Satellite HDTV Systems -
The Next Best Thing To Being There!

What Makes It So Impressive?

Remarkable improvements over conventional analog broadcasts distinguish high definition television as the system of the future. The most noticeable difference between hd television and analog tv is picture quality and size.


This dramatic increase in resolution and aspect ratio (screen width versus height) produces a "razor sharp" picture with a significantly wider viewing area.


The excellent picture quality delivered by satellite hdtv systems is a result of the best resolution available today. A greater number of resolution lines produces a sharper, more accurate picture.


In order to have a better appreciation, consider that standard analog television produces 330 lines of resolution. The much crisper dvd format provides 400 - 480 lines of resolution. In comparison, DIRECTV® HD, satellite hdtv systems provide up to 1080 lines of resolution.


Delivering over 1 million pixels on screen, satellite's digitized tv programming creates crystal clear images with the most minute details.


A larger aspect ratio allows you to see action on screen that is normally "cropped-off" with analog broadcasts. The aspect ratio of hdtv at 16:9 (screen width : height) is more in line with the human visual field versus the 4:3 ratio of standard analog television.


Satellite hd broadcasts deliver a home theater viewing experience that allows you to see movies as they were intended. Combined with Dolby ® Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, hd programming via satellite makes you feel as though you are in the midst of the action on screen.


What Equipment is Needed to Experience HD Television?

High definition programming from local network affiliates across the US can be received simply with a high definition tv set and an off-air hdtv antenna. Local channel hd broadcasts via satellite are not available at the present time. For the most high def programming options, you can subscribe to a satellite hd service offered by DIRECTV; or, Dish Network .


DIRECTV® is the first satellite tv service to have its receiving system built-in to many high definition television sets providing viewers with the added convenience of easy satellite access.


Participating manufacturers include Hitachi, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, ProScan, RCA, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba and Zenith. It is anticipated that additional manufacturers will be partnering with DIRECTV® to provide this service in the future.





In order to experience high definition tv via satellite from DIRECTV®, you will need an HD television set with a built-in DIRECTV® receiver from any of the above manufacturers; or, a standalone high definition DIRECTV® HD receiver and a hd compatible television. You will also need a multi-satellite tv system from DIRECTV® to receive hd programming via satellite.


DIRECTV® delivers high definition programming to its subscribers via the new, multi-satellite tv system.* An important component of this system is the 18" x 20" Triple LNB (low noise block) satellite dish antenna. Why? ...


It allows subscribers to receive signals from three separate DIRECTV® satellites simultaneously. Positioned at 101, 110 and 119 degrees respectively, they deliver all of DIRECTV® services including satellite high definition and local channel programming. (where available)

*If you have DIRECTV® service with the earlier version multi-satellite system (18" x 24" dish) and you would like to start enjoying hdtv programs, you will first need to check if your system is hdtv enabled.

To do so, tune to Channel 99 of your DIRECTV® HD receiver. If you can see the DIRECTV® logo on your screen, then you are good to go.

Otherwise, you will need to upgrade your satellite dish with a Sat-C self install kit available from DIRECTV® for a nominal fee. Contact them directly at 1-800-531-5000 for details.



Available Programming in HD Format

Many ABC, NBC and CBS affiliate stations across the country have already begun boadcasting in the hd format. In addition, DIRECTV® presently offers the largest lineup of high definition broadcasts with 85 channels. Eventually, they plan to provide up to 150 channels of hd programming. Here's the latest list of channel selections available in their HD programming package.


Currently, satellite hdtv broadcasts from DIRECTV® HD are available on HD Net and HD Net Movie channels which feature live sporting events like NHL® hockey and Major League Baseball, as well as, movies, concerts and more.


You can also experience the wonders of nature and space exploration displayed so vividly on Discovery HD Theater™. Enjoy magnificent presentations of wildlife and plantlife that looks so real - you will want to reach out to touch it! Closeups reveal, with incredible detail, features never before seen with conventional television.


For sports enthusiasts, ESPN HD captures the action up-close for virtually every sporting event. Additionally, HBO and Showtime offer hd broadcasts of championship boxing, big hit movies, award winning series and Hollywood favorites around the clock. You can also enjoy high definition programming on select BlockBuster® pay-per-view movie channels.


More About HD Systems

High definition receivers for satellite systems are available with TiVo® digital video recorders. They allow you to capture HD programming and watch it at your convenience. These receivers have all the same features of standard TiVo® units , plus ...


they deliver the awe inspiring clarity of high definition programming. You can see the complete lineup of DIRECTV® HD receivers with or without TiVo® and DIRECTV® satellite hdtv systems at eXpert Satellite


Flat panel plasma screen and LCD monitors are the most advanced video components available to deliver the lifelike action of high definition programming. Manufacturers are now producing compact, more energy efficient models with slimmer profiles and more viewing area. Create your own home theater with the latest equipment designed to deliver
"the ultimate television viewing experience - satellite HDTV".


The Future of HDTV Systems

Will hdtv eventually replace analog television? Yes, although not immediately. Analog broadcasts will continue to be available until February 2009, at which time all television broadcasts will be digital. In the meantime, satellite, cable and fiber optic television broadcasters plan to add more hdtv programming to their program offerings. At the present time, Verizon FiOs (fiber optic tv), DIRECTV and Dish Network satellite tv systems offer the most hd programming on their networks, and have a far greater capacity to expand these services in the future.


As high definition tv equipment becomes more affordable, consumers will opt for its features and benefits. It's as close to three dimensional tv as you can get. Quite simply, there is no other television viewing experience quite like it!