How Does a Satellite Receiver Work?

Signal

The satellite TV receiver, receives a digital broadcast signal via cable from the satellite dish. The signal contains all your programming information which was originally broadcast from your provider.

Decoding

The satellite receiver decodes the encrypted digital signal. Your receiver includes a decoder chip for this. Signals are encrypted to ensure that anyone who receives them is a paying subscriber. As a paying customer, you have the receiver with the appropriate chip, to decode satellite programming that you've subscribed for.

Conversion

The signal is then converted from digital to analog so that the your television is able to read and display the programming information. Satellite receivers may have a HD or standard tuner depending upon what type of satellite TV package that you have.

Channels

Finally, the receiver is responsible for splitting the full programming signal into the individual channels that you tune into. Along with the channels, the receiver sends enhanced programming guide information to the television which details the channel and program to allow you to view what's on.

DVR

Satellite providers offer some satellite receivers with built-in Digital Video Recorders so that you can record programming. You can then play, fast forward, pause and rewind programming, providing a way to watch the programs you like, how and when you want.

Pay-Per-View

If you've connected your satellite receiver to a phone line, you can order pay-per-view programs with a few clicks of the remote. The receiver stores the order information and sends it via phone connection to the billing office, where they can add it to your monthly statement.