Guide to Satellite TV

Want satellite TV? Directv and Dish Network are the only satellite television providers competing to wrangle your subscription away from cable companies.

Technically known as direct broadcast satellite (DBS) providers, these companies offer a distinct advantage over cable and TV services offered by your telephone company.

1. Satellite TV providers offer more channels and high definition (HD) broadcasts than the competition.
2. Since there are no wires or cables running from the street to your house, they can be installed in many areas where there is no cable service.
3. They're portable. Satellite TV dishes can be installed on campers, trailers, trucks, recreational vehicles and boats.
4. Every channel is transmitted as a digital signal, giving you superior picture and sound.

Of course all is not perfect and there are a few disadvantages to satellite TV systems. A few of these include:

1. Satellite television providers don't offer real on-demand services.
2. Severe weather can result in loss of signal, because heavy cloud cover is blocking transmission from the DBS provider's satellites.
3. Your "local" stations may not be really local. For example, subscribers in Fairfield County in Connecticut receive New York City local broadcasts.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Compare satellite television services

Directv and Dish Network offer different programming packages. The basic services are the same, but there are distinct differences when you get to premium and high definition packages. Dish Network has merged with the old Zoom high definition TV service and offers those stations in place of many national HD broadcasts.

I recommend: Checkout the services offered from Directv and Dish Network.

Compare prices on satellite TV service

There's a big difference in what the two major satellite TV providers charge for different services and packages.

I recommend: Compare how much Directv and Dish charge for basic and premium packages.

Look for extra charges from satellite TV companies

Both satellite TV providers charge extra for set-top boxes, DVRs and other hardware, although there may be a new customer deal where you can get some of these free.

I recommend: Compare how much Directv and Dish Network charge for extra set-top boxes, HD boxes and DVRs.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Order everything you need when you place your initial call for installation of either satellite TV service, or you could end up paying more for them later.
• Be home when the service person arrives to install your satellite tv service. He will have questions as to the location of TVs, set-top boxes and possibly the location of the satellite dish.
• Make sure everything is installed to your satisfaction and working properly before the service person leaves. The satellite TV company may charge extra to come back to fix problems.
• Don't cancel your cable or other television service until your satellite TV system is installed and working properly.

The official source of Satellite TV is the Satellite TV page at Business.com