DishMinnesota.com is NOT a dealer we are an information site to help educate you and find you  the best deals!

Home

 

Satellite TV

 FAQ

 

Direct TV
 
Dish Network
 
Other Info

Local Channels

 

Best Deals

Dish Network

Direct TV
 
Accessories
 

DIRECTV by RapidSatellite.com

DISH Network by DishPronto

© 2004 Lakeweb1 Internet Services


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)


FREE DIRECTV MultiRoom System

DISH Network by DishPronto

FREE 4 Room DIRECTV Satellite TV System Installed

3 Months free!

banner12

 

What is Satellite TV?

Satellite TV, more correctly known as Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS), is a service enabling the subscriber to receive subscription television from a highpowered satellites orbiting the earth above the Equator. It is therefore very similar to cable in that you receive all of your programming from a single provider, but the signal comes from the sky rather than through a cable system by conventional cable TV.

DBS uses a small 18 to 24 inch circular or oval shaped antenna that looks like a large dish,  hence the name 'dish'. Do not confuse DBS with the oldfashioned Cband satellite dishes popular in the 80's and 90's, which were often 8 to 14 FEET in diameter.


Some Advantages of Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS)

Choice
More choice for us consumers! DBS introduced an important aspect competition   to the monopoly cable companies once had:  Until recently, your only choice was your local cable company, and their monopoly allowed them to raise rates as they saw fit.

More channels
As a general rule, you will get more channels per dollar spent with a satellite service than with cable TV. Dish Network now offers over 500! See the programming section below for details of channels available.

Rural and mobile availability
Satellite DBS service is now available anywhere in the 50 states as long as there is a clear line of sight to the position of the satellite in the sky, and their are mobile (portable) systems available that allow you clear TV reception anywhere in the country in your RV or semi!

Digital picture & sound
Satellite signals are digital, and like a compact disc, are not subject to depreciation in picture or sound quality. Satellite TV generally looks and sounds far superior to cable. Cable TV generally uses analog, which is subject to interference.


Who are the Main Satellite Service Providers?

There are two primary competing services  
  • Dish Network
  • DirecTV

These services offer many of the same channels (see the next question for what channels are offered by each service), and each of these services hardware is sold by thousands of companies costtocoast.  DishMinnesota.com is here to help you find the best prices from the most reliable dealers!


What programming is available?

Several programming levels are available from each service:

Programming Comparison Dish Network and DirecTV


What are the monthly costs after the introductory period?

The costs vary but are very competitive with local cable TV services. Click below for the regular rates from each of the two services (apply after your introductory period ends):

Dish Network Programming Prices DirecTV Programming Prices


What are the 'catches' on these deals?

See each retailer's offers for specifics, but generally the only requirements are that you be a new Dish Network or DirecTV customer, activate your service within 30 days of receiving your equipment, and maintain a specific level of service for 12 months.  Not bad considered you are getting hundreds of dollars worth of equipment absolutely free, free installation, better quality and more channels than cable!

Where can I get the best deals on equipment?

For our recommended best deals, click below:

Best Dish Network Deals Best DirecTV Deals


Are these Minnesotaonly deals?

Absolutely not! These prices and features apply to anywhere in the lower 48 states.  In Alaska and Hawaii, the number of channels provided and the antenna size required may vary contact one of the retailers on this site for additional information. 


3 Months Free!

 

   

Visit These Other Great Minnesotan Websites:

Minnecam.com
The Minnesota Webcam Directory 
See Live Minnesotan Webcams!

ShopMpls.com
Your Complete Guide to Online Shopping in Minnesota and the Midwest
If you can't find it here, you don't need it!

MinnesotaSports.com
Minnesota Pro Sports Collectibles and Memorabilia
Great for Gifts!

CasinosMinnesota.com
The Gambling Guide for Minnesota and the World!
Complete listing of all Upper Midwest Casinos!

TCMetro.com
The Untangled Guide to the Twin Cities Web

Itascaweb.com
Complete Guide to Grand Rapids and Itasca County

Land of 1000 Lakes

Lakeweb1.com
Web Design and Hosting

Affordable Internet Advertising that Works!