What exactly to the Darkman patches do?

[matt20]

I've seen the Darkman patches mentioned a few times around the forum, but I can't seem to find a precise decription of what they do.

As far as I understand, the patches can be used to decrypt certain channels. Is this correct?

I have a Technomate TM-5200 D USB and (when set up) I intend to point to Hotbird 13E (although I may add a monoblock at a later time). What channels can the Darkman patch decrypt on this satellite?

How easy is it to 'patch' the TM-5200 and how often does it have to be done?

I've also seen references to sky card share schemes - how do these work?

Sorry for the questions, but I am really curious about what they do/how they work!

[Robbo]

The patch will enable you to watch certain packages and channels without a subscription.

On Hotbird, TPS and Polsat.

TPS on Hot Bird 6/7A at 13.0°E - LyngSat

Cyfrowy Polsat on Hot Bird 7A/8 at 13.0°E - LyngSat

at the moment!!!!

Patching is very easy on the TM1000 series, it can be done in a similar way with the TM5200, or can be done with a USB flash drive (Don't ask me how, as I have not got one).
Patches get released whenever something changes and is variable between days or months.

Sharing is possible with the TM5200 I think, but it would need a card reader and be permanently connected to a PC(I think). A linux box such as a Dreambox is more suitable for this however.I think trying to share a Sky card with a TM5200 though is probably a lost cause, as even if it did have a card reader , it would not read the card. A Dreambox definitely can do this, I am sure.

[matt20]

Thanks for that Robbo71.

From where can I get the Darkman patches?

With regard to the card share scheme, what are the very basic principles, such as how to start/join a scheme, what it achieves, how it works. I really know nothing about them, but I am very curious!)

As the original post was mostly about Darkman patches, should I start a new thread?

Matt

[Robbo]

Everything you need to know about the 1000 series patching is here:-
Patching your Technomate 1000 series
The 5200 is similar. (apart form the USB option)

As for card sharing, it is not something I have ever got involved in. What I do know that you must NOT solicit for a share on this forum, it is against the rules.

Any thread that even hints at a request for a share will be deleted, so think carefully about what you ask and how. Yes I think it may be better to start a new thread,but with only general questions about the techniques etc. Google may provide you with more info about groups etc.

Robbo

[matt20]

Thanks for letting me know the rules.

[tjb305]

I have just updated the technomate software, patch and then channel list on my 5400 all from memory stick without any problem. it does take a few minutes for the new software to load and the screen to change. Being able to update patch, channel list etc all from a memory stick saves all the faff of connecting up your computer.