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What is free to air (FTA) Satellite TV

Free-to-Air satellite (FTA satellite) is a description of satellite signals which can be received legally without paying any subscription fees. The satellite signal is not scrambled or encrypted but is typically encoded for MPEG-2 video.

FTA satellite TV is a subset of TVRO (TV Receive Only) that was originally transmitted on the C Band that require the very large 8 to 10 foot dishes that were more common in the 1980s.

Free-to-Air satellite programming is commonly found on the Ku Band that allow Free-To-Air programs to be broadcast using the smaller 18 to 39 inch satellite dishes. These small dishes make it easy for anyone to set up a FTA satellite system. Also because Homeowners/Neighborhood Associations may not restrict you from erecting a dish less than one meter wide (about 39 inches). Even if a contract or covenant forbids them, the Federal Communication Commission's rules make those portions of the contract unenforceable. With rare exceptions for historic districts, all that an association can legally do is require you to place the antenna in the least obtrusive place that still allows for reception.

Pay-per-view satellite television programming such as Dish Networks, DirecTV, and others use their own receivers. Free-to-Air channels are received by using a MPEG-2 video compatible satellite receiver, since broadcasts are unencrypted.

Free to Air Satellite Reception Requirements

To enjoy Free To Air satellite content, you'll need:

• A satellite dish antenna (either large C-Band or small K-Band types will work)
• A FTA receiver or satellite PC card
• An LNBF
• An antenna motor (If you wish to receive channels from more than one satellite)

For more information open this PDF Guide Click Here

Instruction guides and wholesale buyers guides are found in our Plans and guides section.