a specific type of network is selected - for example, a wired Ethernet connection.
• In the next window that opens, the DHCP mode is activated by pressing the button labeled "Auto (DHCP)". In the window that appears, click on OK.
• The readiness of the network for functioning is checked in the "Networks status" menu. An Ethernet connection is selected and the request is sent. In response, a window with a list of TCP / IP settings should open: the user should make sure that all configurations are specified correctly.
• The next step is to configure the servers. In the menu of the same name, in the NTP server field, enter the following data: pool.ntp.org. All data is entered through the electronic keyboard, which is controlled through the keys on the remote control.
• In the "Video settings" menu item, video playback is adjusted. It is advisable to disable options such as auto frame rate switching and DVI forcing. Next, the required monitor resolution is set by analogy with setting up a computer monitor. The video output mode is assigned last. You can configure this item according to the instructions for the console. Older models with AV input use PAL mode.

In the "Reboot" menu, all the settings are saved, after which the STB is rebooted. With correct connection and subsequent configuration, you can use the set-top box immediately after restarting it.

Outcomes

STB-set-top boxes of modern models are full-fledged analogs of media players and have full functionality for playing multimedia content.

Infomir has been developing and manufacturing Set-Top Box (STB) class devices under the MAG trademark, as well as software for them since 2007. MAG set-top boxes are a one-stop solution with which you can start an interactive TV business. All set-top boxes of the MAG series are distinguished by their reliability and affordable price, which allows you to launch an effective and quickly repayable project in the shortest possible time.

Basic IPTV / OTT set-top boxes

Depending on the specialization of your company, technical capabilities and the availability of video content with the help of IPTV / OTT-set-top boxes from Infomir, you can offer your customers such services as IPTV, video on demand (VoD), as well as access to services provided by paid and free Internet -resources (OTT). IPTV / OTT STB MAG has established itself in 150 countries around the world as the optimal solution for Internet providers, cable operators and content aggregators.

Android set-top boxes

A new generation of consoles based on OC Android. An easy-to-integrate solution for your IPTV / OTT service. Has a familiar interface for both the operator and the end user. The device comes preinstalled with an application package developed by us. The box works great with 4K content, and HEVC support will reduce the load on your network.

Infomir's formula for success

Ministra multiscreen TV platform

Ministra software will simplify the process of launching interactive services at the optimal time.

Fast shipping

Thanks to well-thought-out and well-organized logistics, we deliver to anywhere in the world as soon as possible.