What system would I need for to use for Free To Air FTA reception?

We get this question on a daily basis from customers.  FTA simply means Free To Air.  Free To Air - FTA - refers to a channel that is not scrambled or encrypted.  This can broadcast on either C band or Ku band. 

 

If the channel is broadcasting on a C band - Transponder Frequency Range of 3.4-4.2GHz - then you would need to get a C band system.  This system requires at least a 6-foot dish or 8-foot dish. 

 

If the channel is broadcasting on Ku band - Transponder Frequency Range of 11.7-12.2GHz in North America and 10.7-12.7GHz in Europe, Middle East, Asia, & Africa - then you can use either a Ku band system or C/Ku band system.  Ku band satellite system will usually require a 90cm / 36 Inch dish or larger dish.  If you use  C band dish ( either 180cm dish or 240cm dish ) you must use a C/Ku band LNBF.  We have two of the top models on the market.  We carry both the ESX741 & the ESX741U.

Do I need a Motorized Satellite System or a Fixed Dish System?

This depends on what you are looking to pickup and watch.  If the channels you want to watch are broadcasting from multiple satellites, then I would recommend purchasing a motorized system.  If the channels you want to watch broadcast from 1 satellite, I'd recommend getting a fixed dish system.