Posted on 22nd May 2008 @ 9:11 AM

Free to Air satellite (FTA satellite) is a term that describes satellite signals which a person can receive legally -- without having any subscription -- and though it is not encrypted, it is typically encoded for MPEG-2 video and may have geographical restrictions.

Parts of the world recieve encrypted Free to Air satellite channels on UHF and VHF frequency bands.

Free to Air satellite TV is a subset of TVRO, and was originally transmitted on C Band.

Free to Air satellite content and programming has found it's way to the Ku (Kurtz under) Band, which allows Free To Air programming to be broadcasted with considerably smaller satellite dishes- consuming far less power.

Unlike subscription-based, pay-per-view satellite television programming (i.e. Dish Networks, DirecTV, etc.); Free to Air channels are received by utilizing a common MPEG-2 video compatible satellite receiver, since broadcasts are unencrypted.

Free to Air Satellite Reception Requirements

To enjoy Free To Air satellite content, you'll need:

• A satellite dish antenna (both C-Band or K-Band will work)
• A FTA receiver or satellite PC card
• An LNBF
• An antenna motor (If you wish to receive channels from more than one satellite)