Satellite TV Technology Vs. Cable TV Technology
Cable and satellite television are among the most popular and competitive formats for delivering programming. While cable remains the most popular type of TV service, satellite TV growth has cut in to the cable market in recent years. Each type of service has its own advantages and drawbacks.
Other People Are Reading
-
Equipment
-
One of the key differences between cable and satellite TV technologies is the equipment that provides programming from each source. Cable signals require televisions with built-in cable receivers, or a set-top cable box that provides programming for each television in a household. Satellite television requires a separate receiver box for each television, in addition to built-in tuners. Besides this, satellite TV service requires a satellite dish mounted to the exterior of the house with a clear view of the sky.
Costs
-
Another important factor that distinguishes satellite TV from cable is the required equipment. Satellite TV subscribers must often buy receivers and a dish when service begins, or these devices may be free with a long-term subscription agreement. When cable TV does require equipment, it is usually borrowed from the cable company with no charge if the subscriber returns it when they cancel service.
-
Programming
-
Cable television service can supply more than 300 channels of programming. Because it comes from a local source, cable service almost always includes local network programming such as news and local public access channels. Satellite television can deliver more than 250 channels, all of which are digital. However, it may not include local programming, leaving subscribers in need of an antenna to receive local broadcasts.
Reception
-
Satellite signals require a clear view of the southern sky where satellites broadcast signals down to Earth. Disruptions in the atmosphere, such as heavy storm clouds, can degrade the quality of the signal at certain times. Cable delivers a more consistent signal, but requires that users live in an area where cable providers have constructed lines and offer residential service.
Service Rates
-
Satellite and cable TV services have generally comparable costs, though they differ in several areas. Satellite TV service usually costs less on a per-channel basis. However, if the majority of channels are not of interest to a particular viewer, a basic cable package with fewer channels might be represent a greater value. Both cable and satellite television service may also be paired with high-speed Internet service, giving subscribers the chance to save money by combining services from a single provider.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit tv control and tv 3 image by chrisharvey from Fotolia.com
