Here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions that we get, and the answers to them. We hope this saves you time!
Why should I get a FTA system?
FTA provides free programming you can't get anywhere else. Whether it's foreign language programming from faraway countries or TV stations from another state, there's always something on watch on FTA, but there's never a subscription fee.
Should I drop cable/Dish/DirecTV and switch to FTA?
Probably not. FTA is a great supplement to an existing programming package, but it struggles as a sole provider. Some of the big four broadcast networks aren't available on Ku-band FTA, and there aren't any HBO-style movie or sports channels. And channels come and go without notice, which is why you need a site like FTAlist.com.
If you watch your local broadcasters with an over-the-air antenna, FTA can add a lot of channels to your $0-per-month system. But if you're used to easy access to dozens of movie channels and sports any hour of the day, you won't get it with FTA.
How can I use FTA equipment to pick up ESPN or HBO?
Short answer: You can't.
Long answer: Some channels are meant for subscribers only. Those channels are sent encrypted; only authorized recipients may unscramble them. Once in a great while, a channel like this will be available in the clear for a few hours, but that's about it. Just as you occasionally find money on the sidewalk, it's nice when it happens, but you don't plan on it.
Cautionary answer: Some scofflaws spend a lot of time working to break the encryption on these channels. Sometimes they succeed, at least until the encryption changes. Their methods are typically illegal and can damage legitimate FTA equipment. The possible reward isn't worth the risk.
Can I use a Dish Network or DirecTV dish to pick up FTA channels?
Yes, but not many. There are only a few Dish Network and Bell ExpressVu TV channels, mostly system promos, that a FTA receiver can pick up with Dish/DirecTV equipment. There are a fair number of audio channels in the clear. In general, a Dish/DirecTV setup and a switch can be a cheap way to add this small set of channels, but by itself, it won't give you much reason to buy a FTA receiver.
What do I need for a FTA system?
In short, you need a clear view of the southern sky, a 30-inch or larger dish, a Ku-band LNBF, a Free-to-air DVB receiver, and RG-6 cable to connect the receiver to the LNBF. For a more detailed answer, please visit FTAlist.com
What's a C-band channel?
It's a channel using the frequencies that used to be the only game in town for satellites. C-band signals are weaker, so you need the huge (6-foot or larger) dishes to receive them. There's nothing wrong with big dishes, but they're more complicated to set up and they're restricted from more areas.
What are feeds?
Feeds are signals beamed from a remote location to a studio for editing (sometimes) and rebroadcast. Common examples are local news correspondents sending reports, and sporting events fed back to a studio without graphics or commericals. Because there's usually no good way to know when they'll be on, feeds are not listed with the standard channels here. If you want to find feeds, an FTA receiver with blind scanning can help.
Which FTA receiver should I buy?
FTA receivers are like cars. There are lots of different models, most of which perform basic functions the same way. There are lots of opinions about which one is best, but very few people have significant experience with more than one or two models.
If you're just getting started, I'd suggest that you make sure your first receiver has blind scanning to help you find channels. Even if you don't have a motor, you might feel like adding one later, so it's generally a good idea to make sure your receiver can drive one. After that, it's a question of which cool features you want and how much you want to spend.
Beginniers who just want something simple and reliable and get tv up and running very quickly should look into the new Coolsat 6100 Private with USB 2.0 Loading Feature.
If you are interested in TiVo-like recording, we suggest the Coolsat 7100. This receiver is very easy to use, just like the 6100, but also allows you to record and pause live tv, 45 minutes out of the box with the included 1GB USB drive. If you want to record longer than that, you can hook up a larger external hard disk drive or flash drive. A good rule of thumb is for every 1GB of space, you can record 45 minutes of content. This receiver also allows you to update firmware through USB 2.0.
For the most advanced users, we recommend the Coolsat 8100 HD PVR. This receiver is High Definition capable for use with OTA UHF Antenna for your local HD channels, as well as FTA channels. It also records like the Coolsat 7100. USB 2.0 Interface, HDMI, 1080i resolution are among the best features of the Coolsat 8100.
