Alternatives to Cable TV Connections
- DirecTV and Dish Network are the two most popular satellite providers. These services have most of the channels found on cable systems and are able to receive local network feeds as well. DirecTV and Dish Network require a satellite dish to be placed on the viewer's house in a location where the satellite can pick up the best signal. However, during rain or snow storms, the signal may be lost temporarily. Satellite television is the best alternative to cable for those living in rural areas where cable television is scarce.
- Gone are the days of moving an antenna to get a clear picture. Since 2009, all analog broadcasts switched to digital, giving way to improved picture and sound quality. If you have a newer television set, you will not need any additional equipment to receive local, over-the-air television. However, if you have an analog set, you will need to have a digital TV converter box. The transition to digital television also offers more programming choices than traditional analog with the addition of digital sub-channels.
- Most networks have their television content available on the Web through either their own website or through sites such as Hulu.com. Viewers can watch programs on their computers or smart phones; however, if you are used to watching television content on an actual television set, you can simply hook up your computer using HDMI or S-video cables to your TV.
- To compete with cable companies, telephone and high-speed Internet providers have expanded into the television service market. Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-Verse TV are two of the major providers in the fiber-optic television arena. These companies offer features such as DVR, on-demand programming and HDTV. However, fiber-optic service is not available in all areas.
