The satellite TV system is run by a broadcast center that sends a program signal to a satellite in a stationary orbit above the earth. This satellite then returns the signal back down towards earth where they are picked up by different subscriber's satellite dish where it is converted into high quality picture and sound by the receiver. These satellites are orbiting 22,300 miles above the earth.

These satellites make it possible to broadcast to a large scale of people because they use radio waves. The radio waves can travel in a straight line so the signal can only be captured by an antenna that is in line with the signal.

The dish is curved so it is able to focus the signal on the feed horn on the front of the dish. The dish's feed horn sends the signal to a low noise block (LNB) converter which then converts the signal and sends it to your receiver that is the electronic box that sits next to your TV. This is the box that decodes the satellite signal and converts it into video and audio signals for your viewing pleasure.

The two main satellite TV providers are both offering their own version of a digital video recorder (DVR). This device makes it possible for you to record your favorite shows. You can also get a high definition (HD) receiver that you can watch your HD channels with.

Satellite TV providers pay the big networks like CNN, HBO, and ABC for rights to their programming. These networks then send their programs to the satellite TV provider's broadcast center where it converts it and sends the programs to a satellite in the sky.

Dish Network provides more than 350 channels to choose from in their programming selections. These also include 60 Sirius satellite radio channels. They have offers starting as low as $19.99 a month. They also offer their dish, receivers, and professional installation free with the purchase of a program package.

America's number one customer rated satellite provider is DirecTV with more than 15 million subscribers in the US. They begin their pricing for standard packages at $29.99 per month. They too offer their satellite dish and receiver along with professional installation for free with a subscription.

For those who want to pay the extra money for an all Christian broadcasting service then they can opt for Sky Angel. They currently provide 20 satellite channels and 16 satellite radio channels. They system can sun you $150 for one dish, one receiver, and one remote. They also charge for the professional installation which can run you anywhere from $99 to $199.

If you are looking for high quality and quantity programming options you should go with satellite TV. You will be getting better quality viewing with more than double the channels for less than cable providers can offer. The satellite TV industry has become extremely competitive giving their customers low prices and great customer service. If you compare either big satellite TV provider to any cable company you will be able to make a decision quickly based on the facts alone.



Written by David Johnson. Find more information on Direct TV as well as Directv.