DirecTV and DISH Network ? How Do The Two Leading Satellite TV Providers Stack Up?
If you live in the U.S. and want satellite TV systems, you have basically two choices.
Yes, there are other providers out there, but for most viewers, DirecTV and DISH Network offer the most choices for the least money, although Pegasus and Voom are fast becoming major contenders in the satellite television industry.
Competition being what it is, both DirecTV and DISH Network offer similar services and constantly adjust to add features and outdo their rivals.
So how do you choose between the two?
A side-by-side comparison of the services and prices shows some differences that help customers decide which service best fits their viewing needs.
But first, a little background on each provider might be helpful.DirecTVThe company known as The DirecTV Group is made up of four main units, which include DirecTV U.S., DirecTV Latin America, PanAmSat, and Hughes Network Systems (HNS).
As a group, the organization serves over 12 million U.S. satellite TV customers and another 1.5 million subscribers in Latin countries.
Through PanAmSat, they operate a fleet of 25 satellites capable of providing satellite transmissions to 98% of the world.
And Hughes Network Systems operates a satellite-based consumer broadband Internet access service known as DirecWay.
This component of Hughes has over 180,000 subscribers.
HNS is also one of the largest manufacturers of DirecTV set-top receivers.
The four different aspects of The DirecTV Group give the company a large, comprehensive base of direct and indirect satellite customers.
Their partnerships with technology leaders such as AOL, Microsoft, and TiVo also add to their customer base.There are plans for improving and expanding services in efforts to attract more customers.
Hughes Network Services is developing SPACEWAY, a more advanced satellite broadband communications package that is expected to provide customers with more affordable high-speed, two-way data communications.
SPACEWAY is expected to be introduced in 2005.DirecTV has been actively working to increase the number of markets where they offer local programming.
In January of this year, the company added 18 new markets that will receive local channels via the DirecTV(R) programming service.
By year-end, the company plans to offer local channels in a minimum of 130 markets, representing 92% of U.S. television households.
Continued marketing and development of their HDTV and DVR products will also be a part of their plans to expand their customer base.
Two different basic dish designs and several different manufacturers provide DirecTV consumers with a number of dish options.DirecTV subscribers have a choice of two basic dish designs for their satellite service.
The round dish is the more common 18" design that has been popular across the country.
The oval dish or low noise blockdown (LNB) dish is able to receive information from more than one satellite and is required for those who want to receive local channels, HDTV, or Spanish language programming.Popular manufacturers of DirecTV compatible dishes include Hughes, Sony, Phillips, and RCA.
Current DirecTV sales and deals offer the satellite dish and other equipment for free with a one-year commitment.
It could cost anywhere from $50 to over $200 to purchase the DirecTV compatible dish separately.DISH NetworkEchoStar Communications Corporation and their DISH Network service are Hughes Network's top competitors.
Headquartered in Englewood Colorado, EchoStar has been a leader in the satellite TV industry for over 20 years.
The company, founded by Charlie Ergen, began as a distributor of C-band cable television systems and filed for a Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) license in 1987.
The company received broadcast access in 1992, launched its own satellite, EchoStar I, in 1995, and introduced DISH Network in 1996.Today, the company has 9 satellites, and through DISH Network, provides over 500 channels of video, audio, and data satellite services to over 8.5 million customers in the U.S.
In addition to satellite television services, DISH Network customers can also receive high speed Internet, Interactive TV (on demand programming), and High Definition TV (HDTV).HDTV is EchoStar's latest innovation, which reportedly delivers extraordinarily sharp pictures and integrated sound by digitizing television programming.
Broadcasting all DISH Network programming in wide-screen format and transmitting up to 10 percent more pixels, HDTV provides a clearer more proportionate picture.In August of 2003, EchoStar was the first company to offer a satellite receiver with a built-in digital video recorder (DVR).
A DISH Network standard DVR receiver allows viewers to stop, rewind, fast forward and record up to 60 hours of live TV programming.
More advanced receivers provide enhanced services.DISH Network services can be purchased on-line or through a local retailer.
Unlike its competitor, DirecTV, DISH Network offers equipment installation.
This service usually involves a fee, but often is offered at free or reduced rates through special sales promotions.The equipment needed for DISH Network satellite TV is basically the same as for DirecTV service.
You need a dish, a satellite receiver, and the access cards.
Depending on the type of satellite TV you want, you have several choices for equipment.
Whether you want standard satellite TV or Digital Video Recording (DVR), or High Definition (HD) options, you will need a dish.
Each type of service requires a different dish, but that is determined for you when you choose your package.A ComparisonSo how do the two leading satellite television services compare?
Both offer over 200 channels and Pay Per View selections, DVD recorders, HDTV and seven HD channels each.
But from there, things differ somewhat.
Here's a side-by-side listing of the different packages and the services provided.
Look them over and decide which satellite TV service is best for your budget and viewing needs.DIRECTVFree receivers included with price planHDTV Receiver:$399Dish includedLowest price plan: $36.99 per monthHighest price plan: $87.99 per monthSatellite Internet: YesDISH NetworkReceivers are free to $149 depending on selectionHDTV receiver: $449Dish inludedLowest price plan: $24.99 per monthHighest price plan: $77.99 per monthSatellite internet: No.
C.J. Gustafson is a successful freelance writer for http://www.1st-Dish-TV.netShe frequently writes on topics such as satellite TV and car audio accessories. She vows her next car will come with a factory installed satellite radio.Copyright 2004 1st-Dish-TV.net
Free Satellite TV -- Is It Really Free?
You've seen the online and offline ads -- "Free satellite TV!" "Get a 4-room Satellite TV System Free!" and "Satellite TV Dish and Receivers Absolutely Free!"But is satellite TV really free?The answer to that question is yes ... and no.Yes, the equipment you get -- the satellite TV dish and satellite TV receiver -- is free. But no, the programming service will cost you money.Let's examine the facts.Due to the demise of Pegasus and Voom, there are only two major satellite TV providers in the USA -- Dish Network and DirecTV. Dish Network Satellite TV ServiceWhen you order a free satellite TV system from Dish Network, you will be asked to pay a $49.99 activation fee. This fee will be credited to your programming bill, so in essence, your satellite TV system is free.
Installation of your satellite TV system is also free.With Dish Network you have the option to upgrade to a DVR (digital video recording) receiver, or an HDTV (high definition TV) receiver at no charge.Dish Network programming...
Free Satellite TV -- Is It Really Free?
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Digital Video Recorders for Security and Information
Digital video recorders (DVRs) are more than toys in our crime infested world. They are a necessary tool for security. In conjunction with CCTV cameras you can record everything that happens in your business 24 hours a day. The days of wondering what is going on in your
other facility are gone.
Using the internet, your business is under your control, 24/7/365. Using your DVR, now you simply open internet explorer, type in your IP address, input the proper username and password and you are remotely viewing a live video feed from your business.
The benefits of digital video recorders are obvious.
Remote viewing is being used more and more in the security industry as people become busier, traffic becomes heavier and the hours that business remains open is lengthening. You can be on vacation in the Bahamas or Mexico and still look in on your business whenever you want.
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Dishsource.net ? the Satellite Dish Network Provider with 256 Digital Channels
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Digitech Introduces a 32-Channel Version of its Popular DigiView(tm) Digital Recording System
(ContentDesk) November 21, 2005 -- Known for its continuing stream of fresh technology for security applications, Digitech International now expands its lineup of digital video recorders with a device that handles up to 32 separate camera signals for display and recording. The DigiView(tm) Digital Recording System, first introduced almost a decade ago, serves as the heart of a video surveillance system, complementing the DigiView Plus(tm) series of security cameras."In today's marketplace, owners must protect themselves from liabilities on their own property," says Randy Johnston, Director of Business Development. "Displayed on the large, beautiful flat screen monitors that have now become affordable, the multiple camera images also help build the high security look that appeals to tenants and prospects. By using a large monitor and the 32-Channel DigiView(tm), the security display can cover more of the site and still give management a quick overview by glancing over a single monitor....
Digitech Introduces a 32-Channel Version of its Popular DigiView(tm) Digital Recording System
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Television on Your Schedule with a Digital Video Recorder (DVR)
The introduction of the VCR changed so much for the television viewer. Before the introduction of the VCR, you had to watch the show when it was broadcast by the network ? that was your only option. If you recorded your favorite show, you were able to watch it when you wanted to ? and as many times as you wanted to. All you needed was a blank video tape and a VCR. That has all changed with the DVR.A DVR, or Digital Video Recorder, is technology that takes all the great features of a VCR and places it in the digital age.
Instead of multiple tapes, you have a single hard drive. Instead of degrading tape quality issues, shows are now recorded digitally that can last forever. Instead of programming a VCR through a complicated interface of tiny buttons on a remote control, you can program your DVR through a simple point and click interface, possibly even from your home computer.In addition to the ability to watch your shows whenever you want to, there is another benefit to the DVR...
Television on Your Schedule with a Digital Video Recorder (DVR)
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Best Satellite TV Offer -- DIRECTV or DISH Network?
Best Satellite TV Offer
Due to the fierce competition between DISH Network and DIRECTV, both providers are promoting satellite TV offers that include free equipment, free installation, and free HD and DVR receivers in order to get your business. In addition they're also offering cheap introductory programming rates.
Here's a rundown on what DISH Network and DIRECTV have to offer ...
Best Equipment Offer
DISH Network
Acquiring a complete satellite system from DISH Network won't cost you a penny.
They're currently giving away everything you need to receive DISH Network programming ?- the dish, up to four receivers, and remote controls.
In addition, DISH Network is offering their HD (high definition) receivers and DVR (digital video recording) receivers free of charge too.
Installation also is free, and you can have a system installed in as little as 24...
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DVR software
DVR software refers to the set of computer programs and applications which allow a computer to recognize a DVR card installed in a computer. Depending on the utility, there is much DVR related software available in the market. DVR software has evolved in the last few years and is now supporting surveillance work in many organizations and homes around the world.
DVR software works together with installed DVR cards. The software provides functions such as conversion of video images to files, video compression, controlling the movement of the camera, display and playback. In a stand alone DVR, the integrated circuits present inside the DVR card itself has the DVR software embedded within it.
The hardware and software in this case are configured to ensure optimal performance and the scope of conflict is reduced.
DVR operates in association with a computer, and the software is often present inside the computer. In this case, upgrades are easy, as newer versions...
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DISH Network Free Satellite TV Installation Guide
DISH Network Satellite TV Installation
Before you begin the satellite TV installation you need to determine where the best place is to mount the satellite dish. You need to have an unobstructed view of the southern sky, and the dish can be mounted on your roof, on the side of your home, on a porch, or even in your yard.
Note: If you live in an apartment or condo, or you have a strict home owner's association, you may need permission to mount your satellite dish on the outside of your home.
Once the dish is mounted the next step is routing the cable from the dish to the locations in your home where the satellite TV receivers will be placed. If your home is large, or the space between the walls is filled, this may take some time.
After the cable has been installed it is attached to the receivers and the receivers are then connected to your TVs.
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Panasonic GD87 lcd,GD50 lcd,GD93 lcd
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Home Generators
Home generators are designed to provide electricity in times of power shortages or failures for a short duration of time. Home generators not only light up the house in case of power outages but also, depending on their capacity, provide power to run appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators, furnaces, television and heaters.
Home generators are available in two types: portable and stationery or standby generators. In times of power shortages or disruption of power, small portable...
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Weight Loss Diets with Negative Calorie Foods
Negative calorie foods are said to use more calories to digest than the calorie content of the foods themselves, resulting in a negative calorie balance. It is therefore natural to consider a diet containing these foods for weight loss.A diet is a combination of a balanced selection of foods designed for medical or nutritional reasons. A good diet should include all major food groups. The weight loss diets (with or without negative calorie foods) are made to reduce body fat and weight. Some of...
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What's Cooking?
Pima Medical Institute, 957 S. Dobson Road in Mesa has announced their fundraising cookbook, Favorite Recipes ? A Collection From The Pima Medical Institute Family, is available for purchase. The cookbook is $12 for one or $10 for two or more. All proceeds benefit PMI's Student Food Bank.???? The cookbooks are available on campus and can be purchased by contacting Tracy Cotton or Fredonna Newton at 480-644-0267. The recipes range from family favorites that have been passed down for generations,...
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Candles, rose petals, satin, succulent foods, perfume?you're probably already familiar with all of these time-honored ingredients for creating a romantic mood on your honeymoon. But candles, rose petals, and other sensual ingredients only go so far. The real key to creating a romantic honeymoon is to spend time celebrating your relationship and your new life together as a married couple. After all, romance is more about the heart than the body.That doesn't mean you should put the candles away...
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