Saturday, February 14, 2009
Dish Network DISH311 Receiver Review
Dish Networks’ DISH311 receiver is Dish Network’s feature rich single TV satellite TV receiver, offering benefits that include a 2 day EPG (Electronic Programming Guide) and takes advantage of Dish Networks advanced Dish Home Interactive TV features.
Many of the technologies we use everyday are changing so rapidly it’s hard for the hardware to keep up. Satellite TV is no different, while the DISH311 is the entry level single TV satellite TV Tuner; it’s still an impressive and capable piece of hardware.
The Low Down on the Receiver
The Dish Network DISH311 is a very capable piece of technology. The bargain basement price will help you overlook a few shortcomings. The digital audio and video from the DISH311 is excellent and while it’s not HD, the 311 delivers vivid colors and realistically eerie sound quality well above the entry level cable or antenna connection. Dish has moved to an internal smart card, but kept the empty slot in the front for future use. Its rugged black case is easy to care for and fits in with a décor.
Technical Characteristics
When you order Dish Network, the DISH311 is one of the receivers you can choose to have installed. You will be able to hook up one TV and watch any of the standard programming packages (HD packages require an HD Receiver). Dish Network has made it simple and easy to use. The 311 is straightforward and doesn’t make simple tasks complicated.
One button access to the On Screen Electronic Programming Guide, use the remote to scan or page through 2 days of TV listings and information, Search for programming and add it to your favorites list, set “closed captioning”, Parental control locks, automatic and manual event timers, The remote makes operating the receiver child’s play.
As you can expect the Dish Network DISH311 has RCA type audio/video outputs to connect to your home theater system. One S-video output, 1 RF modulated output (Channel 3/4), One TV antenna/cable TV input and a telephone jack for the 2400 baud modem that will allow you to order pay-per-view.
You’ll be impressed with the clear sound and crisp video, this is the best picture and sound your going to get without upgrading to High Def.
Summary of the Dish Network DISH311
The 311 delivers unmatched performance in a no-nonsense rugged case that fits in with any décor. It is straightforward and amazingly simple to use. Its vivid colors and realistic sound quality perform well above the entry level cable or antenna connection. The remote makes operating the tuner as easy as child’s play. Its bargain basement price makes this receiver a real steal. We rate the Dish Network DISH311 receiver a Good Buy.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Dish Network FAQ
How do I get dish network satellite tv? To get our Free promotions you must be a first time Subscriber. This means you or your household must have never had Dish Network at any time in the past.
Second, you must have a credit card even if you are ordering a free dish network system. Your retailer will charge your credit card $49.99, if you agree to the 18 month commitment this is credited in full on your first bill, making this offer free! Once your order is approved, your free installation is scheduled. The installer will bring all your equipment out. Installation generally happens within 1-7 days. Installation available on weekends.
Dish Network FAQ: What is the current promotion or offer?
For the most current dish network offer please Click here
What is a FREE Dish Network Satellite TV Installation
When will my Dish Network system get installed?
Since dish network installation schedules change daily and by the area you are located in, we can only give you an estimate of how long it would take to get scheduled. This is usually about 1-7 days from when you place your order. To get an exact date, you will have to place an order to access the installation scheduling.
What happens if Dish Network system cannot get it installed or change my mind?
Just contact your dish network retailer and your $49.99 will be refunded in full with absolutely no penalty or commitment.
What is covered in Dish Network's Basic Professional Installation?
A Basic dish network installation includes:
Assembly dish antenna & mount
Grounding of system component
System peaking
Installation of your receivers
Hook-up of your receivers to televisions
Testing of equipment for proper operation
Customer orientation
90-day warranty
Dish Network FAQ: I live in an Apartment or Condo Can I Get Dish Network
Dish Network signal requires the installation of an outdoor dish pointed to the southern sky. If you live in an apartment or condo, you must have a location, such as a balcony or patio, and usually permission to put a dish there. The dish location must provide a clear line-of-sight to the satellite in the southern sky with no trees or buildings in the way. Many apartments do not have a suitable location that faces the southern sky.
Dish Network FAQ: Can I get local channels with Dish Network?
With Dish Network local channels are available in over 179 cities. Local channels are available with basic programming packages for only $5.00 a month. To see if you have local channels available in your area.
FAQ: What Discounts does Dish Network Offer
I already have Dish Network. Can I order at your discount prices?
This offer is for new Dish Network customers with no previous account history. If you or your household has ever had Dish Network then you cannot get this offer.
FAQ: Is there an Activation Fee with Dish Network?
Your Dish Network Retailer will only charge you $49.99 at the time of order, and if you select the 18 month commitment this will be credited in FULL on your first bill making this offer free.
FAQ: Additional Receivers
Are there extra monthly fees for a second or third dish network receiver?
A $5 per month lease fee will apply when a 2nd dish network receiver is selected. This is not the same as when you have 2 rooms. Example, a two room system with a model 322 is only one receivers. The 322 and 625 receivers are "Dual Tuner" and operate two rooms independently. A $6 per month lease fee applies to additional HD receivers.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
DIRECTV FAQ
DIRECTV is America's leading provider of digital satellite entertainment service. DIRECTV provides over 225 channels of television programming to homes and businesses. DIRECTV equipment (small satellite dish, a digital receiver, and remote control) is required to receive DIRECTV programming. DIRECTV offers a wide assortment of television programming sure to please every member of the family - all programming is 100% digital-quality picture and sound.
DIRECTV FAQ: DIRECTV have Local Channels?
DIRECTV offers local channels in 143 U.S. cities and their surrounding areas and seems to add cities almost weekly. Check our listings of DIRECTV local channels by city or state. You'll find that DIRECTV offers local channels in HD for a rapidly growing number of US cities.
FAQ: Will cable wiring work for DIRECTV?
If the cable TV wiring in your home is RG-6 coax cable, you can probably use it to connect your DIRECTV receiver to your satellite dish. If the cable TV wiring is not RG-6 coax cable, the DIRECTV installer will run new wiring. It is important that you use RG-6 coax cable, due to the frequency of the digital signals the cable must carry.
FAQ: Phone line connected to my DIRECTV receiver?
DIRECTV customers must connect their receivers to a "landline" phone for billing and pay per view purposes. This connection sends DIRECTV purchase information from the receiver to the DIRECTV computer system. With the phone connected, DIRECTV customers can order Pay-Per-View movies and special event programming with their remote control. DIRECTV customers can also get popular sports subscriptions such as NFL SUNDAY TICKET, and can have the programming subscription on their main receiver "duplicated" to your other receivers that are connected to the same phone line.
Phone line is plugged into my DIRECTV receiver can I still make calls?
Yes. The modem inside of your DIRECTV receiver makes a toll-free call to the DIRECTV computer system usually in the middle of the night and this call only lasts a few seconds, so if you're using the phone, the modem will dial the call again later.
FAQ: Connect multiple TV's to DIRECTV?
Yes. each television set in your home can get separate DIRECTV receiver. This gives you the flexibility of watching different DIRECTV programs on different television sets. If all of your DIRECTV receivers must be connected to the same landline phone and it's only $4.99 a month for separate programming on the second and each additional television set in your home.
DIRECTV FAQ: If I have more than one DIRECTV receiver, do I pay the full monthly subscription for each receiver?
No. You can connect more than one television set in a single household to DIRECTV services. If your receivers are connected to the same phone line, it's only $4.99 a month for separate programming on the second and each additional television in your home. The programming you request for the primary access card in your receiver is copied for all of the access cards in the other receivers and you are authorized to receive this same level of programming on these televisions.
Does Weather Affect My DIRECTV Signal?
During your professional installation, expert installers will optimally place your dish, minimizing lost signals during inclement weather. DIRECTV reception is highly reliable year-round, nationwide. DIRECTV service is only minimally affected by weather, under extreme conditions, but it always returns quickly and clearly. On average, DIRECTV customers only lose signal for 9 minutes a year, that's 99.83% uptime, total - compared to cable outages which can last hours or even days at a time.
What Kind of Programming Does DIRECTV Offer?
1. What are my programming choices with DIRECTV service?
2. Does DIRECTV offer channels on an a la carte basis?
3. Does DIRECTV offer music channels?
4. Are DIRECTV packages affected by sports blackouts?
5. Does DIRECTV offer a Spanish-language programming service?
6. Does DIRECTV offer a Foreign-language programming service?
7. Can you explain the Locks & Limits (parental controls) feature the DIRECTV System offers?
What are my programming choices with DIRECTV?
DIRECTV’s English satellite TV programming also has numerous programming packages; DIRECTV FAMILY, over 40 channels of programming for all ages including children’s networks, news, and religious and faith-based television entertainment. DIRECTV CHOICE, in excess of 140 channels with more sports, movie, travel and music channels including XM Satellite Radio. DIRECTV PREMIER, with a variety of over 250 channels including 31 premium movie channels, 30 sports networks, music, documentary, educational, family and specialty programming also includes XM Satellite Radio. Your local television channels are available in most cities.
Does DIRECTV offer channels on an a la carte basis?
DIRECTV typically bundles their programming together into different packages, so that customers can receive the best value possible. However, select channels are available on an a la carte basis. See the programming section for details.
Does DIRECTV offer music channels?
Yes. DIRECTV offers access to up to 36 commercial-free music channels through Music Choice. Ranging from Jazz and Country to Classical and Hit List, there is music available for every musical taste.
Are DIRECTV packages affected by sports blackouts?
DIRECTV has a significant edge in Sports satellite TV programming with it’s long standing exclusive NFL Sunday Ticket™, NFL Super Fan™, NFL SuperCast™ programming. Additional sports programming includes; NHL Center Ice™, NBA League Pass™, ESPN FULL COURT, MEGA MARCH MADNESS, ESPN GamePlan™, NASCAR HotPass™, HOTPASS Zone, MLB Extra Innings™, MLS DirectKick™, Setanta Sports™, CricketTicket and Local Sports Network programming.
Does DIRECTV offer a Spanish-language programming service?
DIRECTV Latino satellite TV programming services are available across the US. With 4 television programming packages to choose from, you’re sure to find the package that’s right for you. DIRECTV BASICO, gives you over 65 channels, including more than 40 Spanish language channels. DIRECTV FAMILIAR, delivers more than 140 channels, includes 40 Spanish Language channels available in the Basico package plus more than 100 English programming channels. With DIRECTV FAMILIAR ULTRA, you’ll be able to watch over 200 channels and finally DIRECTV LO MAXIMO gives you over 260 channels including 30 premium movie channels, 25 specialty and regional sports networks.
Does DIRECTV offer a Foreign-language programming service?
DIRECTV International programming services are available in Arabic, Brazilian, Caribbean, Chinese, Filipino, Italian, Korean, Polish, Russian, South Asian, and Vietnamese.
Does DIRECTV have parental controls?
The Locks & Limits feature built into your equipment lets you restrict access to movies based on the motion picture rating system, pay per view spending limits, and block the viewing of entire channels. This is a great feature for parents who wish to control what their children watch on DIRECTV programming.
Parental Controls Explained
DIRECTV offers access to over 225 channels of programming entertainment. If you are a parent, you may want to limit the channels that your children are watching. Let's face it, you can't always watch what your children are doing. Maybe you want to order HBO programming, but you don't want your children watching it - or - maybe you have young children in the house and you don't want them to watch programs you deem unsuitable for their age. DIRECTV has a perfect solution!
The Locks & Limits feature built into your equipment allows you to restrict unsupervised television viewing however you want to. You can block specific movies based on their MPAA rating, lock out entire channels, set limited viewing hours, or even establish spending limits on pay per view programming. This is a great feature for parents who wish to limit the programming that their children watch on DIRECTV, but don't want to limit their programming options, when they pick their programming packages.
With the Locks & Limits feature, you can protect your children from flipping to channels that are inappropriate for their age group. There is no limit to the amount of channels that you can lock out from your children's view, and when it's time to watch what you want to watch, you can easily access the programming you like by entering your personal identification (PIN) number (see your owner's manual for details).
Answers about DIRECTV Billing
1. How are customers billed for DIRECTV programming?
2. How do I pay my DIRECTV bill?
3. Can I pay my DIRECTV bill online?
1. How does DIRECTV bill customers? Customers are billed by DIRECTV for the programming package that they purchase, plus any pay per view programs, and sports packages you order. We bill in advance for most programming. Pay per view movies are automatically charged to your bill after you order them, if you maintain a continuous phone connection to your receiver.
2. How do I pay my DIRECTV bill? Customers may pay their bills by using electronic funds transfer (EFT) payment service that automatically deducts your DIRECTV payment from a checking account or credit card. Another payment method is to mail their payment in.
3. Can I pay my DIRECTV bill online? Yes. When you register with DIRECTV.com, you can manage your account online. In addition to paying your bill, you can view your current and past DIRECTV billing statements, view recent transactions and set up automatic billing plans - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Monday, April 7, 2008
DIRECTV Guide
It’s no secret that DIRECTV is an industry leader. Over 15 Million DIRECTV Customers will tell you, DIRECTV offers consumers a superior alternative to cable television. Quality programming and services are delivered via a 100% Digital Satellite TV Platform, with DIRECTV's award wining customer service.
What is DIRECTV?
DIRECTV Exploded on to the television scene in 1994 and was the first company to deliver 100% Digital television programming using a small dish. DIRECTV has more than 250 channels of 100% digital programming and the most advanced technology. You can see why DIRECTV is the nation’s No.1 digital satellite TV provider.
DIRECTV Programming
DIRECTV offers access to local channels and more than 250 100% Digital channels of television entertainment, including; The Disney Channel, CNN, ESPN, TNT. Professional and collegiate sports packages including; DIRECTV NFL Sunday Ticket, NBA League Pass, MLB Extra Innings, ESPN GamePlan & ESPN Full Court. DIRECTV also offers multicultural programming in Spanish, Chinese, South Asian, and more.
Free Satellite TV System
Every DIRECTV Satellite TV System comes complete with: FREE professional installation, an 18” DIRECTV Dish to receive programming from the satellite in space. A digital set top receiver, choose from DIRECTV receiver, Digital Video Recorder (DIRECTV DVR) receiver, High-Definition (DIRECTV HD) receiver or (DIRECTV HD DVR) receiver. All receivers include a remote control so you can customize your on-screen program guide.
Satellite TV vs Cable
Why have over 15 million cable television customers switched to DIRECTV? With DIRECTV you get more television for your dollar. DIRECTV offers exclusive programming like NFL Sunday Ticket offered only by DIRECTV. Most importantly, DIRECTV has a higher customer satisfaction rating than cable television for the last 7 Years and counting (The American Customer Satisfaction Index). Statistics show that the average annual outage rate for cable television to be between 3%-5%, compared to DIRECTV’s less than 1%
DIRECTV preferred by over 15 million customers over cable television. With quality programming, state of the art technology and service second to none, you won’t be disappointed in DIRECTV. You be the judge, find out for yourself get a DIRECTV deals.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Dish Network Guide
The results are in. Dish Network satellite TV offers consumers an excellent alternative to cable. More than 13 Million Dish Customers are receiving 100% Digital Programming and Award winning customer service for a cost less than cable. With Dish Network satellite TV you’ll get more TV for Less Money.
What is Dish Network?
Dish Network entered the TV scene in 1987 and for or more than 25 Years has been a leading provider of advanced digital satellite TV products and services. Using the most advanced technology, offering more than 250 channels of 100% Digital programming available via a small satellite TV antenna mounted to your home or office. You'll be able to see why Dish is the fastest growing digital satellite TV provider.
Dish Network Programming
Dish Network Satellite TV Programming Packages include Local Channels and over 250 100% Digital Channels (The Disney Channel, CNN, ESPN, TNT, USA, WGN, TBS, HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, Statrz and much more), 70 High Definition Channels (Over 200 hours of programming per day) and Sports Programming (ESPN GamePlan, NHL Center Ice, NBA League Pass, NASCAR). International programming (South Asian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese and more) and Pay-Per-View Programming is also available from Dish, “You pick your package and Pick your price”.
Free Satellite TV System
Each Dish Network Satellite TV System comes with FREE Professional Satellite TV Installation, a FREE 24” Satellite TV Dish. You will need the antenna to receive programming from the satellite in earth’s orbit. A Digital set top box similar to your cable box. You'll be able to choose from Dish Network satellite TV receiver, DVR (Digital Video Recorder) receiver, HD (High Definition) receiver or HD DVR (High Definition Digital Video Recorder) receiver. Using the remote to program the on-screen TV guide couldn't be easier.
Satellite TV vs Cable
Dish Network has over 13 Million satisfied customers, Why have so many cable TV customers switched to Dish? The answer is easy, you get more TV for less money with Dish Network. Plus you’ll receive award winning customers service. Dish Network has a higher customer satisfaction rating than cable TV, with a lower annual outage rate of less than 1% compared to Cable TV’s 3%-5%.
You'll get quality programming, leading edge technology and service second to none, you be the judge. Find out for yourself why over 13 Million Customers prefer Dish to Cable TV.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Satellite TV FAQ
Confused about Satellite TV? Or need some answers to your satellite tv faqs, Dish Network faqs or DIRECTV faqs?You've come to the right place, we have over 20 faq articles, a FREE Satellite TV Buyers Guide, faq videos and a faq blog. Your sure to find the answers to your satellite TV faqs, Dish Network faqs or DIRECTV faqs. We hope you find this site a valuable FAQ resource and refer your friends and family.
Satellite TV FAQ Dish Network & DIRECTV Answers
These articles deal with the background on the two largest satellite tv companies and will answer your general Dish Network FAQ's and DIRECTV FAQ's.
Dish Network FAQ As the cost of living soars, more and more people are choosing home entertainment as their primary means of entertainment. Dish Network fills this need by offering diversity and quality at affordable prices for both services and programming choices.
DIRECTV FAQ There is a ferocious battle raging on out there in the entertainment service. On one side is DIRECTV, which is the biggest player in the industry in America, and on the other side are cable TV providers.
Dish Network, EchoStar Communications Corporation, Dish Network (Nasdaq:DISH) serves more than 11.3 million satellite TV customers and is a leading U.S. provider of advanced digital tv services.
DIRECTV, A digital tv industry leader, DIRECTV delivers outstanding content, technology, service and value to more than 15 million customers.
Satellite Television The Basics
Basic FAQ's on satellite tv, Dish Network and DIRECTV. These articles will introduce you to satellite tv and how satellite tv works. We'll look at what you need to know before you make the decision to switch to satellite tv and the truth about HDTV (high definition TV). We've also included a glossary of DBS tv terms to make it easier.
Introduction to Satellite TV Satellite tv is a fairly recent technology that allows a household to receive tv content via transmission from a communications satellite.
How Does Satellite TV Work? Satellite TV is a tv system whereby a broadcast center sends a program signal to a satellite in a stationary orbit above the earth and then to your tv.
What Do I Need To Know? You finally decided to make the switch from outdated over-the-air TV to satellite TV? Looking for an alternative to high-priced cable TV? Here's the information you need to know before you make the switch.
What Is HDTV? Satellite TV HDTV (high definition TV) opens up a whole new world of entertainment. When you watch satellite TV in high definition, the tv picture and sound are so realistic you feel like you're part of the action.
Glossary of Satellite TV Terms Access card, A removable credit-card-sized plastic card included with each satellite receiver. The card identifies each individual receiver and provides billing information each month to your program provider.
Why Satellite TV?
Satellite tv programming FAQ's for; Dish Network and DIRECTV. These articles deal with satellite tv programming, the difference between satellite tv and cable tv and why 100% Digital TV is important.
Satellite TV Channels At first glance DIRECTV and Dish Network seem pretty similar. But when you take a closer look and compare the two you'll see some big differences when it comes to satellite TV programming and prices.
Satellite TV vs. Cable TV The choice between satellite tv and cable tv can often seem overwhelming if you do not possess all the information required to make an informed decision. In this article we will provide faq's about each tv service in order to help you make the best choice.
What Is 100% Digital Picture? Good news digital TV is here! What is so great about digital TV, you wonder?
Satellite TV Internet That day is here. In the age of satellite TV and the internet, a few companies have risen to the challenge to solve the problem of getting internet service through your satellite TV dish.
Will Satellite Television Work at My Home?
Installation faq's for satellite tv, Dish Network and DIRECTV. These articles deal with installation basics of satellite tv, covering an overview of installation, mounting and wiring your dish and a check list.
Where Do I Mount My Dish? If you've chosen a satellite TV provider over your local cable tv company, one issue you might be having difficulty with is the installation of the dish itself.
Wiring Your Satellite TV Here's a step-by-step guide to satellite TV installation: 1.First, you need to mount your satellite tv dish on your roof or on a south-facing wall. Pick a location where there are no trees or tall buildings nearby.
Satellite TV Checklist Finally decided to make the switch from outdated over-the-air TV to satellite TV? Looking for an alternative to high-priced cable TV? Here's the information you need to know before you make the switch to DBS tv.
Satellite TV Installation After you've ordered your new satellite TV system your next step is to install it. Here you have the option of installing your satellite TV system yourself, or letting a professional do it for you. Here's what's involved ...
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Satellite TV FAQ: How Does Satellite TV Work?
How Does Satellite TV Work? That’s the first question over 28 Million Satellite TV Customers (DirecTV has over 15 million and Dish Network has 13 million) asked themselves before they chose satellite TV as an alternative to cable TV. There are many articles giving technical explanations on How Satellite TV works, we’ll take a little different approach. We’ll look at the Basics, and then we’ll look at equipment and finally satellite tv programming. This article will give you a better understanding of How Does Satellite TV Work?
How Does Satellite TV Work? The Basics
Satellite TV is a vast improvement from your fathers’ traditional broadcast television. So how does satellite TV work? A Satellite TV system consists of 5 components; the programming source, the broadcast center, the Satellite, the satellite TV dish and the satellite TV receiver. The programming source (Programming examples: HBO, ESPN) delivers programming to the Broadcast center (usually by satellite transmission). Broadcast center (Dish Network or DIRECTV) compiles all the separate programming sources and re-transmits those signals to a satellite in geosynchronous orbit in outer space. The satellite then sends the radio signal to the satellite dish located at your home and finally to the satellite TV receiver (set-top-box) on your television.
How Does Satellite TV Work? The Satellite TV Dish
You’ve probably noticed that those 8-10 foot satellite TV Dishes that took up a good portion of your yard have gotten a lot smaller. A Satellite TV Dish has a parabolic surface or a surface that is shaped like a bowl that reflects the incoming radio waves onto the central feed horn (both Dish Network and DIRECTV have small foot print dishes approx. 18-24”) The feed horn passes the signal on to the satellite TV receiver and from the receiver to your Television set. The Satellite TV Dish is focused in the direction of the transmitting satellite in outer space. Hopefully we’ve started to answer How Does Satellite TV Work? Next let’s move on to satellite TV Receivers.
How Does Satellite TV Work? Satellite TV Receivers
Both DIRECTV and Dish Network Satellite TV Receivers are an electronic set top box similar to your current cable TV box. The receiver does several things, first it decodes the satellite signal; it then converts that decoded signal into audio and video signals. That signal is then sent to your television set where you can now view programming or change the channel.
In addition to the basic 100% Digital Receiver, both Dish Network and DIRECTV offer DVR’s (Digital Video Recorders) which allows you to record, rewind and replay your favorite programs, HD (High Definition) Receivers allow you to watch HDTV and HD DVR (High Definition Digital Video Recorder).
How Does Satellite TV Work? Programming Sources
Direct Broadcast Providers like Dish Network and DIRECTV buy programming rights from broadcast networks like USA, TBS, ESPN, Disney, HBO and others. The programming source delivers programming to the Broadcast center (usually by satellite transmission) and then the Direct Broadcast Providers retransmit that signal to their satellites for distribution to the dish at your home or business.
