For some the term digital satellite TV may seem redundant as all signals sent by way of satellite are in digital format. Not necessarily those received from broadcasters to the satellite TV services, but once they receive them they are processed into digital format in order to make the trip from the Earth to the satellite and back to the antennas on the ground. Analog signals would require too much power to make the journey and are susceptible to more interference than digital satellite TV signals.
Many local television broadcasters also broadcast their signals in digital format and home viewers equipped with a high definition television and antenna can see the difference in the signals. With digital, there is nothing that interferes with the signal and the occurrence of snow is a non-issue. Receiving a digital satellite TV signal does require the use of the services set top box in order to be viewed on non-digital television sets.
Many television are considered cable-ready, meaning that the cable can be connected directly to the television set without the use of a separate box. Most digital satellite TV signals do require the descrambler, but the satellite providers are working with some television manufacturers to make sets capable of receiving and showing the digital satellite TV signals.
Clearer Picture Provided With Digital Broadcasting
Beginning in 2009, all broadcasters will be required to transmit their signals in digital format and the government is currently offering certificates to help people pay for boxes that transform the digital signal into analog in order to view programming without having to buy a digital capable television. Since those with satellite service already have the digital satellite TV service, they will have no reason to purchase a second converter.
Whether people watching the digital broadcast on an analog television will see any difference in the quality of the picture is doubtful. However, those with a digital television will enjoy the same quality of picture as those receiving digital satellite TV services. Currently, some of the stations broadcast digital signals during prime viewing times, but go back to analog during the day or during less active viewing periods.
The only downfall to digital satellite TV is the requirement for line of sight. Trees, buildings and any mountains between the viewer's ground antenna and the satellite will block the signal. Being able to take advantage of the digital satellite TV signals will continue to require line of site, but will provide a better viewing experience.
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