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Satellite TV, Radio, GPS FAQ
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Satellite GPS
Satellite Radio
Satellite TV
Satellite GPS
What are Satellite GPS devices?
GPS stands for Global Positioning System. The satellite global positioning system was put in place by the government for military purposes originally but it was later made available to everyone. The system provides a very accurate and reliable method of locating places and landmarks. Some automotive manufacturers offer GPS in select car models however GPS devices can also be purchased after market and can be operated outside of your car as well. Satellite GPS devices are able to locate things through the satellite signals they receive and the use of maps that are loaded into their memory.
So what does a GPS device offer that my road atlas doesn't?
A satellite GPS device provides directions as you travel, generally through voice instructions which allow you to keep your eyes on the road. You don't have to pull off to the side of the road to study a map or struggling to read illegible print. Many GPS devices can also provide updates on weather and traffic information and then assist in planning an alternate route. Satellite GPS devices are also great to use when hiking, camping, cross country skiing, and participating in similar outdoor activities. Their small size and light weight make them a handy outside of the car.
Can a satellite GPS device work wherever I travel?
Most GPS devices sold in the
What does a satellite GPS device cost?
Like most things the prices vary widely based on the features you choose. A handheld satellite GPS device can be purchased for under $100 but other larger; more feature rich devices may run around well over $1,000. The good news is that there is no subscription fee or activation fee and therefore, the cost is limited to what you pay up front.
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Satellite Radio
What is Satellite Radio?
Satellite Radio is a special digital radio that receives signals broadcast by communications satellite. Because the signal’s reach is not limited by station power, the channel can be heard virtually anywhere.
Who provides Satellite Radio?
In the and XM have combined to be the sole provider of satelllite radio; transmitting well over 100 channels. WorldSpace is a provider in
What are the benefits of Satellite Radio?
There are several. Signal availability is much greater. A listener in his car can travel across the continent and continue listening to the same station uninterrupted. (barring tunnels or other large structures which might momentarily block the signal) Higher sound quality is also a benefit. Static, fading, and signal breakup do not really occur. In addition there are few programming interruptions as most stations are commercial free. Satellite radio is also touted as providing a greater variety of programming and operates under fewer governmental regulations.
Are there any disadvantages to Satellite Radio?
Obviously, radio has traditionally been a service that is “free”; but there is a monthly service fee for Satellite Radio. New users also need to be aware that local channels can not be received via Satellite Radio.
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Satellite TV
Is Satellite TV programming similar to Cable?
Both cable and satellite television services can offer hundreds of channels of programming. Both offer packages that are affordable. In general, satellite prices are approximately $5 less per month when comparable programming is considered. If local channels are important, consumers need to be sure packages are priced with local channels included. Cable and satellite TV services both offer local channels in most areas.
Availability is greatest with satellite TV services. Cable is not in place in some remote and rural areas. Satellite television can even be installed in mobile homes and tractor trailers. Satellite television is also now available in your vehicle via a more streamlined satellite antenna which can attached to the luggage rack on larger vehicles such as SUVs and vans. Apartment dwellers should be sure of their leasing company rules to determine if a deposit is needed for installation of the dish.
What equipment is needed for satellite TV?
As the world goes digital, more equipment is often needed. For instance, a cable user might need to add a converter box. Receivers are needed; many satellite companies now offer free equipment including receivers for HDTV. Obviously with satellite TV you will need a dish. Some satellite television providers offer the dish at no cost and it is relatively compact.
What kind of Customer Service is available with satellite TV?
Cable companies generally have stores in the local area allowing consumers to have face-to-face interaction with the provider of their service. On the other hand, local companies install dish systems and are available for one-to-one interaction for any related issues or questions. Satellite companies tend to have availability via the internet and phone 24 hours a day. It is important to consider that satellite TV services have consistently ranked higher than cable services in customer satisfaction over the past 5 years as reported by JD Power & Associates.
Will the quality of my satellite TV picture and sound be as good as with Cable?
Like digital cable, satellite TV provides DVD quality picture and sound.
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