Satellite TV: Houston satellite TV

Satellite television has become one of the most popular ways to watch TV in Houston. Accessing hundreds of TV channels via cable networks has become dated, as satellite television technologies have advanced, allowing Houston residents to have more convenience, options, and reliability.

DirecTV and Dish Network are the two major satellite TV providers available in Houston, Texas, with DirecTV being found in the most homes. Both providers offer Houston residents access to hundreds of channels and broadcast information, including access to XM Satellite Radio and major sporting events. When a household in Houston subscribes to satellite TV through either Dish Network or DirecTV, they are able to build the type of satellite system that most suits their needs. A satellite system incorporates the programming, or channels, package; satellite receiver; and any additional options.

Creating a satellite TV system is a multi-step process easily done on either the Dish Network or DirecTV website, or through a satellite TV provider in Houston.

Programming Packages
Channel packages dictate what channels a subscriber has access to. Each programming, or channel, package will vary in monthly cost depending on the provider, but typically range from $29.99 a month to $86.99 a month for a one-year subscription.
Access to local Houston channels may require an additional fee to access, but are available through both major satellite TV providers. Available Houston programming includes the following local channels, some are which are available in HD, or high definition:

• KPRC
• KUHT
• KHOU
• KTRK
• KTXH
• KRIV
• KHWB
• KXLN
• KTMD
• KPXB
• KNWS
• KTBU
• KAZH
• KZJL
• KFTH
• NBC
• PBS
• CBS
• ABC
• UPN
• Fox
• WB
• Uni
• TMO
• PAX
• Ind
• IND
• AZA
• IND
• TFT

The Satellite Receiver
The satellite receiver, in addition to the satellite dish, is what makes viewing satellite TV possible. These machines look similar to a DVD player or VCR and hook up to a television, allowing access to channels and broadcast information. They usually feature the added benefit if interactive menus. Satellite receivers will require additional subscription or leasing fees.
Each satellite TV provider in Houston will offer a selection of satellite receivers. Basic subscriptions come with a basic satellite receiver, which can be upgraded to a satellite receiver with more options, such as a DVR (digital video recorder) receiver or HD (high definition) receiver. DVR receivers allow users to pause, rewind, and record live television, while HD receivers are designed for use with HDTV's, or high definition televisions.

Additional Options
Houston subscribers will have the opportunity to add additional options to their satellite TV packages. These options include:

• Additional channels for an additional fee;
• Sports Subscriptions, which feature viewing access to a wide variety of sporting events;
• International Programming, which allow the subscriber to access international channels. For example, the Jadeworld package allows access to popular Chinese television programs. Other packages allow foreign language channels and audio.

Sports subscriptions allow Houston households access to a broad variety of sporting events. DirecTV offers FSN (Fox News Sports) Southwest, a sports channel devised specifically for residents of the southwest United States which provides complete access to a variety of games involving southwestern state teams, and is the television home ofthe Houston Rockets, the Houston Astros, the Houston Comets, and the Houston Dynamo. FSN also features local Texas high school sports coverage.

Delivery and Installation
After a Houston resident has subscribed to the satellite TV provider of their choice, that provider will provide delivery and installation of equipment. Satellite TV systems ordered via the internet will be delivered to the subscriber's Houston residence. Professional installation technicians will visit the subscriber's home and install the satellite dish and satellite receiver, and give the subscriber a brief introduction to the use of their new satellite TV service.