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Frequently Asked Questions |
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What are Free To Air (FTA)
channels?
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Free to Air (FTA) channels are digital channels that are not encrypted by the service provider and
require no subscription or monthly payment. They are provided free of charge by the provider and
are perfectly legal to receive with an FTA receiver. Go back to our Home page
for more info.
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What is MPEG-2 |
MPEG-2 is a worldwide satellite transmission standard for digital broadcasting. It is the wave of
the future, because of the simple economics that can allow 8 or even 10 video signals to occupy the
same space as one channel of analog transmission. Just as some analog signals can be scrambled for
subscription use, digital channels can be transmitted either scrambled or in-the-clear.
In-The-Clear is known in the digital TV world as FTA or Free-To-Air. Since it is a worldwide
standard, there are more MPEG-2/DVB (digital video broadcasting) channels available in places such
as Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, than presently found in the American market. National public
broadcasters in other parts of the world have adopted MPEG-2 as a cost-effective way to distribute
their signals on limited budgets.
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What channels can I get with an FTA
receiver? |
You will receive channels that
are digital MPEG-2 and not scrambled.
You can find a listing of these channels (and others) on
http://www.lyngsat.com Or Use our guide to it
HERE |
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Are there any Dish
Network or DirecTV channels that are FTA?
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Almost all of the channels provided by these companies are NOT FTA. The channels are
encrypted and require an authorized receiver and monthly subscription. A few FTA channels are
available on Dish Network such as the music channels on
http://www.lyngsat.com/echo7.shtml
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What size dish do I need for the Free to air channels?
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For the C-Band signal channels you will need a
8-10ft
dish.
For KU-band channels you will need a
30
inch dish and up. Normally, within the boundaries
of the continental US, you can use a 75cm dish. Fringe areas should use a 90cm or larger
dish. Southern Canada or Northern Mexico should use 90cm or larger.
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Do you guarantee that these
channels will remain free? |
No, no one can guarantee "free
channels". You will receive these channels as long as they remain free and in the clear (not
scrambled). Many providers have indicated that they intend to stay in the clear and unscrambled. And new channels appear frequently. |
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I heard there are channels on
C-band as well. Will a FTA receiver pick up C-band? |
Yes, most receivers will receive C-band and
Ku-band. Of course C-band requires a larger dish and a C-band feed and LNB. |
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Can I add a KU receiver to my
existing C-band system. |
Yes, you can. If you want
to receive Ku-band signals on your C-band dish, you must have a Ku LNB on you feed system.
This will usually require a C to C/Ku upgrade kit.
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How do I find the
satellite? |
The satellite you want to use
will be determined by the programming you want to view. Use our Guides section for system setup information |
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How do I peak my dish? |
I suggest that you purchase a
inexpensive signal meter for this purpose. |
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How do I move my dish to get more
satellites and more channels? |
You can easily see more satellites and more channels by adding a motor to move your dish. Use our
Guides section for system setup information |
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I want two receivers. What
do I need? |
You will need a dual LNBF.
Normally, this will be a direct replacement for your existing LNBF. You will need to run a
second coax from the dual LNBF to your second receiver. |
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I want more than two receivers.
Now what do I need? |
You will need dual LNBF and a
device called a multi-switch which allows for several receiver. The most common is a four
receiver switch. |
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Can I use a diplexer to
consolidate my local broadcast channels with my satellite signal? |
Yes, you will need two diplexers,
one to combine the signal on the outside and another one to separate those signals on the inside of
your home. |
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What are the rules for installing
a dish in my sub-division or apartment? |
You can review the FCC rulings
and get more information at
http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html |
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How can I put multiple LNBFs on
my receiver? |
With DiSEqC and other switching
options you can put up to 12 LNBFs on one receiver.
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If I am not comfortable installing my own system how do I find a local installer?
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Please look over our installation guides before you make the decision not to Do It Yourself. It will
save you over $100 if you DIY. Our guides show exactly how easy it is. If after you review the steps
and you do not wish to install the system yourself (Maybe some have physical limitations) then
go to this web site and find a local installer My
Local Installer. Be sure to call one at a time and ask if that they have experience installing FTA
systems. If not you can print out directions for them so they can locate the satellites easily. Many
are installers for Dish Network or another satellite company and have experience but may need help when
finding other satellites and installing a motorized dish. Our guides will instruct in these.
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