General Questions
What is satellite TV? Companies like DIRECTV use the most advanced satellite technology to deliver access to more than 265 channels or programming to homes and businesses. Unlike cable television service, satellite service offers customers more choices and value when it comes to their entertainment needs.Do I have to buy bundles of premium channels to get the one channel that I really want? No, that’s another difference from traditional cable programming. With most satellite technology consumers can build their own viewing preferences by selecting any number (or as little as one) premium service to the base package which means you’re enjoying what you’re paying for, not paying for something you never watch.I love my music channels are those available on satellite television? You bet. Through an alliance with XM Satellite Radio, DIRECTV can offer music channels that range from choices like Soft Rock, Jazz and Country to Hit List, Easy Listening and many others that will surely suit your musical tastes.And I love my cable on-screen program guide. Does satellite television offer a similar option? The answer is again “yes” when pertaining to DIRECTV and the on-screen program which lets you search for programs up to two weeks in advance and before you ask, that’s typically a week longer than most cable networks provide.What’s this HDTV that I see and hear about everywhere these days? Simply stated, HDTV (which stands for “high-definition television”) is a new system of television that improves both production and reception of broadcasts for a picture quality — up to 10 times better than standard definition. HDTV features increased resolution and an improved relationship of width:height (16:9 as opposed to the 4:3 ratio of conventional screens).I tend to move a lot and I like the fact that I can just move my cable from house to house. Does satellite afford that same flexibility? Yes. DIRECTV distributes programming across the continental United States. You will receive more info on how to transfer your equipment in your new customer packet.I remember when I was little the big dish in my parents’ yard would get messed up during rain storms. Does this happen with satellite television? As we all know, technology has made leaps and bounds in the past years, and the same stands true with satellite programming. Television reception on the system is highly reliable year-round and nationwide. DIRECTV service is only minimally affected by weather, It’s only under extreme conditions that service might be affected, and then usually for less than one minute. Cable viewers also experience brief power outages.I have little ones at home and I enjoy the fact that I can monitor their viewing with cable. Can I still do this with satellite? Most satellite services like DIRECTV offer programming monitoring with features such as “Locks and Limits” which allows management of age-appropriate shows as well as spending caps for Pay Per View purchases.Okay, call me a designer-diva, but I hate the way those dishes look on roofs. Can I paint it a color to blend with my roof or house trim? You bet. The demand for visual appeal is pretty common so most dishes can be painted as long as it’s not with a lead-based glossy paint, but you should check with your provider for specifics on your particular piece of equipment.