Satellite TV: The Basics
To help you get the basics, we've developed a few quick facts about satellite television:
- Satellite TV signals are uploaded by the service provider to a communication satellite that is in a fixed orbit above the earth. These signals are electronically scrambled by the provider, then unscrambled by their company-authorized equipment (receiving dishes and descramblers).
- Rural areas and those without cable service are still able to receive satellite television service.
- For best reception, the homeowner's receiving dish must have a clear line of sight to the satellite in orbit above the Earth. This means that the area surrounding a receiving dish should be free from trees, plants, structures, etc.
- Mountainous terrains, heavy rains and snowfall can be problematic, as can atmospheric conditions between the satellite and the receiving dish.
- Satellite TV channels are 100 percent digital quality.
For additional information about satellite TV, visit FCC.gov.
Signing up for Satellite Television Service
DIRECTV and DISH Network are the country's primary satellite television providers — and at WhiteFence, you can sign up for services from both. To compare the latest satellite TV packages and shop the options available, just enter your address above and you'll find everything you need to get started!
