In the past decade, over 27 million households have transitioned from cable and over-the-air TV to satellite TV. But what makes satellite TV so appealing? Let's delve into the details and uncover the reasons behind this shift.
Satellite TV is a broadcasting system where a central station transmits signals to a satellite in orbit. This satellite then relays the signals back to Earth, where they are captured by a satellite dish and sent to a television set. To receive these signals, you need a satellite system, which includes a dish to capture the signal and a receiver to decode it.
The journey of satellite TV began in 1962 when the first signal was transmitted from Europe to North America via the Telstar satellite. The first commercial satellite, Early Bird, was launched in 1965. However, it wasn't until 1980 that satellite TV reception became available in the U.S.
Early satellite systems were prohibitively expensive, ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. The dishes were enormous, measuring 10 to 12 feet in diameter, and the equipment was bulky and complex. The landscape changed dramatically in 1994 with the launch of the first Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS), which introduced the era of the mini dish and slim-line receiver, making satellite TV accessible to a broader audience, including apartment renters and condo owners.
DIRECTV, with 14.5 million subscribers, is the oldest and largest satellite TV provider in the U.S. According to J.D. Power and Associates, DIRECTV ranks second in customer satisfaction among all satellite and cable TV companies.
DIRECTV is particularly known for its extensive sports programming.
DISH Network, with over 12 million customers, is the second-oldest and fastest-growing satellite TV provider. It holds the top spot in customer satisfaction among all satellite and cable TV companies, as per J.D. Power and Associates.
DISH Network offers the widest variety of movies and shows and has the most affordable basic service package.
There are over 80 online dealers and thousands of offline dealers across the U.S. While many dealers are reputable, some may lure you in with attractive offers only to hit you with hidden fees, poor installation, and subpar customer service. Always read the service agreement carefully and clarify any doubts with customer service before subscribing.
Satellite TV offers up to 375 channels, providing more viewing options than cable or over-the-air TV.
Satellite TV broadcasts in digital format, delivering a sharp picture. You can also opt for HD (high definition) TV for an even more lifelike viewing experience.
Satellite TV allows you to access pay-per-view movies and special events, and listen to over 100 channels of commercial-free music on satellite radio. You can also record your favorite programs and pause or fast-forward live TV using a DVR (digital video recorder).
All the necessary equipment, including installation, is provided for free.
If you rarely watch TV, satellite TV might not be for you. However, if you are an avid TV watcher or currently use cable TV, satellite TV offers a compelling alternative. With over 375 channels, satellite radio, pay-per-view options, and affordable programming packages, satellite TV is a worthwhile investment.
For more information on free satellite TV systems and services, visit DISH Network or DIRECTV.
By understanding the intricacies and benefits of satellite TV, you can make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for your entertainment needs.
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