Imagine being able to listen to near CD-quality music uninterrupted by static or commercials while you drive anywhere in the United States. That’s what satellite radio offers, and it’s a technology that is surprisingly simple to use. The satellite radio system transmits digital signals that travel to your receiver through an array of orbiting satellites. These systems work with the 2.3 GHz signal band and are capable of reaching all but the most remote areas of the country.
In order to receive the signals, you’ll need a special radio tuner that is compatible with your car or home stereo system, along with a subscription. The tuner’s circuitry decodes the satellite broadcasts through a maximum ratio combiner and forward error correction. This technology keeps the audio streaming even if the satellite signal is temporarily lost, such as when you’re driving under an overpass or in a heavily built-up area where tall buildings block the transmissions.
The radio service providers, XM and Sirius, each offer scores of channels of music that appeal to a wide variety of tastes. From ’80s hair bands to the Grateful Dead, there is plenty of music available. In addition, many of these channels are free of advertisements.
Most luxury automobiles include satellite radio as one of their standard accessories, and it is also available from a number of electronics manufacturers. There are also portable satellite radio receivers that can be used in your home or office.
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