Satellite TV offers the means to receive hundreds of channels of news, sports movies and other programs. However, satellite TV services mostly come with a subscription fee, equipment charges and installation fees, which can be a bit expensive in the long run. Fortunately, it is not impossible to receive some satellite TV programmes and channels without having to pay for it and this requires the appropriate equipment. Below is the guide on how to get free satellite TV with dish antenna:
Choosing Satellite TV Equipment
The first step is to get the right tools for receiving free satellite signals. This includes:
- Satellite Dish Antenna: Satellite dish is required to receive signals from satellites that are in Motion in space. Ten and eleven-channel elements can be received using a small 18-inch dish for free. Select a dish prepared from fiberglass or mesh to be able to endure weather condition.
- LNB (Low Noise Block Downconverter): The LNB is mounted at the end of the satellite arm as shown below. It boosts the strength of signals and demodulates satellite frequencies into signals that are understandable to the receiver. Choose a single or dual or quad LNB to pick up many satellites.
- Coaxial Cable: Coax cable connects the LNB that is mounted on the dish to the receiver box that is located inside the RV. However, to avoid signal loss, it is advisable to use the RG6 quad-shielded coax.
- Satellite Receiver Box: The receiver takes signals from the LNB and feeds your TV with video output. One has to search for an MPEG4 compatible FTA (Free-to-Air) receiver.
Finding Satellite Positions
Currently, there are hundreds of open and unencrypted channels that can be transmitted by the communication satellites across the globe. Almost all free TV is from Galaxy 19 (97 degrees West) and AMC 21 (125 degrees West) satellites in North America. Identify the satellites that you wish to get signals from and position your dish to face the satellites in question. Satellite positioning maps and smartphone applications for aim are available.
Installing The Satellite Dish
In general, the installation is crucial to attain the optimal signal reception. Follow these tips when setting up your satellite dish:
- Mount It Securely: Fix the dish on the wall, or on the sloping roof, or on the pole mounting. Guarantee it does not move around with wind and other forces of nature like rain. If you are in the northern hemisphere, position the front of the dish to face true south.
- Clear Line of Sight: Ensure that it is perfectly positioned so that it has a clear view of the satellites that are in space. Eliminate any trees or any other object that may hinder the vision of the target point. Place it in the area of highest altitude possible in the room or the area where you are using it.
- Tweak Dish Angle: You need to change the elevation and azimuth angles while observing the signal strength meter on your receiver. Modify it little by little until optimum force is directed on the preferred satellite or satellites.
Connecting Cables and Power
With the dish dialed into the optimal position, connect everything together:
- Connect coax cable of the LNB arm to the satellite receiver input.
- Another coax line has to be connected from the receiver TV output to your television or monitor.
- Plug the satellite receiver box and television into a power outlet.
It may take several minutes to establish satellite signals in the first time of using the receiver.
Ways to Get Free Satellite Television Stations
On completion of the setup, you are now able to view free satellite TV channels! Programming typically includes public TV, religious channels, shopping networks, NASA feeds and international stations. available channels include:
- Public Access Stations - Watch PBS and other local public television programs.
- Faith-based Channels – Religious networks that include Glory Star Christian TV, Hope Channel, among others.
- Home Shopping Outlets - Get great deals from America’s Auction Channel and Jewelry Television.
- International Channels – Get to watch news and entertainment from different parts of the world such as the Africa TV or the Vietnamese TV.
- NASA TV – Watch and get real-time images and information from the International Space Station.
Particular stations are also constantly dynamic as satellites and broadcasts alter from time to time. Explore the channels with the help of the Electronic Program Guide that you have on your receiver and set your favorite channels. Now that your free satellite TV dish system is correctly set up, it is time to tune in to a wide number of free programs to watch.
Additional Tips
Here are some other tips to improve your free satellite TV experience:
- Upgrade Equipment Over Time: Larger dishes, newer LNBs and faster satellite receivers offer more channels and better signal quality.
- Add Additional Receivers: One can split the coax signal so as to connect the TVs in the other rooms in your home.
- Boost Signal Strength: In case of poor reception, you should add a line amplifier that boosts the signal before going to your receiver.
Although companies such as DirecTV and Dish Network offer most popular HD channels, to the relative’s amazement, a lot of content can actually be received for free over the air. A well designed satellite antenna system, you do not have to pay a monthly fee but you receive a huge amount of programming.
Ready to upgrade your TV experience? Call us now at (877) 471-4808 to find the perfect Dish Network plan for you! Don’t miss out on great entertainment—our team is here to help you choose the best package and get you started today.