Satellite radio is an innovative radio service that uses communications satellites to broadcast audio programming over a large area. It is similar to terrestrial radio, but is broadcast in a digital format that drastically improves reception.
How does it work?
Satellite radio works by sending audio signals from the satellites to receivers, which decode and play the signal. The signal can be decoded by both AM/FM and digital radios, and it is broadcast in a wide range of frequencies.
Sirius XM is the only company offering satellite radio in the United States. XM and Sirius were separate companies until 2007, when they merged into a single entity. The new Sirius XM has more than 18 million subscribers and provides a wide range of music, talk, entertainment, and sports programming.
The technology behind satellite radio was developed over a decade ago, but it wasn’t until 2001 that the first satellite radio stations launched in the U.S. XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio were the two companies that began this revolution in radio.
Car manufacturers like Toyota, Honda and Nissan have been introducing models with XM or Sirius satellite radio hookups since the launch of this technology. Many vehicles now come with a pre-paid subscription for the technology, but you can also sign up for a free trial of satellite radio.
Getting Started with Satellite Radio
To get started, you need a satellite radio receiver. These are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and prices. You can purchase them for your home, car, or truck. There are even portable satellite radio receivers that you can take with you on your trip. They are designed to fit into docking stations, but some can be used with specialized head units as well.
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.