DirecTV Vs. AT&T UVerse

by Alexis Lawrence, Demand Media

DirecTV and AT&T; U-verse are both systems that provide you with the necessary tools to view and record an incoming television signal. Though both of these systems have most of the same features, there are some major differences between DirecTV and AT&T; U-verse as well.

Connecting

One of the main differences between DirecTV and AT&T; U-verse is where the systems obtain their signals. DirecTV is a satellite television company that requires the installation of a satellite receiver at your location. AT&T; U-verse, on the other hand, is a cable system that gets its signal from a cable outlet in your home.

Regional Availability

When it comes to availability of the service, a wide discrepancy exists between DirecTV and AT&T; U-verse as well. As of July 2011, AT&T; U-verse is available in only select regions of the U.S., mostly cities. A DirecTV signal, on the other hand, can be accessed from nearly any location in the United States as long as the receiver has access to the satellite.

Recording Capability

A DVR through either DirecTV or AT&T; U-verse has the ability to record the television signal for playback at a later time. Like most other DVRs, DirecTV has the ability to record two programs at one time. AT&T; U-verse, on the other hand, has the ability to record up to four programs at a time.

Controlling the DVR

DVRs for both DirecTV and AT&T; U-verse are controlled in the same basic way. Programs can be played, stopped, rewound and fast-forwarded using the buttons on the remote. You can begin recording a program by pressing the record button while watching the show or set series recordings through the unit guide, which is accessed using the "Guide" button.

References

  • DirecTV: DirecTV vs the Competition
  • AT&T; U-verse

About the Author

Alexis Lawrence is a freelance writer, filmmaker and photographer with extensive experience in digital video, book publishing and graphic design. An avid traveler, Lawrence has visited at least 10 cities on each inhabitable continent. She has attended several universities and holds a Bachelor of Science in English.