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Innotech mag 245 250 basic iptv set-top box. IPTV Set-Top Box - MAG250 Hardware Brief

22.12.2017

data hidden

Grade

Pros: Simplicity and ease of management
Streaming video quality
Intuitive interface (even for parents)
You can watch videos from services (ex.ua, megago.net, youtube.com)
Video playback from removable media (2 usb ports)
Cons: Sometimes buggy when working via wi-fi
1080 movies are ok not to watch, hang
You can't watch your playlists (but a fixable drawback via https://playlister.online)
Reboot the set-top box only by disconnecting the power cable
Review: Solid 4 in terms of features, quality and convenience

22.12.2017

poor people vitaly

Grade

Pros: Great prefix. In my opinion, everything is simple and convenient. The internal portal (from the infomir) works flawlessly. Works on Linux (not Android). The remote control is programmable (5 programmable buttons) - very convenient.
Cons: I did not find it during use (several flaws in the provider's portal).
Feedback: I use 2 set-top boxes with a short purchase interval for more than a year. I bought one from a provider, another in an online store and stitched it myself. All declared characteristics are correct. The consoles work flawlessly. Sometimes it slows down in the provider's portal (it may freeze when exiting the YouTube client, some channels disappear, although the same playlist in the internal portal is all working, and other minor flaws, well, these are questions to the provider's programmers, and not to the set-top box manufacturer). The internal portal works flawlessly.

22.12.2017

Silensky Egor

Grade

Pros: Good IPTV set-top box. Very easy to use and customize
Cons: Constantly freezes and takes a long time to load

22.12.2017

Rabidinov Marat

Grade

Pros: An excellent set-top box, we use it in the IPTV project. Price quality
Cons: you cannot install additional software
Feedback: Remote control for Android for the MAG 250 set-top box.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.humansoftware.irremotemag250trial
An infrared port (IRDA) is required.

22.12.2017

Vladimirovich Roman

Grade

Pros: it is inexpensive, fulfills its functions, does not squeeze the image and sound, good remote control
Cons: everything works well for me, there are no shortcomings
Review: I bought the console somewhere in April this year, until I regretted it. A good thing for those who like to watch movies in good quality. The costs for the family budget are almost invisible, and we enjoy watching movies every day. In general, I am satisfied with the purchase. I easily figured out the settings and connection myself - everything is simple there. Fortunately, the model is popular, it is often discussed on the forums. There were no deviations like non-switchable channels or images with pixels. I took a remote control that can still be configured to control the TV (that is, one remote for both the set-top box and the TV) so that 100,500 remotes are not scattered throughout the apartment. Very comfortably. Thank you.

So you need to talk about them in more detail with knowledge of the matter.

I already wrote about all the possibilities of television over the Internet ...

Now let's talk about the MAG-250 micro and AuraHD consoles.

MAG STBs are a solution through which ISPs, cable operators or content aggregators can expand their business.

Everything is simple ... due to the introduction of “personalized” television services in demand by modern consumers.

With the help of MAG set-top boxes, you can watch services such as interactive digital television (IPTV), video on demand (VoD), as well as access to services offered by paid and free Internet resources (OTT).

MAG-250 micro attachments

STB MAG250 meets all modern requirements for multimedia devices, including support for streaming video, video on demand and playback of digital channels in high quality (Full HD 1080p).

Processor ... .STi7105

RAM ... .256 MB

Flash memory ... 256 MB

Operating system ... ..linux 2.6.23

External interfaces

S / PDIF optical audio-out, HDMI 1.3а (rear panel), USB 2.0 (1 front panel and 1 rear panel), composite + stereo A / V output (mini jack type on the rear panel), Ethernet port 100Mbps (rear panel), 5V power supply connector (rear panel), LED indicator (front panel)

Sources of media content

USB devices (external hard drive, USB flash drive, USB card reader, etc.), PC and NAS on the local network (SMB, NFS, UPnP, HTTP), other Internet and local TV broadcast networks (HTTP, UDP / RTP unicast / multicast).

Video streaming services are fully supported ... Web engine, WebKit, DRM option, Verimatrix, Secure Media.

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; support for high-bitrate video (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 AAC (optional), MPEG-4 AAC LC 2-ch / 5.1ch (optional), MPEG-4 AAC + SBR 2-h / 5.1ch ( optional), Dolby Digital

Audio Formats 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

File systems FAT16 / 32, NTFS (read), NFS, Ext2, Ext3

Ethernet 10/100 Mbps

Wi-Fi optional USB module (not included in the delivery set), list of modules that have been tested and work: Mag-250-doc)

Stream media protocols RTSP, RTP, UDP, IGMP, HTTP

Software fully compatible with MAG-100, MAG-200, MAG-250 (P) (API JS, API C)
built-in media portal with IPTV functionality
HTTP 1.1, HTML 4.01 XHTML 1.0 / 1.1
DOM 1, 2, 3, CSS 1, 2, 3
XML 1.0, XSLT 1.0, XPath 1.0
SOAP 1.1
JavaScript ECMA-262, revision 5
Media JavaScript API
C layer SDK

Middleware Supported Stalker, OFT-Media, Netup, SmartLabs, Netris, ZTE

Supported VoD Espial-Kasenna, Bitband, ARRIS (C-COR), Live555

Dimensions (edit)(w / d / h), mm ... 125/86/28

Weight attachments, g ... 156 (with packing: 620)

Equipment

MAG-250 Micro set-top box, user manual, mini jack cable to RCA (A / V); power adapter 5V 1.5A, remote control, AA batteries - 2 pcs.

AuraHD -

Universal network media players TM AuraHD are Set-Top Box devices, but in contrast to industrial class set-top boxes.

These devices have a number of pre-installed interactive services and access to various pay TV packages, as well as round-the-clock technical support and constant updates from the manufacturer, expanding its capabilities.

The menu of the AuraHD media player contains services of such companies as Planeta.tv. Tv, Kartina.tv, Bonus-TV, megogo.net, oll.tv, ivi.ru, etc.

Features of AuraHD:

Digital video, audio and images of all modern formats - on TVs of any generation;

Connecting external media files: flash drives, computers, etc.;

Access to online TV and other Internet resources from a regular TV;
Complete set of media player (all necessary cables are included in the delivery set).

The AuraHD Network Media Player is a device for accessing television over the Internet and for watching digital video (from a computer or USB media) on ANY TV screen.

The media player combines the latest technology with ease of use and stable performance. By connecting AuraHD to the Internet, you discover a new world of interactive leisure for all ages and tastes.

AuraHD has a compact size and discreet design that blends into any interior. The media player is multifunctional and is capable of playing all modern audio and video formats, including Full HD (1080p).

Thanks to the accessible menu and detailed built-in help, the device can be used even by a person who is completely unprepared in modern electronics.

Access to the best online cinemas

A huge selection of films, series, TV shows and other video materials from the largest Ukrainian and international content providers and online cinemas - all this on your TV screen!

You can use both paid and free services, depending on the conditions of a particular service provider.

Favorite bookmarks - in one click

The most popular Internet sites are adapted for viewing on a TV screen and are always at your fingertips.

Among them are photo / video hosting, most social networks, e-mail, search engines and encyclopedias, as well as online booking and payment services.

IP TV today

With the AuraHD media player, you can have IPTV and video on demand services available to you if your ISP provides them. In addition, you can add IPTV playlists and other providers, if they are publicly available.

Your entire media collection on the big screen

Watch movies, listen to music, view photos from a flash drive or from your PC (over a local network) without the need for an Internet connection.

AuraHD supports most modern digital audio and video formats - any file from your archive can now be played with a compact media player and displayed on any generation TV screen.

All Entertainment Network

Navigate the Internet with the built-in Internet browser. For the convenience of Internet surfing and quick interactive communication, you can connect a wired or wireless keyboard and mouse (via the USB port) to the media player.

Quick setup and ease of use

AuraHD is supplied with all the cables required to connect the device, and its initial setup takes a few minutes and in most cases is done automatically.

A friendly interface and an intuitive menu are easy to understand even for a child.
Connection with all necessary devices

AuraHD can be connected to both the super-new LCD panel via HDMI input (for the best picture quality) and to the most common previous generation TVs via RCA connection.

The media player is equipped with USB connectors, and if you have a wireless network at home, you can connect to the Internet via an external WiFi adapter (we recommend purchasing a branded USB adapter AuraHD Air or AuraHD Air Nano).

It is also possible to connect an external storage medium (USB flash) for recording and playback from it.

For the most realistic sound, you can connect a high quality 5.1 speaker system to your media player via the optical S / PDIF connector.

CPUSTi7105
RAM256 MB
Flash memory256 MB
Operating systemlinux 2.6.23
External interfacesAudio output S / PDIF, HDMI 1.3, USB 2.0 - 2 pcs., Composite + stereo A / V output, Ethernet port 100Mbps,
Sources of media contentdevices connected via USB (external HDD, USB flash, card reader, etc.), PC and NAS in the local network (SMB, NFS, UPnP, HTTP), other Internet and local TV broadcasting networks (HTTP, multicast UDP / RTP) , support for streaming video
Web browserWebKit
DRM optionVerimatrix, Secure Media
Video modes1080i, 1080p, 720p, 576p, PAL, NTSC
Video formatsMKV, MPEG-TS, MPEG-PS, M2TS, VOB, AVI, MOV, MP4, ASF, QT, WMV
Video codecsMPEG1 / 2 [email protected], H.264 [email protected] 4.1, MPEG4 part 2 (ASP), VC1 video, XviD
Audio FormatsMPA, M4A, WMA, Ogg, WAV, AC3, AAC
Audio codecsMPEG-1 layer I / II, MPEG-2 layer II, MPEG-2 AAC (optional), Dolby Digital, DTS (optional)
Image formatsJPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF, RAW
SubtitlesDVB, SRT, MKV text
Playlist formatsM3U
File systemsFAT16 / 32, NTFS (read), NFS, Ext2, Ext3
Ethernet10/100 Mbps
Wi-Fioptional USB module (not included)
Stream media protocolsRTSP, RTP, UDP, IGMP, HTTP
Dimensions (edit)127x87x30mm

Documentation

AuraHD Media Player Menu Help
(http://www.aurahd.tv/pdf/menu_guide.pdf)

The menu contains: Martini, Dmichael, EX, Megogo, OLL.TV, Triolan, Youtube, etc.
This firmware version supports weather and sound from DTS, auto-update is disabled.

Installation instructions & process:
1) The flash drive must be formatted in FAT32 and no more than 8 gigabytes, unpack the contents of the flash drive to get it disk name\ mag250 \ *. *
2) We insert the USB flash drive into the USB behind the set-top box.
3) Restart the console and hold the button on the remote control (D / U)

go to the BIOS of the set-top box
4) (Reset all settings) - in the BIOS menu, select Def. Setting click OK
5) Next, go to Upgrade Tools
6) Choose USB Bootstrap- we agree with everything by pressing the OK button - everything went to the firmware (at the end of the firmware, the prefix will reboot)

Attention!!!
During the firmware, do not pull out the USB flash drive and do not turn off the set-top box, in order to avoid adding a new "brick" to your facade of the house!

All the prefix was sewn ...

Now…
1) Go to Setup (press the d / y button SET) - (menu in English) in the menu, select Advanced setting
- choose the language Russian
- Time zone First select +0.00 —- Save, restart the STB. (when, as it happens, the time becomes immediately)
2) Again Go to Setup (press the d / y button SET) in the menu, select Advanced settings
- we set our time zone to Time zone—- Exit the menu (button on the d / y EXIT)
3) Looking for a shortcut Settings it is on the second page (main menu of the screen)
- Choosing audio track language and expose (from the provided menu) - Russian < сохраняемся и выходим в главное меню.
The entire set-top box is completely ready for use.

But…

In order to have SSH access on MAG250 set-top boxes, you need to flash the box "using multicast" to version 0.2.14-r8
Please note that automatic update is disabled in this version, and if you update the set-top box to the standard firmware of the manufacturer, then SSH access will be closed after that.

For those who want to use customized firmware, and maintain their own update branches, it is strongly recommended, in order to improve security, to rebuild images using a version of at least 0.2.14-r8

And if you have a firmware for a provider, where everything is cut down, then it's a completely different conversation about capabilities and functionality.

Conclusion ... MAG-250 micro and AuraHD

MAG-250 is for clients of Internet providers providing IPTV service, and AuraHD is for any user who needs a media player with the ability to play network media content.

In terms of hardware, both set-top boxes are exactly the same, moreover, they use the same software.

The difference is that the Auro HD set-top box in the internal portal has the ability to view media content from various services, such as, for example, divan.tv, planet TV and oll.tv.

And then the guy wants to explain something ... but somehow not convincing... Aura HD MAG 250 Micro WLAN Stick from Asus

MAG-250 is an IP set-top box. Compact but powerful device provides a wide range of multimedia services.

Description of IP set-top box

The MAG-250 case is small and stylish. The front panel contains a USB connector, an infrared remote control receiver and an indicator. The rear panel contains an additional USB connector, HDMI, Ethernet, composite video and audio output, digital audio output, and There are slots on the side panels for ventilation of the device.

In addition to MAG-250, the kit includes:

  • audio and video RCA cable;
  • remote control;
  • two AAA batteries;
  • external power supply.

MAG-250: characteristics

The device allows:

  • play high definition video;
  • view multicast streams;
  • create a list of television channels;
  • download a previously prepared list of channels from the network;
  • preview programs;
  • get access to such Internet services as YouTube, Picassa, etc .;
  • connect external devices through including flash drives, Wi-Fi adapter, keyboard, mouse, etc.;
  • play audio and video of various formats;
  • standards JPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF, RAW;
  • decode video streams of MPEG2, H264, WMV9, MPEG4P2, VC-1 standards;
  • decode audio streams of MP3, AC-3, MPEG2-audio, MPA, M4A, WAV, Ogg, AAC standards;
  • convert the video format to a format supported by the TV;
  • play media from UPnP servers;
  • play media from USB.

HD video playback is possible only on TV receivers with an HDMI connector. In this case, you will additionally need an HDMI cable, which is not included in the set-top box.

Using the composite video output does not allow you to watch HD channels. However, they are displayed in SD quality.

Connector assignment

The rear panel contains the following outputs:

  • USB 2.0 for connecting a flash drive, Wi-Fi adapter, keyboard, mouse, etc.
  • Ethernet for connecting a wired LAN 100 Mbps.
  • HDMI for connecting to a TV receiver.
  • S / PDIF for connecting to a speaker system.
  • AV - composite video output for connecting to a TV using an RCA cable.
  • DC - 5V power connector.

Network connection

The next stage of preparing the MAG-250 for work is setting up an Internet connection. There are two options:

  • direct connection to the network;
  • through a router.

When connecting MAG-250 through a router, the procedure is as follows.

  • Connect the Ethernet network cable to the corresponding connector of the set-top box and router.
  • Connect the HDMI cable to the MAG-250 connector and the TV. If there is no HDMI input, use an AV cable and composite TV input.
  • Connect power supply.
  • Configure a router.
  • Turn on the TV and use the remote control to select the signal source (SOURCE, HDMI or INPUT).

If the MAG-250 set-top box is connected via an HDMI cable, then after pressing the INPUT or SOURCE button, select the HDMI signal source. If through composite, then on the remote control you need to press AV.

First start-up and presetting

When connected, a splash screen will appear on the screen. The STB software is loaded automatically within 1 minute. After the “Loading portal” window appears, press the SETUP button on the remote control. The portal for MAG-250 will start downloading. After its completion, press the SETUP button again to open the settings window. In the "General" section, check the NTP server and configure the MAG-250 in the "Servers" section. In the menu "Video settings - Video output mode" select the mode supported by the TV:

  • PAL - for devices with AV input;
  • 720p - for TV receivers with HDMI input and support for HD Ready mode;
  • 1080i - For devices with HDMI input and support for Full HD.

You can find out which modes the TV supports in its instruction manual.

In the menu "Graphic resolution" set the resolution of the portal shell, the value of which for TVs of 16: 9 format is recommended to be set equal to the maximum possible 1280x720. For the changes to take effect, you must press the "OK" button and restart the set-top box. After re-loading, a username and password may be requested to enter the portal. For better operation of the set-top box, in the section "Advanced settings - Input buffer size" you must set the buffer value equal to 1000. This will allow preloading of data, which will exclude interruptions in the broadcast when errors occur.

If the STB malfunctions, when inappropriate video options are selected, the bootloader is used. Its menu allows you to set the TV display resolution, video output mode, etc. To enter the menu, you need to turn on the power while the set-top box is turned off, holding the power button on the front panel. Exit through the menu item "Exit and save" or "Exit and do not save".

Channel setup

The next question asked by MAG-250 users is how to add a playlist? To do this, you need to save the m3u file to a flash drive and insert the latter into the USB port. Go to the view form on the USB drive and select a playlist. After prompting to save it in UTF-8 format, confirm with OK. The playlist has been added.

It is also possible to add by specifying a direct link to it. To do this, go to the "TV channels" section, press the "Menu" button, the → key and select the "Load playlist" section. After prompting to enter the link, press the KB button on the remote control and use the keypad to write the link.

Watching TV

To quickly and easily search for channels and switch between them, use the "TV channels menu", called by pressing "OK" on the remote control in viewing mode or the MENU button and selecting the "Television" section.

TV channels menu consists of the following main elements:

  • the top line shows the current user, list page, day of the week, date and time;
  • channel categories, past, current and upcoming programs;
  • time indicator of the current program;
  • active control buttons.

The navigation buttons on the remote control allow you to navigate through the list of groups or channels. "Page paging" allows you to go to the next page of the list. While watching TV, the and ↓ buttons switch the TV channels of the selected category. When you turn on a channel and call up help by pressing the "INFO" key on the remote control, a form with information about its name, current program, day of the week, time and the purpose of the context buttons is displayed at the bottom of the screen. The Back button allows you to return to the previous TV channel. The channel list is numbered, so a selection can be made by dialing a sequential number.

Setting a reminder

You can set a reminder for the program or movie you want to watch. When the time comes for the start of transmission, the MAG-250 prefix will offer to switch to the specified channel.

To do this, follow these steps:

  • select a channel in the menu and go to the list of the nearest programs;
  • using the navigation keys of the remote control to select the program of interest;
  • set the reminder with the "OK" button.

A mark appears on the program. To cancel, click "OK" again. The list of reminders can always be viewed by pressing the blue button on the remote control.

If the channel has several audio tracks, you can switch between them with the yellow button on the remote control.

To select the video format mode, you need to consistently press the green button on the remote control.

Creation of profiles and categories

Press MENU and go to the "Favorites" menu, which contains the following functions:

  • "Manage favorites" to create categories of channels and change their lists.
  • "Profile Management" to create profiles and configure them for each user, assign profiles to available categories of channels.
  • "Change profile" to change the active profile.

If more than one set-top box is used, then it is enough to manage profiles and favorites on only one.

Viewing files from a flash drive or external drive MAG-250

Instructions for launching video and audio files on flash memory or external drive. First of all, you need to connect your flash drive to the USB port. Switch the set-top box to the media player mode by calling the service menu with the button on the remote control. After downloading additional services, a form for viewing files on a USB drive will appear, in which you should select the USBDISK folder. The AV folder contains the media server files. The table displays the files in the current directory. On the left, each line contains an icon that symbolizes their type. In order to make it more convenient to work with the form, you can use a USB keyboard. You can use the remote control and keyboard to control the player. To run a file or enter a folder, select a line by placing the cursor on it and press "OK" on the remote control or "Enter" on the keyboard. You can return to the upper level by going to “. . " and confirming the selection with the "OK" or "Enter" button. If you need to disconnect the flash memory, you can do this whenever you want.

Playing content

To call up the positioning forms when viewing or listening to a file, press the navigation buttons on the remote control. The form contains:

  • exact time of the position;
  • step value in seconds;
  • duration of playing content;
  • current position indicator.

Each pressing of the ← and → buttons changes the current position by 1 step, the value of which can be changed with the buttons and ↓ from 5 to 900 s. The default step is 60 s. The first press of the navigation buttons stops the content playing to allow the user to change the positioning step. Playback continues from the set time after 1 s.

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 does not present any 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:

CPU STi7105
RAM 256 MB
Flash memory 256 MB
HDMI 1.3
USB х2 (on the back and on the front panels)
A / V out composite + stereo A / V output
Ethernet RJ-45 10 / 100Mbit / s Fast Ethernet port
Wi-Fi Optional via USB adapter
Additionally Optical S / PDIF audio-out, 5V power supply connector, external IR receiver connector

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 modes1080i, 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 formatsMKV, MPEG-TS, MPEG-PS, M2TS, VOB, AVI, MOV, MP4, ASF, QT, WMV(optional) Audio codecsMPEG-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 formatsJPEG, PNG, BMP, GIF, RAW
SubtitlesDVB, SRT(support coming soon) embedded text
Playlist formatsM3U

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 -

Attention! One IPTV set-top box can only be connected to one TV. To connect two TVs, two IPTV set-top boxes are required.

It is recommended to use a twisted pair cable to connect the set-top box to the router!

To connect the set-top box to the TV, you can use an RCA cable (supplied with the set-top box) or an HDMI cable. If your TV supports Full HD technology, then for the best picture quality, we recommend using an HDMI cable to connect the set-top box to the TV.

Use the highest quality connection that your TV or speaker system allows.

Description of connectors

USB port

The universal USB port is suitable for connecting a "flash drive" with movies, photos, or for connecting a wireless Wi-Fi adapter. You can also connect a keyboard and mouse here, so that it would be more convenient to visit your favorite sites from the built-in browser.

RC jack

Connector for an external photoresistor (IR receiver that picks up signals from the remote control). It will be very useful when installing the MAG 250 micro in a hard-to-reach place or in an enclosed space (for example, if you decide to install a set-top box in the bedside table under the TV).

LAN port

Or an Ethernet port. Serves for a 10/100 Mbps network connection. Connector for a standard RJ-45 connector.

HDMI port

Digital audio / video output for connecting the set-top box to a high definition TV (HD, FullHD). If your TV has this connector, then it is recommended to connect exactly HDMI, since the quality of the displayed picture becomes much higher. It is through this connector that you can achieve high FullHD resolutions.

Cable: HDMI

Video: SD + Full HD

Sound: digital

S / PDIF port

Optical digital audio output for connection to a DOLBY 5.1 / 7.1 or DTS home theater system.

TRRS AV connector

Serves to transmit audio and video signals in analog format. 3.5 ″ plug on one side and three RCA plugs on the other (tulips). Composite video (yellow "tulip") and audio outputs of the left and right stereo channels (white and red "tulip"). This adapter is included with the set-top box. You can connect the set-top box to the "old" TV.

Cable: 3 x RCA - 3.5mm

Video: SD

Sound: analog

Nutrition

The far right connector (in the picture) is used to connect the set-top box to the mains. A 5V DC power supply is included in the package.

Initial setup

Read the instructions for your video receiver (TV, monitor, etc.) carefully.

Make sure the required resolution is supported by your hardware.

As a rule, devices have markings of supported modes such as

If your TV supports frequency upscaling (200Hz, 400Hz, etc.), make sure that frequency upscaling is enabled for HDMI connectors.

If, when you turn on the set-top box, you see the following message:

“This video output does not work in HD mode.

For video output to work, you must use SD mode "

That:

  • Wrong Video Output Mode selected
  • You have not switched your video receiver todesired video input (HDMI, Component)

You can also configure video from the BIOS menu.

Enter the menu " Settings » > « Video «

After changing the video settings, the STB will reboot.

Video output mode

The set-top box supports all high definition video standards. Complies with "HD ready (1080p)" specification

Possible values:

PAL (576i) NTSC (480i)
576p-50 576p-60
720p-50 720p-60
1080i-50 1080i-60
1080p-60

Set the mode to match your TV. PAL (default) - For TVs with composite (tulip) AV input. The best quality will be 1080p-60 when connected via HDMI cable. If the set-top box is connected via RCA, then in accordance with the standards, you need to set PAL. If an unsupported mode is set, a message will appear on boot.

!!!Attention. Connecting via RCA cable as standard only supports SD video output mode (PAL). If you set any of the HD modes, then the set-top box will not work via RCA. In this case, you will have to connect the set-top box via HDMI to change the settings. Or reset settings via BIOS menu before starting the download of the set-top box (when connected via the AV connector). It is also necessary to configure the set-top box only through BIOS if the TV does not support PAL (for example TVs “ Thomson ”).

To do this, at the time of connecting the set-top box to the mains, press the "MENU" button on the remote control. The set-top box will open access to its initial boot module (BIOS), where the first two items are just responsible for the broadcast video mode. After setting the desired parameters, you need to save the changes and exit the BIOS, for this, use the "Exit & Save" menu item, press "Right" and then "OK".

Graphics Resolution

Graphics window resolution for main software (menu). Changing the value only affects the menu and does not affect the video quality.

Possible values:

Corresponding video output
720 × 576
1280 × 720

If set to “Resp. video output ”, the resolution corresponding to the current operating mode of the video outputs is used.

For instance:

If the video output mode is 1080i-50, then the video will be played with a resolution of 1920 × 1080, and the graphics (graphic resolution of the menu) can be drawn with a resolution (720× 576, 1280 × 720, 1920 × 1080),those. you can choose any resolution for the graphical menu, however, resolutions lower than those on the video output will be upscale to the resolution of the video output. If the Graphics Resolution menu is set to Respec. video output ", then the resolution corresponding to the current mode of operation of video outputs is used, ie. in our case 1920х1080.

An example of a typical option : When the video output mode is "TV System" 1080i-50 and the graphic resolution is "Graphic Res" 720× 576, then the video will be played at the highest possible quality, and the graphics will be scaled, which will reduce the load, thereby increasing performance.

Possible options:

Video output mode

Video Resolution Graphics Resolution
1080i / p-50/60 1920 × 1080 1920 × 1080, 1280 × 720, 720 × 576
720p-50/60 1280 × 720 1280 × 720, 720 × 576
576p-50/60 1024 × 576 720 × 576
PAL (576i) 720 × 576 720 × 576
720 × 480 720 × 480

Auto frame rate

Force DVI

When connected via HDMI or RCA, it should be in the “Off” state.Otherwise, the sound will stop working.

The "Force DVI" option should be enabled only when connecting to a video signal receiver with a DVI interface using an HDMI-DVI cable.

BIOS

To enter BIOS, hold down the Menu button on the remote control when turning on the STB.

!!!Attention ... We do not recommend changing the settings in the BIOS unnecessarily. This menu is needed to recover from incorrect settings. Also, do not reset the default settings, otherwise the firmware from the "Network Plus" will be deleted.

When uninstalling the firmware, click “DHCP Update” to update the firmware over the network.

To change the display mode, press the button " Menu»On the STB remote control when connecting the power plug to the STB. In this case, we get to the menu in which you need to make changes to the parameter "TV System":

When connected via 3xRCA cable; 3.5mm TRRS needed per line "TV System" select value "PAL (576i)" "Right"

"Menu" (DUSTB) → “TV System” → “To the right» (DUSTB) → "PAL (576i)"

When connected via an HDMI cable, the image on the TV can be observed at any value in the field "TV System"... To improve the picture of the menu, it is necessary in the field "TV System" select a value or "1080p-60"(the value changes when the button is pressed "Right" on remote control STB (arrow to the right)).

"Menu" (remote control STB) → "TV System" → "Right" (remote control STB) → "1080p-50" or "1080p-60"

After changing the parameter "TV System" it is necessary to save the settings (for this, select the line "Exit & Save" and press the button "Right" on remote control STB) and reboot STB (upon request, confirm the overload by pressing "OK").

“Menu” (remote control STB) → “TV System” → after changing the picture parameters → “Exit & Save” → “Right” (remote control STB) → “OK”

If on the screen we see a menu consisting of only 5 items, you must select the item Upgrate Menu push the button Right.

Diagnostics and elimination of problems

1. There is no sound and (possibly) image - It is possible that the "Force DVI" function is enabled in the System settings -> Video settings section. It needs to be turned off.

2. Black screen at boot - Invalid screen resolution set. You need to enter BIOS (by holding down the Menu button on the remote control while turning on the console) and set the appropriate resolution. In the TV System field, set PAL, in the Graphic Res field. we put 720x576.

3. When loading, the message “Page Loading Error” appears - If such an error occurs, check the connection status of all network cables connected to the set-top box and router. They need to be reconnected, and then reboot the router and set-top box. If the above steps do not give results, then you can try to connect the set-top box directly - bypassing the router, if the problem persists, you need to contact the technical support service to quickly solve the problem.

4, The STB does not load, it reaches the “Loading portal” messages on a black background, and then nothing happens. This problem may be due to incorrect settings. To restore enter BIOS, "Menu" (remote control STB)> "Def. Settings> Right (Remote STB)> OK> Exit & Save> OK. Then enter BIOS again Menu (Remote STB)> Upgrade Tools> Right (Remote STB)> DHCP Upgrade> Right (Remote STB)> OK. The default settings will be reset, and the set-top box will be flashed from the network. The set-top box must be connected to the network.

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