Satellite TV Installation

Across the country, users are making the switch from cable to satellite TV services. Through the excitement of the impressive channel line-ups and the stories of perfect pictures we all too often forget about the satellite television installation process and how it will affect us.

Being a former on-demand cable technician I was concerned about the various aspects of the satellite television installation such the placement of the dish, the use of existing cables and whether I would have to cut down any of the beautiful trees in our yard. As I awaited the chime of the doorbell the heavy cloud of trepidation loomed overhead. If I had only known what to expect I would have been anxiously anticipating their arrival. From the speed of service, the professionalism of the technicians, and the quality of the equipment we were amazed by our satellite television installation.

For our satellite system we chose DirecTV after querying our friends and family about their service. Although the company has online ordering we spoke directly with a Customer Service representative. In a world ruled by instant gratification we were delighted to learn that our installation would occur the very next day.

Who installs the satellite TV equipment?

Are you a DIY network viewer and think you can do this satellite television installation yourself? For this one you may want to sit back and relax since the major satellite tv providers offer free installation as part of their package.

DirecTV sent out a professional local contractor to do our installation. Our team consisted of three technicians - one for receiver setup, one for dish installation and another to run cable. The install team was very professional and a pleasure to work with.

Will my landscaping be affected?

The satellite dish will need to be setup with a clear line of sight to provide you with the best picture quality possible. I do not recommend modifying your landscaping unless the satellite installation technician believes it is necessary.

Since our property is heavily wooded we were delighted to learn that the satellite dish could be placed on the roof of our home. This allowed us to receive incredible DirecTV picture quality while preserving the aesthetics of our landscaping.

Can my existing wiring be used?

It is preferable that the existing wiring be used during the satellite television installation. Additional wiring is only necessary if conditions exist that prevent its use such as placement of the dish or if you purchased a DVR package.

Satellite DVR receivers require that two cables run from the satellite to the receiver which will allow you to record more than one show at a time or view a show while you are recording another.

If extra cabling needs to be installed in your home the installation technician will explain the options to you.

Finishing the installation:

After the satellite dish has been setup the technician(s) will tune the receivers and then spend some time showing you how to utilize the remote controls.

The installation of our DirecTV satellite television equipment could not have been easier. As the crew drove down the road I was left with one hurdle that I could only pass by myself. With over 200 channels I would have to settle on something to watch.