FAQ
TL;DR: 100% it is only the fault of the wrong CCCam/Oscam config; "The network does not introduce a problem in operation." Start by updating OSCam, enabling logs, and reviewing them via WebIF. This FAQ helps Nbox/Zgemma owners fix softcam freezes without chasing Wi‑Fi issues. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19361173]
Why it matters: It keeps you focused on configuration and logs instead of wasting time on Wi‑Fi myths.
Quick Facts
- Most freezes come from softcam misconfiguration rather than Wi‑Fi or cabling; fix config first. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19361269]
- OSCam WebIF typically listens on port 8080 or 8888; the installer may change it. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362180]
- FTA channels usually play fine; stutter appears on decrypted channels when configs are wrong. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19361269]
- Wi‑Fi checks: measure at the router and at the receiver; rotate device for max signal. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #19361246]
- Legal note: card‑sharing of pay TV is a crime; this thread was locked for that reason. [Elektroda, gulson, post #19364333]
Why do my HD channels freeze while SD or FTA work?
That points to decryption, not RF. Misconfigured CCCam/Oscam causes stutter, while FTA stays smooth. “cccam or oscam stutters due to bad configuration and not internet connection.” Fix the softcam, not the antenna or ISP. Start with updating OSCam and reviewing logs during a freeze. If FTA is stable, your dish and coax are likely fine. This is a configuration or server path issue, not a bandwidth problem. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19361269]
Could weak Wi‑Fi be causing the stutter?
Unlikely. "The network does not introduce a problem in operation." Freezes trace back to wrong CCCam/Oscam settings. Focus on the softcam stack first. Only test Wi‑Fi after confirming configuration and server stability. If you still suspect Wi‑Fi, do targeted measurements, but do not rewire or change ISP yet. Address logs and configuration before hardware. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19361173]
How do I test my Wi‑Fi quickly to rule it out?
Run InSSIDer (Windows) or WiFi Analyzer (Android). Take two measurements: one beside the router and one at the decoder. At each spot, rotate the device for maximum signal, as orientation changes readings significantly. Capture screenshots of channel overlap and RSSI. Compare the two spots to spot weak links or interference. If both look clean and freezes persist, return to softcam logs. [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #19361246]
How do I open and read OSCam logs?
"You always have logs in your softcam interface and it's best to provide them when a problem occurs." How‑To:
- On your LAN, open the softcam web interface in a browser.
- Log in and navigate to the Live/Status log.
- Reproduce the freeze and capture the log snippet for analysis.
These logs reveal errors and timing during freezes. Share them with your installer for help. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362066]
What port is the OSCam web interface on?
The WebIF commonly runs on port 8080 or 8888. It can be different depending on image and setup. Try http://box‑ip:8080/ and http://box‑ip:8888/. If neither works, ask the person who configured your box for the exact port and credentials. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362180]
I saw the same issue on Zgemma and Nbox. What’s common?
The configuration and server are common across boxes. Updating or replacing OSCam and correcting configs usually helps. "Sometimes it's just the donor's fault and unfortunately he has to fix something in the server or send the correct config." So the issue can follow the line/server, not the hardware. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362597]
Should I switch from CCCam to OSCam?
Yes. Use OSCam for the CCCam protocol and keep it current. Old softcam builds and flawed configs cause freezes and excessive ECM times. Reinstall or update OSCam, then re‑check logs under load. Replace any legacy CCCam setups still in use. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362597]
Can the satellite cable or dish cause freezes like this?
For decoding, installation isn’t the root here. "Internet connection or installation has nothing to do with the decoding." If FTA plays fine, RF and cabling are adequate. Focus on softcam configuration, server quality, and log analysis to eliminate stutter. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362066]
Why is the problem random?
Intermittent errors in the softcam workflow make freezes feel random. Enabling logs during a freeze exposes the direct cause. "You always have logs in your softcam interface"—capture them when the issue happens. They will show timeouts, bad responses, or server drops. Use those to adjust settings or contact the server operator. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362066]
What are those “L:” lines (e.g., L: 1803 92) in oscam.server?
They are entries the helper suggested adding into oscam.server. They adjust behavior for specific identifiers. Add them only if your server setup requires them. Misusing such lines can worsen performance. If unsure, ask your server operator to supply correct, complete configs. “It is best to install or replace Oscam with a new one.” [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362597]
Is card‑sharing legal?
No. The moderator locked the thread, citing that illegal reception/sharing of pay‑TV is a criminal offense under Article 267 of the Penal Code. Only use softcams for lawful purposes, such as with your own authorized access. Seek legal advice if in doubt. [Elektroda, gulson, post #19364333]
I’m new—can I fix this myself?
Yes, but learn the basics first. “You have an nbox, look for instructions on the internet… You can always ask whoever did it.” Start by finding your softcam WebIF, reading logs during a freeze, and updating OSCam. Then share logs with the installer for targeted fixes. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19362180]
Do I need to change ISP or router to stop freezes?
No. "The network does not introduce a problem in operation." Focus on softcam configuration, current OSCam, and server stability. Only after confirming those should you investigate Wi‑Fi or LAN hardware. Most freeze cases resolve with configuration and updated binaries. [Elektroda, RobeMek, post #19361173]
How much bandwidth should I see when testing Wi‑Fi for HD?
Use a quick sanity check with streaming benchmarks. Aim for about 5 Mbps for HD and about 15 Mbps for Ultra HD. If your Wi‑Fi can’t meet these during tests, fix coverage before deeper debugging. This doesn’t replace softcam log analysis, but it helps flag weak links. [Internet Connection Speed Recommendations]
