3D TV is the technology that allows subscribers to experience TV programs, movies, games and other video content in three dimension. A 3D TV shows content displays two separate images of the same scene at the same time. These images occupy the full screen and appear intermixed with one another. Subscribers need to wear 3D glasses while watching 3D content that will perceive two images as a single 3D image. To enjoy 3D TV, subscribers should possess new 3D television equipment and a 3D capable Player.

3D programming in DirecTV

DirecTV, the world’s most popular satellite television service provider is the first to deliver high definition 3D movies and TV programming via satellite to their subscribers. DirecTV believes that subscribers can experience a new level of viewing movies, sports and other TV programs by the 3D content. Millions of DirecTV subscribers can enjoy HD quality 3D in home with 3D television and 3D glasses with no extra charge. DirecTV will upgrade with new software in the beginning of June, 2010 to enable their subscribers to have access to 3D channels through 3D television sets such as Panasonic’s VIERA Full HD 3D TV’s.

The exclusive sponsor of DirecTV’s 3D channels, Panasonic will deliver movies, sports and entertainment content from the world renowned 3D producers. To develop additional 3D programming, DirecTV is presently working with AEG/AEG Digital media, CBS, Fox Sports/FSN, Golden Boy Promotions, HDNet, MTV, NBC Universal and Turner Broadcasting System.

DirecTV will offer three channels in 3D along with ESPN 3D. The three channels of DirecTV 3D includes 3D DirecTV on Demand channel, 3D Pay Per view channel and N3D all powered by Panasonic will be delivered round the clock. N3D is the DirecTV new 3D channel that will deliver the best 3D shows, movies and sports.

The first sports television network in 3D is ESPN 3D that is going to broadcast in the month of June, 2010. If subscribers subscribe to ESPN then they will receive ESPN 3D with no extra charge. ESPN 3D will display 85 live sporting events produced in 3D with the first 2010 FIFA world cup match that comprises of 25 world cup matches in the channel’s 3D lineup. ESPN 3D also delivers X games 16, the 2010 college football ACC Championship, the 2011 BCS National Championship game, College Basketball and NBC games in 2011.

3D programming in Dish Network

Dish Network is the second largest satellite TV service provider in the United States next to DirecTV. Dish Network has been promoting its high definition service to both its existing and new customers. Subscribers of Dish Network especially Golf Lovers can enjoy The Master’s Golf Tournament in 3D. The 3D is the new passion the world of Television and entertainment. To enjoy The Masters tournament in 3D, subscribers are in need of 3D television and HD receiver. Panasonic, Sony and Samsung are the first to introduce 3D TV to their Subscribers.

Subscribers can enjoy the 3D coverage of Masters Tournament on the sports and entertainment channels on CBS and ESPN on Dish Network. The tournament will be broadcasted from the Augusta National Golf Club, Georgia.

Dish Network and DirecTV, are going to make their subscribers contented with their 3D programming in the forth coming days. Soon, subscribers of both satellite TV providers will enjoy their favorite programming in 3D.

Whether subscribers are signing up for DirecTV service for the first time or upgrading their equipment, DirecTV’s professional installation is always available for its subscribers. The various professional installations are free in many cases but not in all cases. Professional installation of new DirecTV equipment is generally made free for subscribers. However, if subscribers want then they can opt for self installation also. DirecTV service provides abundant guidelines for self installations. Subscribers may get confused whether to opt for professional installation or go with self installation. This article explains the advantages of both professional and self installation and will help subscribers to come out of their dilemmas.

Professional Installation:

To access professional installation of DirecTV equipment, subscribers have to schedule an installation appointment with DirecTV service via online, phone or DirecTV retailers.

Professional installations of DirecTV are done by highly trained installers who mount, align or peak satellite dish correctly. Also connections between TV to DVR, VCR or DVD players and receiver to phone line are done by them. Professional installers will always proceed their works using approved materials such as RG-6 cable, switches and connectors. Professional installers convey subscribers a brief lesson on using DirecTV systems.

But prior to professional installation subscribers have to be ready with some pre-requisites. They need to decide and pick a room to access DirecTV programming. Presence of an adult (someone over 18 years) member of the family have to be present to sign installation documents on proposed day of installation. A clear and easily accessible dish mounting site (roof or ground) and a land-based phone connection need to be available. Apartment or rental home dwellers need to check approval of their house owners. They may also need to fill out a Landlord Permission form.

Advantages of Professional Installation:

• Professional installation is easy as well as better as it is done by expert and knowledgeable technicians.

• Professional installation is affordable with reasonable price. It is often included free with new equipment.

• Subscribers can schedule and re-schedule an appointment fixed for professional installation as per subscribers’ convenience.

• A brief lesson by expert technicians on how to use equipment is included within Professional Installation.

• Subscribers who use a professional installer typically have fewer technical concerns after installation.

Self Installation:

Sometime subscribers may want to execute installation of different DirecTV equipment without taking help from professional installers. DirecTV satellite service has rendered enough of self installation instructions to help such subscribers. For self installation information subscribers must first read users manual guide provided by DirecTV. In other cases subscribers can seek necessary guidelines from DirecTV Technical Help forums at forums.directv.com/pe/index. Also correct azimuth and elevation for mounting satellite dish can be accessed in DirecTV website at directv.com.

Advantages of Self-Installation:

• Professional installation is always recommended by DirecTV. However, subscribers can go with thorough instructions necessary for sel-installation. DirecTV provides all necessary support and instruction to help subscribers to install equipment themselves.

• Equipment manuals and setup guides are available online at directv.com and hence easily accessible.

• For any further support subscribers can seek help from DirecTV by calling at 1-800-DirecTV.

From explanations above, it can thus be assessed that subscribers can opt either DirecTV’s Professional Installation and Self Installation. However, subscribers are always recommended to go with Professional Installation as it is accomplished by expert technician of DirecTV. Professional installers possess technical knowledge. As a result they can install satellite dish or other equipment with perfection and in more appropriate way. Sometimes, Professional Installation does include an installation price but that has always been kept affordable for subscribers. In many cases Professional Installation of satellite dish or other equipment is rendered for free of cost. Thus, Professional Installation seems more advantageous than Self Installation. However, subscribers can certainly go with self installation as DirecTV necessitates subscribers with necessary instructions. If subscribers are capable and confident enough to accomplish installation perfectly then they should surely opt for self installation.

As a result of contractual agreements between professional sports leagues and broadcasters, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) may sometimes require to blackout some games of sports teams. The sports blackout rule is only applied if a local TV broadcast is not carrying the local sporting event. Therefore, if a local TV broadcast station does not have permission to carry the local game then no other broadcaster’s signal displaying the game can be shown in the protected local blackout zone. All sports packages through every satellite TV providers are subject to blackouts without exceptions. Blackout restrictions are designed to protect the television rights holders in the competing teams’ respective home markets. DirecTV satellite service does not arbitrarily institute blackouts but follows the restrictions set forth by different sports leagues or their right holders such as ESPN, TNT and so on. DirecTV follows blackout rules to honor their agreements with the leagues and other owners of the broadcast rights.

Subscribers may fail to watch different games due to blackouts. Below is given a short explanation of different games that get affected by blackouts in DirecTV:

MLB Extra Innings Blackout :

Some weekend games of MLB Extra Innings have been blacked out of the package. MLB Extra Inning package generally deliver out-of-market baseball games on channels 722-749 of DirecTV. For teams in subscribers’ home market, the games will be shown on their respective Regional Sports Network or a local channel. ESPN has undergone an agreement with Major League Baseball due to which ESPN has been given exclusive rights to broadcast MLB games that begin after 5pm ET on Sundays. Due to the agreement these games will not be available on MLB Extra Innings channels. Similarly, MLB has undergone agreement with Fox Television Network. As per the agreement on Saturdays in the regular season Fox Television Network will have the exclusive rights to broadcast MLB games until 7pm ET. As a result subscribers cannot access these games on the MLB Extra Innings package channels. But they can watch these games in Fox Television Network. For this, subscribers need to check with the Fox Network local schedule.

MLB has also undergone agreements with the YES Network. YES does not have the rights to deliver certain MLB-licensed programming to subscribers who live outside the YES network’s home market. This programming includes New York Yankees Encore games, Yankeeography, Yankees Classics, Yankees Magazine and This Week in Baseball, among others.

ESPN Full Court Blackout:

For ESPN Full Court, blackout restrictions primarily apply to select games from Atlantic Coast Conference in southeastern regions of the United States including Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. People living in any of these areas access the blackout games on their local regional sports network or over-the air network.

NFL Blackouts:

There are certain game availability rules set up by NFL, CBS and Fox. In general subscribers can watch all games of NFL on channels 704-718 unless the local Fox and CBS station shows the games in which case subscribers need to tune to local channel to watch them. Also in DirecTV, as per regulations imposed by NFL, a regular season Sunday afternoon game will not be televised anywhere in a home team’s territory if the game does not sell out at least 72 hours prior to kickoff. The blackout games can be watched by tuning into local Fox and CBS station. DirecTV requires to enforce these blackout rules since they first started providing NFL Sunday Ticket.

ESPN Gameplan Blackout:

ESPN Gameplan is subject to blackouts for the games that are televised in local designated areas. For instance the local ABC sports broadcasts several games to different regions of the country. Subscribers can watch one game every week on their local ABC station. But the game shown on local ABC affiliate will be blackout from subscribers’ ESPN Gameplan Subscription.

Sports Pack Blackout:

Blackout rules do affect some of the games included in the Sports Pack of DirecTV. As per the rules subscribers will not receive professional games outside their market on Sports Pack channels. Out-of-market games are sold separately via professional sports subscription package.

NCAA Mega March Madness Blackout:

Subscribers cannot watch the games delivered by their CBS affiliate with NCAA Mega March Madness package of DirecTV. Subscribers must check their local listings to check availability of those game in their local CBS broadcasts.

NHL Center Ice:

Blackout restrictions apply to all games on NHL Center Ice. These blackouts are determined by the leagues. Mainly they are designed to protect the television rights holders in the competing teams’ respective home markets.

MLS Direct Kick Blackout:

No games of MLS Direct Kick are subject to blackout rules.

NBA League Pass Blackout:

All games of NBA League Pass are subjected to NBA blackout rules. Which game would be blacked out will be determined by NBA.

Sports blackouts and game availability are controlled by the leagues, sports associations, and networks that purchase the rights to broadcast individual games. To protect their rights, DirecTV must enforce the blackouts and availability mandated by them.

Blackout rules are different for different local media market. For detailed inquiry subscribers can visit directv.com/blackouts.

Sports Packages in DirecTV:

DirecTV satellite service delivers subscribers variegated sports packages for different sports. Some top-rated sports packages of DirecTV include NFL Sunday Ticket, MLB Extra Innings, NBA League Pass, NHL Center Ice, ESPN Full court and many more. Apart from sports packages extended coverage of Grand Slam tournaments and many exclusive sports packages are delivered that are not are not found anywhere else. Below is given an a brief account of DirecTV’s exclusive sports packages,  exclusive coverage of different sports tournaments and other sports packages.

Exclusive Sports packages:

• NFL Sunday Ticket: NFL Sunday Ticket is an out-of-market sports package that broadcast National Football League regular season games unavailable on local affiliates. Regional games produced by Fox and CBS are delivered by this package. This package enables subscribers to watch their home team on local television even if they are not residing in the team’s market. This sports package is available in the United States exclusively on DirecTV. Other TV services such as Cable TVs and Dish Network do not constitute the rights to broadcast this package.

• NASCAR Hotpass: In the United States, NASCAR Hotpass is available exclusively on DirecTV. With this package subscribers can enjoy watching every moment of the Sprint Cup. This package that provide four channels, all in HD , put subscribers right in the middle of the action from the driver’s seat to under the hood. This package is a complementary television package and delivered free to DirecTV subscribers.

• MLB Extra Innings: MLB Extra Innings is an out-of-market sports package that broadcasts up to 80 out-of-market Major League Baseball games a week via local over the air stations and regional sports networks. In the United States DirecTV is the sole satellite TV provider to deliver this package to subscribers. Along with the 80 out-of-market baseball games DirecTV delivers 40 games in crystal clear HD.

Exclusive Extended Coverage of Grand Slam Tournaments:

• Grand Slam Golf: DirecTV delivers extensive coverage of major Golf events namely the PGA Championship and U.S Open. Subscribers can have enhanced and extended viewing of these tournaments on four channels including bonus channels. The PGA Championship is an annual golf tournament conducted by PGA(Professional Golfer’s Association) of America. It is one of the four major championships in professional golf. On the other hand the U.S Open Tournament is the second of the four major championships in golf.

• Grand Slam Tennis: With DirecTV, subscribers get full coverage of all the major Grand Slam tennis tournaments every year on multiple channels as well bonus channels. Advanced features of DirecTV adds to subscribers’ watching different Grand Slam tennis. These tournaments are the most prestigious tennis events that are played every year. Grand Slam tennis constitutes four tournaments namely Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon and U.S Open. DirecTV satellite service gives full coverage to all the four tournaments of tennis.

Other Sports packages of DirecTV:

DirecTV renders subscribers the experience of watching bulk of sports programming via its various sports packages. Its is very likely for subscribers of DirecTV to get confused while selecting sports packages from the vast package lineups. Apart from the exclusive sports packages DirecTV delivers a number of other sports packages that are namely ESPN GamePlan, NBA League Pass, NHL Center Ice, ESPN Full Court, MLS DirectKick, Fox Soccer Plus, CricketTicket, Sports Pack, Soccer. DirecTV Pay-per-view are available for many sports programs. WWE and UFC are available in DirecTV as pay-per-view options.

DirecTV’s Advanced Features for Sports Fan:

DirecTV provides many advanced features to deliver subscribers an enhanced viewing of sports programming on TV. With different features subscribers can enjoy number of advantages such as they can watch up to 8 live games on one TV screen, they can check scores of any game at the press of button and many more. Below is given a short explanation of such different features of DirecTV.

Sports Mix:

Two channels of DirecTV viz. channel 104 and 205 are together called Sports Mix channels. With this channels, subscribers can watch non-stop sports action. They can enjoy watching up to 8 of the most popular sports channels on one TV screen. For audio feeds subscribers just need to use the arrow buttons of remotes. Also subscribers can press the Select button to tune in any of the eight channels to watch games in full screen.

DVR Instant Replay:

DirecTV DVRs comprise the feature of Instant Replay that helps subscribers to catch a missed moment of a game. With this feature, subscribers can pause, replay or rewind the game.

ScoreGuide:

Subscribers while watching one live game on TV can keep themselves updated with scores of other live games via the ScoreGuide feature. By pressing the red button on remotes, subscribers can find the ScoreGuide popping up on the TV screen. With the ScoreGuide subscribers can check scores of different games and also they can tune directly to those events by clicking on it.

GameSearch:

GameSearch feature of DirecTV recognizes a blackout game of a channel and immediately looks to find if the game is on another channel. If the broadcast of the game is found on other channel GameSearch feature displays an on-screen message that gives subscribers an option to tune into that channel. If the blackout game is not found in any other channel then the on-screen message will inform that the game is not available. Apart from this, if subscribers have scheduled a game that has been blacked out then GameSearch will find out the game in other channel and the game will be recorded automatically. GameSearch feature is delivered to subscribers for free of cost.

DVR Scheduler:

With the DVR Scheduler feature of DirecTV subscribers can set their DVRs to record their favorite programming from outside home using their mobile phones, PCs etc. Thus, they can catch all their favorite programming without a single miss.

Advanced Search:

Advanced Search enables subscribers to make a quick search of availability of a TV program such as game or show. They can search for their desired program by Title, Person, Channel or other Keywords.  This helpful feature works for both DirecTV on Demand and general program guide searches.

Sports Programming in Dish Network:

Dish Network delivers subscribers a number of different sports packages. The sports packages available for subscribers of this satellite TV provider include MLS Direct Kick, NHL Center Ice, Fox Soccer Plus, ESPN GamePlan, ESPN Full Court, NBA League Pass, Multi Sport and Zee Sports. Dish Network satellite TV service provides subscribers a total of 8 sports packages. Pay-per-view options are available for number of sports. WWE and UFC games are available as Dish Network Pay-per-view.

Dish Network possess many advanced features such as Parental Control, Dish Remote Access etc. But features helpful while watching sports programming are not available much in number.

Comparison of Sports Programming of DirecTV and Dish:

• DirecTV delivers more than 10 sports programming packages to subscribers. But Dish Network delivers around 8 sports programming packages to subscribers.

• DirecTV delivers 3 sports packages exclusively available only in their service in the entire United States. The three packages are namely NFL Sunday Ticket, NASCAR Hotpass and MLB EXtra Innings. Dish Network do not possess these three packages though subscribers can access MLB Extra Innings games in certain chgannels of the service.

• DirecTV broadcasts extensive coverage of Grand Slam tournaments of Tennis and Golf to subscribers in different channels. They also provide bonus channels for extensive broadcast of these tournaments. But Dish Network do not deliver subscribers wide coverage of these tournaments. Subscribers of Dish Network can catch these tournaments only on certain channels such as The Tennis Channel.

• With DirecTV, subscribers can have an enhanced viewing of different sports events via DirecTV’s advanced features. Subscribers can use feature such as GameSearch, Advanced Search, ScoreGuide and many more. But in Dish Network, subscribers do not have such features. Many features such as DVR Schedular are there in Dish network but lots of other advanced features are not available in the service.

• In DirecTV cricket fans can access the sports package namely CricketTicket package. This sports package brings subscribers a huge array of cricket broadcasts from round the world. In Dish Network subscribers can do access cricket matches in number of channels but there is no package solely dedicated to cricket.

From explanation above it is thus noticed that DirecTV provides extensive coverage of different sports than Dish Network. This satellite TV provider provides subscribers with more package and variety of sports programming than Dish Network. DirecTV provides many advanced features for sports programming and these features enhance subscribers’ TV viewing experience. Features like GameSearch, ScoreGuide etc are utterly useful while watching different games. Dish Network’s subscribers do not enjoy using many such features. Thus, it is noticed that DirecTV edges Dish Network when sports programming is concerned. According to DirecTV they are the leader in sports programming in the United States.

What is HDTV?

HDTV stands for High Definition Television. High Definition refers to the resolution of the video (720p, 1080i or 1080p). Images in HDTV are more rich and realistic and it delivers movie theatre quality. HDTV can display images in both standard definition and high definition. With DirecTV HD subscribers can have access to most of channels in HD, movies in 1080p HD and quality Dolby Digital Surround Sound as Blu-ray. The resolution 1080p provides a smooth and clean picture. Subscribers can feel cinematic experience while watching movies in 1080p format. Either the DirecTV HD receiver or DirecTV Plus HD DVR is needed to view all HD channels.

Sports and Locals in HD

Apart from other channels, subscribers can access to local channels such as ABC, CBS, NBC and so on in High Definition. Nearly 91% of homes in the U.S. are enjoying local channels in HD. Subscribers are in need of three or five LNB multi-satellite dish along with a DirecTV HD receiver and an HD television set to deliver local channels in HD. Subscribers need to visit www.directv.com/locals to check the availability of local channel in the area.

DirecTV, the leader in sports delivers the most NFL games, NCAA tournament games in HD. With DirecTV HD, Subscribers can experience the energy and amusement totally in most sports.

Subscribers need to pay only one HD access fee every month even if they use multiple HD receivers. The number of HD channels will vary according to the programming package selected by subscribers. To add HD service, subscribers need to upgrade their account by signing into DirecTV ”My Account” and then to “Add Service” via online. HD service can be ordered via phone also.

DirecTV HD Equipment

DirecTV Plus HD DVR gives the highest picture quality and the capacity of DVR is two times more than cable. There is no need for subscribers to delete the previously recorded and watched shows to store new ones. Home DVR can be set with any computer or mobile phone in DirecTV. Subscribers can watch shows on PC when live or recorded program is being watched on TV.

With DirecTV Media Share, subscribers can enjoy viewing their Photos and videos on their TV screen that are stored on their PC. Also recorded programs can be watched on computer, when DirecTV Plus HD DVR is connected to subscriber’s home network. To enjoy HD television on PC, subscribers need to connect their HD DVR to the Internet and then they have to download the DirecTv2PC application.

Subscribers can enjoy a group of channels such as Crime & Investigation HD, HDNet Movies, MGM HD, Palladia HD, Smithsonian HD and Universal HD only in HD. These channels will be telecasted in HD alone and the way to get these channels is to get DirecTV HD Extra Pack. Subscribers can add DirecTV Extra Pack to any base programming package.

DirecTV, , brings the latest in HD technology with 1080p. It also delivers subscribers a number of channels in awesome High Definition. HD packages can be added to basic packages to enjoy HD channels at a reasonable price.

DirecTV satellite service brings to subscribers all events of WWE featuring superstars of WWE like Triple H, Randy Orton, John Cena, Batista and many more. Subscribers can watch all these WWE superstars battling for ring supremacy with DirecTV pay per view option of events of WWE.

Subscribers can order events of the WWE pay per view through remote, by phone or online. In case of ordering with remote control subscribers must make sure that their receiver is connected to a land-based phone line. After ensuring this, subscribers can order using remotes by following on-screen instructions.

Online ordering of the WWE events can be done by logging on directv.com/events. After this subscribers must follow on-screen instructions to order events.

Subscribers can also order an event of the WWE via phone by calling at 1-800-531-5000. When subscribers order via phone using the automated system then they must pay an additional fee of $1.50. On the other hand while ordering through phone if subscribers place their order with a customer service representative then they pay an amount of $5.00.

Subscribers can order events of the WWE up to 12 days in advance. To pay for pay per view event orders, subscribers can bill the charge to their DirecTV account or they can pay via credit cards or checking account.

With many advanced features of DirecTV subscribers can enjoy the advantage of watching various events of WWE with exclusive TV viewing experience. Some of the features are :

• Event replay: If subscribers missed any live event of WWE or if they want to relive any event then can order for the replay of the event. With Event Replay of DirecTV satellite service, subscribers can watch past events of WWE.

• Record the events: Subscribers can set their DVR to record events of the WWE even when they are not at home, from any computer or cell phone, using the DVR scheduler.

DVR Scheduler in DirecTV allows subscribers to set the home DVR with any mobile phone or PC. There is no need for subscribers to be at home to set the DVR.

With DirecTV DVR scheduler subscribers can set their DVR and record events of the WWE by following three simple steps:

1. Register: First subscribers need to create DirecTV account online. To do so they must go to directv.com/register.
2. Connect: After creating DirecTV account online subscribers must get connected to DirecTV satellite service by signing into directv.com/tvlisting or go to m.directv.com via mobile.
3. Record: After getting connected to DirecTV, subscribers can search for their favorite event of the WWE and select to record it. The event will get recorded on time and subscribers can enjoy it when they return home.

Subscribers can also set a DVR with DirecTV iPhone Application. DirecTV iPhone Application is the easiest, fastest and the convenient way to find any program and set the home DVR in DirecTV by touching the iPhone or iPod. The main features of DirecTV iPhone Application are :

1. Subscribers can search for any program or television show up to 14 days in advance.
2. Subscribers are allowed to browse the TV shows or programs by channel or date and time.
3. Subscribers are able to get the program information instantly, including description, length and rating.
4. The Pay per view movies or programs can be recorded and that can be watched by subscribers at anytime.
5. Subscribers can record events of WWE through this DirecTV iPhone Application.

HD format: DirecTV delivers events of the WWE in HD format. With DirecTV’s HD service subscribers can feel every punch and every bead of sweat of fighters of the WWE. To watch events in HD format subscribers must have a HD receiver, a HD television as well as subscription to HD programming. Currently DirecTV delivers over 130 HD channels. They also offers events of WWE in HD. Thus with DirecTV HD, subscribers can watch every minute of inside-ring actions of WWE superstars.

Apart from all these features, DirecTV also carries records of past events of WWE. If subscribers fail to watch any WWE event they can check the results of past events with DirecTV satellite service which updates the records from time to time.

With DirecTV satellite service subscribers can thus access the exciting events of WWE. Subscribers can enjoy watching WWE superstars battling within the ring for one belt with DirecTV.

The Protection Plan in DirecTV includes :

• Technical Support
• Plan Coverage
• Fast and Convenient repair
• Coverage period
• Cancellation

Technical Support

Subscribers can get 24 hours technical support for all DirecTV’s equipments via Protection Plan. Expert Technicians will be available on technical support to answer subscribers’ queries.

Plan Coverage

The Protection Plan in DirecTV covers every DirecTV receiver of subscribers. The Plan will either provide repair for the defective equipment or pay for authorized repairs of the equipment.

The technical services of the DirecTV system covers the following :

• Cost associated with replacement of defective equipment, including Remote control and Receiver.
• Replacement of wiring, satellite Antenna, Connections / switches and simlar items comes under Protection Plan.
• Also covers the realignment of the dish antenna, Power surge related repairs, 24 hour technical support and In-home service calls.

Fast and Convenient Repair

The Protection Plan is a fast and convenient repair service provided by DirecTV. It also includes On site repairs. While repairing or replacing an equipment, shipping and delivery services will be included in Protection Plan for free of cost.

On receiving a new receiver, subscribers need to return their defective receiver to DirecTV. If subscribers fail to return the defective receiver, then charges for the equipment that was not returned, will be applied to subscribers.

Coverage Period

The Protection Plan coverage period begins from the date of purchase that is shown on the monthly billing statement. This coverage period will be effective for one year. The Plan will automatically get renewed for another one year unless it is canceled by subscribers or terminated by DirecTV. The terms of the plan may not be modified and for assistance the subscribers need to call at 1-888-667-7463.

The Protection Plan doesn’t cover the following:

• Damages caused by subscribers intentionally, damage from accident, abuse, misuse or theft will not come under Protection Plan.
• This plan will not cover the damage, that is not reported to DirecTV within thirty days.
• The plan is not applicable, when the equipment is repaired, opened or accessed by anyone other than an authorized service representative.

Cancellation

Subscribers can cancel the plan either by calling DirecTV customer care service at 1-888-667-7463 or by providing written notice with the copy of the plan to the administrator of customer care service. Also the Plan will be canceled by DirecTV for fraud, material misrepresentation, non payment or any violation of terms and conditions of the plan.

If the plan is canceled by subscribers in mid of the term, then they have to pay an administrative fee of ten dollars to DirecTV. If subscribers cancel this plan within the first thirty days after the receipt of the plan then they will receive a full refund.

Why do the subscribers need the Protection Plan, if they lease their equipment?

In DirecTV, the equipment leasing fee is mentioned only for the receiver. DirecTV permits subscribers to provide the latest equipment with minimal upfront cost, affordable upgrade options, and when the receiver fails, it is replaced with no additional charge.

The Protection plan in DirecTV covers equipments other than the receiver also. With the help of the protection plan, subscribers can have access to service calls from a trained technician. Subscribers can fix the problems over the phone such as dish alignments, replacement of defective remotes and other components such as cables, multi-switches, or splitters.

To customize the on-screen guide (For DirecTV Plus HD DVR, DirecTV HD Receiver or DirecTV Plus DVR), subscribers should perform the following steps:

• Press the Guide button on the Remote control.
• Press the yellow button on the remote control that will display the Guide Options menu.
• Select the option Change Favorites List and then Channels I get.

Now in the on screen guide, subscribers can watch only those channels that they have subscribed. Channels I get will be displayed in the bottom left corner of the guide screen.

To customize the on screen guide (For standard DirecTV Receiver), subscribers have to do the following steps:

• Press the Guide button on the remote control.
• Press the Yellow button on the remote control to display the Guide Options menu.
• Select Change Favorites List. Subscribers can customize one of the two custom lists to add channels, that can be done in the following ways:
• 1. Select Setup Custom 1.
  2. Press the right arrow key to highlight Add channels I Get.
  3. Press the Select button.
  4. Press the left arrow key twice. Then the pop up will come up with the message asking whether subscribers want to change the current favorites list to the custom list or not.
  5. Select Yes, change current
  6. Press the Guide button on the remote control.

The On Screen Program Guide will now display only those channels that are subscribed by subscribers. Custom 1 (favorite channels list) will be displayed in the bottom left corner of the screen.

DirecTV Sat-Go features:

• Compact and portable: DirecTV SatGo is very small in size. It is around 19.5- inch wide. It occupies very less space and therefore can be placed easily in almost all places. The size of DirecTV Sat-Go is smaller than an average suitcase. Due to its small structure it can also be carried easily to all places. It has a small grip handle that makes it very comfortable to carry.
• All-in-one DirecTV system: DirecTV Sat-Go is one small entertainment unit that includes everything required for enjoying DirecTV satellite programming. This small unit contains a 17-inch flat panel LCD, a DirecTV receiver, one flat antenna, two speakers, remote and rechargeable battery. WOW!.
• Easy setup: Setting-up of the DirecTV Sat Go is very easy. Only a few steps have to be followed for setting up the whole system that can be finished within a few minutes.

In order to set up the DirecTV Sat-Go, subscribers must first obtain a clear view of the southern sky (unobstructed by branches of trees, buildings etc). The DirecTV Sat-Go must be placed on a flat surface. After this, subscribers must put the antenna at an elevation angle between 30 and 60 degrees. Then the following steps must be followed.:

• Set the MODE SWITCH located on the remote to DirecTV.
• Press TV power ON.
• Follow on-screen instructions to complete the process.
• Picture and sound mode: In DirecTV Sat-Go, all TV programs can be enjoyed in good picture and sound quality. The speakers included in this system enhances the sound effect for subscribers.

Additional Features of DirecTV Sat-Go:

• The remote control of DirecTV Sat-Go can be programmed to control a TV and two other devices like a DVD player, a VCR or other audio equipment.
• The scores of all major Live games can be obtained, that too without changing the channel that the subscriber has tuned in. Subscribers just need to press the red button located on the remote.
• A timer can be set to tune into a program automatically.
• Video games can be played on DirecTV Game Lounge. DirecTV Sat-Go can also be connected to subscriber’s own game console.
• With the help of DirecTV interactive features like DirecTV ActiveTM , subscribers can get weather reports, lottery results, and on-screen horoscopes.
• Pay Per View titles can also be accessed and enjoyed through DirecTV Sat-Go.
• DirecTV Sat-Go has a warranty for a period of 90 days, and the warranty period will be calculated from the date of purchase.

With DirecTV Sat-Go, subscribers can enjoy at any place, the various TV programming rendered by DirecTV satellite service. They do not need to bother about missing their favorite TV shows when they leave home. It is a blessing for subscribers when they are out camping or on a picnic or holidaying outdoors.

The following are the types of Remotes are offered by DirecTV

• Universal Remote

• Universal RF Remote

• Big Button Remote

DirecTV Universal Remote

Universal Remote is compatible with the DirecTV System. In addition, it is Infrared capable, so subscribers need to point at the system and perform the function. The Universal Remote, controls up to 4 components such as DirecTV receivers, TVs, VCRs and DVD Players. As it is memory protected, subscribers can replace batteries without re-programming the remote control. The cost of the Universal remote is around $15.

DirecTV Universal RF Remote

Universal RF Remote helps subscribers to operate the DirecTV system and it is very much compatible. As it is Radio Frequency capable, there is no need for subscribers to point the remote straight to the receiver to control it. The Back lit button in this remote control helps subscribers to look at buttons even in low light. The Universal RF Remote, controls up to 4 components including DirecTV receivers, TVs, VCR s and DVD Players. It is memory protected. So, subscribers can replace batteries without re-programming the remote control. The cost of the Universal RF remote is around $25.

DirecTV Big Button Remote

Big Button remote control has got bigger size buttons on it. So subscribers can type and control the DirecTV system more easily than any other remote control. Subscribers can feel what button they are pressing, as it has large number shaped buttons. The Back lit button in this remote control helps to see buttons even in low light. Big Button remote control controls up to 4 components such as DirecTV receivers, TVs, VCR s and DVD players. The cost of the Big Button Remote in DirecTV is around $20.

Things you can do with your Remote

Score Guide

The Score Guide allows subscribers to know about the score of a game when they are watching another game in a different channel. By pressing the red button on the remote control, subscribers will have score guide on the screen from which they can get scores for major sporting events and a list of DirecTV channels carrying those events.

Customize your Guide

DirecTV receiver will always display all channels in the program guide whether the subscribers subscribe to them or not. This can be limited by customizing the program guide where subscribers can see only those channels that they have subscribed to. The enlisted steps has to be followed to customize the guide in Standard Receiver

• Press the Guide button on the Remote Control.

• Press the yellow button to display the Guide Options Menu.

• Subscribers have to choose the ‘Change Favorite List’ to set up one of the two custom list where those channels subscribed by subscribers will be added.

• Choose ‘Setup Custom1′.

• Press the right arrow to highlight ‘Add Channels I Get’ then ‘Select’ and then ‘left arrow’ twice.

• The pop up message box will ask whether subscribers wish to change current favorites list to the custom list or not.

• Select Yes, Change current then press Guide on the remote.

Now, subscribers can view only those channels that they have subscribed to. Custom 1 will be displayed in the bottom left corner of the guide screen.

The 30-Second Slip

Subscribers can skip ahead without missing any part of the program in DirecTV with the help of The 30-second Slip. It provides subscribers a high speed look at every program where they can easily move ahead with the controlled 30-second fast forward. This is an easy and quick way to view something that subscribers want to see.

One line Guide

The One line guide feature in DirecTV will display channel guide in one line at the bottom of the screen, instead of filling the whole screen that shows only one channel at a time. Press the blue button on the remote to view the channel guide and press it again to hide the guide.

Recent Search

Recent Search option in DirecTV is the quickest and easiest way to find a movie, actor or favorite professional. Press the menu button on the remote control then select ‘Recent Searches’. Scroll down the list of recent search items to find the subject, actor or title that subscribers are looking for and then click Select.

Search for Shows

If subscribers wish to watch any particular show or movie, then there is no need for them to search for a long time. They can find out the channel quickly by typing one of the actors’ names, or the channel or a keyword with the help of the Easy Text Search. Proceed the following to do Easy Text Search :

• Press the Menu button on the Remote Control
• Choose the ’search for shows’ option and subscribers need to select how they would like to search by title, person, channel or keyword.
• The number keys and the letters on the remote control can be used to select numbers and letters for typing the keyword.

By using the feature Search for shows, subscribers can save their time and they can find out their favorite shows easily.

Thus, the Remote control helps subscribers to control the system of DirecTV in many ways such as Customizing the Guide, Searching for shows and Recent programs, Skipping the programs and so on.