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DIRECTV General Questions: |
Answers to general topics can be found in this segment, for specific answers pertaining to
installation and
programming questions please go back to the previous page and click on the applicable link. If you can't find the information you need, please call us at 1-888-999-7331.
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| What is DIRECTV? |
| DIRECTV is the nation's #1 digital satellite entertainment service provider. Using the most advanced satellite technology, they deliver access to more than 250 channels of programming to homes and businesses that have DIRECTV hardware, which features a small satellite dish, a digital set-top receiver and a remote control. DIRECTV® service offers an incredible selection of entertainment for every member of the family, all with the digital-quality picture and sound that DIRECTV is recognized for. Find out why DIRECTV is so popular.
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| Where is DIRECTV located? |
| The DIRECTV corporate office is located in El Segundo, California. It serves as the headquarters to our many regional sales offices and two broadcast centers located in Los Angeles, California, and Castle Rock, Colorado.
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| What is DIRECTV® service? |
| DIRECTV is the nation's first high-power direct broadcast satellite (DBS) service. DIRECTV provides more than 250 channels of digital-quality programming to homes and businesses that are equipped with DIRECTV equipment. DIRECTV offers a spectacular selection of entertainment, giving consumers the ultimate in convenience, choice and control. 100% digital-quality picture and sound provided by DIRECTV® service is unsurpassed by other broadcast providers. With no or low-cost installation, unprecedented programming choices, and an easy-to-use interface, DIRECTV is the leader in digital entertainment. |
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| Where can I purchase a DIRECTV® System? |
| It's easy to buy, check out our product offerings. You can also purchase over the phone by calling 1-888-999-7331.
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| What is the purpose of connecting my receiver to a telephone line? |
| DIRECTV requires customers to connect a phone line to their receiver for billing and ordering purposes only. The connection transmits programming purchase information from the receiver to DIRECTV. This important link authorizes DIRECTV subscribers to order pay-per-view movies and events simply with their remote control. You will also be able to get popular sports subscriptions like NFL SUNDAY TICKET™ and NBA LEAGUE PASS™.
DIRECTV customers who don’t have a continuous telephone connection are not authorized to receive certain programming and must call DIRECTV when ordering pay-per-view offerings. To cover the costs of handling phone requests, there is an additional $1.50 charge when pay per view events and movies are ordered by phone utilizing the automated ordering system or an additional $5.00 charge for an operator-assisted order. |
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| What makes up a DIRECTV® System? |
| A DIRECTV® System consists of a Multi-Satellite Dish Antenna, a DIRECTV® Receiver and a Remote Control. Equipment gives you access to an innovative on-screen guide that allows users to scan and select programming choices, order pay-per-view movies, set parental controls (Locks & Limits) and spending limits, and customize their own channel lists with the remote control. Ultimately, the system allows the reception of programming from DIRECTV.
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| We have more than one TV in our house; can we get the DIRECTV's signal on all of our TV sets? |
| Yes. Have an additional line run to each TV that you want to receive the signal from the DIRECTV® Receiver. This allows you to watch the same satellite programming on as many sets as you want.
If you would like to be able to watch individual programming on each TV, you will need a Multi-Satellite Dish Antenna, with multiple outputs. A DIRECTV® receiver and cable is also required for each TV you would like to receive individual programming on.
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| How can we watch different channels in different rooms with our DIRECTV® system? |
| To view separate channels in different rooms, you will need additional DIRECTV® Receivers. In order to hook up a receiver in each room that require programming you will need an equal number of outputs from the Multi-Satellite Dish Antenna. A multi-switch is another way to expand your signal distribution options. |
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| If I already have cable service, why should I get DIRECTV®? |
| Exclusive programming, incredibly clear digitally delivered picture and sound that is far superior to today's cable systems. 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.
Much of this you can get for less than you currently pay for cable service alone. With cable rates on the rise, why wait call us at 1-888-999-7331!
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| How does DIRECTV compare with cable? |
A recent national survey conducted by independent, non-profit organization Consumer Reports, revealed that Satellite TV subscribers were happier with their service than their cable counterparts. Satellite TV subscribers also reported a lower monthly bill.
The list of categories Satellite TV rated higher than cable included overall satisfaction, value for the money, picture quality, sound quality, channel selection and interesting programming.
DIRECTV has created a service specifically driven to offer consumers more choice and value for their entertainment dollar. This programming combines America's favorite cable networks, other popular networks not available from most cable services, a pay per view movie service with up to 55 choices of movies and special events every night, and an unprecedented sports subscription lineup. No other system offers as many quality program options. Call us at 1-888-999-7331 to learn more!
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| How does DIRECTV compare with C-band satellite services? |
C-band and DIRECTV appeal to two very different audiences. C-band is more of a specialized product that appeals mostly to enthusiasts and video hobbyists who want unlimited access to all forms of television transmissions. In contrast, DIRECTV is designed to be a mass-market television delivery system. For the average television viewer who wants the benefits of a multi-channel broadcast system without the higher cost and size of a conventional satellite system, DIRECTV offers significant advantages over traditional C-band services.
Benefits include:
- An 18-inch dish
- Easy installation
- Affordable price
- Digital-quality picture and sound quality
- Simple operation from a fixed satellite dish
- Extensive programming options, including pay per view movies and sports
Other satellite systems are either analog or use a non-standard digital format that requires upgrades and retrofitting to convert to the MPEG-2 digital technology used by DIRECTV. Thus, DIRECTV offers the average consumer better broadcast quality than virtually any other system. |
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| Why doesn't DIRECTV present every channel I want to see? |
| Programming commitments are driven by customer preference. They are designed to balance the interests of adults, children, and the whole family. We regularly poll customers to determine their interests.
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| Where should I mail my payment? |
| You should mail your payment to the address that appears on your DIRECTV bill. |
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| What will I get when I buy an HDTV-ready DIRECTV® System? |
Higher-resolution picture is the main selling point for HDTV. Visualize 720 or 1080 lines of resolution rather than today’s 525 (in the U.S.) or 625 (in most of Europe). Wider picture - the width-to-height ratio for HDTV will be 1.78:1 (or 16:9), compared with today's TV broadcasts at 1.33:1 (or 4:3). Most motion pictures are shot at a 1.85:1 or greater ratio. HDTV broadcasts will be encoded with Dolby Digital (AC-3) audio, featuring six separate audio tracks. Each track can be sent to a different speaker, allowing detailed and realistic surround sound.
Additional data: Although the term HDTV specifically refers to picture quality, digital signals will also contain a data channel which could carry related information such as scrolling text or computer software downloads. |
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| What type of satellite dish do I need? |
| Whether you're looking for a replacement satellite dish to replace a damaged dish or to get a second dish for your vacation home, the DIRECTV® multi satellite dish antennas will work with any DIRECTV® System.
We offer all types of specialty and replacement satellite dish equipment. If you need a dish for your RV, boat or some other type of portable dish, please call us toll-free at 1-888-999-7331. We also offer replacement LNB's.
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| I bought a used DIRECTV® system from a friend. What should I do to get the system installed and activate programming? |
| DIRECTV has found that new customers are happier with a new, professionally installed DIRECTV® system, so they don't usually sign up a new customer with a used system. We suggest you select from one of our excellent offers on new equipment or call 1-888-999-7331.
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| If I move to another location, can I take my DIRECTV® System with me to my new home? |
Because moving should be as carefree as possible, DIRECTV offers the DIRECTV MOVERS CONNECTION, which makes it easy to transfer your entire DIRECTV® service to a new residence with minimal hassle.
Just tell us where you're headed, and we'll not only send a replacement satellite dish to your new address, we'll provide complimentary standard professional installation for everything including your receivers. How's that for a helping hand?
Here's What To Do
- Before your moving date, call our Movers Hotline at 1-877-616-MOVE.
- Pack up your DIRECTV® Receivers, remote control, and owner's manual, and take those with you to your new home. Leave your DIRECTV satellite dish behind.
- Once you're at your new place, we'll deliver a satellite dish and provide our standard professional installation.
To qualify for this service, all you have to do is commit to one year of any TOTAL CHOICE® programming.
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| Will the DIRECTV® System be compatible with future technology? |
| The system is 100% digital now. Any foreseeable technological developments will be digital or compatible with digital technology. (Additional equipment may be required) |
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| If I have more than one DIRECTV® Receiver hooked up to different TVs in my home, do I have to pay for a separate monthly subscription for each receiver? |
| No, residential customers pay only a small service fee for each active receiver in addition to the primary programming package subscription: DIRECTV -- $4.99 for each additional receiver. |
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| Is DIRECTV® service available in Canada or Mexico? |
| We are legally prohibited from transmitting our signal outside the United States.
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| Is DIRECTV® service available in Alaska and Hawaii? |
Yes! Alaska and Hawaii residents can enjoy DIRECTV® programming.
NEW CUSTOMERS in Alaska or Hawaii can enjoy digital-quality entertainment and amazing value.
CURRENT CUSTOMERS can upgrade their current DIRECTV®System or add another receiver to the mix.
Call 1-888-999-7331 to order.
(Please take note)
ALASKA AND HAWAII HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS:
For DIRECTV TOTAL CHOICE® programming (along with premium packages and seasonal sports subscriptions), you will need one (1) 1.2-meter DIRECTV Dish.
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| I had DIRECTV® service in the past. How can I restart it? |
| If you no longer have the equipment or your equipment is built on old technology, you can purchase new equipment, but you may not be eligible for our new customer promotions.
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| Can weather interfere with my reception from DIRECTV? |
| Television reception on the DIRECTV® system is highly reliable year-round and nationwide. DIRECTV® service is only minimally affected by weather, under extreme conditions. If a signal interruption happens at all, it is usually less than one minute long. |
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| Can you explain the parental controls (Locks & Limits) feature the DIRECTV® System offers? |
The "Locks & Limits" or "Parental Controls" feature built into the equipment lets you restrict access to programming based on the motion picture rating system or block the viewing of entire channels.
The Parental Controls feature allows you to restrict unsupervised TV viewing however you please:
- Allow viewing based on MPAA ratings or block
specific movies.
- Lock out entire channels.
- Set limited viewing times.
- Even establish spending limits on pay per view.
Here's how:
- To use Parental Controls, simply press the "menu" button on your remote, select "Profiles," and look for the selections which indicate "Rating Limit," "Lock User," "Viewing Hours" or "Spending Limit."
- Follow the easy-to-understand on-screen directions, which vary by receiver.
- After setting up, you can easily access the programming you like by entering your personal identification (PIN) number.
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| Can I get internet access for my PC from DIRECTV? |
| DIRECTV does not provide internet access. HughesNet™, a satellite-based internet service, offers internet access directly to your PC. For more details, visit our HughesNet™, page. |
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| Are local broadcast networks available on DIRECTV? |
DIRECTV offers local broadcasts in 141 markets across the country. That's more than 92% of the nation's TV households.
DIRECTV's local channel lists are constantly being updated, please call us at 1-888-999-7331 to verify local channel availability in your area. Here's the basic channel list:
- Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY*†
- Albuquerque-Sante Fe, NM*†
- Anchorage, AK***
- Atlanta, GA
- Augusta, GA**
- Austin, TX
- Bakersfield, CA*
- Baltimore, MD
- Baton Rouge, LA*
- Birmingham, AL
- Boise, ID**
- Boston, MA
- Buffalo, NY*†
- Burlington, VT-Plattsburgh, NY**
- Cedar Rapids, IA**
- Champaign, IL**
- Charleston, SC**
- Charleston-Huntington, WV*
- Charlotte, NC
- Chattanooga, TN**
- Chicago, IL
- Chico, CA*†
- Cincinnati, OH
- Cleveland, OH
- Colorado Springs, CO
- Columbia-Jefferson City, MO**
- Columbia, SC
- Columbus, OH
- Columbus-Tupelo, MS
- Corpus Christi, TX*
- Dallas-Ft. Worth, TX
- Davenport, IA-Rock Island-Moline, IL**
- Dayton, OH*
- Denver, CO†
- Des Moines, IA*
- Detroit, MI
- Duluth, MN-Superior, WI*†
- El Paso, TX*
- Eugene, OR*
- Evansville, IN**
- Fairbanks, AK***
- Fargo, ND*
- Flint-Saginaw-Bay City, MI*
- Fort Myers-Naples, FL*
- Fort Smith, AR**
- Fort Wayne, IN**
- Fresno-Visalia, CA*
- Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo, MI*
- Green Bay-Appleton, WI*
- Greensboro, NC
- Greenville-New Bern-Washington, NC**
- Greenville-Spartanburg, SC
- Harlingen-Weslaco-Brownsville-McAllen, TX*
- Harrisburg, PA
- Hartford-New Haven, CT*
- Honolulu, HI***
- Houston, TX
- Huntsville, AL*
- Indianapolis, IN
- Jackson, MS*†
- Jacksonville, FL*
- Johnstown, PA**
- Juneau, AK***
- Kansas City, MO
- Knoxville, TN*
- La Crosse-Eau Claire, WI**
- Lafayette, LA*
- Lansing, MI*
- Las Vegas, NV*
- Lexington, KY*
- Lincoln, NE**
- Little Rock-Pine Bluff, AR*†
- Los Angeles, CA
- Louisville, KY*
- Macon, GA**
- Madison, WI*
- Mankato, MN
- Medford-Klamath Falls, OR*†
- Memphis, TN
- Miami-Ft. Lauderdale, FL
- Milwaukee, WI
- Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN
- Mobile, AL-Pensacola-Fort Walton Beach, FL*
- Monterey-Salinas, CA*
- Myrtle Beach-Florence, SC**
- Nashville, TN
- New Orleans, LA*
- New York, NY
- Norfolk, VA*†
- Oklahoma City, OK*
- Omaha, NE*
- Orlando-Daytona, FL
- Paducah, KY-Cape Girardeau, MO*†
- Peoria-Bloomington, IL**
- Philadelphia, PA
- Phoenix, AZ
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Portland-Auburn, ME*
- Portland, OR
- Providence, RI-New Bedford, MA*
- Raleigh-Durham, NC
- Reno, NV*†
- Richmond-Petersburg, VA*
- Roanoke, VA*†
- Rochester, NY*
- Rochester-Austin, MN, Mason City, IA
- Rockford, IL**
- Sacramento-Stockton, CA
- Salt Lake City, UT†
- San Antonio, TX
- San Diego, CA
- San Francisco-Oakland-San Jose, CA
- Santa Barbara-Santa Maria-
- San Luis Obispo, CA*
- Savannah, GA*
- Seattle-Tacoma, WA
- Shreveport, LA*
- Sioux Falls, SD**
- South Bend-Elkhardt, IN*
- Spokane, WA*
- Springfield, MA*
- Springfield, MO**
- St. Louis, MO
- Syracuse, NY**
- Tallahassee, FL-Thomasville, GA*†
- Tampa-St. Petersburg, FL
- Toledo, OH**
- Topeka, KS*
- Traverse City-Cadillac, MI**
- Tri-Cities, TN (Johnson City-Bristol-Kingsport)**
- Tucson, AZ*
- Tulsa, OK*
- Tyler-Longview, TX*
- Waco-Temple-Bryan, TX**
- Washington, DC
- Wausau-Rhinelander, WI**
- West Palm Beach, FL
- Wichita-Hutchinson, KS*
- Wilkes-Barre, PA*
- Wilmington, NC*
- Yakima-Pasco-Richland-Kennewick, WA*
- Youngstown, OH **
- Zanesville, OH
*Receipt of local channels in these markets requires a DIRECTV Multi-Satellite System.
**Receipt of local channels in these markets requires the use of a second 18-inch DIRECTV Dish.
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| What should I do if my DIRECTV® service has been disconnected and I want to reconnect it? |
| Please review all your payment choices. If you want to reconnect service quickly, sign in at DIRECTV.com and click on Pay Today to make a credit card, debit card or one-time electronic (EFT) payment. You can also use the Automated Phone System by calling the number listed on your bill and following the prompts. After you make your payment, it will take up to one hour for your services to be reactivated, so please be patient. If you choose to make a payment over the phone with a representative, a $5.00 phone-assistance fee applies.
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| Will the telephone connection interfere with regular telephone usage? |
| No. This connection does not interfere with your phone. A modem inside your receiver makes a toll-free call to DIRECTV's computer system in the middle of the night. If the receiver’s modem senses that you are using the phone, it will try again later. The modem’s call lasts just a few seconds. |
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| Why is DIRECTV moving forward now with HDTV? |
| High definition television (HDTV) represents the next generation in television entertainment. As the digital broadcasting technology leader, DIRECTV has the infrastructure in place to offer consumers compelling high definition programming along with its already comprehensive programming lineup. |
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| How does the DIRECTV® on-screen guide work? |
| Access the guide by pressing the menu button on your remote control. Navigate around the guide using the arrow buttons on the remote. The guide lists all DIRECTV® programming including descriptions of most programs. Look ahead to the next day’s programming by selecting hour increments (such as +5 and +33). Refer to the manual that came with your remote for detailed operating instructions.
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PROMOTIONS |
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| Promotions are always changing, keep checking back for what's new. |
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What Other Customers Say: |
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| “Peter utilized great listening skills and by the end of the call, it was more like I was talking to a friend than a sales representative.” - Kevin |
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