[FREQUENCY=12345000] POLARIZATION=H SYMBOL_RATE=27500000 DELIVERY_SYSTEM=DVB-S2 MODULATION=QPSK/8PSK FEC=2/3
The structure of these files has evolved. While older formats used a simple single-line syntax, DVBv5 files use a key-value format that is much easier to read and extend. A typical entry might look like a block of text defining the DELIVERY_SYSTEM BANDWIDTH_HZ
The output uses the same DVBv5 format as the input, making it easy to use the results for future scans or with other DVB applications. As noted in the documentation, using the -G or -N options can be beneficial if you plan to use the generated file on another frontend or want a faster tuner, as they store the actual detected parameters instead of those from the source channel file. dvbv5scan initial file
While many Linux distributions include default initial files, they are often outdated. Creating your own guarantees accuracy. Method 1: Using dvb-fe-tool (Recommended)
dvb-format-convert -I CHANNEL -O DVBV5 old_channels.conf > my_new_initial_file.conf As noted in the documentation, using the -G
: The bandwidth in Hertz (commonly 7000000 or 8000000). MODULATION : Modulation method (e.g., QAM/64 , QPSK ). INVERSION : Auto/On/Off. 3. How to Create an Initial File
The tool offers numerous options to customize its behavior: The dvbv5-scan tool reads the file
dvbv5-scan [OPTION]... initial-file
Once you have an initial file, executing a scan is straightforward. The dvbv5-scan tool reads the file, interacts with your Linux DVB hardware frontend, and outputs a final service list. Basic Syntax dvbv5-scan /path/to/initial_file -o channels.conf Use code with caution.
dvbv5-scan /usr/share/dvb/dvb-t/uk-CrystalPalace -o channels.conf
This article provides a deep dive into the dvbv5-scan initial file, detailing its format, how to source it, and how to use it effectively.