Features to look for in a Satellite TV Dish and receiver

In the USA and Canada there are 2 main direct-to-home satellite TV competitors in each country. DirecTV and DISH Network do business in the states while in Canada its ExpressVU versus StarChoice.

For the most part a single satellite TV dish used with any of these 4 systems is interchangeable while the multi satellite dishes are not. (An LNB (low-noise-block-down-converter) provides outputs for one or two receivers. For installations with more than 2 receivers a multi-switch splitter is used with a dual output LNB to provide 4 or more outputs.)

A single satellite dish from DISH Network will work on DirecTV for example, provided it's aimed at the correct "bird". Typically, single satellite TV dishes are 18 inches oval or round while multi satellite dishes are 24 inches round or elliptical. Multi dish setups have the advantage of receiving signals from two (or more) locations in space with one parabolic dish.

DirecTV offers over 15 receiver models branded Sony, Hughes and RCA. DISH Network receivers are branded Philips, Magnovox, JVC and EchoStar. These receivers are not interchangeable between the two USA services However, most older DISH Network receivers will work on ExpressVU and visa-versa (but may not be subscribed as such).

All 4 service providers sell receivers and dishes as part of one package or individually.

All Satellite TV receivers have the following features:

Crystal clear picture and CD quality sound

On-screen programming guide

Software upgraded over-the-air by satellite

V-chip technology allows adults to block program choices

Page at a time scrolling in program guide

Favorites lists

S-video output, composite video output and stereo audio output

Display music title and song information on music channel

Hardware parts can be purchased separately

Additional features found in certain models of Satellite TV Dishes:

Infrared dedicated remote control

Infrared 4 component universal remote

Dolby digital optical output

Single or dual LNB for more than one receiver/TV hookup

Timers for VCR to record

Capability to receive standard or other programming

Combination satellite TV receiver/DVD/CD player

Sizes of Satellite Dishes range from 18 inch to 24 inch

Multiple satellite capability

Circular or Elliptical dishes

IR remote or UHF remote

In addition all 4 services offer HDTV programming and include HDTV receivers in their respective product lineup.