How Satellite TV Works

Is Satellite TV Right for You?

Decisions, Decisions...How Does Satellite TV Work, and Is It Right for You?

With the cost of cable television constantly on the rise, more and more people are making the switch from cable to satellite. Perhaps you are one of those people who are at least considering it. Of course the obvious question is: "Do I really want to go with satellite instead of cable?" The satellite companies will tell you, "Of course you do!" The cable companies will tell you, "Oh no! You don't want to do that!" And each will give you horror stories about the other. Sometimes the best way to make an informed decision is simply by understanding how something works. Once you see how satellite TV works, you can decide for yourself if it will work for you. 

Satellite TV In the beginning...

Satellite dishes have come a long way since the days of huge antennas. Back then, the average antenna was twice the size of a picnic table umbrella and something only the most diehard television fan would dare use. One big advantage of the old satellite system was that it gave viewers a glimpse of a lot of things that broadcasters didn't want people to see. Back then, dish users could watch live feed between broadcast stations, and unguarded "off-camera" moments during commercial breaks. Thanks to advancements in technology, the old days of satellite TV are over. You can't watch the unguarded moments anymore, but then again you don't have to set aside a huge part of your yard for a monster antenna anymore, either. Today, the average satellite antenna is no more than 18 inches across and can be mounted almost anywhere. Satellite TV is also much easier to use. It's no more difficult than a cable TV hookup, and often much cheaper. 

Satellite Dish Anatomy