The service is available to anyone in the continental United States (and with a larger dish, Alaska).
Where does the 18-inch dish need to be located?
The dish can be positioned anywhere it can "see" the satellites orbiting the Earth. (The dish requires an unobstructed view of the southern sky.)
Where can I purchase the DIRECTV ® system and how much does it cost?
Most consumer electronics stores sell the DIRECTV® system from a variety of suppliers. The price of a dish has dropped markedly since it was first introduced and now retails for $200 or less. Programming and installation costs are additional.
Can I receive my local channels, and do I still need cable?
To receive your local off-air channels, you will need either an off-air antenna or a basic local cable feed. The major networks are available to the DIRECTV® system subscribers who cannot get local stations via an off-air antenna. Some dishes, such as RCA's new models, come with built-in off-air antennas for more convenient reception.
What are the advantages over cable?
The major advantages over cable are picture quality, and a greater choice in the number of channels and variety of programming for lower programming fees (although that does depend on the programming package you choose). Since the DIRECTV® system channels are delivered digitally, picture quality is comparable to laserdisc or DVD. Sound quality, including surround sound, is as good as compact audio disc. There is greater variety of pay-per-view movies and events. Some sports packages such as NFL Sunday Ticket are not available on cable.
Can I install the system myself?
That depends on how mechanically inclined you are. If you would be able to install a garage door opener, you would most likely be able to install your the digital satellite system. Professional installation is available.
Where do I buy the programming?
DIRECTV (1-800-DIRECTV)
What channels are available?
Currently there are 220 channels available on the DIRECTV ® system which provide a broad variety of programming, including movies, sports, variety, news, network television shows, and pay-per-view.
Is the DIRECTV ® system compatible with my other audio/video components?
Yes. The DIRECTV® system's incredible picture and sound quality are ideal for a home theater.
Does the DIRECTV® system provide surround sound and closed captioning?
Yes. The DIRECTV® system delivers for surround sound and provides closed captioning. In some cases, alternate audio is available. Alternate audio is a secondary soundtrack to a program that is typically in Spanish but can also be in other languages or another form of narration.
Does the DIRECTV® system offer Pay-Per-View and Sports packages?
Yes. There are more than 60 channels of pay-per-view movies and an unrivaled collection of sports packages.
Can I connect more than one TV in my home to the DIRECTV® system?
Yes. But in order to watch different channels on different TVs, you need a second receiver. A receiver can only be tuned to one channel at a time.
What is the future of the DIRECTV® system?
Look for interactive services, greater selection of programming and one of the first sources of HDTV in the United States. (HDTV debuted in August on HBO and expects to add a pay-per-view channel later this year.) Also in the future is high speed access to the Internet through the DIRECTV® receiver.
