Softcams, what are they and how to use them?

[Maggiesat]

Hi,
Would someone please explain what a softcam is and how it is used, is there a simple guide to read.
If I wanted to get into this how do I do it and what do I get and is it a subscription service etc?

Thank you

[Willo3092]

I think you can use a softcam with a valid subscription card but I've never done it.

.... otherwise read rule #2

https://www.world-of-satellite.com/showthread.php?2-Please-read-the-rules-here

[EnoSat]

And if when valid is used valid subscription card ?

[Willo3092]

WoS used to sell them here https://www.world-of-satellite.co.uk/satellite-and-terrestrial/Official-Viewing-Cards.

There are none available now so maybe it's not a thing any more :confused:

[Maggiesat]

Thank you for the info, I am only interested in what softcams are?

[Willo3092]

OpenPli Wiki

A softcam is: Software for emulating a Conditional Access Module.
A conditional access module is an electronic device, usually incorporating a slot for a smart card, which equips an Integrated Digital Television or set-top box with the appropriate hardware facility to view conditional access content that has been encrypted using a conditional access system. They are normally used with direct-broadcast satellite (DBS) services, although digital terrestrial pay TV suppliers also use CAMs. PC Card form factor is used as the Common Interface form of Conditional Access Modules for DVB broadcasts.

A method of decrypting encrypted services basically.