I hate to say it, but “when I was young” we only had one television in our whole house. And its pictures were black and white. There were these two wire bunny-like ears sticking out from behind it. Every once and awhile Dad would get up off the chair and move them around, asking us if the picture got any better. You actually had to get up and go to the television and turn a knob to change the channel. Not that there were very many channels to watch. Just a few local stations. Forget television after midnight unless you liked to watch the “snow” and listen to the horrible scratchy noise emitting from the station.
Now I sit back and turn the television on or off with my controller. The controller has so many small buttons on it that my fat fingers usually end up pressing more than one. There are so many channels that “channel surfing” has become too time consuming. I can watch TV 24/7 and then some.
There are also more options for receiving television stations. Gone are the ugly antennae sticking up from behind the screen. The screen itself is flat and needs a whole wall. I must choose between cable television and satellite television providers. Therein lays the dilemma. Which should I choose? Which is the best provider? Which costs less? These are items I must now take the time to research.
Satellite television comes from outer space. It requires a dish and a box to unscramble the signals. Your satellite dish must point to one of the provider’s satellites in space without any obstructions. Trees, mountains, buildings, and sometimes the atmosphere can get in the way. Basic satellite television provides 40 – 50 channels, with up to 250 premium channels. Satellite television is known for its entertainment and sports programming. It is usually the only provider of television services for customers who live in urban areas where there isn’t any cable. However, local programming is not as easy to come by.
Cable television requires a cable provider. Your area must have cable service. While that is easy in the city, if you live in the country it’s almost impossible. Cable television usually offers about 20 basic channels, 50 – 60 standard channels, and 200 – 300 premium channels. Cable television also provides more local programming. It also requires a box to unscramble the cable provider’s signals.
The basic cost of satellite television compared to cable television is similar. With either provider you will pay extra for premium channels and entertainment. You must rent the cable box from your cable provider and some providers have an additional charge for each television. Additional fees also apply to digital signals and DVRs. Satellite television providers, on the other hand, usually provide service for up to four televisions and the DVRs for the same price. You must also purchase your signal box and DVR. This should also be taken into account when making your decision.
According to recent surveys, satellite television providers have a better record for service and support than cable providers. This is a premium consideration in today’s world where servicing the customer is not always first on the provider’s to-do list. See what is available in your area. Calculate the costs. Decide what’s important to you. Sit back and enjoy the entertainment!