If you thought the only way to have TV was to spend a lot on cable or satellite subscriptions you might want to look into free to air receivers. These special receivers were designed to pick up unencrypted broadcasts. Would you believe in some areas there are as many as 2 hundred plus channels available that are not encrypted?
Of course, this means there are channels that won't be accessible with a free satellite receiver. Many channels like ESPN, HBO and other premium channels are encrypted and unable to be seen on a FTA receiver. As with any thing of this nature, there are good points and bad points to using this kind of service.
Pros
The 1st bonus to a free satellite receiver is the price and free television viewing! No more expensive subscription services are needed to watch many great channels. The sole cost you'll have is the original price of the device, after that you have nothing more to buy, ever.
A limited pro is the availability of foreign language TV. If you speak another language such as Spanish, German or Chinese you'll find your selection of programming vast. This is definitely not a service you'll find with standard cable or satellite service.
You will have nothing to worry about with children's programming. Youngsters can enjoy PBS, PBS youngsters and a wealth of other tutorial programs. NASA has their own channel as does Bloomberg and even the Pentagon! You have an arms depot of educational opportunities within easy reach and little chance of nakedness or dubious language.
Religious programming is also generally available with a free satellite receiver. FTA receivers tune in many Christian channels including but not limited to, The God Channel, EWTN, and JCTV. Some wire companies and satellite suppliers are getting better about offering this kind of programming but with a free satellite receiver, you are no longer restricted to sparse selections.
Cons
On the down side, there are a few channels you will be unable to get with a free satellite receiver. Premium channels as a rule will be blocked from FTA receivers. This is done so wire, satellite and networks can collect from patron subscription prices.
If you live in a rustic area a long way from the city, you may find over the air broadcasts are limited. These types of transmissions do not get far outside the town in which they are broadcast from, however the introduction of the new digital transmission may change this seriously.
Conclusion
Although you may not want to dump your wire or satellite company completely, it is nice to know that you have the option if you choose. If your days are spent watching more stories than movies, or you are rarely home to catch a film, then a free satellite receiver could help you save you tons of money.
{ 0 comments… add one now }