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We know that purchasing a satellite system can be a bit puzzling. With all the technical jargon these days, there's bound to be some confusion, and no doubt you have questions. So we've gone ahead and answered some of the more frequently asked questions for you. A quick read through this FAQ will show you how incredibly simple our DIRECTV® System really is.

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Press Releases
Frequently Asked Questions
Just click on a question to jump to the answer
1. Why should I consider purchasing a DIRECTV® System?
2. How does DIRECTV® service compare with cable?
3. What can I expect from programming? What type and how many channels can I receive?
4. Will I receive local channels? I’ve heard they aren’t always available.
5. Am I able to control the programming on each individual TV or do all TVs reflect the same program?
6. How can I find out what’s on?
7. I am concerned that my Homeowners Association may not approve of DIRECTV® or any satellite. Is there any way around this approval process?
8. How do I know if I can get a signal to receive DIRECTV®?
9. What are the qualifications to receive DIRECTV®?
10. Is there a contract? What if I move?
11.

Is DIRECTV® programming available in Canada, Mexico, or other countries?

12.

I had DIRECTV® service in the past. How can I restart it?

13.

I found an error on your website. How do I report it?

Answers
1. Question:
Why should I consider purchasing a DIRECTV® System?

Answer:

Expansive options including; program packages, equipment upgrades, premium channels, and special promotions all aid you in searching for the perfect TV service for you and yours. Whether you’re focused on family programming, sports, or movies we have options for you. Even opt to satisfy everyone with multi-level packages and services. 225+ channels ensure everyone will experience the very best in programming available. To make it better, DIRECTV is broadcast in 100% digital quality so all of your favorites are delivered crisp and clear for your entertainment.
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2. Question:
How does DIRECTV® service compare with cable?

Answer:

DIRECTV has created a programming service specifically driven to offer customers more choice and value for their entertainment dollar. The DIRECTV service combines America's favorite network channels, other popular networks not available from many cable services, a pay per view service with up to 55 choices of movies and special events a day, local channels in many markets, and an unprecedented sports subscription lineup. No other system offers as many quality program options.
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3. Question:
What can I expect from programming? What type and how many channels can I receive?

Answer:
Programming is what you make it. You have many options to choose from including locals, standard packages, premium movies, premium sports, and pay-per-view. Depending on the type of programming you wish to receive your number of channels may change. For example, the Total Choice Premier package includes 225+ channels with all digital programs, locals (most locations), seven HBO, nine Showtime, three Cinemax, and twelve Starz plus the Sports Pack. You can also add HD programming. Prices and channels vary based on package choice. Please see the entire line up here.
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4. Question:
Will I receive local channels? I’ve heard they aren’t always available.

Answer:
Locals are included and based on your network area. DIRECTV® covers over 90 major metropolitan areas and is continuing to expand its coverage. Locals are included in your package, therefore you do not pay extra to receive them. If locals are not provided in your area DIRECTV® will discount your monthly bill to accommodate. You can, however, use an off air antenna to receive locals if you are within distance of the towers but are not provided local channels with your subscription. Check our zip finder for availability.
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5. Question:
Am I able to control the programming on each individual TV or do all TVs reflect the same program?

Answer:
With almost any combination of equipment you choose, with the exception of the mirror image, you will be able to watch different programs independently on each TV. The number of receivers you choose to activate reflect the number of TVs you will enjoy independent programming on. A mirror image “reflects” programming from one TV to provide a second screen for viewing, though this TV does not master the channel control as it has no receiver to do so. Mirror images are most useful for a little used room or perhaps when reflecting the den TV to the kitchen for ease of viewing.
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6. Question:
How can I find out what’s on?

Answer:
Simply press the “Guide” button on the remote that comes with you receiver. This will pull up an updated channel guide on-screen. Your current program minimizes to the top corner of the screen while you control the scrolling up arrow keys on the remote. Then, press “select” when you’ve found your program. You can also search by program type or time of broadcast. Choose the method best for the programming you desire each time.
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7. Question:
I am concerned that my Homeowners Association may not approve of DIRECTV® or any satellite. Is there any way around this approval process?

Answer:
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ruled to forbid locals governments and Homeowner Associations from preventing the installation of DBS (digital broadcasting system) dishes that are less than 39.37 inches or 1 meter in diameter. DIRECTV® dishes are approximately 18”x18”, 18”x22”, and 36” in diameter. For more information concerning this matter please visit www.fcc.gov
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8. Question:
How do I know if I can get a signal to receive DIRECTV®?

Answer:
DIRECTV® requires a clear south/southwest view of the sky in order to receive satellite images. If you have a backyard, porch, patio, deck, fence or any other stable place to install the satellite on your property or with your landlord’s permission in that direction you’re in luck. Beware that tall, thick trees can influence line of sight as well as buildings or other houses. The majority of single family homes can receive DIRECTV® satellite signals. Many multi-family, multi-residential homes can receive DIRECTV®. Check your direction, then give us a call so we can send a technician to your home a.s.a.p.
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9. Question:
What are the qualifications to receive DIRECTV®?

Answer:
DIRECTV®, like other utility companies, does have minimal requirements to receive service without prepaying. One MUST be a first-time subscriber with DIRECTV®. DIRECTV® requires proof of an active credit or debit card. DIRECTV® requires a credit check to be passed. If one does not pass the credit check one can still receive DIRECTV® by prepaying. This prepayment is set depending on the system you receive and is returned to you in increments off each month’s bill. If you own your home you are set. If you rent your home, we ask that you provide a letter of permission (LOP) to Satellite Solutions from the landlord stating the rules of install. Not too many qualifications, just a few to ensure top quality service and great promotions can continue to be provided.
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10. Question:
Is there a contract? What if I move?

Answer:
DIRECTV® strives for a positive experience for consumers. In order to maintain the promotions and specials we all can enjoy DIRECTV® does require a one year commitment. This ensures you as a consumer will receive the best quality service available, plus free equipment, free standard professional installation, and 24/7 customer service as well as online bill pay and more.
If you move within the commitment time simply contact DIRECTV® and technicians will install a new dish at your residence and reinstall your receivers. You can be activated at your new home in no time. Just leave the original dish where it is and move the receivers with the rest of your items. The technician can do the rest.
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11. Question:
Is DIRECTV® programming available in Canada, Mexico, or other countries?

Answer:
DIRECTV® is legally prohibited from transmitting its signal outside the United States .
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12. Question:
I had DIRECTV® service in the past. How can I restart it?

Answer:
If you still have your dish, receiver, access card and remote, just call us and we'll help you get it reactivated. If you no longer have the equipment, you can purchase new equipment, but you may not be eligible for our new customer promotions.
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13. Question:
I found an error on your website. How do I report it?

Answer:
Please send an e-mail with the URL of the page with the error here.
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Below is a series of press releases featuring DIRECTV and current business affairs.
11.01.2005 DIRECTV to Launch Its First Exclusive Original Programming Series, CD USA
10.18.2005 DIRECTV Inks Deal With NASCAR As New Corporate Sponsor
10.18.2005 DIRECTV PARA TODOS® SUR Mexico Speaks to the Mexican Community in the U.S.
10.18.2005 DIRECTV HOLDINGS LLC AND DIRECTV FINANCING CO, INC. EXTEND
10.10.2005 DIRECTV Latin America to Consolidate U.S. Broadcast Operations
09.29.2005 Satellite Entertainment Pioneers DIRECTV and XM Satellite Radio Join Forces to Deliver 72 Channels of XM's Acclaimed Programming to DIRECTV Customers Nationwide
09.22.2005 DIRECTV Appoints Paul Guyardo Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer
08.09.2005 DIRECTV Dominates the Interactive Television Category with Four Emmy Nominations
08.04.2005 Filipinos in the U.S. Tune to DIRECTV For Exclusive Filipino Programming Packages
08.02.2005 For Rent: Stunning 3BR 2Bath, w/Oak Parquet floors, Walk-in Closets, Amazing View of up to 225 Channels of DIRECTV ® Programming in Every Room
08.01.2005 DIRECTV'S New NFL SUNDAY TICKET ™ SuperFan Offers 'Immaculate Reception' for Football Fans
07.25.2005 DIRECTV Delivers World's First DVR Sneak Preview
06.29.2005 Logo Signs Key Carriage Agreement with DIRECTV
06.29.2005 DIRECTV FILES COMPLAINT WITH FCC AGAINST iN DEMAND FOR UNLAWFUL PRICING SCHEME
06.28.2005 DIRECTV Says 'Fraud Avenue' a Dead End
06.14.2005 DIRECTV Meets Information Needs of Chinese Community in U.S. with 24-hour-a-day Mandarin-Language News Channel from China
06.09.2005 DIRECTV PRICES $1.0 BILLION OF NEW SENIOR NOTES
05.25.2005 DIRECTV Spaceway F2 Satellite will Expand Local Digital/HD Services for DIRECTV Customers; Satellite shipped to French Guiana
05.24.2005 Fox Reality on DIRECTV Grants 'Round the Clock' Access to Unscripted Television World's Best
05.21.2005 DIRECTV 8 Satellite will Strengthen Service to DIRECTV Customers
05.11.2005 Going Home is Made Easy for South Asian Viewers with DIRECTV Offer
04.29.2005 DIRECTV is New Home For the Washington Nationals; MidAtlantic Sports Network and DIRECTV Reach Multi-Year Carriage Agreement for Carriage of Nationals Games
04.26.2005 DIRECTV's Spaceway F1 Satellite Launches New Era In High-Definition Programming
04.22.2005 VOOM DOOM: DIRECTV Tosses Lifeline to VOOM Customers
04.19.2005 DIRECTV 8 Poised to Enhance Satellite Fleet and DIRECTV ® Service
04.19.2005 DIRECTV Uncovers Scheme at Texas Call Center to Fraudulently Activate DIRECTV Programming Accounts
04.15.2005 Michael Benson Joins DIRECTV as New Executive Vice President and CIO
04.12.2005 DIRECTV and Chrysler Group Join Forces to Shape the Future of Interactive Television Advertising
03.29.2005 DIRECTV Awarded $21.7 million in Case Against Company that Sold Signal Theft Devices
03.22.2005

DIRECTV Acquires Exclusive Rights to Broadcast Sri Lanka , West Indies and England Cricket Matches

03.17.2005

DIRECTV Names Fox Sports CEO David Hill President of New DIRECTV Entertainment Group

03.09.2005

DIRECTV's Exclusive MEGA MARCH MADNESS ® Package to Broadcast 30 Games in High-Definition Format

03.07.2005

DIRECTV President and CEO Mitch Stern to Leave Company

03.03.2005

DIRECTV Targets Canadian Suspects in Extensive Fraud Scheme

02.28.2005

DIRECTV Files Federal Lawsuit Alleging Nationwide Activation Fraud Scheme

02.10.2005

Statement from DIRECTV President and CEO Mitch Stern Concerning FCC Vote Against Dual Must Carry and Multicast Must Carry

02.07.2005

DIRECTV Launches New Brand and National Advertising Campaign

01.25.2005 DIRECTV Offers ABC HD in ABC's 10 Owned TV Station Markets
01.11.2005 DIRECTV to Offer GolTV on DIRECTV PARA TODOS ® and SPORTS Pack Programming Service
 
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