Evolution in satellite broadcasting system has led to many new technologies in its perspective. Among others one is Direct TV, which is direct broadcasting satellite system, placed in U.S.A to transmit digital video and audio signals to households in USA. The major competitors of Direct TV are cable TV networks and other satellite based networks. Direct TV has more than 18 million subscribers. This service was launched in June, 17th 1994, which is owned by Direct TV Group and is controlled by Liberty Media.
The network of Direct TV is separate of all, which is to be assigned to only its own customers. Direct TV provides many services to its customers like as it is a satellite based system, it provides hundreds of channels and video conference facilities as well, radio broadcasting services along with audio and video channels, which makes it a tough competitor to Cable and other transmission networks.
Now, the solution of reception lies in use of antennas. Most customers use antennas to receive the transmission. Earlier there were antennas placed at many meters above, but now with the progress in technology and antenna engineering the size and quality of antennas has improved amazingly. The size of antennas in broadcasting devices has reduced to a large extent, where we see mobile antennas being reduced as well. Other gadgets which help to receive the signal are a satellite dish with an encoder decoder box which is important to operate the Direct TV.
There are so many packages available to the customers, who buy Direct TV service, for different packages offered by companies on monthly fees. Apart from normal broadcasting system additional fee can also be applicable for acquiring other facilities like protection fee and repairing cost in case of damage by any natural calamity and for other premium packages as well. Even another facility is also given to its customers to pay per view or for a selection of any movie. Direct TV controllers make contract with many companies holding rights to show different programs, sports leagues, motion pictures controllers and many other broadcasting networks, which are then broadcasted to Direct TV customers.
A very important thing to mention here is that Direct TV controllers encrypt their channels before broadcasting, so that illegal reception of the signal could be reduced. And on the receiving end these signals are decrypted. After encryption of the channels Direct TV transmits the signal to many geo stationary satellites placed at different points on the orbit of the earth.
Apart from serving to household subscribers Direct TV also provides services to bars, hotels, restaurants, dorms, and hospitals through their Direct TV Dish Services. Companies also provide mobile services to cars, boats and aircrafts with cooperation of other supporting companies, which could be used as a third party to transmit the service in a better way. This makes it a better service provider than traditional cable T.V operators, who provide limited channel selection with no additional services like conference talk and repair cost protection services. One has to say that satellite systems are better in terms of their options and security of service than Cable T.V.