Satellite TV for free

Free anything has such a sweet taste, and free satellite TV digital system is no exception. What a great way to start your new television service! You get a complete DBS (Digital Broadcast Satellite) home system - satellite TV dish, up to four digital TV receivers w/remote controls, wiring and hardware - all installed at no cost. Satellite TV for free!

Just plug in your TV sets and go surf the sparkling blue-white waves of DBS programming: sports, movies, entertainment, kids, nature, adult, international - you name it. Correct?

Well, not quite. While it is true that both, standard equipment and installation are free, there are a few more things to consider.

First off, you need to have a suitable spot for the dish, so that it  receives unobstructed signal from TV satellites. This requires clear view of the southern sky. Not necessarily all of it: the satellites have their stationary positions in the sky, so what you need is actually only up to three or four "windows" of open sky in the direction of satellites you'll be receiving TV signal from.

Also, if you don't owe location where the installation is to take place, you'll need to produce owner's permit (or whoever has the authority to issue it), and give it to the installer before the installation.

Then, in order to get all those goodies, you'll have to agree to a term commitment: 18 months with Dish Network, and 12 (standard receivers) or 24 months (advanced receivers) with DirecTV. If you back off within the first 30 days, it's all fine. After 30 days, you may be charged a substantial fine.

With Dish Network, you'll have to make $49.99 activation deposit, which will be credited to you with your first monthly bill (or bills). DirecTV will also ask for similar deposit, or pre-payment if your credit doesn't look convincing to them.

The equipment is given to you for free (some exceptions will be addressed in a bit), but remains property of the provider. You either use it for free - the case with standard Dish Network receivers if you keep them continuously connected to the same ground phone line - or you are charged $5 monthly lease per receiver beyond one. DirecTV also charges moderate non-refundable shipping fee (at present $20).

Advanced receivers (DVR, HD) either come for free directly (with Dish Network), or after rebate (with DirecTV). The most advanced receivers - HD/DVR - will cost you money: at present, $200  a piece with Dish Network, and $400 ($500 minus $100 rebate) with DirecTV. Still quite a bargain for what you get. You are charged $6 a month for advanced receivers beyond one with either provider. Dish Network's standard dual tuner receivers are advantageous here, since you can connect two TV sets to a single unit. DirecTV offers dual tuner only with its advanced receivers.

If you ever discontinue service, your former provider may want to take back the equipment. If they do, and it is not there, or is damaged, you may be also charged a substantial fine.

These are only main points on the subject, good to be aware of. The best way for you to stay on top is to get thoroughly familiar with "terms and conditions". It is always a good policy. If all is fine with you, don't forget to check out current promotions for DirecTV and Dish Network DBS service - the time is right for it.

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