Since the first radio broadcasts in the 1920s, communications technology has expanded into amazing new realms. Yet one type of broadcasting has remained essentially unchanged — local radio stations still offer music, news and talk shows to a limited geographic area, free of charge. Enter satellite radio, which offers the convenience of a huge variety of programming for a monthly subscription.
Unlike AM and FM radio, satellite transmissions are crystal-clear with near CD-quality sound. The broadcast signal is beamed from specialized satellites in orbit to receivers located in automobiles and at home, with repeaters on the ground for urban areas where skyscrapers can interfere with the satellite signals. In addition to a wide selection of channels offering music, sports, news and talk programs, satellite radio also transmits text information like stock quotes and weather forecasts alongside musical programming. Most satellite radio channels are commercial-free or have few advertisements, which is a major draw for those who value diverse content and uninterrupted listening during long-distance trips.
There are three (plus one in Japan) major satellite radio providers: WorldSpace, Sirius and XM. WorldSpace went bankrupt in 2009, while XM and Sirius merged in 2008 to avoid bankruptcy and continue to operate as a single company (Sirius XM Satellite Radio).
Most automobile manufacturers include satellite radio tuners with their vehicles or offer them as an option for a premium price. You can install a satellite radio in most cars by connecting a tuner with an auxiliary input to the car’s stereo, through a wired FM modulator or using a wireless FM transmitter. For mobile use, you can choose from dock-and-play systems that plug into a vehicle’s radio or portable units that fit in the glove box.
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