The popularity of television has led to the creation of many programs, as well as various ways of broadcasting them. Today, cable, satellite and digital television are distinguished. How do these broadcasting methods differ? Is it better to choose satellite or digital television, or perhaps opt for cable television?
Digital, Satellite and Cable Television – How Do They Differ?
When we talk about digital, satellite and cable television, we are talking about the way it is broadcast. The broadcasting method determines how the television signal is received. This parameter determines the method of TV installation, reception technologies and the number of available channels. It is worth keeping this in mind and choosing the best TV service for yourself based on these parameters.
What Is Digital Television?
The origins of digital television date back to the 1980s, when the idea of digital program transmission was born. The first attempt at digital broadcasting was carried out in the United States in 1987. The attempt was successful, which is why 1987 is considered the beginning of digital television. It is worth noting, however, that the technology reached Europe several years later. Digital broadcasts began on the old continent in the mid-1990s. Today, digital transmission is the standard. Terrestrial television in Poland is free and widely available. Its disadvantage, however, is the small number of programs. To enjoy a wider selection, you should choose digital satellite television.
Digital television operates using the Digital Video Broadcasting – Terrestrial system, abbreviated as DVB-T. This is a digital television standard. The system operates across eight coverage areas. This type of broadcasting allows viewers to enjoy a wide range of channels, high-quality picture and sound. In addition, digital television users can access extra services, such as an electronic program guide. It is also worth mentioning that, thanks to the digital signal, television on a phone can be received. However, a disadvantage is the limited number of nationwide channels in terrestrial digital television. More demanding viewers are forced to cooperate with one of the providers. Receiving digital television requires a universal digital decoder as well as a TV antenna.
What Is Cable Television?
Cable television operates using hybrid fibre-coaxial technology – HFC, a hybrid network that distributes the television signal through cables and optical fibers. The cable TV offer includes a maximum of 94 television channels. This number results from the fact that each program occupies 8 MHz, while cable television networks use the frequency band from approximately 50 to 900 MHz for transmission.
An advantage of cable television is that its signal is not disrupted by unfavorable weather conditions such as storms, wind or snowstorms. Another benefit is that no additional equipment is required to receive cable TV programs; only the service needs to be paid for. Cable TV packages often include various programs and radio stations, as well as telephone and internet services. Nevertheless, cable television is not a good option for viewers who like having a wide choice. The number of channels is limited and, by modern standards, small. In addition, receiving cable TV requires the building to have a suitable installation.
What Is Satellite Television?
Satellite television works thanks to satellites positioned in Earth’s orbit. Reception is possible because the broadcaster sends a digital signal toward the satellite, which the viewer receives using their equipment. To receive the signal, you need a special dish and a receiver (tuner), which may be built into the television or exist as a separate device.
The main advantage of satellite television is its enormous signal coverage. Satellite TV can reach places where terrestrial signals cannot. This type of broadcasting is therefore recommended for people living in smaller towns. Another advantage of satellite television is access to a large number of channels with high-quality picture and sound. When choosing this type of television, you also do not have to worry about the price. Installing the receiver is not expensive. Despite these many advantages, satellite television also has drawbacks that must be taken into account. Above all, the satellite signal is not resistant to weather conditions. It may be disrupted, for example, by wind or storms. Positioning the dish can also cause problems. It should be pointed south, and there must be no obstacles, such as tall buildings, in its path. You should also remember that the most interesting channels offered by satellite television providers are encrypted, and access to them is possible after paying a fee.