Guide to Satellite TV

Satellite Television: A Brief History

Let's start with the basics of satellite television and get the history lesson and techno-jargon out of the way first. Satellite television service provided through communications satellites is referred to as direct broadcast satellite (DBS) and primarily used direct-to-home signals for home television reception. Geosynchronous communications satellites carrying television signals were first introduced in the early 1960s, but it wasn't until the mid-70s when a geosynchronous satellite carried the first direct-to-home signal. The onset of direct broadcast satellite subsequently ushered the arrival of commercial satellite broadcasts utilized by DBS services such as British Sky Broadcasting in the United Kingdom and current leading satellite TV providers in the United States, DIRECTV and Dish Network.

Reception Quality

With that part out of the way, let's demystify a common myth concerning satellite television. One of the most common questions about satellite television involves reception quality. Because satellite TV requires the transmission of signals between a satellite dish and a satellite in geostationary orbit (traveling roughly 20,000 miles), the concern about weak signals due to noise is a valid one. With satellite TV, the main issue is making sure the dish has an unobstructed view of the sky pointing to the satellite. For DIRECTV, for example, you want your dish pointing toward the Southern sky. Make sure to also address the professional installer about attaining maximum signal strength with the placement of the satellite dish. If the satellite dish receives the best optimal signal it possibly can, the dish and service may in many cases withstand some harsh weather conditions where the signal won't be completely knocked out.

Avoiding weak signals refers to the maintenance of the dish itself, keeping the dish clean and free from debris (snow, leaves, etc.) that will knock out your signal. Of course, for many that live in parts of the country with snowfall, having a satellite dish pummeled with snow is frustrating. But some of you in the lovely snowy regions will love to know that there are available dish heaters that will melt snow and ice buildup. Some have also tested the use of weather repellent sprays like Rain-X to some degree of success. Spraying the metal dish with a non-stick weather repellent spray may keep snow off the dish. It won't hurt to try it but if all else fails, there's nothing more certain for getting stuff off the dish than a ladder and a broom or a blast of garden hose water.

Perfect For Rural Areas

For the many that live in the rural countryside, they are well aware of the restrictions their location is saddled with. One of those luxuries burdened by distance is the lack of cable television service. Due to the higher expense of extending their service to remote parts of the country, cable services have limited range and that is where satellite comes in. Recent surveys have estimated that over 40% of people living in rural areas of the country subscribe to satellite television service. Satellite TV service has been the best and, for some, the only option for residents of rural areas to receive extensive television programming. It's actually quite the ideal location to have satellite television barring, of course, really bad weather during certain seasons. The wide open skies of rural cities outside of the metropolitan area provide the perfect setting to align a satellite to point for maximum signal strength.

Satellite television also benefits businesses in rural towns much like they do to businesses in urban cities. Bars and restaurants in rural areas would especially draw some good business by having a satellite dish installed and utilizing one of the more affordable and comprehensive DIRECTV packages available to establish returning customers. A variety of programming packages from commercial packages to sports packages are available for small and large businesses to accommodate their customers. The sports package for businesses are especially popular during all major sports seasons.

More or Less Expensive Than Cable?

It's an understandable issue for many people in the market for a television service to find not only satellite TV companies with the best prices but also the ones with the better value. In terms of value and without all the charges for equipment, installation, and activation fees tacked on by other cable TV services that are free on satellite TV services, the incentives for consumers to consider satellite over cable have been major deciding factors for people new to satellite TV. Satellite TV providers, especially DIRECTV, offers some of the best incentives to new customers with exclusive savings on premium packages, which not only start affordably but also come with no equipment to buy and free installation and activation as well as great customer service for as long as you remain a customer.

In terms of choice and diversity in the kind of programming you want, satellite TV packages lets you customize the packages available with sports and premium movie channels. With five different packages to choose from, Dish Network and DIRECTV simply have more variety of channels to choose from than cable. The most expensive satellite TV package is still cost-effective compared to cable that offer less for more. New customers receive the best value from satellite TV providers such as free HD service and free HD DVR receivers with a certain package. Along with rebate discounts that last for a full year to free installation and activation, the incentives for new customers of satellite TV have always been high.

Satellite TV Companies

You don't have to search very hard to find that there only two major satellite TV providers in the United States-Dish Network and DIRECTV. When consumers in the market for satellite service or want to make the switch from cable, they will most likely look to one of these two brands. What are the differences between the two companies? Many have asked and wondered, and the answer is pretty simple. The value in pricing may belong to Dish Network as their packages are less expensive after the first year promo than DIRECTV's packages after their first year promo. What DIRECTV delivers for their slightly more expensive regular-priced packages are more unique channels in HD. Many of the HD channels Dish Network claims to have include dozens of video-on-demand channels and they're also missing a host of popular channels on a couple of their most basic packages. DIRECTV's collection of 162 HD channels is the most offered by any TV service provider. Miscellaneous charges from Dish Network include a $99 upfront fee charged to customers that want paper copies of their bill (who do not sign up for auto bill pay) to higher lease fees for additional receivers. 3D HDTV owners will also find better value with DIRECTV being the first TV service provider to feature four brand new 3D channels for the 3D experience at home.

With the increasing number of consumers subscribing or making the switch from cable to satellite in the last decade, the results have indicated for a while now that satellite TV service is not simply an alternative anymore-it is now at the forefront of all major TV service providers.
Direct Choice Satellite is an authorized DIRECTV retailer featuring DIRECTV deals to the leading satellite TV provider of the most local, sports, and premium movie channels in a variety of affordable DIRECTV packages.

Satellite TV - The Answer to Your Entertainment Needs

Satellite providers in your area offer a wide variety of channel options and package deals. The service they provide is far superior to cable TV in many ways. Satellite companies are constantly striving to advance the television technology to better serve their customers and provide a high-tech product that is up-to-date. You get access to more channels and thousands of on-demand options. You can even get music channels with most packages and more HD channels than cable TV offers. Consider satellite TV providers in your area for quality television entertainment that will suit all of your preferences.

High Quality Equipment

You get the best quality electronics with satellite packages. The picture and sound quality with satellite TV is superior to the technology that cable TV offers. Equipment that comes with your satellite service is state-of-the-art. Depending on your needs, you can get receivers that have a DVR built-in or a HD receiver with a DVR. For the clearest picture, HD programming is the best choice, and satellite providers offer the most HD channels in the industry. With convenient receivers that have everything built-in, you will save on the equipment fees and only have to pay for one box, instead of many different individual components. In addition to the great technology benefits, you can count on your satellite service in all kinds of weather conditions. There have been a lot of great advancements to the equipment and weather related outages for satellite service. Newer dishes are made to stand up to harsh weather and provide you a perfect signal rain or shine.

Satellite TV is Superior to Cable TV

Satellite technology provides you with the most state-of-the-art equipment and best quality picture for a great price. With many satellite deals and offers you are able to add HD service for free and get a large selection of HD channels to choose from. You get access to more than 200 channels in HD, and that is a lot more than anyone else has to offer.

Most Convenient Service

With satellite's on-demand options you get access to the best quality programming whenever you want. Never worry about missing something you want to see again, you have access to a library of thousands of options at your fingertips whenever you want.

Top-Notch Programming Selections

With packages from satellite providers you get all of your favorite channels and programs. You get access to the country's most popular networks like, Fox, AMC, Showtime, HBO, and Food Network. And with DVR options on your receiver you can record or pause your favorite programs and watch them whenever you want.

A Look At Satellite TV Service

Nearly twenty million people have made the switch from cable to satellite TV service. With the largest television packages out there, for the lowest prices around, this is no surprise. Everyone is looking for ways to get more for their money, to save a few dollars, and to enjoy high quality entertainment at a bargain. And with satellite television service, this has all become possible. Why not get the most for your money? It only makes sense. And now there are even more reasons to make the switch.

It is true that people are taking their finances much more seriously these days. Having enough money in the bank to cover monthly expenses is a serious problem for some. And this means that many are reworking their budgets and trying to find a way to cut costs. While there is definitely a list of necessary expenses, it is also good for a family to be able to enjoy some quality let down time, complete with entertainment. Everyone needs to find a way to relax a little, and television can help here.

However, many are looking at the high cost of their cable bill and considering dropping this expense. It is simply too hefty for most to handle. Fortunately, with the rise of satellite television service, there is now a way to get your entertainment at a price your wallet will not dry up over. This is a great option simply because so many need a more affordable choice, and it is a fraction of the cost of regular cable TV.

One reason why more customers are choosing this service is because of its stunning quality. Viewers may feel as if they are right on scene with the program they are watching. Every picture is so crystal clear that you are instantly transported into that world. In a world of HD, quality means everything.

The definition is very life-like and helps viewers to enjoy a more broadened experience with heightened senses, especially when you choose HD satellite packages. Quality and affordability are already making this package sound pretty attractive.

There are a number of packages available to choose from, making this a viable option for a number of viewers. No matter what you are looking for in entertainment, you can hand select your personal package and get it at a price that is right for your budget needs. Make sure that you get the channels you want to see.

There are also special add ons such as movie packages or sports packages for those who have more specific interests. Save big on these packages when you compare their cost to that offered by regular cable companies.

No matter what you are looking for in your television entertainment, you can find it with satellite television. There are thousands of channels, meaning that everyone can certainly access their favorite shows. In fact, satellite TV is known for offering the largest packages out there. They have everything from a basic, no fuss deal to a premium package that will satisfy the most involved television watchers.

Things You Need To Know About HD Satellite Receivers

Most individuals would love to have a High-definition television at home. It is the latest technological development with regards to television today. An HDTV will offer its user great picture quality because they are incredibly razor-sharp and colors that are really alive that they look like very real plus it will also offer you perfect sound experience as it offers very clear, noise-free and come with multichannel 3D audio. If you want to enjoy these features at the comfort of your own home then you do not only need to purchase an HDTV but you also need to obtain HD Satellite Receivers which will capture the signal your television needs. There are many different kinds of satellite receivers out in the market today and without a doubt you can find one that will perfectly suit your needs.

If you already have an HDTV that is high-quality then you can easily subscribe to cable providers to provide you HD channels that will offer you the best television or movie watching experience. Plus you can choose the channels that you like. However, the service might cost you more, so you need have enough budget or you need to find some other alternatives. Good thing is that you can already find a lot of different kinds of HD Satellite Receivers today.

If you want to receive high-definition signal then it is actually very easy, you only need to have a receiver, a High-definition receiver that catches high-definition signals broadcasted by TV networks for free. So, aside from subscribing to a cable provider this option is the next best thing to do.

But before buying a satellite receiver you need to take few things into consideration. First, you should always remember that an HD receiver will only work with an HDTV and will never be compatible with a standard definition TV thus it would be very helpful if you check your television if it supports high definition pictures.

Another thing which you need to consider the area where you will position the receiver because if there are any blockages the signals might not reach the receiver, so it is very important to position the receiver in a high place or in an area with no blockage.

Last but not the least is the quality and cost of the gadget. Make sure that you get a receiver that is high in quality, durable and reasonably priced.