| A few years ago, before DISH Network and | | | | TV signals down to earth. |
| DIRECTV launched their direct broadcast satellite | | | | Between the two major providers, DISH Network |
| companies, dishes were humongous - up to 9 | | | | and DIRECTV, there are more than 25 satellites in |
| feet in diameter. But now, thanks to modern | | | | orbit above the earth that broadcast more than |
| technology, they're smaller than a saucer sled. | | | | 500 channels of programming to more than 27 |
| Here's how satellite TV dishes work and where | | | | million subscribers. |
| you can get one free. | | | | How does a satellite dish Work? |
| What is a satellite TV dish? | | | | The curved satellite dish focuses the signal sent |
| A satellite dish is a round parabolic reflector, | | | | from a satellite to a feedhorn, that funny looking |
| shaped like a saucer, that picks up TV signals. | | | | arm that sits in front of the dish. The feed horn |
| These dishes are typically 18 inches to 31 inches in | | | | amplifies the signal and sends it to a receiver. The |
| diameter and made out of aluminum so they | | | | receiver then converts the signal into audio and |
| won't rust. They are aimed at a satellite hovering | | | | video signals and sends it to your TV. |
| 22,300 miles above the equator that broadcasts | | | | Where can I get a free Dish? |