What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Satellite Networks?

How is satellite TV different from aerial TV?

Satellite networks have revolutionised the way people get access to television programs, movies, news and other media. They offer a wide variety of content, from live sports to movies on demand, all delivered with less disruption than traditional aerial or cable networks. However, as with any technology, there are advantages and disadvantages that come with using satellite networks. 

Aerial TV relies on broadcast signals sent through the air via antennas, while satellite TV utilises a satellite dish to receive signals from an orbiting satellite. Factors such as terrain, weather conditions, and even physical obstructions can affect the signal reception for aerial TV, making it unreliable in some cases. Satellite TV, on the other hand, is free of these issues, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted, high-quality programming. The only downside is that you will need to have a satellite dish installed in order to access the satellite TV. We highly recommend contacting a local professional to help mount and install any satellite or aerial you desire inside or outside your home. It can be a task you DIY; however, it isn't encouraged, as it can sometimes involve working at height, which requires the proper skills and safety equipment to perform. 

Pros of Satellite TV

Satellite TV has several advantages over aerial TV. Firstly, it provides much clearer and more reliable signals, free from interference or physical obstruction. This means you can enjoy a higher-quality viewing experience with fewer interruptions. Secondly, satellite TV providers usually offer more channels than those available with aerial TV, so you have more variety to choose from. Finally, satellite TV is relatively inexpensive to install and requires little maintenance.

Cons of Satellite TV

Sadly, satellite TV does have some drawbacks. Firstly, it is not available in all locations - due to its reliance on satellite signals, you must be located in an area where there is an unobstructed view of the sky. Secondly, you may need to take out a subscription to access some services, such as pay-per-view movies, which can add to the overall cost. Finally, the installation process can be complicated and time-consuming, and you may need to hire a professional to ensure it is done correctly.

Pros & Cons of an Aerial TV Antenna

Aerial TV antennas have been around for many years and remain a popular choice for those wanting access to free-to-air television programming. Although they do not offer as much choice as satellite TV, they still provide a good viewing experience. The main advantage of an aerial antenna is that it can be relatively cheap to install, and it does not require a subscription. The main downside is that the signal can be affected by weather conditions and physical obstructions, resulting in poor reception.

Do you need an aerial or satellite dish with a smart TV?

The answer is yes, you do need an aerial or satellite dish with a smart TV if you want to watch regular TV programs. Smart TVs are internet-connected devices that allow you to stream films and TV programs from online services such as Netflix and BBC iPlayer. However, they still require an aerial or satellite dish to access traditional television channels. If you opt for an aerial, you will also need a digital-enabled TV tuner. Luckily, modern smart TVs come with most of these features already built-in. 

In conclusion, satellite TV and aerial antennas each have their advantages and drawbacks. With satellite networks, you get an improved viewing experience and more channels, but you will need to install a satellite dish and possibly take out a subscription. Alternatively, an aerial TV antenna is cheaper to install and gives you access to free-to-air channels, however, the signal can be affected by physical obstructions or adverse weather. Ultimately, the choice between satellite and aerial TV depends on your budget, location, and viewing preferences.