Satellite T.V. Key Terms

Learn the jargon surrounding satellite T.V.

Satellite T.V. is popular in homes and businesses around the world. Satellite technology makes this medium available everywhere, even in rural areas. All you need is a satellite dish and an unobstructed view from the dish to the satellite. Satellite T.V. offerings are vast, with everything from mainstream television networks to specialized niche channels. When it comes to satellite T.V., there are certain key terms you should understand when selecting your provider and plan.

 

Programming

All of the channels available through satellite make up satellite programming offerings. All of the major satellite dish providers offer programming packages so viewers can pick channels that closely fit their interests.
Try: HowStuffWorks explains the ins and outs of satellite television programming. You can see programming packages at the DISH Network website.

Local channels

Local channels include your local CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX and PBS stations, as well as other stations in your area.
Try: DIRECTV explains the programming available on local channels and lists the markets where local channels are available through satellite TV.

Premium channels

Premium channels are available through satellite and cable. These channels offer movies, sports and other specialty programming at a higher price than other programming packages.
Try: View the premium channels offered by DISH Network. You can also see some of the most common premium channels on the Optimum website.

Pay Per View (PPV), Video On Demand (VOD)

Pay Per View and Video On Demand work in similar ways. With both features, you can select a program to watch that's not on the regular schedule. Pay Per View costs money; Video On Demand is usually included in the subscriber's programming package or with a premium channel.
Try: The Pay-Per-View through DISH Network includes movies, sports and special events. Sky Angel offers family-friendly VOD.

DVR

DVR stands for digital video recording. It's a way to digitally record programs that are on T.V. so you can pause, rewind and fast forward live television, or you can save them to watch at a different time.
Try: The Tech Terms Dictionary explains how a DVR works. DIRECTV DVR Features explains what you can do with a DVR and satellite T.V. programming.

High definition, HDTV

HDTV, also known as high definition, is the newest wave in television technology. Instead of a standard definition screen, which has an aspect ratio of 4x3, viewers can enjoy high definition programming on a widescreen that has a 16x9 aspect ratio.
Try: Electronic Pictures Corporation devotes a page of its website to explaining HDTV. The DIRECTV HD Overview features HD programming on satellite TV.

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