What Is Direct TV and is DirecTV Right For Me?
DIRECT TV Q/A
Q: What is DIRECTV?
A: DIRECTV is the nation's #1 digital satellite entertainment service provider. Using the most advanced satellite technology, we deliver access to more than 225 channels of programming to homes and businesses that have DIRECTV receiving equipment, which features a small satellite dish, a digital set-top receiver and a remote control. The DIRECTV service offers an incredible selection of entertainment for every member of the family -- all in the digital-quality picture and sound that DIRECTV is known for.
Q: What programming does DIRECTV offer?
A: DIRECTV® programming and service features access to more than 225 available channels of entertainment. Customers have access to popular networks like Disney Channel, CNN, ESPN and TNT, as well as up to 55 pay per view choices a day, including major Hollywood films and special events. Hit movies start as often as every 30 minutes and they cost only $3.99 each when you use your remote control to order. We also offer an unprecedented professional and collegiate sports subscription lineup, including NFL SUNDAY TICKET(TM), NBA LEAGUE PASS, NHL® CENTER ICE®, MLB EXTRA INNINGSSM, MLS DIRECT KICKTM, ESPN GamePlan and ESPN FULL COURT. There's even more! Our SPORTS Pack premium service and TOTAL CHOICE® PREMIER package deliver sports action from across the nation. Plus, adult channels like PLAYBOY TV are available on an a la carte basis.
Q: How much will DIRECTV® service cost me each month?
A: It's more affordable than you might think. Our basic TOTAL CHOICE® with Local Channels programming package, which includes over 125 channels, is just $39.99 per month. The cost to "mirror" that service to additional receivers in your home is $4.99/mo. per receiver (as long as you keep all your receivers continuously connected to the same land-based phone line). If your state charges a sales tax, we'll add that to your bill. That's it. But of course, you can select from many other packages as well.
Q: How does DIRECTV® service compare with cable?
A: 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.
Q: Where can I purchase a DIRECTV® System?
A: It's easy to buy now at DIRECTV.com! You can also purchase from an online retailer, from a local dealer or by calling DIRECTV at 1-888-238-7177 (6 a.m. - 3 a.m ET, daily) .
Q: Can I get Internet access from DIRECTV?
A: For those without a land-based phone connection, DIRECWAY® satellite-based Internet service is offered through HUGHES. You can also get Internet content on your TV with some of our advanced products, which requires a land-based phone connection.
Q: Does DIRECTV offer programming in other languages?
A: Yes! We offer a Spanish-language programming service and Chinese-language programming services.
The DIRECTV PARA TODOS(TM) service features more than 45 Spanish-language channels*, including sports, movies, news, music and educational networks. (*Includes English-language broadcast channels with alternate Spanish-language audio access.)
DIRECTV is also proud to offer Jadeworld, a 5-channel package broadcast in Cantonese and Mandarin, and Phoenix TV, a 24-hour channel broadcast in Mandarin. See the International Services page for details.
Q: Is DIRECTV service available in Canada or Mexico?
A: We are legally prohibited from transmitting our signal outside the United States.
Q: Is DIRECTV service available in Alaska?
A: DIRECTV does offer programming in Alaska. However, because of Alaska's location in relation to our satellites, you may need a larger satellite dish. For example, viewers in Anchorage or Fairbanks may need an eight-foot dish to get good reception. In the Juneau area, a four-foot dish may do the trick. Areas north and west of these locations will experience an even greater reduction in signal acuity. Residents of Alaska should check with their local DIRECTV retailer for more information and programming availability.
Q: Is DIRECTV service available in Hawaii?
A: Yes! Hawaii residents can enjoy select DIRECTV® programming. Learn more.
Q: I have another satellite service. How do I convert to the DIRECTV® service?
A: We advise new customers to use DIRECTV equipment only. DIRECTV hardware has been designed to meet our service quality standards. Please visit our dealer locator for a list of local DIRECTV System retailers.
Q: Where is DIRECTV located?
A: 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.
Q: Where can I find out about job opportunities at DIRECTV?
A: DIRECTV is always in search of talented and enthusiastic individuals to join our team and help us ensure our continued success! See our complete list of current job openings.
Q: How can I invest in DIRECTV?
A: As a unit of Hughes Electronics Corp., DIRECTV, Inc., is traded under GMH (NYSE symbol) common stock.
Q: How can I contact DIRECTV?
A: Please see our contact list.
Q: I had DIRECTV® service in the past. How can I restart it?
A: If you still have your dish, receiver, access card and remote, just call us and we'll help you get it reactivated. If you no longer have the equipment, you can purchase new equipment, but you may not be eligible for our new customer promotions.
Q: How do I disconnect my service?
A: If you do need to disconnect, just call us at the number on your bill. For security reasons, we can't process these requests by e-mail. Instead of disconnecting your service, you may want to consider these options:
TEMPORARY ACCOUNT SUSPENSION
This option keeps your account active temporarily until you want to restore your DIRECTV service. This service is available to you at no additional charge. This is a convenient option if you will be vacationing for an extended period. Note that this option is not available to customers who've agreed to maintain a certain level of programming in exchange for a special offer or equipment price.
DIRECTV MOVERS CONNECTION(TM)
Just leave your dish where it is and take your receivers to your new home. We'll send you a new dish and install it and your receivers at your new home. Visit our DIRECTV MOVERS CONNECTION(TM) page or call our Movers Hotline at 1-877-616-MOVE to get started.
Q: I'd like to sell DIRECTV equipment from my retail store. Where can I find more information?
A: You can find all of the information you need, including a printable application, on our dealer web site.
Q: I lost my owner's manual. How can I get a new one?
A: You might find one on our web site here. If you can't find your model number, check for a similar model. You can print your manual out, or visit the web site of the manufacturer to see if it has more information about your equipment or distributes replacement manuals.
Q: I found an error on your web site. How do I report it?
A: Please send us feedback here. Be sure to include the URL of the page you found the error on.
Q: Can I get an extended warranty for my equipment and installation?
A: Click here to learn more information about the DIRECTV PROTECTION PLAN.
