How Do FTA Receivers Work?

Receiving signals

The user connects the FTA receiver to a satellite dish, then configures the settings of the dish to pickup the signals from one of the many satellites in orbit (63 over North America). These satellites have a number of transponders, which the receiver scans to detect the channels on each transponder, known as a blind scan. The channels are then sorted and identified in a manner similar to a cable or satellite provider's channel lineup.

MPEG-2

MPEG-2 (Moving Pictures Expert Group) is the worldwide standard for digital satellite broadcasting. The development of this technology enabled eight to ten video signals to occupy the same bandwidth as one channel of analog signals, lowering transmission costs. And, being a worldwide standard, it allows receivers in the US to receive FTA broadcasts from other countries, where it provides a low-cost means of transmitting their signals. Lately, the upgraded MPEG-4 is replacing MPEG-2 in some systems.

DiSEqC

While receivers from subscription satellite providers are designed to be used with a limited number of satellites, most FTA receivers offer DiSEqC (Digital Satellite Equipment Control) technology, allowing it to receive signals from all satellites available at that location. The DiSEqC motor can rotate the satellite dish to connect with these satellites, enabling it to receive more programming from different sources.

Features

Many FTA receivers are upgrading from standard definition (SD), as HD is starting to become more popular and affordable. They can have HDMI and component video outputs to provide high-quality video to the TV, and Dolby Digital outputs for surround sound audio. They feature on-screen guides and menus for easy navigation, and some have recording capabilities, as well as parental controls. Many come with a USB connection to link to a computer for viewing programs or to upgrade software.