New Technology TV

In 1994 Direct TV launched a revolutionary new service that caused satellite TV to surge toward the widely loved and technologically advanced service that we enjoy today. When Direct TV was founded, satellite TV enthusiasts were able to rid themselves of the huge, ten foot satellite dishes they had been using and install portable 18 inch models in their place. Plus they were suddenly able to receive all of their programming in fully digital form. Though satellite TV initially appealed mostly to people in rural areas who could not receive clear over the air programming or cable programming, people from all walks of life quickly realized the potential of new satellite technology. Twelve years later, Direct TV has won over fourteen millions customers who are extremely satisfied with the great selection of programming and incredible technology that only satellite TV can provide. Direct TV uses a fleet of satellites powered by photovoltaic cells in geosynchronous orbit above the Earth's equator. All programming is sent to a broadcasting station that translates the signals into digital format, encrypts them, and compresses them before they're transmitted up to the satellites. The satellites then relay the signals back to millions of individual satellite dishes throughout the world all over North America. Once the satellite dish has captured the signals, the receiver processes them and translates them into the video you watch on your screen. This satellite system makes it so that Direct TV can provide clear signals and reception on your TV screen in all but the worst weather conditions

All this technology translates into a huge selection of programming and great picture quality. Direct TV's Total Choice package offers over 150 channels with options including sports, movies, news, comedy and children's entertainment. Local programming is even included in most areas and dozens of XM satellite radio channels round out the selection. Total Choice Plus is the mid-grade package option with 185 channels including more favorites like Fox Movie Channel and Nicktoons and even more XM radio channels. If 250 channels sounds appealing, Total Choice Premier is the package for you and will provide over 60 premium movie channels and regional and specialty sports networks. If you are looking for a smaller selection and a low price, Direct TV's Family Choice is the package for you.

Direct TV also excels at bringing you the most advanced home entertainment technology possible. The Digital Video Recorder is just one example and puts you in control of your television viewing. By being closely connected with the on-screen program guide, a Digital Video Recorder- or DVR for the sake of brevity- makes it simple to record TV shows and movies. It can even record two programs at one time! A DVR makes television even more convenient by allowing you watch television when and how you want to by giving you the ability to pause, rewind and replay any program.

Another great feature you'll have access to is the ability to customize the on-screen program guide to display each family member's favorite channels and the capability of bookmarking future programs for easy reference. Password-protected parental control locks have the added feature of allowing parents to control what their children can watch, while still enjoying access to all of their favorite programs. Direct TV also gives you access to the Internet and HDTV entertainment.

Since satellite television appeared, the expectations that people have of what their televisions can and should do has grown. Direct TV is proud to acknowledges its contributions to these incredible changes and is focused on the advancement of television technology while providing customers with great entertainment at great prices.