Satellite radio provides a wide array of news, sports, entertainment, talk, and music channels. Its quality is typically much better than AM and FM radio.
A digital signal is broadcast from a communications satellite and bounces back to a radio receiver on the ground. There are many different types of satellite radio systems, but the two most popular in the United States are XM and Sirius.
Unlike AM and FM, satellite signals are usually very clear and don’t have the static that can interfere with reception. Nevertheless, satellites can be affected by objects that directly block the signal, such as trees and tall buildings, which are why the companies use a repeater network to rebroadcast the signals.
There are two primary ways to receive satellite radio: by using a head unit that has a built-in antenna, or by purchasing a portable receiver. Some car manufacturers include a satellite radio receiver as part of a new vehicle.
Portable receivers are designed to fit into docking stations, while some can be adapted for use with specialized head units. Some satellite services even have streaming options, so you can listen to your favorite stations anywhere there’s an internet connection.
Satellite radio services are available in most of the United States. They are also offered in parts of Europe, Asia and Africa. The XM and Sirius systems use a 2.3 GHz S-band microwave channel. Both operate in geostationary orbits, which means that they are always positioned above the continental United States and Canada.
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