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Satellite TV: FTA satellite receiver
The majority of satellite television broadcasts must be accessed by subscribing to a satellite television provider such as DirecTV or Dish Network. However, many people are unaware that free television and radio broadcasting is available via satellites as well. These broadcasts are called free-to-air, or FTA.
Unlike subscription based satellite TV, FTA broadcasts are unencrypted transmissions from multiple satellites, which means almost anyone has the potential to access them with the right equipment. However, despite the name, FTA broadcasts may be encoded and require a fee. Some require payment, a license fee, or a donation.
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FTA Broadcasts
The majority of free-to-air broadcasts are international in origin. Just as short wave radio was popular in picking up international broadcasts in the past, free-to-air television broadcasts are its modern equivalent. Other frequent FTA broadcasts include:
- Ethnic-language, from broadcasters such as Globecast World TV or Home2US ;
- Christian, promoted by Glorystar Satellite Systems TV;
- Individual local stations of major TV networks;
- Public education, such as PBS.
Free-to-air Receivers
A person interested in free-to-air satellite cannot simply turn on the television to receive it; they must be equipped with a satellite dish and a free-to-air receiver. Free-to-air receivers look similar to DVD players or VCR's and allow those interested in accessing FTA broadcasts to do so.
FTA receivers are not always inexpensive machines. Many range in price from $170 to $490, although some can be purchased for as little as $99. When purchasing a FTA receiver, there are certain features one should look for:
- An S-Video output for improved picture quality;
- The necessary cables included;
- An AC3 digital audio output for improved sound, optional;
- Common interface (CI) slot(s).
- The Pansat 2700 A includes features such as:
- Power search;
- Electronic program guide;
- Multiple-languages;
- Fast channel change;
- S-video output;
- Timer function;
- Digital audio output;
- 256 colors;
- The Viewsat Xtreme includes features such as:
- Video output components;
- Hardware based smart search;
- Full on-screen TV guide;
- Auto scan satellite search;
- Dolby Digital optical output;
- Smart Card slot for satellite access cards;
- 4,000 channel programmable;
- 6 RCA outputs for video and audio.
The Viewsat Xtreme is one of the top selling and most highly recommended FTA receiver. In addition to the above features, the Viewsat Xtreme also has a 16Mb flash ROM for quick channel changing, and a 160 MHz Conexant processor for powerful and competitive performance. Additionally, the Viewsat Xtreme allows multiple channel viewing at once, fast channel changing speed, fast scanning speeds, simple setup and installation, a universal remote, and a 2-year warranty.
- The CaptiveWorks CW-600S includes features such as:
- Control buttons on the unit;
- LED display;
- Multi-language menu;
- Multiple channel viewing at once;
- An RS232 port for upgrading software;
- 100 satellite, 4000 channel capacity;
- Information screen;
- Satellite transfer countdown.
The CaptiveWorks CW-600S is one of the most popular FTA receivers available essentially for one reason: a function called Auto DISQC. Auto DISQC allows for extremely easy one-step installation. The user simply connects a satellite source to the CaptiveWorks CW 600S's DISQC switch and the receiver automatically begins to search for and connect to satellites. The names of the available satellites are displayed and all frequencies correctly configured. The CaptiveWorks CW 600S also comes with a remote, but control buttons are also located on the front of the receiver for convenience.
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