Satellite TV or Cable

We had never used satellite services. Therefore, I didn't know if it worked? I decided to do research and find out the truth for myself which I will share with you here. The following quote is indicative of what I found: A recent JD Power study recently rated DIRECTV? and Dish Network higher in customer satisfaction than all major cable companies. Either DIRECTV? or Dish Network has been awarded the top service honors for past 5 years. This report also stated that the satellite providers provide true digital signals. Most cable companies offer analog and digital signals. My old provider charged additionally for what they called the digital tier which excluded all the channels for the major networks. No wonder the local news sometimes had waves across the screen. Furthermore, this report stated that the satellite providers had mastered HDTV technology and the cable companies had not achieved this important standard.

My cable bill had gone from $39.95 a month to over $150. I cancelled and went back to rabbit ears. This lasted about a week. At this point I had basically made up my mind. But how much was it going to cost? Will I have to buy equipment? Well, the answer was I didn't have to buy equipment and I now get better reception for a fraction of the cost. Also, the satellite companies offered more features which we could afford. Now we have switched and we love it.

When you place an order online, some allow customers to design systems matched to their home. You will also schedule the time a professional installed will come to your home. The system will either be shipped to you before the installation date or the installer will bring it along. It is that easy. All you have to do is be home for the installation.

The only downside to this happy ending is the whole family now wants a new High Definition television so they can get the maximum picture quality available from a true digital signal.

Ken is the web owner of http://www.tv-satellite.biz Satellite TV, a website that provides information and resources about Satellite TV and discounts for Dish Network and DirecTV. You can visit his website at: http://www.tv-satellite.biz/satellite/satellite-tv-system.html Satellite TV System

Digital satellite TV systems create a whole new entertainment world

Todays technology is truly amazing. One of these great new technologies is digital satellite TV. It can communicate with a satellite 22,000 miles above earth, unscrambling and converting the signal into analog or HDTV format as required by the TV set and puts out one channel at a time. Digital Satellite receivers offer amazing features the were only dreamed of years ago. Both DISH Network and Direct TV systems allow parents to lock out inappropriate programming for their children. The receivers can also pause live television and video recording. Satellie TV systems also keep track of pay-for-view programming billing. The receiver communicates with the provider's computer equipment to transmit billing information.

In addition to all these great features, DISH Network and Direct TV offer these digital satellite systems free! Receivers are included in the equipment packages sent to the subscriber. Free equipment, free shipping and free instation of machines worth more than $1,500 without the subscriber paying a penny. This is why DISH Network and Direct TV are becoming the fastest growing companies in the USA>

When you place an order online, some allow customers to design systems matched to their home. You will also schedule the time a professional installed will come to your home. The system will either be shipped to you before the installation date or the installer will bring it along. It is that easy. All you have to do is be home for the installation.

There are, unfortunately many Satellite TV websites that will scam you. They offer monthly subscription rates under $10 and next day installation. Once signed up you will find hidden activation and usage fees and high shipping costs. Installation dates missed or performed by inexperienced workers doing shoddy work. No help or customer service available and huge cancellation fees. These sites eventually get shut down but you have already lost your money. Before signing up make sure company has been in business for at least 1 year and is certified by the network and have made at least a 1000 installations. They should have no hidden fees and offer a full refund if installation fails. Customer service should be available via phone or email. There are many great sites that have these qualifications.

Ken is the web owner of http://www.tv-satellite.biz Satellite TV, a website that provides information and resources about Satellite TV and discounts for Dish Network and DirecTV. You can visit his website at: http://www.tv-satellite.biz/satellite/satellite-services.html Satellite Services

Advantages of Satellite TV

This is a biased review of satellite TV versus cable TV. I am a happy satellite TV subscriber. I spent huge amounts of money on cable. One day I decided to look at alternatives. I got into cable by their low introductory price of $29 per month including the premium channels. This rate lasted only 3 months and then went to full price of $89 per month. This put a crimp in my budget and I knew I would have to give up HBO. I was still paying $69 per month after getting rid of the premium channels. I knew I didn't want to go back to the old TV antenna that had to be constantly turned to get a clear station.

A friend told me about DISH Network. He has not had a problems with it and is paying $42.99 per month for over 100 channels, including HBO. Signel is great. No going on top of roof to adjust the signal. He has been very pleased with the system for over a year.

I wanted this system but was worried about all the equipment I would have to buy.

My friend just laughed. Free equipment he said. That included satellite antenna, receivers for up to 4 rooms, Digital Video Recorder and a High Definition Recorder. When I checked the website my friend had used, there was even free installation and the first month free.

I signed up immediately and have never been sorry. I would advise everyone to do the same.

Ken is the web owner of http://www.tv-satellite.biz Satellite TV, a website that provides information and resources about Satellite TV and discounts for Dish Network and DirecTV. You can visit his website at: http://www.tv-satellite.biz/satellite/satellite-tv-deal.html Satellite TV Deal

Satellite TV - Real Entertainment Opportunities

Satellite TV has gained in popularity over the last few years for good reasons. Many people live too far out of town to get cable, so for years they were stuck with antennas for their source of television signals. This meant that they got only a few channels, and quite often had to send someone outside to turn the antenna to hope for a better signal. But now satellite TV has given people in rural areas real entertainment again.

Besides the access for people outside of town, satellite tv offers a good alternative for renting movies all the time. If you are a real movie lover, you might think about getting an upgraded package to include movie channels in your menu. This way, you get to see all the new releases and more. And you never have to leave the house to rent, or worry about late fees. You simply pay your monthly bill and leave the rest to your provider.

Of course, with satellite TV, you do have to have a receiver. Sometimes companies will offer promotional opportunities for you to get your equipment free or cheap when you give them your business. Other times, you may have the option of buying, or renting the equipment. Even though it may seem like a lot of money at the time, these receivers will last you a long time if you treat them right.

Satellite TV can also be a good educational resource if you have anyone in the household still in school. The history channel, discovery channel, and all sorts of news channels are often provided in basic packages. This way, you can have the information with just a click of the remote.

Another reason that parents like satellite TV is the control locks. If there are certain channels that you don't want your children watching, you simply set those channels as locked. When someone tries to view one of those channels, it will then ask for a parental code. If the user doesn't know the code, he won't be able to view it. Just make sure that the code is something that you can easily remember, but that would be hard for anyone else to guess. This way, it is accessible to you, and only those you share the code with.

Satellite TV has many advantages as your home entertainment system. Whether you love movies, game shows, old shows, or sports, satellite TV has a package for you and much more.

For more information about Satellite dish visit http://www.satelitedish.info to get your movie rental questions answered.

Satellite TV - Real Entertainment Opportunities

Satellite TV has gained in popularity over the last few years for good reasons. Many people live too far out of town to get cable, so for years they were stuck with antennas for their source of television signals. This meant that they got only a few channels, and quite often had to send someone outside to turn the antenna to hope for a better signal. But now satellite TV has given people in rural areas real entertainment again.

Besides the access for people outside of town, satellite tv offers a good alternative for renting movies all the time. If you are a real movie lover, you might think about getting an upgraded package to include movie channels in your menu. This way, you get to see all the new releases and more. And you never have to leave the house to rent, or worry about late fees. You simply pay your monthly bill and leave the rest to your provider.

Of course, with satellite TV, you do have to have a receiver. Sometimes companies will offer promotional opportunities for you to get your equipment free or cheap when you give them your business. Other times, you may have the option of buying, or renting the equipment. Even though it may seem like a lot of money at the time, these receivers will last you a long time if you treat them right.

Satellite TV can also be a good educational resource if you have anyone in the household still in school. The history channel, discovery channel, and all sorts of news channels are often provided in basic packages. This way, you can have the information with just a click of the remote.

Another reason that parents like satellite TV is the control locks. If there are certain channels that you don't want your children watching, you simply set those channels as locked. When someone tries to view one of those channels, it will then ask for a parental code. If the user doesn't know the code, he won't be able to view it. Just make sure that the code is something that you can easily remember, but that would be hard for anyone else to guess. This way, it is accessible to you, and only those you share the code with.

Satellite TV has many advantages as your home entertainment system. Whether you love movies, game shows, old shows, or sports, satellite TV has a package for you and much more.

For more information about Satellite dish visit http://www.satelitedish.info to get your movie rental questions answered.

Direct TV Satellite TV? What You Should Know Before You Order

Launched in 1994 by General Motors, Direct TV is the largest satellite TV provider in the world, with 14.5 million subscribers and 15 satellites.

Direct TV is ranked #2 in customer satisfaction among satellite TV and cable companies by J.D. Power and Associates.

Direct TV Satellite TV System

To receive Direct TV programming you need a Direct TV satellite TV system to capture the satellite signal and transmit it to your TV.

Thanks to the competition between Direct TV dealers, you can now get a free Direct TV satellite TV system when you subscribe to their service.

Here's what you get when you order Direct TV satellite TV service

* A free direct TV satellite TV dish.
* Up to four free receivers and universal remotes.
* Free professional installation in up to four rooms of your home.
* Direct TV HD (high definition) satellite TV receivers (optional).
* Free bonus gifts such as a free DVD player and home theater system.

Direct TV Satellite TV Service

Here's what you get with Direct TV service:

* More than 225 program channels to choose from.
* All-digital picture and sound.
* Up to 500 commercial-free movies per month.
* DVR (digital video recording) so you can record your favorite programs.
* Up to 60 pay-per-view programs per day.
* Your local channels with digital picture and sound.
* Thirty-one commercial-free music channels with digital sound.
* Toll-free, 24/7 customer service.

Direct TV Satellite TV Programming

Direct TV programming packages, which include your local channels, start at $41.99 per month.

Here are the Direct TV programming packages currently available:

* Total Choice?135 program channels (includes 31 music channels) for $41.99 per month.

* Total Choice Plus?155 program channels (includes 31 music channels) for $45.99 per month.

* Total Choice Premier?215 program channels (includes 31 music channels), $93.99 per month.
In addition to the above programming packages you can also get sports packages, international packages, and HD (high definition) packages.

Note: To see all the Direct TV programming packages, current special offers, and free bonuses, click on the links at the bottom of this article.

Ordering Direct TV Satellite TV Service

After you decide on which system and which program package you want, you can place your order online, or you can call a toll-free number to order through a Direct TV representative.

The representative will take your order, schedule your installation, and answer any questions you may have. Installation time is usually one to five days after you order.

At the scheduled installation time a certified Direct TV installer will install your system, test it to make sure it works, then show you how to use all the functions and controls.

Operating the Direct TV satellite system may seem a little tricky at first, so I suggest you ask all the questions you need to while your installer is there, so you'll feel comfortable with your new system. Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for more details on free satellite TV systems and service, ordering information, plus the latest special offers and free bonuses from DIRECTV.

Satellite TV Service -- Is DirecTV Or Dish Network Better?

Since the demise of Pegasus and VOOM, there are just two satellite TV service providers battling it out for the top spot -- DIRECTV and DISH Network.

Both companies provide excellent service, all-digital broadcast quality, and great customer service. The main difference between the two companies is the programming they provide.

How Satellite TV Service Works

Satellite TV providers such as DIRECTV and DISH Network send a broadcast signal carrying television programming to a satellite orbiting above the earth. The Satellite then broadcasts the signal back down to earth.

This signal is picked up by a satellite TV dish then transmitted to a receiver where it is amplified and sent to a TV screen.

Benefits of Satellite TV Service

* Satellite TV is broadcast in all-digital format, providing the highest quality picture and sound available.

* Satellite TV gives you access to hundreds of different programs, pay-per-view movies, special events, and commercial-free music channels.

* Satellite TV utilizes DVR (digital video recording) receivers so you can record your favorite programs and bypass commercials while watching live TV.

* Satellite TV is much more reliable than cable or over-the-air TV. Broadcast outages average only 1% as opposed to 3%-5% for cable.

Satellite TV Services

DIRECTV

DIRECTV was launched in 1994 and was the first DBS (direct broadcast satellite) service in the world. It is currently the largest satellite TV provider with 14.5 million subscribers. It is ranked #2 in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.

DIRECTV offers more than 225 channels of programming, including movie channels, music channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, and international programming.

DIRECTV has the most sports program packages, including NFL Sunday Ticket.

When you order DIRECTV programming, the system -- satellite TV dish and receivers -- is free for up to four rooms. Installation is also free.

Program packages start at $41.99 a month for 135 channels (which includes 31 music channels), plus HBO, Showtime, and Starz.

Note: To find out about DIRECTV's latest special offers and free bonuses, click on the links at the bottom of this article.

DISH Network

DISH Network was launched in 1996 and is the second-largest satellite TV provider with more than 12 million subscribers. It is ranked #1 in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.

DISH Network offers more than 255 channels of programming, including movie channels, music channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, and international programming.

Dish Network has the biggest variety of movies and shows and the most HD (high definition) programming.

When you order DISH Network programming, the system -- satellite TV dish, receivers, and installation -- is free for up to four rooms.

Program packages start at $31.99 a month for 60 channels plus HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax.

Note: To find out about DISH Network's latest special offers and free bonuses, click on the links at the bottom of this article.

Bottom Line

If you're a sports fan and want the most sports packages -- including the popular NFL Sunday Ticket which allows you to watch almost all the NFL football games -- then DIRECTV is the way to go.

If you're a movie buff and want the biggest variety of movies and shows, and the most HD (high definition) programming, then Dish Network is what you're looking for.: Brian Stevens is a professional freelance writer and webmaster who has written extensively on satellite TV deals. Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for more information on free satellite TV systems and service, ordering information, plus the latest special offers and free bonuses from DISH Network and DIRECTV.

Satellite TV Deals -- Who Has The Best ?

Getting the best deal on satellite TV service can be confusing.

There are only two satellite TV providers in the USA -- DISH Network and DIRECTV -- but each one has numerous independent dealers who offer a variety of different deals on satellite TV systems and service.

So how do you know which satellite TV provider has the best satellite TV deal? And how do you tell which of their dealers can offer you a great deal plus great service?

I?ve spent the last three weeks researching the Internet to find out which satellite TV provider has the best service, and which dealers are the most reputable and offer the best deals.

Here?s what I found?

DISH Network Deal

Program packages: DISH Network offers four program packages. Prices start at $31.99 per month for their America?s Top 60 package which has 60 channels, and go up to $86.99 for their "Everything" Pak which has 230 channels.

Equipment: Basic equipment -- the dish, receivers, and installation -- is free. Options such as HDTV (high definition TV) and DVR (digital video recording) receivers may be free or cost extra, depending on the dealer.

Broadcast quality: DISH Network broadcasts all its programming in digital format and offers the most HDTV channels of the two satellite TV providers.

Customer Satisfaction: DISH Network is ranked #1 in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.

Best Deal: The best DISH Network deal I found online is offered by AllSat. They've been one of DISH Network's top dealers since 1996, and offer outstanding customer service.

When you order one of DISH Network's programming packages through AllSat, you get a free satellite TV dish, up to four free receivers, and free installation.

In addition, you can get free DVR (digital video recording) receivers so you can record your favorite programs, and up to two free HDTV receivers so you can watch your programs in high definition.

Note: For more details and ordering information on this satellite TV deal, plus the latest special offers and free bonuses, click on the links at the bottom of this article.

DIRECTV Deal

Program packages: DIRECTV offers three program packages. Prices start at $41.99 per month for their Total Choice package which has 135 channels, including 31 music channels, and go up to $86.99 for their Total Choice Premier Package which has 185 channels.

Equipment: Basic equipment -- the dish, receivers, and installation -- is free. Options such as HDTV and DVR receivers may be free or cost extra, depending on the dealer.

Broadcast quality: DIRECTV broadcasts all its programming in digital format and offers a number of channels in HDTV.

Customer Satisfaction: DIRECTV is ranked #2 in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.

Best Deal: The best DIRECTV deal I found online is offered by iSatellite. They are one of the highest-rated DIRECTV satellite TV dealers in the USA.

iSatellite is currently offering a free satellite TV dish, up to four free receivers, and free installation when you order one of DIRECTV's programming packages through them.

You can also get free DVR receivers (after a $99 rebate). HDTV receivers are $199 per receiver.: Brian Stevens is a professional freelance writer and webmaster who has written extensively on satellite TV deals. Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for more information on free satellite TV systems and service, ordering information, plus the latest special offers and free bonuses from DISH Network and DIRECTV.

Satellite TV ? Real Entertainment Opportunities

Satellite TV has gained in popularity over the last few years for good reasons. Many people live too far out of town to get cable, so for years they were stuck with antennas for their source of television signals. This meant that they got only a few channels, and quite often had to send someone outside to turn the antenna to hope for a better signal. But now satellite TV has given people in rural areas real entertainment again.

Besides the access for people outside of town, satellite tv offers a good alternative for renting movies all the time. If you are a real movie lover, you might think about getting an upgraded package to include movie channels in your menu. This way, you get to see all the new releases and more. And you never have to leave the house to rent, or worry about late fees. You simply pay your monthly bill and leave the rest to your provider.

Of course, with satellite TV, you do have to have a receiver. Sometimes companies will offer promotional opportunities for you to get your equipment free or cheap when you give them your business. Other times, you may have the option of buying, or renting the equipment. Even though it may seem like a lot of money at the time, these receivers will last you a long time if you treat them right.

Satellite TV can also be a good educational resource if you have anyone in the household still in school. The history channel, discovery channel, and all sorts of news channels are often provided in basic packages. This way, you can have the information with just a click of the remote.

Another reason that parents like satellite TV is the control locks. If there are certain channels that you don?t want your children watching, you simply set those channels as locked. When someone tries to view one of those channels, it will then ask for a parental code. If the user doesn?t know the code, he won?t be able to view it. Just make sure that the code is something that you can easily remember, but that would be hard for anyone else to guess. This way, it is accessible to you, and only those you share the code with.

Satellite TV has many advantages as your home entertainment system. Whether you love movies, game shows, old shows, or sports, satellite TV has a package for you and much more.For more information about Satellite dish visit http://www.satelitedish.info to get your movie rental questions answered.

Looking For Satellite TV

 by: Gary Gresham

It was 1994 and I had moved into another home and learned that the cable TV line had not been installed to my house. When the cable company told me they would have to dig up my yard to put the line in I wasn't pleased with the idea or the price they quoted me to do it.

Satellite TV was still in its infancy stage with the big monster dishes. While I was browsing in a local electronics store one day I saw a guy giving a demonstration about the new DIRECTV 18 inch digital satellite TV dish.

Needless to say I was very impressed and purchased the satellite TV system on the spot. I knew it would save me from digging up my yard and I could actually get more channels than I got with cable.

After the tech guy hooked it up and left I was like a kid with a new toy. I couldn't believe how it transformed the picture and sound quality on my television. It was like a completely different TV.

DIRECTV channels are 100% digital-quality picture and sound, including local network channels. If you haven't experienced quality like that before you are in for a real treat.

Cable TV tries to compete with digital satellite TV technology by offering digital cable. But if you compare both the picture and sound quality, the DIRECTV super clear picture and crystal clear sound wins hands down any day.

But that was only the beginning of the many things I discovered. I didn't need a TV guide anymore because the on screen programming guide tells me what shows are on, who's starring in the show and what it's about.

I have an incredible variety of over 200 channels of every kind of programming I could think of and some I never dreamed of.

Then, I checked out the pay per view movie service with up to 55 different choices of movies and special events a day that I could easily order with my remote.

Does anyone like sports? What are you kidding? DIRECTV offers sports packages that will put a smile on any sports fans face. How about NFL Sunday Ticket, NBA League Pass, MLB Extra Innings, NHL Center Ice, ESPN Game Plan and ESPN Full Court. That doesn't even include the regional sports networks I now have access to.

If you are a music lover, DIRECTV offers 31 different audio-only channels that range from choices like Soft Rock, Jazz and Country to Hit List, Easy Listening and a lot more.

I work out of my home and by selecting a DIRECTV audio channel to soft music, I can have the music I like in the background when I work.

Having a party? Just turn on any channel you like and you'll never have to touch it again because there are no commercials or interruptions. Just great digital quality music 24 hours a day at your fingertips.

When I moved again to another home, DIRECTV customer service made it about as easy as it gets. I just gave them my new address, and they not only sent a brand new replacement satellite TV dish to my new home, they provided complimentary standard professional installation for everything including the receivers. I didn't pay a penny for anything. How's that for a no-hassle move?

With cable, I would have had to pay another deposit and that is just extra money I get to keep in my wallet instead of giving it to the cable company.

If you're thinking about switching from cable to satellite TV or moving to another home, consider DIRECTV. It's simply a better value than cable and a smart choice you're whole family will enjoy.

With cable rates increasing an average of 8% per year it's no mystery why more than 12 million customers nationwide have made the switch to DIRECTV service.

Over 10 years have gone by now since I bought that first satellite TV dish and I love it as much now as when I first got it. I recommend DIRECTV to so many people because I know they will absolutely love it.

Only once in a great while a product comes along that actually over delivers. DIRECTV can not only save you money each month over cable but is a smart choice and an incredible value.

This article may be re-published "as is" (unedited) as long as the author's bio paragraph (resource box) and copyright information is included. The URLs in the resource box should be set as hyperlinks if used on a web page.

Gary Gresham is the webmaster for http://www.1stopshoppingonline.com. You can experience this same DIRECTV service he mentions in this article for your home or office through this online link: http://www.1stopshoppingonline.com/satellite-tv.html

FAQ for satellite TV deals

So, what is a satellite TV?

So, what is a satellite TV?

It's a complicated question. In short, a satellite TV system is a wireless system delivering television programming directly to an end user. The whole system you can see in your home, a satellite dish, satellite decoder, and a remote.

The small satellite dish, about 18 to 24 inches in circumference, is installed outside your house; with the satellite decoder linked to your TV. Television and satellite TV stations transmit programming via a digital signal (satellite TV signals).

Satellite TV 'Who'?

Two main providers of satellite TV in United States are Direct TV satellite TV and Dish Network satellite TV. Both satellite TV companies are promoting hard with their free satellite TV deals all over the country.

Nowadays, satellite TV business is turning into a huge success, where satellite TV became the fastest selling consumer electronics product ever to enter the market.

Why is satellite TV so success?

The short answer: pay LESS, get MORE!

Benefit 1: Amazing Savings.
Benefit 2: Varieties, varieties, and varieties!
Benefit 3: Quality customer service.
Benefit 4: Choose your own satellite TV program!
Benefit 5: Instant! Easy! Convenient!

Topnotch picture quality, superior value and plenty of programming, if you want all these, digital satellite TV system are definitely your choice.
For more details on the benefits of satellite TV deals, visit this page:
http://www.satellitetvissue.com/benefits.htm

So, how satellite TV works?

To make things simple, this is what happens in your satellite TV system. Satellite TV broadcast stations, for example Dish Network or DirecTV satellite TV, use a powerful satellite antenna to transmit digital waves to the surrounding area.

Satellite TV viewers can receive the signal with a smaller satellite antenna. The digital signals used to broadcast television emit signals from the broadcast satellite antenna in a straight line.

To receive these signals, the satellite dish has to be in the direct line of sight of the antenna. Blockages such like trees or buildings in between would not cause any problems on the digital waves.

Is satellite TV suitable for you?

For United States, I can say that satellite TV is the right choice for 95% of the citizens. The figure would goes higher with current satellite TV market condition, with Dish Network and DirecTV offering free satellite TV deals all year long.

Compare satellite TV deals to cable TV! Either free satellite TV from DirecTV or Dish Network offers you more satellite TV program choicesup to nearly 300 channels! With current free satellite TV deals, you can even have your "own" satellite TV station with the satellite TV pay-per-view deals. This is different from normal cable TV, where you are forced to purchase whatever system your region offers and pay whatever price it offers. Direct TV and Dish Network offer you this advantage.

Cable TV users, ATTENTION! i am not going to say this twice.

If you are looking for your next home entertainment system, take time to discover DirecTV and Dish Network promotion in our site, you will love them. For cable TV subscriber, I am sure you will be make a switch very soon when you check out these free satellite TV deals! Check it yourself, browse those Free satellite TV offers from Direct TV and Dish Network satellite TV systems, check those satellite TV benefits in details and you will know what am I talking about. Pay less, and have more with free satellite TV system from Direct TV or Dish Network!

Teddy L.Cc., a successful freelance internet webmaster/writer. He is currently running 4 internet websites including http://www.satellitetvissue.com offering satellite TV deals

Free Satellite TV -- Is It Really Free?

You've seen the online and offline ads advertising "Free satellite TV!"

You've seen the online and offline ads advertising "Free satellite TV!"

But is satellite TV really free? This article answers that question.

You've seen the online and offline ads -- "Free satellite TV!" "Get a 4-room Satellite TV System Free!" and "Satellite TV Dish and Receivers Absolutely Free!"

But is satellite TV really free?

The answer to that question is yes ... and no.

Yes, the equipment you get -- the satellite TV dish and satellite TV receiver -- is free. But no, the programming service will cost you money.

Let's examine the facts.

Due to the demise of Pegasus and Voom, there are only two major satellite TV providers in the USA -- Dish Network and DirecTV.

Dish Network Satellite TV Service

When you order a free satellite TV system from Dish Network, you will be asked to pay a $49.99 activation fee. This fee will be credited to your programming bill, so in essence, your satellite TV system is free. Installation of your satellite TV system is also free.

With Dish Network you have the option to upgrade to a DVR (digital video recording) receiver, or an HDTV (high definition TV) receiver at no charge.

Dish Network programming starts at $31.99 per month for 60 program channels, and goes up to $86.00 for 230 channels including Showtime, Starz!, HBO, Cinemax, and Sirius radio.

Dish Network offers more movies, shows, and HDTV than cable or DirecTV, and with one of their free DVR receivers you can record, pause, and fast forward live TV with a click of your remote. All Dish Network programs are broadcast in digital format for crystal-clear picture and sound.

DirecTV Satellite TV Service

Depending on your credit rating, when you order a free satellite TV system from DirecTV you may be required to pay a deposit or prepayment. Because the deposit is refunded to you and the prepayment goes toward your programming fees, the DirecTV satellite dish and receivers are free. Installation is also free.

If you want a DVR receiver you will be charged an additional $49.99. The charge for HDTV receivers is $299.99.

DirecTV programming packages start at $41.99 per month for 115 channels (including 31 music channels), and go up to $93.99 per month for 185 program channels, including Showtime, Starz!, HBO, Cinemax, and 31 music channels.

DirecTV offers more sports programs than you can get with cable or Dish Network, including the popular NFL Sunday Ticket, and is broadcast in all-digital format.

The Bottom Line

Both Dish Network and DirecTV's basic satellite TV dishes and receivers are free ... but the service will cost you anywhere from $32 to $94 a month.

So if you watch just a few television programs a week and have access to over-the-air TV, or if you have cable TV and are happy with your service, then satellite TV probably isn't for you.

If, on the other hand, TV is one of your primary forms of entertainment and you want the biggest variety of shows, movies, sports, and new -- or if your cable bill is beginning to equal your mortgage payment -- then satellite TV may be just the ticket.

Brian Stevens is a professional freelance writer and webmaster who has written extensively on free satellite TV systems. Click the following link for more information on free satellite TV systems and service.

Satellite TV vs. Cable TV -- Which is Best?

 The move is on. Last year millions of Americans switched from cable TV to satellite TV.

Why? When you compare satellite TV to cable TV you'll discover the main reasons are cost, picture quality, program choices, and customer satisfaction.

Let's check out the differences ...


Cable vs. Satellite TV Fees

Cable TV fees across the country average $39.99 per month. In our area the cost for cable TV is $37.30 a month for 64 channels, plus $10.95 a month to add digital channels. Installation in one room is $39.95, plus $9.95 for each additional room.

Satellite TV fees from Dish Network are $31.99 per month for 60 channels, while DirecTV charges $41.99 per month for 115 channels. Both satellite TV providers currently offer free satellite TV equipment and free installation in up to four rooms.


Cable vs. Satellite TV Programming

Cable TV in most areas offers almost as many channels as satellite TV, and is broadcast in analog (over-the-air) format. If you want to have digital picture and sound you'll have to pay an additional fee, usually $10 to $15 a month.

Satellite TV offers more channels than cable TV (more than 250 channels), and more HDTV (high definition TV) programming. All satellite TV channels are broadcast in digital format for the highest quality picture and sound.


Cable vs. Satellite TV Equipment

With cable you only need cable boxes that connect the incoming cable line to your televisions. There is usually no charge or rental fees for cable boxes, however, If you want a digital video recorder, you'll have to pay an extra fee.

With satellite TV you need a satellite TV dish and TV receivers. Both Dish Network and DirecTV offer that equipment, plus installation, for free. Dish Network will give you a DVR (digital video recording) receiver or an HDTV receiver at no charge, while DirecTV charges $49.99 for DVR receivers and $299 for HDTV receivers.


Cable and Satellite TV Reliability and Customer Satisfaction

Cable TV outages average 3% to 5% per year. J.D. Powers and Associates ranks cable companies as good to poor in customer satisfaction.

Satellite TV outages average about 1%. J.D. Power and Associates has ranked the two satellite TV providers -- Dish Network and DirecTV -- higher in customer satisfaction than any of the cable TV companies for the last five years.
The Bottom Line
If you only watch a couple of shows a week, and you live in an area where you can't get over-the-air TV and cable TV costs less than $20 per month, then cable may be your best option.

If, on the other hand, you want the biggest variety of shows, movies, sports, and news for the least amount of money ... you want to watch your all your shows in digital video and sound ... and you want the option of watching them in HD format and recording them on a DVR receiver, then satellite TV is what you're looking for.
Brian Stevens is a professional freelance writer and webmaster who has written extensively on cable TV and satellite TV. For more information on satellite TV vs. cable TV, click on http://www.thesatellitetvguide.com/satellite-tv-vs-cable-tv.htm