I want to equip myself with a CAM CI module and I’m wondering if I absolutely need an active card to receive the free channels? My idea is to only use the CAM module without a card so I don’t have to pay for a subscription.
Indeed, here is what I usually advise on this forum: Two solutions: TNT SAT on Astra 19.2° East Fransat on Eutelsat 5° West In both cases, a decoder labeled "TNT SAT" or "Fransat" is necessary, available everywhere from €100 Note that Fransat is of better quality and more durable than TNT SAT, which is not validated by the CSA. Furthermore, the card is unlimited and provided with the terminal, while it has to be renewed every four years with TNT SAT for €15 You will also receive, in addition to the 27 channels of TNT, Fr 3 national in HD + the choice among 25 regional variations, TV5 Monde, Kto, and regional channels + 19 radio channels and the possibility to subscribe to pay channels, Bein Sport, télé mélodie, Bis TV bouquet. see here: https://www.fransat.fr/les-chaines-gratuites/ The decoders and modules here, for example: http://www.tvcorner.com/fr/bouquets-chaines/tv-francaise/Fransat/index.php Another advantage, if the TV is equipped with a satellite tuner and a PCMCIA interface labeled CI+ Fransat, you can do without a decoder => no more cables, better quality, and just one remote control. Canal refuses this interesting solution by not marketing a module + card; they require an external terminal labeled Canal. List of Fransat certified TVs here: https://www.fransat.fr/files/bibliotheque/LISTE_TV_COMPATIBLE_FRANSAT_2015-WEB.pdf
-- I call a spade a spade * *in French in the text