What is HDTV?
HDTV stands for high-definition television, and it marks the biggest leap forward for television since color TV made its debut in the 1950s. HDTV images are significantly more detailed than standard analog TV, delivering rich, realistic images, as well as multichannel, movie-theater-quality sound. HDTVs can display both standard definition and HDTV images, but they need HD signals to look their best.

How will regular TV shows look on an HDTV set?
It really depends on screen size. Some standard-definition programming may look a little sharper and cleaner on your HDTV set, but more often, it looks worse. That's because all the little flaws and murkiness inherent in regular TV images become that much more obvious when blown up to larger sizes, especially when compared to crystal-clear HD channels. In addition, because SD programming has a narrow aspect ratio of 4:3, you'll see black bars on the left and right sides of the picture if you're watching on a wide-screen 16:9 set. If the black bars bother you, adjustments on all HDTVs can make 4:3 programming fill a 16:9 screen, but when doing so, they crop or distort the image.

Is HD and Digital TV the same?
All HDTV is digital, but not all Digital TV is HDTV. High Definition refers to the resolution of the video (720p, 1080i or 1080p). Digital TV means that the off-air signals are transmitted digitally (usually in ATSC) versus the older analog signals (NTSC). Digital TV broadcasts can be a mixture of standard definition and high definition programs.

What does simulcast mean?
A channel / network that is broadcast simultaneously in both HD and SD.

When will the new HD channels be launched?
DIRECTV began launching our new HD programming lineup in September, 2007 and continues to add new HD channels all the time. New channels are announced as they become available. Check DIRECTV.com/hd for the latest information on new additions to the DIRECTV HD Lineup.

How do I know what HD channels I'll get?
For the channels in your current programming package, you'll automatically receive the HD versions that are offered as long as you have the HD Access service. For example, if you get ESPN in your current package, and you have or add HD Access, you'll receive ESPN HD. If you subscribe to HBO you'll be able to receive the HBO HD channels if you have or add HD Access.

Don't forget that an HD television, 5-LNB dish and DIRECTV HD equipment are also required. All programming subject to change at any time.

Will the price of HD Access increase?
HD Access will remain $9.99 per month. And don't forget that the Plus HD DVR package includes HD Access. A new premium service of unique HD networks, DIRECTV HD Extra Pack, is available for just $4.99/month. All programming and pricing subject to change at any time.

Will there be an all-HD package that provides all the HD channels in one package without SD?
With HD Access DIRECTV will provide the HD counterpart (where available) to all the channels that you receive in your DIRECTV programming package, so you will automatically get the most HD channels you can.

To have the complete DIRECTV HD channel offerings, you would need to add the DIRECTV HD Extra Pack, which contains unique HD-only channels. (All pricing subject to change at any time without notice.)

How do I get the most HD channels available to me?
Subscribe to the PREMIER package, HD Access and the DIRECTV HD Extra Pack to get the most HD channels we currently carry. PREMIER package contains all the basic network channels and their HD simulcasts, along with all the premium HD channels from HBO, Cinemax, Showtime and Starz. You will also see all the 24/7 RSN channels and any non-game programming as part of SPORTS PACK. (Note: to see out of market sporting events, customers will need to subscribe to a specific sports subscription like NFL SUNDAY TICKET™ SuperFan™). DIRECTV HD Extra Pack contains unique HD channels that don't have a standard definition simulcast such as Smithsonian HD and HDNet. All programming and pricing subject to change at any time.

I used to be able to see my Regional Sports Network (RSN), now I can't—what's going on?
These RSNs are now being delivered by our newest satellite so that HD versions of these networks can be seen by the entire country. If you were able to see the previous RSN "Spot Beam" in your area but now you are not, it is most likely because you do not have a B-Band Converter (BBC) connected to your receiver. Go to directv.com/hdcheck to confirm you have all the right equipment to receive all our HD channels.

Will the new HD channels added throughout the year be available with the $9.99/month HD Access?
The number of HD simulcast channels that are available is based on your base package. These networks are available with the HD Access fee. To see all of the new channels, you must have the newest HD receivers (Model H20, HR20, H21 or HR21) and HD Access and subscribe to PREMIER package and the DIRECTV HD Extra Pack. In addition, professional and collegiate sports subscriptions may offer HD programming for an additional charge. HD PPV events and movies are also available separately.

Are there any international services available in HD?
No. HD is not currently available from foreign networks.

Will more HD Channels increase the cost to me?
The HD Access fee remains only $9.99/month. There is a new premium DIRECTV HD Extra Pack available for $4.99/month.

Programming and pricing subject to change at any time.

Will I get my local channels in HD from DIRECTV's new satellites?
To check local channel availability in your area, visit directv.com/locals. Eligibility based on service address.

Are the HD channels on 24/7 or are they PPV/On-Demand channels?
Most HD channels have programming 24/7, although some of the programming delivered by the provider may be in Standard Definition. HD PPV and On-Demand programming may also be available.

Where can I find the new HD channels?
When we launch new channels starting in September, there will be three types of channels:

1. HD versions of existing SD (Standard Definition) channels
2. HD channels similar to, but not the same as, existing SD channels
3. New HD channels.

New HD versions of SD channels will be located on the same viewer channel as the SD version. For an advanced HD set top box (H20/H21/HR20/HR21), both versions will be listed in the program guide. The HD version will be the first version listed. For example, tuning 362 (The Weather Channel) in the guide will show two listings, the upper in HD and the lower in SD. Typing 3-6-2-ENTER will automatically tune to the HD version. For all other set top boxes, only the SD version will be visible.

For HD channels similar to SD channels, they will be located in the program guide close to the SD channel number. In some cases, these similar HD channels will be put on "sub-channels" like 360-1. In this case, the HD channel will be listed in numerical order (360-1 follows 360) and direct tuning via remote control will require using the "dash" key in the lower left corner before entering the sub-channel number. (All programming and pricing subject to change at any time.)

Is there a channel on DIRECTV that will explain what I need?
Currently, there is a special presentation entitled "Are You High Definition Ready" on channels 77, 92, 510 and 541. Channels may vary. Check your onscreen guide.

How can I check my system to make sure I can enjoy all the new HD programming?
To check your system, tune to channel 362 (The Weather Channel). If you see the message "Searching for Satellite Signal," you do not have the BBC module or it is not connected properly. If you do see the channel, press the Guide button on your remote twice to bring up the channel information on your TV screen. If you do not see the HD logo next to the channel name, then you do not have the BBC module or it is not properly connected.

You can find the latest information about HD receivers, dishes and other equipment at directv.com/hdcheck.

Where can I look to find out if I have the right DIRECTV HD Receiver?
If you open the access card front door panel, you'll find a white sticker with the model number, or through the On Screen Menu, Settings, Set Up, Info & Test.

Do I need to upgrade to a new dish to receive HD local channels?
You may need a new HD receiver and/or a new satellite dish to see our new channels.

Go to directv.com/hdcheck for a step-by-step guide to help you understand the equipment that's needed. Click here to see if local networks are available in your area. (Eligibility for Local networks based on service address.)

Can you tell me the recording capacity of my DIRECTV Plus® HD DVR?
Actual recording capacity depends on the type of programming being recorded. Estimated Recording Space (Not a cumulative value) is about 30 hours of MPEG-2 HD, 50 hours of MPEG-4 HD (and 200 hours of Standard Definition (SD).

How is the sound quality on HD shows?
At best, standard-definition shows have 4-channel Dolby surround sound (left, center, right and one rear "surround" channel), but they usually have 2-channel stereo. High-definition broadcasts, on the other hand, support 5.1-channel Dolby Digital surround sound (left, center, right, left and right surround and a subwoofer-the part for booming bass). This is similar to the sound you hear in a movie theater or, with the properly equipped home theater, on a DVD. Not all HD broadcasts have 5.1 Dolby Digital yet, but the majority do, and you'll hear-and feel-the difference. Of course, you'll need a home-theater audio system to take full advantage of it. (Dolby, Dolby Digital and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.)

Is a BBC (B-Band Converter) required to receive DIRECTV's new HD programming?
Yes, a BBC is required to receive DIRECTV's new HD content.

Why do I see "Searching for Satellite Signal" when I try to tune to one of the new channels?
Our new HD services are broadcast by a new satellite: DIRECTV-10. This satellite is broadcasting using "B-Band" frequencies. If you tune to one of the new HD channels and always see "Searching for Satellite Signal," it could mean that you do not have all the necessary equipment.

How do I know if I have the proper equipment and installation? What equipment do I need?
The only way to access the new HD services is to have all of the following:

1. Advanced set top box: Models H20, H21, HR20 or HR21
2. B-Band Converter (BBC) on each satellite input (HD DVRs require two BBC's) or must be a new Single Wire Multi-switch installation without a BBC
3. Slimline 5-LNB antenna
4. If a multiswitch is required, it must be a wideband 6x8.

I have the right equipment for HD, but the picture looks the same as what I'm used to—why is that?
Often people who think they're watching HD are actually watching Standard Definition. High Definition can only be experienced with all the right conditions:

1. HD television
2. HDMI or Component connections
3. HD resolution settings in the receiver and TV
4. HD receiver
5. Authorization for HD Programming
6. Tuned to an HD channel
7. Watching a program on that HD channel that is originated in HD by the broadcaster (HD icon in program guide)

Can I install the 5-LNB Slimline Dish myself?
Due to the complexity of the Dish alignment process, a professional installation is required.

Can I install the receiver upgrade myself?
A professional installation is recommended to ensure optimal experience.

Will additional cabling be necessary? Does HD require specific cabling like CAT 5?
HD requires DIRECTV-approved RG6 coaxial cable, one for each input on the receiver.

Will the installation include any improvement to my sound quality?
Depending on the connections available at the HDTV set, sound quality can improve (i.e., HDMI provides Dolby Digital audio).

What do I need to get theater sound in my home?
You will need a compatible AV receiver with available inputs and outputs, preferably HDMI.

Do I get credit for my old antenna? What happens to it?
There is no credit given for the old antenna, it will be removed at the customer's request.

What do I do if I live on a property that receives DIRECTV via a single dish (MDU)?
You should contact your authorized DIRECTV MDU (multi-dwelling unit) dealer for information regarding equipment requirements for the new HD channels. MDU properties have special wiring that allows them to use a single dish for more than one residence.