What does it mean when my TV says searching for signal on my DirecTV receiver?
There are several reasons that could cause this message. A heavy thunderstorm could cause this message to occur. If the weather is good then there is either a problem with the receiver, the dish LNB, the cable between the receiver and LNB, tree branches blocking the dish, or the dish is not pointed correctly
Why does light rain not affect my picture but a thunderstorm can cause my signal to go out?
The signal from the satellite which is 22,300 miles above the equator can make it to your dish in a light rain but in a thunderstorm the heavy rain drops prevent the satellite signals from reaching your satellite antenna.
Can I connect the satellite box to more than one TV?
You can connect the satellite receiver to as many TVs as you want but they will all be watching the same channel.
If I do connect my satellite receiver to more than one TV, can I change channels from the 2nd TV?
Yes, some satellite receivers come with a remote control that operates through walls or you can add an infrared extender to your infrared basic remote control.
Can I connect my HD satellite box to the four TVs I have in the house?
Yes, you can connect the HD box to all four TVs but only the TV next to the receiver will be HD.
Can the satellite remote control also operate my TV and stereo?
Most satellite remote controls can be programmed to operate the TV and most stereos.
I have an 18-inch DirecTV dish with four receivers but I want to replace one box with a HD DVR
recorder. What do I need to do to accomplish this?
You need to replace the 18-inch dish with a new 5-sat HD satellite antenna and add an 6X8 high definition multi/switch because the new receiver needs two cables from the dish.
What is a Fta satellite system?
There are many satellites sending their signals to the United States. Many of these channels are foreign programming and many of the channels are free, no charge.
How big of a dish do I need to get Fta channels?
Most of these channels require a 30 to 36-inch dish.
If I have a Fta dish pointing at a satellite. How can I point it at other satellites as well?
You will need to add a motor to the dish and then program the receiver to add the new satellites.
Can I place my satellite dish anywhere on my property?
In general, a satellite dish that is 1 meter (39.37 inches) or less may be installed on an area that you own or where you have exclusive use. There are some restrictions that apply.
What is the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act of 1999?
The Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act of 1999 ("SHVIA") significantly modifies the Satellite Home Viewer Act of 1988, the Communications Act and the U.S. Copyright Act. SHVIA is designed to promote competition among multichannel video programming distributors, such as satellite companies and cable television operators, while at the same time increasing the programming choices available to consumers.
How does SHVIA affect the programming that is available to persons who subscribe to satellite TV service?
SHVIA permits satellite companies to provide local broadcast TV signals to all subscribers who reside in the local TV station’s market (also referred to as a Designated Market Area ("DMA")), as defined by Nielsen Media Research. This ability to provide local broadcast channels is commonly referred to as "local into local" service. SHVIA also permits satellite companies to provide "distant" network broadcast stations to eligible satellite subscribers.
Must a satellite company provide local channels to any subscriber who wants the channels?
No. The satellite company has the option of providing local-into-local service, but is not required to do so. Some satellite companies are already providing this service in selected markets. Subscribers should contact their satellite company to determine whether and when the service will be available in their specific DMA and which DMA applies to them.
