Best Standard & High Definition FTA Recievers

Best Standard Definition FTA Receivers

1. The Viewsat Ultra is our #1 choice for a great starter free to air receiver because it’s a high quality Korean built FTA receiver with excellent software support from Viewtech Inc. the manufacture.

If you are new to the free to rir satellite world and do not want to invest in a lot of money at the beginning or you are looking for another FTA receiver for a bedroom or cottage then the Viewsat Ultra is a great choice.

This is a full featured standard definition receiver with an impressive list of features: This free to air receiver includes a USB port which makes the unit very easy to upgrade to the latest Viewsat software. A universal remote so you can operate your TV and this FTA receiver with one remote. The onscreen TV guide is very functional and within the menu you can search for the type of programming or themes of channels you want to watch like, movies, sports, new, family, children, educational, or adult (I guess adult can be educational for some too I suppose)

Other features of the Viewsat Ultra include: Component video output for great picture quality, blind scan for easy channel set up, Dolby digital optical output, built-in satellite smart card reader for future applications and upgrades, 200 MHz processor, 32MB SDRAM, and a full two warranty.

2. The Viewsat Xtreme is our runner-up for a standard definition receiver. The ViewsatXtreme includes all the same features as the Viewsat VS2000 Platinum, but adds component video output and hardware based blindscan (smart search).

The Viewsat VS2000 Xtreme is an extremely popular FTA receiver for few exclusive reasons. It is powered by a Conexant Main Processor running at a blazing 160 MHz, 16MB of SDRAM for an industry leading on-screen channel guide, and hardware based blindscan (smart search).

The Viewsat VS2000 Xtreme is very high quality receiver completely designed, engineered, and manufactured in Korea.
The Sonicview 360 Premier has all the high-end features you would expect from Sonicview including a brand new 260MHz processor, making it one of the fastest models on the market. The 360 Premier model introduces an easily accessible USB port on the front of the unit, making software upgrades a snap and allowing you to leave your external PVR drive connected to the rear USB port without messy unplugging and moving of the receiver. In true Sonicview fashion the 360 Premier receiver also features all the output jacks you could ever need,including video, s-video, component video, and Dolby digital optical output.

Best Standard Definition FTA Receivers (with recording)

1. The Nfusion Phoenix is our TOP PICK for a standard definition PVR (personal video recorder) FTA satellite receiver. The Nfusion Phoenix is the latest standard definition free to air satellite receiver from Nfusion. The Nfusion Phoenix beats the rest of its competition. Inside this receiver, the Nuvenio Phoenix is PVR ready (simply add an external PVR / DVR USB 2.0 external hard drive), ethernet ready, wireless ready and more! It has wireless network capabilities for quick integration with your home wireless network with the purchase of a wireless bridge or ethernet powerline adapter. Plus it comes with an Ethernet Port, which allows for automatic updates via internet.

For a limited time GOsatellite now includes an IPPVR installation guide and CD that will allow you to use the hard drive on your home computer to record. No need to purchase another hard drive. Use some of the hard drive space you already have on your home PC and allocate that for recorded movies and shows.

2. The CaptiveWorks CW-800S is our RUNNER UP for a standard definition FTA satellite receiver mostly because of its features to price ratio. We have access to all makes and models in North America, but if you want the lowest price best FTA receiver with a recording option then the CaptiveWorks CW-800S is the model for you.

As with all FTA receivers that have a recording option, you are required to purchase an external USB PVR / DVR hard drive in a size that based on your recording requirements. The most popular size is the 500GB give you approximately 300 hours of recording. See the satellite accessories section of the site for a hard drive to go along with this receiver.

The CaptiveWorks CW-800S has a great list of features like live recording or time shifting so you can select the date and time of the program you would like to record, user friendly onscreen menu, universal remote, component video output, Dolby digital optical output, blind scan, 6000 channel memory, and a simple installation setup menu.

High Definition FTA Receiver

1. This is our pick for the best value and performance in a free to air HD FTA receiver. This brand new model from Nfusion has all the features you would expect from a quality high definition satellite receiver. 2 USB ports, one can be used to connect a PVR / DVR hard drive to the receiver so you can record in high definition or standard definition. You can also choose to record to your home computer connected to the same network (wirelessly or through an Ethernet cable). This unit decodes all video formats including 1080i and outputs that signal through an HDMI or component video cable. Other features include 6000 channel memory, universal remote, 10 “favorites” list (handy when different people use the satellite to program their favorites into the menu), full on-screen TV guide, parental locks, and more.

The best and most exciting feature of the Nfusion HD is all updates to the receiver are done through the Internet. The latest Nfusion software will always be available by either directly connecting the receiver to your high-speed internet connection (router) or you can purchase a wireless bridge that connects to the receiver and then wirelessly accesses the Internet for the receiver through your wireless network in your home already. Dial-up Internet customers will need to update the receiver (if required) through a USB flash drive. And if you’re on dial-up you need to click here and get satellite high-speed internet from us.

You will not be disappointed owning an Nfusion HD receiver. Looking for more HD channels and want to future-proof your receiver, make sure you get the Nfusion HD 8PSK upgrade module.

2. As there are so many high quality HD FTA Receivers currently on the market it was difficult for our us to select our Runner-Up but the Viewsat Max HD is a very close runner-up to the Nfusion HD.

Here's why we love the Viewsat Max HD FTA receiver: The Viewsat Max's remote and on-screen menus are truly the best we have seen and the most user friendly. This high quality Korean built receiver has all the powerful features you would expect from a Viewsat box including a 200 MHz processor, 32MB of ram, USB and serial ports for easy software upgrading and accessibility and all the output jacks you would ever need, including: Video, s-video, component video, HDMI, and Dolby digital optical output for AC-3 surround sound as well as two tuners, one for FTA satellite and one for an outdoor HD antenna (called an OTA). As with the other Viewsat models you have the option to connect an external USB PVR hard drive to this receiver, allowing you to record from either tuner. The most common size harddrive is 500G and GOSatellite offers a number of high quality external harddrives you can bundle with your receiver purchase.

We also like the Viewsat's smart internal design as it is very easy to add an upgraded tuner now or in the future. If you are looking for a solid, long-term HD receiver purchase we highly recommend the Viewsat Max HD. Looking for more HD channels and want to future-proof your receiver, make sure you get the Viewsat Max HD 8PSK upgrade module..

Things you must know before even thinking about getting started with a FTA System

The title says it all. Here's what this hobby is all about and what you must be prepared for:

1) You need to have internet access.

2) No, seriously. You need to have internet access.

3) If you are "not too good with computers", you need to take a computer class. Nothing involved in receiver maintenance is difficult, but it takes more than being able to turn the computer on and off. I cannot emphasize enough that running a receiver is 100% computer-dependent. If you don't know what is meant by the words "unzip", "flash", or "download", take a class.

4) If your system was given to you as a gift and the person has promised to help you maintain it, do not disregard 1, 2, and 3 above. There may come a day when you are on your own.

5) You need to be prepared to read. Yes, there are spoonfeeders on most sites who will answer each and every question you have, but do not rely on this. Give a man a fish and he eats for a day, teach a man how to fish and he eats for life.

6) It goes down. Most of the time it's simply a matter of entering new codes with the remote until a new file is released. Sometimes you will be without TV for days, weeks, or (yes) even months. The moral of the story is don't give up your cable subscription or your existing subscription to Dish or Bell. Treat the "free TV" you get with your receiver as an added bonus to programming you already pay for. That way it doesn't hurt so bad when you're without it for a while.

7) When there is an extended period without access to Dish or BEV, DO NOT under any circumstances, complain about your lack of TV. DO NOT criticize or blame manufacturers for the fact that there is no fix. It is important to remember that free TV is NOT owed to you. The money that you paid for your receiver (I don't care if it's a $150 VS Xtreme or a $500 HD receiver) DID NOT include any support for illegal activity.

8) Do not ask dealers questions about Dish or Bell. The only reason they can sell receivers legally is because they are advertised for legal use. Legal use does not include stealing from satellite providers. If you need to return a receiver for any reason, be sure it does not have anything but the original factory software and do not say that you used software you got from this site. They will tell you you're screwed since you have voided your warranty.

9) Be sure to read the forum site rules before posting. We have pet-peeves against things like panic posting, posting the same thread in multiple forums, asking questions in file sections, or posting keys.

FTA Systems Checklist

It is my intent in starting this post to create a system check list for those who are having trouble picking up channels, or receiving their desired satellite. If anyone would like to add to it, simply comment below, and I will edit the first post.

Double check each point on this list before posting troubles. If this check list does not resolve the problem, at least you will have narrowed this down for the person helping you. This lists only the most common issues that we see here, but will help to isolate the problem if further assistance is required.


1. Reboot the receiver from the back of the unit.

2. Make sure you have the latest file installed on your receiver. If necessary download the file again, and re-install the file. Always remember to unzip the file before installation.

3. Make sure Auto-TP and Auto-roll are turned on.

4. Make sure the LNB power is switch on for each satellite you wish to receive.

5. Make sure you have selected the proper LNB type.

6. Make sure you select the proper LNB Frequency. It should automatically insert the correct frequency when selecting the LNB type, but verify that it is correct.

7. Check the Diseqc port settings, and make sure that the port selected is connected to the LNB for the satellite you are trying to receive, and the LNB is in the correct position on the dish. Some receivers have auto LNB setting detection. Use this if available. If not, you may need to go out to the dish, and trace the wiring for each LNB to the switch. Mark these down, and set your receiver accordingly. Keep for future reference.

8. Make sure you select the proper transponder for checking quality strength. 12224 is the default for 110, 91, 82, and for 119 west, it needs to be set to 12239.

9. If using the legacy lnbf and SW series switches , make sure you have the correct dish setting. For further information, read this thread... http://www.ftatalk.com/showthread.php?t=18969

10. Check to see if the intended Satellite is locking in. You should see the Satellite name and co-ordinates appear twice on the antenna/installation screen. EG. Echo* 7 [119 west] should appear in the drop down satellite menu, then again somewhere on the screen...often in the top right hand corner or at the bottom of the screen. Different for some receivers. Also, if you are getting quality and are able to scan channels, but are still not getting the ones you’re looking for; make sure that you are locked in on the satellite you have selected for viewing. You could have selected on sat, but locking in on another.

11. Signal. This is the measurement of connectivity between the receiver and the LNB. If you are having troubles with a low signal, it is likely a hardware issue. Double check that all connections are tight and free from water penetration. Remove each connection point right back to the dish, and make sure they are dry and clean, then tighten them down. There could also be a problem with the switch. If you suspect troubles with it, use a barrel connector and connect each LNB separately, to see if this fixes the problem. If it does, replace the switch, and reconnect the cables. The LNB may also be defective. You could check another LNB to verify. Replace if required.

12. Quality. This is the measurement of the decoded satellite signal at the receiver. If the quality reading is low, you will see poor picture quality, pixilation, or not receive any channels at all, especially in poor weather. If you have checked all of the above settings, and you still have zero or low quality levels, it is likely that your dish either marginally off position, or is not pointed correctly at the required satellite. There is also the possibility of a defective switch. As above, if you suspect troubles with the switch, use a barrel connector and connect each LNB separately, to see if this fixes the problem. If it does, replace the switch, and reconnect the cables. The LNB may also be defective. You could check another LNB to verify. Replace if required.

This is a barrel Connector...

13. When first setting up a dish always bypass any switches and connect directly to the receiver. This eliminates the possibility of a bad switch/incorrect settings and can help with troubleshooting. If you are going to play around with the coax cable for the receiver, LNB or the switch, please turn OFF your reciever (at the back of the unit) so you don't fry your switch.

14. Missing TP's. Getting some channels, but not others. This could be an indication that your receiver may not be scanning the TP's correctly. You might have the wrong LNB type selected. Double check it, and rescan. It could also be a pointing issue.

15. For information on various switching configurations, read the following thread. http://www.ftatalk.com/showthread.php?t=28192

I hope that this check list helps you to resolve any problems you have encountered.

Nagra 3 Questions & Answers

Ok, Since we all know N3 is coming and people will be asking the same questions over and over without reading older threads with the same title, I will answer a few of your "yet to be asked" questions here:

Q- When is Nagra3 going to be here?
A- N3 will be here very soon before the end of the year. Sooner for Bev, and about 6 months after for Chuck.

Q- Will my current FTA receiver be able to handle it?
A- If N3 is hacked successfully, your FTA receiver will be able to handle it. It was said back in the N1-N2 days that the Pansat 2500 wouldn't be able to handle N2 but we all know that now to not be the case at all.

Q- Is N3 hacked and will they be able to hack it?
A- At this time we don't know for sure but strangely enough, the coders don't seem to be worried about it at all so that should tell you something. Anything is hackable, remember money can make anything happen! The hardest part will be glitching into the new cards.

Q- I see alot of channels moving to Mpeg4 and the providers plan to move everything to Mpeg4 soon, will I need an HD receiver to view the channels?
A- NO, Mpeg4 is just a compression method, it does not mean it is HD. While HD programming is mostly Mpeg4 at the moment, that does not mean it has to be, in fact they also broadcast HD in Mpeg2.

Q- Will I need a new receiver when Mpeg4 is the main stream?
A- Yes, unless you have a HD FTA receiver, those already receive Mpeg4.

Q- How soon will everything turn Mpeg4?
A- Not for quite awhile, as it would require the providers to swap out a great majority of their sub receivers first that are only Mpeg2 capable.

Q- If I live in the U.S. will my receiver stop working once everything turns digital?
A- No, your FTA receiver (and any other television viewing receiver) is already digital.

Q- Will we be down for awhile once N3 hits?
A- Possibly Yes, the coders likely will not release any fix until the providers have completely switched over so get a backup ready whether it be recorded movies or a minimum subscription. Only time will tell.

Q- How will we know when N3 is upon us?
A- You will know when some of your premium channels start dropping off and a rescan will not bring them back for viewing. Usually the providers start with International and Porn as those have the least subscribers incase anything goes wrong.

Q- Is Dave hacked?
A- Many trusted and extremely credible sources say that Dave is hacked, but due to the wrath of Dave and the consequences of messing with his patented signal, it is underground and the smart ones who are staying quiet are enjoying Dave. Not very many though. That is why Dave releases new cards, not because he wants to change the logo, but because there is a weakness. Remember, changing cards costs money!

Q- Why can't we get NFL Sunday Ticket?
A- Because NFL ST is being broadcast using N3 encryption.

Q- I was thinking about upgrading my receiver but now I'm not so sure with N3 right around the corner, what should I do?
A- We always recommend an upgrade whenever possible however, make sure you upgrade with a brand that is reliable in their support, that will ensure that once N3 is hacked, you will be one of the first on your block to have TV again! There will indeed be price gouging on FTA receivers for the first ones to come out with the N3 fix. You can bet on that! Stay ahead of the game people.

Free To Air (FTA) FAQ's

Q: What is Free to Air or FTA?
A: Free-To-Air has many benefits over other satellite systems. Free to Air can be difficult to understand (or believe!) for FTA Newbies. Free to air systems allow you to get TV for free! There are over 3000 free-to-air TV and radio channels available world-wide, many of which are foreign language channels. Many people enjoy watching programs from their home country. This is all possible with FTA. Read more about FTA.

Q: Which FTA receiver should I buy?
A: FTA receivers can be compared to cars. There a lot 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 may feel like adding one later, so it is generally a good idea to make sure your receiver can drive one. Then you can decide which cool features you want and how much you would like to spend. Shop around and decide which is best for you.

Q: What's a C-band channel?
A: A C-band channel is a channel that uses the frequencies that used to be the only ones around for satellites. These signals are weaker, so you need the huge (6-foot or larger) dishes to receive them. They work well but they are more complicated to set up and they're restricted from more areas.

Q: What size of dish do I need for the Free to Air channels?
A: You will need a 6 - 10 ft dish for the C-band signal channels and a 30 inch dish and up for KU-band channels.

Q: How difficult is it to install these systems?
A: Installing the system yourself should not be that difficult, even for FTA Newbies. If you log on to a FTA forum you can post your inquiry there for others help and may find a few other posts that address your inquiry.

Q: How do I find the satellite?
A: The satellite you want to use will be determined by the programming you want to view. You can locate your satellite/programming through a FTA website and angle your dish to that satellite.

Q: How do I peak / point my dish?
A: For this purpose it is recommended that you buy a signal meter or have a professional installer do the work for you.

Q: Do you guarantee that these channels will remain free?
A: Like everyone else we cannot guarantee "free channels." As long as these channels stay free you will receive them in the clear (non scrambled).

Q: What do I need if I want two receivers?
A: You will need a dual LNBF. This will usually be a direct replacement for your existing LNBF. From the dual LNBF you will need to run a second coax to your second receiver.

Q: What do I need if I want more than two receivers?
A: You will need the dual LNBF as well as a device called a multi-switch which will allow for several receivers. The four receiver switch is the most common. Even this setup is not too difficult for an FTA Newbie.

Q: Why should I get a FTA system?
A: FTA provides free programming including foreign language programming and Satellite TV stations from most countries all over the world. There is always something to watch when it comes to FTA and you can't get this kind of TV viewing anywhere else.

FTA Basics

FTA stands for Free To Air and this is one of the most popular ways of enjoying satellite television channels. We can get high quality television signals through FTA. To view the FTA channels we need an FTA receiver. Normally the FTA signals are transmitted in scrambled format so that they are not trapped by other receivers. We need to use a set of FTA keys to receive the signals in the viewable format. The FTA receiver will take care of the conversions as long as we supply our FTA receivers with the right FTA keys.

FTA channels are sent in scrambled form to ensure that they are viewed only by subscribers. Once we use the right FTA keys we will not be limited in anyway; we will be able to view even the subscriptions channels without any problem.

The most essential component of FTA therefore is FTA receiver. The FTA receivers look much like our modern day DVD players that are compact. These FTA receivers will be capable of receiving the signals from the satellites. The FTA receiver will also have a dish that will pick up the signals. To receive the signals that are scrambled, you must get the right set of FTA keys. To explain it in simple words, all of us are used to passwords for websites and other subscription based services. FTA keys are something like those passwords. We will be able to access the subscription area only by using the correct login, similarly we will be able to view our favorite subscription based channels by having the right FTA keys. There are FTA signals all around us and we just need the right FTA receiver and the right FTA keys to view our favorite channels.

During these times of recession paying a hefty subscription for our favorite channels can be difficult for many of us. Using an FTA support site we will be able to enjoy our favorite channels in the cheapest way. Television has always been one of the favorite family entertainment and FTA keys will allow us to enjoy unlimited viewing of our favorite channels.

Due to the increasing popularity of FTA, there are hundreds of companies offering FTA keys. You must make sure to find a reliable company to get your FTA support so that you will be able to get the necessary support to input your FTA keys properly and enjoy your favorite channels without any problem. The rates for your FTA keys vary from company to company. N2news.com, offers you best solutions for all your needs on FTA keys. We will be with you at every step of the setup.

All that it takes to access your favorite channels is few minutes. We can save a great deal on making use of FTA keys month after month. FTA receiver setup will just be a breeze with the help of support sites like N2news.com. All the popular FTA receivers are supported here and helpful customer support is provided to setup your FTA channels.

FTA "Free To Air" Forums

General FTA Information ... Discuss and share your knowledge about True FTA. ... New to FTA? Just have some questions? Here is a few places to check out!

http://www.ftatalk.com/

http://www.totalfta.com/

http://freesatfix.com/forums/

http://www.purefta.com/forum/index.php?s=d53f9c28d9031c4800d53c3e8ea46a55

http://www.nfusionforum.com/forum/index.php

FAQ of the Free to Air Satellite Channels

1. What are Free To Air (FTA) channels?
Free to Air channels are digital MPEG2 channels that are not scrambled and require no subscription or monthly payment.
They are provided free of charge and are perfectly legal to receive with an FTA receiver. You can find a listing of these
channels on lyngsat.com and satcodx.com web sites

2. What hardware do I need to receive the FTA channels?
A digital satellite receiver and a dish with KU Band LNB

3. Do you guarantee that these FTA channels will remain free?

Absolutely not. No one can guarantee free channels. You will receive those FTA channels as long as they remain free and not encrypted. The FTA distributor and resellers only offer FTA hardware (receiver, dish and LNB). They make no guarantee or claim about the programming.

4. Are there any Dish Network or DirecTV channels that are FTA?
Almost all of the channels provided by these companies are not FTA. The channels are encrypted and require an authorized receiver and monthly subscription.

5.Can I use an FTA receiver to receive premium channels like Dish Network or DirecTV?
Absolutely not. These channels require subscription and special receivers supplied by
the service provider. Any tampering with your FTA receiver (whether by hardware or software
modification) to try to receive the premium channels without paying is not only a violation
of the law and unethical, but also will void the warrantee on your receiver and may hinder it unusable.

6. What size dish I need for the Free to air channels?
For the C-Band signal channels you will need a 10 ft dish.
For KU-band channels you will need a 30 inch (76 cm) dish or larger.

7. Where can I find out what channels are available free to air?
There are many free to air channels available in North America on satellites such as Galaxy 10R, AMC4, Telstar 5, AMC3, etc. There are from the USA and from around the world. See lyngsat.com for more details. For a complete listing of what is available. Anything with an F designation is FREE TO AIR.

8. How do I find the satellites?
The satellite you want to use will be determined by the programming you want to view. Telstar 5 is a very
popular satellite for ethnic channels. Locate your satellite/programming on one of the web sites listed above and align your dish to that satellite.

9. How do I move my dish to get more satellites and more channels?
If you have a receiver that has DiSEqC 1.2 you can easily see more satellites and more channels by adding a DiSEqC motor to move your dish.

Some Troubleshooting Tips for Satellite TV

1. I programmed in a bouquet, but don't get any sound on some/all of the channels?
Ensure you have the correct audio PID. If these are not available, there is a possibility that the channel(s) are being broadcast with AC-3 audio. As mentioned in "2.15 Can I get AC-3 sound on my current receiver? there is little chance that it will be possible to decode the sound on these channels.

2. I get sound, but no video. How do I fix this?
Ensure you have the correct video PID.

3. I tuned to my favorite digital bouquet today and found my favorite channel missing. It worked fine yesterday. What can I do?
Either there is a temporary problem at the uplinker or the channel has encrypted. Channels come and go and situations like this arise on a somewhat regular basis. Before losing all hope, it might be a good idea to check the Delphi MPEG2/DVB Forum to see if anybody else has reported the same channel missing. If they do not, start troubleshooting your local setup.

4. I'm having trouble finding the satellite, what can I do to make my life easier?
Ultimately, a spectrum analyzer is among the most useful tools for finding a satellite and peaking reception of it's signal. There are also much cheaper signal meters. If you do not feel comfortable doing this, consult your local satellite dealer.

5. What Do I do when the receiver shows "BOOT" on the screen on the front of the receiver?
When the receiver is trying to save the data, if it suddenly got shut off, it will show "BOOT" on the screen on the front panel.
When you are trying to save data into the receiver, the TV screen might have "Please wait or Data Save". You must wait till the words are gone before you could do anything else. Otherwise the receiver would show "BOOT" on the front panel. Also, when you are trying to install software into the receiver, you must not do anything else before the PC is done installing the software into the receiver, otherwise the receiver would not work.
The new software would save every time when you exit the menu, which avoids the receiver to have more problems.

How To Install a FTA (Free To Air) Satellite System

A. Pre-Installation Homework

Verify if the dish size is indeed adequate for your area and targeted satellite.

Obtain Look Angles readings for your city and targeted satellite. This includes: - the Azimuth reading which the number of degree is clockwise away from the north. (Use of compass) the
Elevation reading which is the vertical angle up from the horizon.

B. List of
Equipment and Accessories required

FTA Receiver

Satellite Dish (30 " or 36 ")

LNBF

RG-6 coaxial cable (F56-G indoor
connector, F56-SG outdoor connector if you make your own cable)

TV set

Map Compass for Azimuth reading

Satellite Finder (optional)

Drill

Phillips screw driver

Socket set/wrenches

C.
Installation Steps

Assemble dish with instruction supplied during time of purchase.

With the aid of a compass, orient toward the general azimuth direction and the elevation of the satellite and locate an ideal area to position the dish. Here, there must be no obstructions between the satellite and the dish from trees and buildings. Avoid installation on the roof if at all possible to prevent high wind damage or for ease of access if required. (e.g. side of the house, 4X4 post)

Put in place the dish pole on irm support and keep it vertically plumb to enable accurate azimuth and elevation settings.( use 2 of the 4 or 6 lag screws for now )

Feed the RG6 cable through the pole, then mount the dish onto the pole but do not tighten the screws too much for now. Connect the LNB head to the wire that was fed through the support pole and secure the LNB head with the provided screw onto to the support pole.

Complete connections of wiring to the receiver and TV.

As an option you can use a satellite finder by attaching it between the dish and the receiver (highly recommended e.g. SF-95.)

Adjust the elevation to the desired vertical angle; do not tighten the screws too tight to allow for
some adjustment...

Now rotate the dish to point more closely to the targeted azimuth position in very small incremental angle, allows 5-10 seconds between any movements of the dish. This allows the
receiver to complete a signal scan. A lock response on the receiver would indicate that you have located the signal.

You are targeting signal strength of between 50 to 80. If you have strong signal strength but no signal quality or lock. Try adjusting the dish a bit to the right or left. Optimum signal quality is between 70 and 100.

Set the LNBF polarization tilt by rotating clockwise for western region (negative LNB polarization) to improve signal quality reading. Rotate counter-clockwise if you are from the eastern region (positive LNB polarization).

Secure the dish pole with the rest of the lag screws.

Free Free to Air (FTA) Channels in North America

AMC 8 139.0°W

KTOO-TV Juneau, Alaska
Gavel To Gavel Network
Nasa TV
ARCS

AMC 7 137.0°W

KTUU-TV Anchorage
KTBY-TV Anchorage
KYES-TV Anchorage
KAKM-TV Anchorage
KTVA-TV Anchorage
KIMO-TV Anchorage

Satcom C4 135.0°W ？

The California Channel

Satcom C3 at 131.0°W

Fox Movie Channel

Hallmark Channel US West
Hallmark Channel US East
Bloomberg TV US

Home Shopping Espanol
Fox Sports Pittsburgh
Fox Sports Northwest
Fox Sports Arizona
Fox Sports Network
Fox Sports Feeds
Viacom Package
Showtime Package
E! West

Telstar 7 at 129.0°W

The Independent Film Channel
CNBC World
OlympuSat Package
HTVN - Hispanic TV Network
Enlace TBN USA

Galaxy 9 at 127.0°W

Galaxy 10R at 123.0°W

The Outdoor Channel
TARBS Promo
Research Channel
Nation Channel
Pink Plus
Alpha
MKTV
RTS
INN - Italian Network News
Marco Polo
Alice
Video Italia
TV Moda
TelePace
Syria TV
KBS
SBS
YTN
Wow Sat
ISkyCom
M-Net
Jesus Satellite TV
ERT Sat
Mega Cosmos

Anik E1 at 118.7°W

KTEL-TV
WYDN-TV
KTWO-TV
WBIF-TV
KTVC-TV
KQUP-TV
Daystar TV
WPXS-PAX
WBMM-TV
KMMF-TV
KUTH-TV
KPOU-TV
KYPX-TV PAX
KWBF-TV WB
KWBS-TV PAX

SatMex 5 at 116.8°W

Azteca 13 Mexico City - XHDF
Azteca America Oeste
Azteca America Este
CasaclubTV
Television por Cable - TVC
Potencial Humano TV
Gran Canal Latino
Tu Canal
Tele Ritmo
Canal 12 Monterrey - XHAW
Guate Vision
Hipodromo de Panama
Tele-Formula
MAC TV
Da Ai TV
Horse Racing

Anik E2 at 111.1°W

SCN Training Channel 1
SCN Training Channel 2
SCN Training Channel 3
SCN Training Channel 4
SCN Training Channel 5
Saskatchewan Legislative Network

Anik F1 at 107.3°W

ASN - Atlantic Satellite Network
WETV - The Green Channel
APTN Yellowknife
CBFT-TV Montreal
Unknown Radio Channel
Meteo Media
Tele Quebec
Blue Bonnet
CTV Red
CTV Green
CTV Blue
CBC Newsworld Int'l
The Weather Network
Television de Radio Canada (CBFT-TV)
Rede Corporativa 2
Canal Auto Desenvolvimento
Canal Estrategia
Canal Gestao
Canal 6 TV

AMC 1 at 103.0°W

Deutsche Welle TV
Mega Cosmos
ERT Sat
Pax TV East
Pax TV Mountain
Pax TV Pacific
Faith TV
Worship TV
Praise TV
Christian TV Network
Total Living Network
Mun2 East
Mun2 West

AMC 4 at 101.0°W

WPCB-TV - Cornerstone
SuperChannel Trinity Broadcasting Network
TVU
NBC East
NBC Central
NBC Mountain
NBC Pacific
University of California TV
Familyland
God's Learning Channel
Safe TV
La Familia Network
3ABN
3ABN
Adventist Television Network - ATN Test Signal
LLBN Loma Linda Broadcasting Network

Galaxy 4R at 99.0°W

TRC - The Reformation Channel
Telesistema 3
Bloomberg TV Asia

Telstar 5 at 97.0°W

UATV
TCT Asia
BYUTV - Brigham Young University TV
Skylink TV
Super Value Channel
Haitian Satellite TV - HSTV
TVI Tamil Vision
IRIB Jaam-e-Jam Network
Alalam Newschannel Promo
Melli TV
Khalifa TV News
Rang-a-Rang TV
BKTV
A.TV
AssyriaSat
TV Romania
Hi-Tech Channel/Global Marketing TV
NBN - National Broadcasting Network
Qatar TV
Jamahirya Satellite Channel
Iraq TV
ANA MBC
Yemen TV
Sky Vista Package
Nile TV
International Programming Promo
Dubai EDTV
Dubai Sports Channel
Saudi TV
PSC - Palestinian Satellite Channel
Dubai Business Channel
Al Manar
Syria TV
Euronews
Jordan TV
Bloomberg TV
SVC - Super Value Channel
MAC TV
Hunan TV
NTD TV
Tzu Chi TV
Pars TV
Appadana International
NITV
BLTV Buddhism TV
ETTV Eastern Television
USTV
JET TV
SET TV
Tzu Chi TV
BNE TV
HRT
TV Hrvatska
KISB 3
Abu Dhabi TV
Azadi Television
Thai TV Global Network
Armenian Public Television
Tapesh TV
Ajara TV
Iran TV
Persian TV Channel 1
Jaam E Jam
Kuwait Space Channel
Pittsburgh International Info Card
TRT International
Maharishi Open University
VTV 4
Kurdistan TV
Samanyolu TV World
KurdSat

Galaxy 3C at 95.0°W

CCTV-4
RTN1
RTN2
RTN3
RTN4
RTN5
RTN6
RTN7
RTN8

Galaxy 11 at 91.0°W

The WB TV East
The WB TV West
Shop at Home
EWTN US
EWTN Pacific Rim
EWTN Latin America
ACN Sports Network
EWTN Europe
EWTN Africa
ABC Family East
ABC Family West
The Word Network
Univision Canal 41
ACN TV
Crawford Communications Promos
OLN - Outdoor Life Network
Primedia Channel
RFD - Rural Farm Broadcasting TV

Telstar 4 at 89.0°W

ABC NewsOne Channel

Montana PBS Kids

AMC 3 at 87.0°W

Michigan Government TV
Supercanal Caribe
STARS of Faith Network
Bloomberg TV US
NMSU - New Mexico State University Instructional TV
TiP TV
The Patient Channel
Weather Vision
PBS East
PBS You
PBS X
PBS Kids

AMC 5 at 79.0°W

University of Utah (Program 110)
University of Utah (Program 120)
University of Utah (Program 130)
University of Utah (Program 140)
University of Utah (Program 150
University of Utah (Program 160
University of Utah (Program 170)
NYN1
NYN2
NYN3
NYN4
NYN5
NYN6
NYN7

PAS 9 at 58.0°W

Infinito USA
HTV
LAPTV Promo
Zee TV Africa
Cubavision Internacional
EWTN Latin America
CCTV 4
CCTV 9
Thai TV
Arirang TV World 2
APTN London
APTN Washington
Enlace
Enlace Juvenil
3ABN
Zee TV
Paris Premiere
Deutsche Welle TV
RTP International
NHK World TV
NIME World
RAI International 1
ART Latino
Claravision
BT Channel 2
BT Channel 3
BT Channel 4
BT Channel 5

Intelsat 705 at 50.0°W

TV UVE
ADSAT TV
ADSAT TV
HITN

PAS 1R at 45.0°W

Telefuturo
Univision Puerto Rico
Telemundo Puerto Rico
Televicentro
Zona Latina
Via X
UCV TV
TNP - Television Nacional del Peru
Education A Distancia

PAS 6B at 43.0°W

TNT Latin America East
Cartoon Network Latin America East
Cartoon Network Brazil
TNT Brasil
Space
I-sat
The Soundtrack Channel Brazil
CNBC
TV 5 Amerique Latine
Bloomberg TV Latin America

PAS 3R at 43.0°W

Nueva Argentinisima Satelital
TV Sur
VTV
Turf Argentino
Telefe Internacional
America Satelital
Music Country Argentina
P&E
Formar TV
Telefe International
Solo Tango
TV UVE
TV ADSAT Nuevo Tiempo
TV ADSAT Novo Tempo
ASB
Iraq Satellite Channel
Syria Satellite Channel
MTA International
Fashion TV
MCM
Al Manar
Pro TV International
Venezolana De TV
Globovision
ATB Red Nacional
Unitel
Red Uno De Bolivia
Bolivision
PAT
Catolica TV Senal International
TV Bolivia International
City TV
Telecaribe Margarita
Televen
Rede Gospel
WorldNet Latin America & Africa
WorldNet Europe
WorldNet
Canal (a)

Telstar 11 at 37.5°W

NTV USA
NTV Plus
Ohio News Network
Maharashi Open University
WB Albany - WEWB
TV Polonia

Hispasat 1A/1B at 30.0°W

TV Galicia
TV Canarias
TV Amistad
TVC Internacional
ATEI
Canal E Promo
Syria Satellite Channel
Real Madrid TV
MTA International

Intelsat 605 at 27.5°W

Pro TV International
TRT International
VTV 4 (23-04 UTC)
Kurdsat (22-04 UTC)
RICH (14-02 UTC)
The God Channel
RR Sat promo

NSS 7 at 22.0°W

BFBS Middle East
BFBS Atlantic
BFBS Radio 2

Telstar 12 at 15.0°W

Video Italia
Kuwait Space Channel
INN
TV Moda
Antenna Satellite
Future TV
Palestinian Satellite Channel
BVN TV
BYU TV

Echostar 1,2 (148.0°W)

WZZM-TV
WWMT-TV
WOOD-TV
WXMI-TV
WZPX-TV
WGVU-TV
WTLJ-TV
WOTV-TV
International Promotional Info
Adult Guard Promo

Tips on Purchasing a FTA Reciever

So you are thinking about purchasing a FTA receiver and just dont know where to begin.

There are several on the market all of them have their advantages and disadvantages.

First you have to decide what you want to do with this item.

True FTA receivers are ment to be an add on to what you are watching on TV at any given time. They can add hundreds of stations to what you already enjoy. All of these stations are free for viewing and can be received by anyone without any monthly subscriptions.

There is another use for some of the FTA receivers out there that you you may have been exposed to. It is the use, through modification of them, to receive stations that are normally not for viewing by the general public without a paid subscription.

When you are purchasing a receiver, first you must realize that even though you are going to use it only for true FTA there is always going to be some speculation that your use will be for modification of the device for use of piracy. Never buy any product from a retailer that states that the device will allow for viewing of subscription stations. It will only cause you problems and the retailer is advertising and promoting illegal activities.

You will also, at times find items on eBay that are also illegal for use when modified. Such devices as cards and card readers have been known to be used for illegal activities and are most often banned on ebay. If you find one the price will be highly inflated and more than likely your bid will be canceled prior to the end of the auction. This is not to say that these items will be used for illegal activity, but the speculation is so high that many of these items are no longer for sale on ebay.

Getting back to the FTA receiver:

To start out with you will not only need the receiver but other pieces of hardware as well.

You will need to purchase a Dish. For true FTA the Dish 500 system is not acceptable. You will need a minimum of a 30 inch dish to capture the signals.

You will also need what is called an LNB. You will need one that has a "low" rating. Currently the best product for use is the Invacom brand 0p31

You will also need a multi switch. Pansat, Coolsat both make a good product

You will need cable and connectors RG56, shielded is best. Weather couplers for the outside are necessary.

For True FTA you will also need a dish motor, since stations are not all located at one location and you will need to move your dish to the area where the station is brodcast to.

In short to get into this hobby. it requirs more than just the $150 to get the box. Remember you will soon be up to $500 very quickly if starting from scratch.

To recap

Buy only from honest vendors

Buy from Vendors that offer to hide the bidders names (just for safety)

Understand that you could be spending not just $150 but as much as $500 to get you started.

Best of luck.

Just what is a Free To Air (FTA) SatelliteSystem?

FTA or "Free To Air" simply means that the
signal is not encrypted. Most cable type programming is encrypted.
Where did all of these FREE TO AIR receivers come from? While the U.S.
and Canadian Cable industry distributes their programming largely via
products sold by Motorola and a few others, the rest of the world
chose the MPEG-2 format. Granted, even though, the Motorola Digicipher
II has some MPEG-2 attributes, it nevertheless remains a totally
proprietary platform. Who has chosen MPEG-2 as a platform? Dish
Network, Scientific Atlanta, and the rest of the world. Even DirecTV is
a early version of MPEG-2. MPEG-2 is a digital platform that allows
several digital broadcasts to be compressed onto one frequency or
channel. Without MPEG-2, Digicipher, or other compression platform, it
would not be possible to have direct broadcast television services like
DirecTV or Dish Network. Equally important is the way the programmers
get the their product to their retail outlets such as DBS and cable.
They too have chosen compressed digital transmissions largely due to
cost. PAX on GE-1 is an example of this.

What does MPEG2-FTA mean? MPEG stands for Moving
Picture Experts Group. It is a method for compressing data. FTA stands
for "Free to Air"- meaning that the signal is not encrypted with
conditional access. . Smart Cards or Conditional Access Modules, are
generally used to decode scrambled signals. In the U.S. there are a number of channels that
are available via MPEG-2 FTA receivers that have indicated that they
plan to remain in the clear or are believed to intending to stay clear.
These include Saudi TV, Abu Dhabi, Thai TV, Kuwait TV, Syria TV,
Taiwan, Iran, and as we go to press, Bloomberg TV all on Telstar 5, ku,
which can be received on a .7 meter dish.

MPEG-2 is not an encryption method although
encryption can be added. Dish Network uses the Nagra system of
encryption, DirecTV uses a News Data system, and full view big dish
primarily uses the Digicipher system. Transponder time has become so
expensive that with the exception of the preachers, the porno channels,
and the home shopping networks, it doesn't make sense to place only one
channel on one frequency. With HBO, and Discovery Networks planning 25
channels each, it would take over two C-Band birds to air their material
the old fashioned analog way.

Hire a Custom Installer

Finding a custom installer to design your home theater or media room may seem like a daunting endeavor. You're dealing with home electronics, after all, and electronics can be intimidating. But hiring a custom installer is really no different than hiring an architect, interior designer or other professional. The most important factor to consider is experience. You want someone you can trust who isn't going to "drop the ball" halfway through the project.

There's no need to feel intimidated, either, because an experienced custom installer recognizes the importance of establishing a good rapport with clients from the start. If the installer has an "attitude," don't waste your time, because his attitude will only get worse. Your future custom installer should make you feel relaxed and appreciated, not patronized. Any lack of knowledge about electronics on your part should be met with an enthusiastic and sincere desire to educate you. The installer should be willing to take the time to help you understand the options available to meet your requirements and your budget.

Before you begin your search, ask yourself these fundamental questions: Are you looking for the best company with complete, beginning-to-end responsibility for your project? Is this company expected to design, engineer and provide comprehensive documentation, and integrate with all the other parties involved (i.e., architect, interior designer, builder, cabinetmaker)?

Perhaps you're looking for the lowest possible price or most economical solution to your needs. Make sure you understand the differences between simple systems (not necessarily easy to use or future upgradeable) and expensive systems. Generally speaking, the easier a system is to use, the more expensive it is to purchase and install. With custom-installed home media systems, the old adage, "you get what you pay for" applies in spades.