DirecTV Most Frequently asked questions.

We know buying a satellite dish can be a bit overwhelming. What with all the technical jargon these days, there's bound to be some confusion. And no doubt, you have questions. So we've gone ahead and answered some of the more frequently asked questions for you. A quick read through this FAQ will show you how incredibly simple our DIRECTV System really is.

Why should I consider a DIRECTV System?
Well for starters, how does more than 225 channels of television programming sound? 32 premium movie channels? 55-plus pay-per-view movie channels? More sports programming than you've ever imagined possible? Dozens of popular networks not available from most cable services? Not to mention crystal-clear reception and CD-quality sound. And that's just the beginning.

Okay, but what does a DIRECTV System consist of? Satellite TV sounds pretty complicated.
Not at all. The DIRECTV System is quite simple. In all, it consists of an 18-inch steel satellite dish that's mounted on your roof, a digital satellite receiver box placed near your television, and a remote control. That's it.

What about programming? How do I receive all those channels you're talking about?
Simple. After you install your DIRECTV® system, you call the activation 800 number to begin your subscription to DIRECTV® programming. Once you've signed up, you'll have full access to the 210+ channels available to you. Premium programming includes HBO, Showtime, The Movie Channel, and Cinemax.

That's a lot of TV. Is it going to cost me an arm and a leg to subscribe to all those channels?
Not even. DIRECTV's programming packages start at just $33.99/month, probably a lot less than you pay for cable right now.

What about network programming? I've got to get the local news.
No problem. DIRECTV now offers local channels over the satellite in select markets, and will continue to add cities over the next few months. In addition, our system makes it easy to feed a signal from an off-air antenna or basic cable into the DIRECTV System receiver, letting you switch between DIRECTV System and local network channels quite conveniently. All you need is your remote.

Terrific. But with all those channels, how will I know what's on?
The DIRECTV System comes with amazingly easy, on-screen program guides that make searching for and selecting programs a breeze. The on-screen guides also let you set parental controls, customize channel lists, set pay-per-view spending limits and more.

Okay, let's get technical for a moment. Does the dish move around like larger satellite dishes do?
No. All programming is received from one position in the sky, so the dish remains stationary. There is no need for additional satellite tuning or repositioning once the dish is installed.

Can I watch more than one DIRECTV System channel at a time?
Yes and no. You can split the signal so you can watch the same channel in different rooms, but to watch different channels in different rooms, you will need to purchase a second receiver. Monthly programming fees for additional TV sets are only $4.99/month.

Do I need a phone line connection to get service?
No, a phone line is not needed to receive standard programming on a single room system. However, to order movies and certain sports programming using the remote, the receiver needs to be continuously connected to a phone line. No long distance charges are incurred, however, as the system will be connected to a toll-free 800 number. The phone line is used to send billing information from the DIRECTV System receiver to your program provider's billing center. There is no conflict on the phone line when the DIRECTV System unit is in use. Once a month, in the middle of the night, DIRECTV will read the access card within your machine. For multiple receiver systems a phone line connection is required.

Is there anything else I should be aware of before purchasing my HNS DIRECTV System?
Yes. To receive the DIRECTV System signal, you must have a clear view of the southern sky, which isn't usually a problem.

Is it safe to order online?
Some people are uncomfortable about transmitting their credit card number over the Internet. However, we believe that transmitting your credit card number over the Net is no riskier than using your card at a busy department store or restaurant. Your financial information is safe with us! All Web Stores featured on this site uses secure server technology. The credit card number and other information you send us is encrypted to keep it safe from unauthorized use.