Have you been wondering what the satellite radio buzz is all about? Satellite radio is simply a digital radio signal that is broadcast from a communications satellite; but what makes this type of radio any better than your old AM/FM stations? For one, satellite radio can be broadcast over a huge geographic location, so you can continue to listen to your favorite station on a long or cross-country road trip. The sound quality of satellite radio is also usually much clearer and crisper than AM/FM stations.

A favorite feature of satellite radio is that most stations are commercial free, but most satellite radio stations are also a subscription service and will cost you a monthly fee. However, more and more consumers are agreeing that satellite radio is an unmatchable radio experience, making it well worth the cost.

Here is what you need to know to get your home or vehicle equipped with satellite radio:

Hardware
There are three basic hardware components you will need to set up your satellite radio: an antenna, a tuner, and a receiver. There are several types of kits to choose from, and most kits will include everything you need. Take a look to see which kit may work best for you:

Portable satellite radio tuners: these radios are lightweight and compact so they may be transported and used anywhere. They require accessory kits in order for you to hook them up to your car or your home sound system, but they can work with either. These are ideal for anyone who makes versatility a top priority and would like to have satellite radio in their car or home as they choose.

Car satellite radio tuners: these radios will only work in your vehicle and there are two types:

1. Universal tuners: these will work with any in-dash receiver through an FM modulator, a cassette adapter or a line output. While they’re usually the least expensive, they’re also often the most difficult to install and least attractive option.

2. Satellite radio-ready in-dash receivers: these are preinstalled into many newer cars. Some cars will be completely ready for plug and play functionality, but you will most likely have to purchase additional and possibly expensive hardware from your dealership to fully set up satellite radio. However, the hardware will blend seamlessly with your vehicle.

Home satellite radio tuners: these are non-portable, component systems that work with your home stereo. This is a great option for those who do not travel frequently and only wish for home use.

Subscription Services
There used to be two companies granted licenses to offer satellite radio subscriptions by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC): Sirius and XM Radio. This was done in order to insure competition and innovation with satellite radio technology. However, recently the companies were granted the merger they’d been seeking and are now Sirius XM Radio, Inc., the only subscription service available to those living in the US. The merger was granted so the companies could broadcast over an even wider geographic area and offer services at a reduced cost. Packages start as low as $6.99 per month and you can activate your subscription online in just a few easy steps.

For information or how-to help, locate your car satellite radio user’s manual in the ManualsOnline Library.