DirecTV is a leading direct broadcast satellite (DBS) service based in the USA. With over 250 programming channels in its kitty and still growing, DirecTV caters to a large number of households in the USA, Caribbean and Latin America covering over 16 million households.

What Is DBS?

The acronym DBS stands for Direct Broadcast Satellite. DBS is satellite television broadcasts intended for home service. Satellite television is delivered by way of communication satellites as compared to cable television which provides television via radio frequency signals transmitted through optic fibers or coaxial cables.

Is DBS Preferable To Cable TV?

Not necessarily. The choice depends on an individual's preference. The following factors are weighed before making the final choice.

• Fees

• Programming

• Equipment

• Installation

• Reliability and Service

Then Why Go For DirecTV offer?

DirecTV offer claims the following advantages on their packages:

• A much larger program base for the offered fees.

• Nearly 250 programs which is way beyond what a cable TV company can offer.

• On each package, offer of a free satellite TV dish, a free receiver system and a free HD (high definition) receiver. Cable TV companies charge extra for a separate DVR (digital video recorder).

• An outage rate of only 1% compared to 3 %- 5 % for cable TV.

• Free installation service and guidance to operation. Cable operators charge extra for installation.

Salient Features Of DirecTV Offer

Package 1; Cost-$39.99/mo

• Over 150 channels

• HD access with extra charge

• Free installation of up to four receivers

• Free HD upgrade

Package 2; Cost- $44.99/mo

• Over 200 channels

• HD access at extra charge

• Free installation of up to four receivers

• Free HD upgrade

Package 3; Cost- $49.99/mo

• Over 200 channels

• DVR service included

• HD access with extra charge

• Free installation of up to four receivers

What Is HD?

HD refers to HDTV (high-definition television). This is a digital television broadcasting system with a significantly higher resolution than traditional systems. HDTV is broadcast digitally and hence has superior picture quality. DirecTV offers access to HDTV with an additional payment of $9.99 per month.

A Final Word

Cable television companies these days provide high speed internet, telephone services and television in one package. This is one significant plus feature of broadcasting via optic fiber cables. The combination of TV, telephony and internet access is called triple play. Many households find this combination advantageous.

Statistics however indicate people's strong preference for DBS. DirecTV and Dish TV are the major players in this field. At present DirecTV offer seems to have an edge.