Hello-and some questions

[Opus Dei]

I would like to replace my DirecTV system with a FTA one, since I'm finding it's largely unwatched. I've been trying to get an idea of what i can recieve, but it's unclear. Seems like there's different protocols, latitude issues, etc. Let me ask you experts for some advice, and here's some information to help.

1) I'm in south Texas-below IH-10.

2) I'm mostly interested in network programming I gather that's available, even if from other states-not a problem.

3) I would like to know if some English foreign programming is available-like CBC or BBC.

4) Anything from the DirecTV system usable? The dish? Mount? I ask because I see the receivers sell separately.

5) A recommendation on a competent system to feed two rooms independantly, plus accomodate any forseeable technolological advances/requirements. Don't need fancy features or TiVo.

Thanks for looking-I'm sure it's a lot of redundant questions.

[bobkat]

Hi; welcome to the forums.

FTA is a whole new world and is really nothing like DirecTV; there are many free channels available. Here's a link to what you can receive...

---> http://www.lyngsat.com/freetv/index.shtml

Nothing from your DTV setup is usable except perhaps the mounting foot and the coaxial cable. You need a larger dish, different LNB and of course a different receiver.

Have a look at the free channels at lyngsat and see if this is what you're after. Then decide for yourself if Free To Air is the way you want to go.

kat

[Opus Dei]

Thanks for the welcome, bobkat.

I've seen the Lyngsat site before, so i had a notion of what I mightget. I know NTSC/PAL/SECAM, but DVB and Digicipher were new. In fact, I thought Digicipher was probably encrypted for PPV, but I guess it's merely a format. And didn't necessarily think I'd get BBC-no CBC, though

Anyway, I took a look again, and think I can live with most of the offerings. I certainly can more than cover the system cost in a year's time versus the DTV.


So, the question is: I need a recommendation for a system. I gather it'll need to be motorized to pan the horizon. I have open southern exposure. I've seen systems here and at eBay, but know so little. Again, any help would be appreciated.

[bobkat]

Well, as for particular brands of systems - there are many; Sadoun sells top quality gear. I know Fortec is a very reputable brand name. You will want to go with a motorized setup for maximum channel selection. Motors are a bit tricky to align properly (mine blew over in the wind yesterday... :cry: so its re-alignment time for me !!! :shock: ). This time I must remember to weigh the roof mount down with cement blocks - I was too lazy last time and now I must pay the price... ).

As for CBC -- you can have it !! :lol:

kat

[Opus Dei]

I'm a news junkie, and am interested in foreign perspective on American politics/events-good and bad. And I like to vacation in Manitoba. That's why I wanted CBC.

I spent a good bit of time researching the information. It seems that I won't be able to get anything off the Atlantic satellites. And I figured out the letter legend. So what I'd essentially end up with is some network affiliates that might not always be FTA, and some Canadian stations that largely carry WB network programs.

The system cost isn't objectionable, but I don't think I'd get enough interesting programming to justify it now. I didn't want an aerial, since I'm too close to Mexico. Guess I'll stick with DTV for now.

Again, thanks for the information, bobkat.

[bobkat]

NP

Why don't you just get a Bell ExpressVu system? All the CBC you can eat and then some ... :shock: Plus most of what DirecTV offers too.

Nimiq 91 covers most of North America - I think its footprint covers pretty much all of Texas, unless you're real close to the border - then a 24 or even 36" dish might be necessary. But its an option.

kat

[Opus Dei]

Bell ExpressVu? Never heard of it? I will look into it after posting.

I do live close to Mexico-within the 200 mile zone where any broadcasting has to be mutually approved by USA & Mexico. We got a NPR radio station after many years of "negotiations".