Cable TV Equipment, What Do You Need to Get Started?
Even premium cable TV service requires little equipment upfront - just a high definition television and your willingness to watch. Your cable TV company can supply the rest. Practically all new-model televisions are HD compatible, so unless you plan on streaming broadcasts from the Stone Age, you should be ready and equipped for the finest quality picture. But picking the right cable TV company with state-of-the-art technology to satisfy your service needs? That's where we come in.
Go Beyond the Standard cable Box - Tips in Selecting Cable TV Equipment
When you think cable TV, the stand-by cable box quickly comes to mind. But in the digital cable era, cable boxes serve far more basic channel surfing. Many cable TV providers use the same central cable boxes to broadcast both standard and high definition signals - a command station and input receiver for your entire viewing center. But not all cable boxes are created equal. Does your cable TV provider give you basic functionality or fan-favorite features?
- Digital Video Recorder (DVR) - Pause and rewind live TV, in its most basic incarnation. However, today's DVRs do far more than help you avoid commercials. Your DVR's versatility will vary, depending on your cable TV provider, a key consideration when choosing the right cable company. Sync your DVR to your laptop or smart phone and set your recording lineup from afar. Store hours upon hours of your favorite shows, so you watch TV on your schedule. DVR service lets you enjoy cable TV on your terms. Turn your TV guide into a guideline, not a deadline, and pick one of several cable TV providers with fully functional DVR service.
- HD Compatible Receivers - Sure, you may have an HD television, but without HD receivers, you can't enjoy HD television service. No television can transform a standard definition input signal into a high definition on-screen image. Most cable TV providers will offer HD service in some capacity, but beware of cable companies that overcharge for what's become standard service. And just because a cable TV company offers a couple HD channels, doesn't mean what you want to watch is in HD. Choose a cable TV provider with an HD channel count you can count on, so you can enjoy picture perfect high definition as much as possible.
- Whole-Home TV Service - Do you plan on watching TV on more than one television in your home? If so, this is something you'll want to account for when picking a cable TV provider. Don't pay extra for HD service in multiple rooms. Find a cable TV provider that allows you to connect additional HD TVs to the same HD signal. Regardless of your cable TV provider, you will likely need a box or receiver for every TV you plan on connecting. Some cable TV Advisor can help you find deals on equipment and HD service upgrades. Check out today's Cable TV Advisor "Deal of the Day" and see if you can save!
What's the Difference Between Satellite and Cable TV Equipment?
First and foremost, satellite TV requires a satellite dish in order to broadcast 100% digital signal. What does this mean for you? Digital picture and sounds means your service is always crisp, whether in standard or high definition. But that's not all. Satellite TV services like DIRECTV and DISH Network also let you stream movies in 1080p HD, the same format as Blu-ray™. Unless broadcast through a 3rd party service like TiVo, most cable companies cap out at 720p or 1080i "HD" picture.◊
And unlike cable TV company counterparts, satellite TV is available to 100% of U.S. homes, nationwide. All you need is a clear view of the southern sky in order to enjoy satellite TV service, bringing sophisticated equipment, plans and packages to even the furthest reaches of the United States.
Compare TV Providers in Your Area to Find the Best Cable TV Equipment Deals Near You!
