| 摘要 |
A smart card is provided comprising a first processor and a second processor. The first and second processors are capable of decoding a scrambled broadcast signal. The first processor is activated by a first activating signal, and the second processor is activated by a second activating signal that differs from the first activating signal. The first processor can be a primary processor that is used during normal operations, while the second processor can be a backup processor that is activated under emergency conditions. The second processor, to be used temporarily when backup service is required, can be of lower complexity than the first processor, thus reducing cost. The first and second processors are situated on the card so as to communicate with an opening in an electrical device such as a integrated receiver. Preferably, the first processor is situated so as to make electrical contact with the receiver within an opening when the card is in a first position, and the second processor is situated so as to make electrical contact with the receiver within the opening when the card is in a second position. Also provided is a method of providing a backup program service to a subscriber. The method comprises providing to the subscriber a smart card of the invention and transmitting a backup activating signal that activates the second, or backup, processor on the smart card. The backup activating signal is transmitted upon failure of the primary processor.
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