ATTENTION! Recently, Rostelecom no longer supports this set-top box. If you still want something similar, then I advise you to read my selection of Smart consoles here.
Hi all! Today I brought home a new toy SmartLabs SML-482 HD Base. I’ll warn you right away that, unlike the sales articles that you will find on the Internet, I bought the device with my own money - so I’ll try to tell it like it is.
As the operator himself says: this box is a way to try “Interactive TV 2.0”, which works with any home Internet. Even the box has the same phrase written on it. Essentially, this is a TV receiver, but not using a television cable, antenna or dish - the connection is made using the Internet.
You can take this box on the road or travel and watch TV where there is Internet. The only thing that's a little alarming is the price. Initially, when released, the console was expensive - 3990 rubles. Now the price has dropped to 1660 rubles. Considering the crisis, in which, on the contrary, everything is growing, the drop in price can only be explained by one thing - no one needs this thing for nothing, and they also ask for money for it. But let’s not rush to conclusions and test everything ourselves.
Media player features
The Rostelecom SML 482 HD Base set-top box has compact dimensions, with a width of 100 mm (the same depth), and a height of 32 mm. The body is made of rough plastic with a matte finish. There are minor transparent inserts.
Inside, the media player is equipped with a fairly powerful processor, which is based on 2 cores, each with 750 MHz. Their performance is definitely enough to demonstrate high quality broadcasting. The RAM is 512 MB, which is enough to implement all available functionality in practice.
Thanks to the presence of such parameters, smooth animation is always supported, and interaction is also performed when a graphical interface is superimposed on FullHD quality video.
How to flash a TV set-top box (Step-by-step instructions)
Let us analyze in detail the process of flashing the firmware of the Rostelecom set-top box model MAG-250.
- Create a folder on your computer and place the previously downloaded server and program in it: mcast.exe and dhcp. In addition, you need to place two files bootstrap and imageupdate.
- Call the command line by pressing the Win+R keys. You need to enter the ncpa.cpl command in it. A network connections window will open, select the one we will use and right-click on it. By clicking on “Properties”, select the component (TCP/IPv4). In the window that opens, you will need to manually enter the IP address 192.168.1.1 and the mask 255.255.255.0.
- Connect one end of the network cable to the computer and the other to the set-top box.
- Turn on the set-top box and quickly press the “Menu” button, after which the device’s BIOS should open.
- Enable the dhcp server installed in a folder on the computer. To do this, in the command line, specify the path to the folder with the file, for example: C: Rostelecomdualserver.exe, and press the Enter key
- Run the mcast.exe program and specify IP 192.168.1.1, then click on the “Select” button. In the menu that appears, you will need to specify the broadcast addresses Steam1: 224.50.0.70:9000 and Steam2: 224.50.0.51:9001. Then, next to each stream you will need to press the “Start” key.
Possibilities
The Rostelecom SML 482 HD Base set-top box has Open GL technology in its software, on the basis of which graphical applications with high resource consumption, such as games, have been created for many years. They cope with the colorful interface with ease. The main difference is the ability to interact with 3D components. Due to this quality, the media center competes with the leaders Play station or Xbox.
The maximum screen resolution is 1080p, and the frame refresh rate is 60 per second. This results in not only a clear but also smooth image on the screen. Even if the Internet connection is rebooted, the quality will be adjusted dynamically due to a special software add-on. Consequently, IPTV will still work further and fully.
The set-top box can also support other applications, which opens up some additional possibilities. These include checking the weather, opening calendars, games, social programs and much more.
Popular questions
How to reset settings
To reset the settings on the remote control, you need to hold two buttons simultaneously (OK + POWER) for two seconds. After this, you need to enter the numbers 977, which will reset the settings to factory settings.
If you plan to replace the equipment or transfer it to another person, then you also need to reset it to factory settings. Enter the “Management” menu item and go to the right. Here select the “Deactivation” function.
Don't forget to pre-register for the Wink service. Log in there with your username and password for the Rostelecom set-top box. This will allow you to maintain access to all content and use it on other equipment.
Is it necessary to be connected to the Internet from Rostelecom?
No, television from Rostelecom will work if your Internet speed is good. In this case, the provider does not matter.
How many channels are available to set-top box users?
Rostelecom is constantly working to increase the number of channels available for viewing. Your limit is limited only by the paid package. Most users have access to 100 - 200 channels.
There are exclusive packages that allow you to view content in very high quality or under special conditions. It is always better to find out the latest information on the official website.
At what speed should the Internet work?
The quality of video and sound media content directly depends on the speed of the Internet. Theoretically, you can watch television in low quality even with a low Internet speed. But for comfortable viewing, the network must operate with a throughput of at least 0.9 megabits per second.
How many TVs does one set-top box serve?
The device can serve a maximum of two TVs. To connect a second screen you will have to use a PCA cable, because the HDMI port is already occupied. The content on their screens will be shown synchronously.
To view different channels separately on different devices, you need to connect a paid one.
Software
The SML 482 model has special software that supports almost all settings and options from the provider. One need only mention the delayed viewing of a TV program. It will be possible to watch it within 48 hours after the end. You can record content periodically. The set-top box can become an online player through the video-on-demand function. In addition to the classics of the genre, the archive also presents new films from the film industry.
A special feature is also receiving information about each player participating in a football or other sports event, as well as a movie actor. Social networks also serve as settings.
Why do you need firmware?
In the domestic market, the most popular devices are from Rostelecom and Cadena. They pick up all free Russian television channels.
Negative factors include the lack of some services. The device itself is a modified foreign set-top box, and unnecessary functionality has been removed.
For those who like to record certain broadcasts, this function is provided. To do this, you need the appropriate firmware version and a memory card with enough capacity to record video.
In the future, the recorded material can be played back using the media player built into the console.
Unpacking and Installation
Purchasing this device is suitable for those users who have a TV with a wide screen resolution, even if there is no Smart TV. This will fully replace classic and boring television. After purchase, the kit should be unpacked and all contents checked. This includes:
- Power unit.
- HDMI cable.
- Remote control.
- AAA batteries.
- Warranty card.
- User guide.
Two cords are required so that the client can choose the most suitable option for himself. It is worth noting that most devices are not capable of supporting a wireless Wi-Fi connection. An Ethernet connector located on the rear is used for connection. In addition, this part contains:
- Power connector.
- Audio output
- AV, which is necessary to connect the composite adapter.
- USB.
As an alternative to a LAN cable, so as not to lay it throughout the apartment, you can buy a PCL adapter, through which the signal is transmitted via the electrical network.
You won't need a lot of space to install the console due to its compact dimensions. But during operation it produces a certain level of heat. This indicates the need to leave a space of 30 cm to objects. In this way, the required level of heat exchange will be achieved. Places with direct sunlight should be excluded as an installation location.
Preparation
If the image on your TV has deteriorated or doubts creep in that digital TV is not working as it should, you should think about updating the software.
It is necessary to prepare for this process. To do this, you will need to download the necessary files and have a computer or laptop.
Firmware for a TV set-top box from Rostelecom is done using a computer with a free Ethernet input.
The set-top box will be connected to it. In addition, you will need a network cable that will connect the set-top box and the computer.
The software you will need is mcast.exe and dualserver (or its equivalent). You need to download the latest firmware files from the company's website. They will be called " bootstrap " and " imageupdate ".
It is not recommended to flash the device using third-party tools if at least one official update has not been installed.
Cadena devices will require a USB flash drive with a capacity of up to 8GB formatted in FAT32. The firmware downloaded from the site will be recorded on it.
What do you need for work?
After inserting the batteries into the remote control, press the power button. Initially, a connection will be made with the provider's server, which is caused by checking for the availability of new firmware. Next, you will need to enter a login and password to authorize on the resource. All data will be available upon concluding an agreement for the provision of communication services. You must first erase the protective coating on the card and enter all the data on the screen field. You don't have to make any additional settings.
Step-by-step instruction
When you have confidence in performing actions independently, you can begin, following the sequence.
- The settings of the set-top box are reset to factory settings. For this, the “Reset” button is most often used. Otherwise, the work is performed through the menu, where the “Def.Settings” item is selected.
- The work switches to the computer, where after selecting “Run” in the main menu, enter ncpa.cpl and click OK.
- A list of network connections will be displayed, from which you need to select the required item. After this, work continues with the “Properties” section.
- When working with protocol version 4 (TCP/IPv4), in the property parameters, enter IP – 192.168.1.1, and instead of the subnet mask, write 255.255.255.0.
- Having launched the mcast.exe program via WIN + R, click on “Local Area Connection”. On the right side, click the “Select” button.
- The IP address values are entered - stream No. 1: 224.50.0.70:9000 and stream No. 2: 224.50.0.51:9001. Each thread must be running.
- After connecting to the set-top box and starting it, click Upgrade Tools, and then MC Upgrade.
Reset settings
This is perhaps the most important step in the preparation process before flashing your hardware. Without resetting to factory settings, stability in the operation of the set-top box cannot be guaranteed. There is nothing complicated in this procedure.
Before resetting to factory settings, you must remember your username and password to log into your account. Without this information, you will not be able to log in.
The first way to reset to factory settings is by pressing a button. Just one touch, after which the firmware will be reset to zero. The corresponding button is located on the back panel of all set-top boxes provided by Rostelecom. This may not be a SmartLabs product.
In a situation where nothing happens after pressing the button, you should proceed to another option for resetting to factory settings:
- Turn on the set-top box.
- Open menu.
- Go to the "Settings" section.
- Click the “Reset to factory settings” button.
After the operation is completed, the device will be turned on again and will undergo initial setup. But for manual flashing you do not need to turn on the device. Otherwise, you will have to reset it again, and only then roll out the software update.
An alternative way to flash the MAG-250 console
The best option for an alternative device update is DNA firmware.
Thanks to it, functions such as:
- TV program from Yandex;
- recording broadcasts to disk;
- autostart of iptv broadcasts from Rostelecom;
- Recovery after the update occurs automatically.
It is important to install the original version before installing alternative firmware. Otherwise, problems often arise with updating the device.
The DNA firmware process itself occurs without the use of a network cable. To work, you will need a flash drive with a capacity of up to 8 GB, formatted in FAT32.
Then, on the USB drive you should create a folder with the name of the device and install the firmware files there: “ Bootstrap ” and “ imageupdate ”. In the future, there are two options for updating the device:
- from the internal portal;
- from BIOS.
In the first case, you need to go into the settings and go to the service menu by pressing the “ SETUP ” button. Selecting “ Update software ”, select the option “ via USB ” and click “ Start update ”. Before starting the process, you will need to click the “ Check ” button.
The program will check for the presence of the necessary files on the flash drive. If all requirements are met, the “ Start ” button will light up.
A common error: “Invalid file header.” In this case, it is recommended to reformat the USB drive to FAT32. In addition, you should check the name of the folder on the flash drive. It must be without spaces, for example, MAG250. If this does not help, then you should use the firmware option from the BIOS.
After connecting a USB drive with files, you need to reboot the device. In this case, you should hold down the “ Menu ” button. After the menu appears, select “ Upgrade Tools ”, then go to “ USB Bootstrap ”.
If everything is in order with the information on the flash drive, the process of updating the software version will begin. The successful completion of the installation will be indicated by the message: “ Writing image to flash successfull ”.
Then, the device will reboot and will start with the new firmware.
Description
The device architecture is built on a new, more powerful chipset. In addition, the SML-482 device is equipped with a modern dual-core processor and twice the amount of RAM (512 MB).
The new generation console is 3 times faster than its predecessors in terms of performance.
Increased processing power ensures smoother and faster interface operation even “on top” of high-bitrate HD content, as well as almost instantaneous loading of images due to increased decompression speed.
Improved interface
A new level of performance and the use of OpenGL technology make it possible to support a more advanced and resource-intensive, including three-dimensional, user interface. Now users will be able to enjoy more detailed and interesting graphics, which can include fully three-dimensional interface components, while overall increasing the speed of the set-top box.
The improved interface will help improve the overall quality of the service and offer subscribers a level of convenience and visual appeal no less than that of the world leaders in this field - Sony Playstation, AppleTV, Microsoft xBox.
Performing a reboot
If your device was turned on but continues to boot for a long time, a reboot may be required. To do this, find the POWER button on the remote control and hold it for 10-15 seconds. The remote control should be pointed not at the TV, but at the set-top box.
If it shows a cartoon
Subscribers encounter a problem when they start turning on the device. After loading, a table is displayed on the screen, and then a cartoon. To fix the problem, you need to install the device to a LAN port that is specially configured for it.
"Server not found" error
There is no need to reboot the equipment in case of such a failure. The problem is related to a broken network device. You won't be able to fix the problem yourself. You will have to make a call to technical support.
Error "IP address not found"
If the client sees such an alert on the tap, then the problem is the lack of a network; the problem should be sorted out. Sometimes there is no connection due to the fault of the provider if technical work is underway on the line. You can get more information via the hotline. But most often the error occurs when the router is configured incorrectly.
- For your information
- Hotline number 88001000800 (free call)
If the set-top box previously worked normally, the settings cannot cause the problem. You should reconnect the plugs and check their contact. The cable may have been damaged; this problem will also be fixed by a specialist.
Incorrect login and password
If such an error appears during the initial setup, you should check the data and enter it again. The activation parameters may have been entered incorrectly. When a problem appears after changing equipment, specialist help is required. Perhaps the time for linking your login and password has not yet passed; you can ask your operator how long it will take.
The set-top box does not respond to the remote control
If the subscriber cannot change channels, the problem lies with the remote control. It often happens that the code of the TV and set-top box is the same, which causes a conflict. You can solve the problem by calling a consultant on the hotline.
Technical characteristics of SML 482 Base
Basic technical data:
Chip type - dual-core BCM 7230;
Core operating frequency - 750 MHz;
Device RAM – 512 MB;
Memory class - DDR 3;
The amount of memory for data storage is 256 MB;
Memory class - Flash NAND.
User interface:
Connector for connecting to the signal source - Ethernet RJ-45;
Data transfer speed - 10/100 Mbps;
USB port - standard 2.0 (intended for service and updating the device software);
Adapter connection socket;
Digital outputs:
- HDMI 1.4a – digital video and audio output (support for 1080p60 standard);
- S/PDIF - optical digital audio output.
Analogue outputs:
- CVBS – analog output for connecting to TVs (jack 3.5mm). Supported standards: PAL, SECAM, NTSC.
Additional Information:
Power type - adapter 110/240V-12V 1.2A;
Overall dimensions of SML 482 Base - 100x100x32mm;
Device weight (excluding power supply) - 140 g.
Possible problems
Even a new device can fail. Customers often complain that the device freezes when loading, or that the set-top box takes too long to load. You can deal with some situations on your own. In other cases, you will have to call technical support to fix the problem.
- For your information
- Telephone 88001811830 is intended for technical questions of existing subscribers.
