Satellite TV Features

HDTV - High Definition Television - Specific HD programming can be included in a DIRECT TV or Dish Network satellite TV subscription. Requirements are an HDTV receiver and and HD compatible TV. (There are converters available which allow HDTV programming to be viewed on a standard TV, but without the high resolution).

This service combines High Resolution Digital Television along with Digital Surround Sound, creating spectacular high quality imaging and high fidelity audio. HDTV utilizes up to 10 times more pixels than regular TV, and also uses a 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio.

DVR - Digital Video Recording - This service requires a DVR receiver, which is computerized and uses a hard drive to store data. DIRECTV and Dish Network usually provide a DVR with a satellite TV subscription. DVR allows the user to record 70-100 hours of programming in digital format. Programs can be scheduled to be recorded up to 9-14 days in advance by using an on-screen program guide. Playbacks can be replayed, rewound, fast-forwarded, slow-motioned, and set to skip commercials.

Satellite Radio - This feature provides an assortment of commercial-free and all digital audio programming. Radio channels are normally included in a standard DIRECT TV or Dish Network satellite TV subscription. Programming typically includes a wide variety of music, sports, weather, talk, and news.

A standard satellite TV receiver also functions as a satellite radio receiver. The receiver displays the current information such as song title, artist, and channel.

Satellite Radio is available for both home or vehicle installations, and it can be ordered alone, without satellite TV service. For the home, requirements are a receiver or a plug and play hardware device, in addition to an audio system. Vehicles can be equipped with a compatible head unit, or a plug and play hardware device.

The companies named Sirius and XM are the main suppliers of satellite radio programming for Dish Network and DIRECTV.

Satellite Internet - Satellite Internet is essentially Broadband Internet which supports a continuous connection that is fast and avoids dial-up delays and blocked phone lines. Computer data can be transmitted and received over the internet using satellite dish. A local network can be in connection with the internet through a satellite dish. Data transfer rates for downloading and uploading are normally comparable to standard Broadband. Coverage includes all 50 states and many countries of the world. Be sure to ask when ordering through our DIRECT TV and Dish Network retailers if you qualify for broadband service.

This service can be ordered independently or in conjunction with satellite TV service. However, not all satellite TV retailers offer genuine Satellite Internet. Often retailers make DSL service available as part of a package. Check with your retailer to make sure they offer Satellite Internet. The two main Satellite Internet companies in the United States are HughesNet and Starband.