Sep 22, 2008 5:00 pm US/Pacific
Cable And Satellite Are Options For DTV Changeover
If the DTV Converter Box Doesn't Work Here are Cable or Satellite Options
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS 5) ―
If you receive your tv signal over the air, the converter box is the cheapest option when it comes to getting ready for the transition to digital tv. But, some people have started using the boxes and say they still can't get all the digital channels they want. So, Consumerwatch describes choices in cable and satellite tv.
Tracy Rosenberg with Media Alliance, a non-profit media resource group, explains some options. With cable, Comcast may be the biggest player but she says you don't have to pay the price they advertise.
"They have a number of website programs called Connect my Cable. If you go to them they will show you the cheapest cable you can get is $29.99 or $34.99 per month but that's not true," said Rosenberg. "If you go to the Comcast website they will show you in tiny print basic limited cable. It's $16 a month but you won't know that unless you call the 800 number. You can sign up for mid level service online in a snap but if you want the cheaper service, it's that extra phone call."
Rosenberg said Comcast is not the only game in town. In Alameda, the local utility company provides a basic cable tv service for about $13.50 a month. There have been reports that Alameda Power and Telecom may be facing tough financial times and could be sold. But, as of now (September 2008) Consumerwatch has learned there is no plan to shut off service.
In parts of South San Francisco, the Peninsula, and Contra Costa county, a company named Astound sells basic cable for $22 a month. Each company can tell you if you can receive service based on your address.
Satellite services cost more, but offer a wider number and range of channels.
If you have a clear view of the southern sky, for example no buildings blocking your satellite dish, you've got two companies to chose from in the Bay Area.
Rosenberg said, "There's Dish TV and Direct TV. They are kinda similar price range from 34.99 to 78.99."
Prices range because the plans have many ala carte choices ranging from local channels and extra specialty choices like CNN, Food Network, and HBO.
With satellite or cable, watch out for extra fees attached to equipment like remote controls and dish receivers and limited time pricing. Rosenberg said, "Right now, cable and satellite services are offering $19.99 and $24.99 specials. But, they are on services that cost more so if you sign contracts you will soon be paying a higher charge."
With both services, a technician will install the technology. You just need to figure out how to work the remote.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Digital TV Questions Answered
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
Reporting
Comments