Considerations Before Getting Satellite TV - By: Janelle Elizabeth

While almost all households are set up for cable TV, there is a technologically advanced phenomenon - Direct Broadcaste Satellite TV (DBS) that is growing daily.

DBS is more simply referred to as Satellite TV these days, and is proving to be the biggest television breakthrough since Cable.

With newer technologies in satellite broadcast being developed, it may very well be cable's top future competitor.

There are two sides to satellite TV that you should consider before cutting your ties with your cable provider.

Here are some advantages and disadvantages of satellite TV:

Advantages of Satellite TV

* High-quality audio and picture display. Satellite TV transmits high-quality digital data with the use of MPEG-2 or MPEG-4 compression. MPEG-4 is also known for providing high-definition video streams to computers, cellular phones and PDAs or personal digital assistants. Think crisp and clear and you have Satellite TV.

* Access to hundreds of channels worldwide. Satellite TV providers obtain their line-up of shows from both turnaround channels like HBO, ESPN and CNN as well as from numerous local channels like ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and PBS.

The ability to receive and send broadcast signals using satellite technology increases the possibilities of gaining access to channels from other countries that utilize similar technology for broadcasting. So you are not restricted to the channels on cable networks.

* Choice of programs. A number of unique channel packages are there for the choosing by satellite TV subscribers. You can discard the channels you don't want and select the ones you do.

* Wider geographical coverage. Because of the wider reach of satellite technology, Satellite TV is readily available in far flung areas where cable operators can't reach.

* Parental lock-out options. It takes the worry out of parents concerned at what their kids are watching while they are out. Most Satellite TV receivers are now able to block certain channels from a television set.

* WebTV option. Because Internet data can also be transmitted wirelessly, your Satellite TV can also receive Internet service from your TV set. Satellite TV is the answer if you are looking for an integrated television and internet set up. A fast internet connection can be combined with your satellite TV service.

* Digital video recorders. With some satellite TV receivers, you can record shows directly to a hard drive for play back later.

Disadvantages of Satellite TV

* Initial investment. The receiver and satellite dish can be expensive. You'll want to compare prices of various sources before you settle with the right one.

* Multiple TV sets require multiple receivers. A separate receiver for each TV is needed, making it very expensive if you have, like most, more than one TV in your home.

* Can malfunction in bad weather. Since the satellite dish is usually located outdoors, it becomes susceptible to malfunction as a result of weather conditions like snow, very strong winds and lightning. This can be prevented by making sure you get a quality product to begin with.

* Installation required. Of course, its possible to install satellite TV equipment yourself, the provider's technical support team can do the job for you.

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