How Satellite TV service works
Satellite TV technology makes use of specialized antennas known as satellite dishes. These satellite dishes transmit signals to a satellite receiver such as a set-top box or satellite
tuner module within a TV set. The programming source transmits signals to a satellite provider broadcast center and these waves are then picked up by a compact satellite dish and broadcast onto television sets.
Overview of Satellite TV Video Content Delivery
Satellite TV service can also be referred to as direct-broadcast satellite (DBS or DBSTV) service. A DBS provider will select programming—often a wide range of channels and services—and will then broadcast this content to satellite TV subscribers as part of a larger TV package. DBS programming can either be sent to a digital satellite receiver or an analog satellite receiver. Analog satellite television is slowly being replaced by digital satellite programming.sup> Digital satellite television has become increasingly available in better quality known as HD TV (high-definition television). Digitally-broadcast content is characterized by greater picture and sound quality.
Satellite stations and broadcast television stations both transmit TV programming through radio signals. Years ago, the first satellite television TV technologies were broadcast in the C-band radio frequency range. Today, digital satellite TV content is transmitted in the Ku frequency range.
AVAILABILITY
Satellite TV providers primarily service subscriber homes that have an unobstructed view of the sky, which allows for continual network coverage and uninterrupted connection via an antenna and satellite dish. Cable TV programming is available in neighborhoods where a provider can run a cable into homes. You can contact your satellite provider or satellite company directly with questions about service availability in your region.
RELIABILITY AND RECEPTION
If a satellite dish or antenna is knocked out of place by inclement weather, homeowners may need to climb a roof to adjust these settings
ONLINE STREAMING SERVICE
If you are interested in streaming live TV and watching video content online, you may want to carefully review package details to ensure you sign on with a provider—whether Internet, cable or satellite—that offers a wide array of live TV streaming content, both in-home and on-the-go. Do you want to stream your favorite TV shows and movies online or would you prefer to watch live TV on your mobile devices?
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Customers may have the opportunity to rank their satellite or cable companies through surveys and online questionnaires. Experts, industry peers and market research companies may also release service and support rankings to the general public.