A free air to satellite receiver or FTA receiver is a device used to get unencrypted broadcasts. These devices or decoders use the MPEG 2/DVB-S format while the newer ones implement the MPEG-4/DVB-S2 format.

Common Features

This will include an installation or setup menu. This represents the configuration panel. From here the receiver works with the motors and other switches. From this panel you can choose the LNB and the local oscillator frequency.

The motor configuration and the DiSEqC switch port is also chosen here. If you picked the right settings, the receiver will begin scanning the satellite for channels.

Scanning and Sorting Channels

After the FTA receiver scans all the channels they can be sorted out. There are programs that can sort out the channels in different ways (alphabetical, unscrambled/scrambled etc). You can also rename or delete the channels.

Most of these receivers can accept MPEG2 video stream in NTSC or PAL compatible formats. In addition, all free air to satellite receivers have parental locks.

There are some receivers that have the capability to record and review live TV. These high end receivers also come with a USB 2.0 port. This feature lets the user link it to a hard drive.

What to Look for in an FTA Receiver

The receiver must be able to reach the C and Ku bands. A receiver with an S-Video output is also recommended as this helps improve the video quality. Some packages also include cabling, which can save on costs and simplify the setup.

Other optional features you may like are RS232 for computer access for upgrading and AC3 digital audio output. This feature is for improving the sound quality. Some receivers have CI, which allows users to gain access to pay services. However these are not widely available.

Programs

In Europe, many companies air their broadcast as free to air. In the United Kingdom, many broadcasters like the BBC offer digital satellite service. FTA receivers in the United States broadcast most of these satellite channels in Galaxy 19 at 97 degrees W of the Ku band. The programs vary. There are TV shopping channels, educational and religious programs.

Some receivers have HDTV capability. These devices also have support for the MPEG-4 format. These units also have an ATSC over-the-air digital television tuner and can be fitted with a UHF controller. These types of receivers can also store a DTV or terrestrial transport stream.

Legal Issues

These receivers are legal. However there are some programmers who reverse engineer the software. With some subsequent coding, they bring unauthorized access to pay-per-view films and premium channels. These methods are illegal.

The distributors and manufacturers of these receivers do not sanction these actions. If third party programs are used to hack into pay-per-view programs, the receiver warranty will be void. The use of such programs may also damage the receivers.

FTA receivers are widely available and can be used easily if the instructions are followed. By understanding the features of these products, you’ll be able to use them correctly.