Direct to home technology refers to the process of broadcasting satellite television which is actually intended for home reception. This technology was originally known as Direct Transmission Satellite Technology (DBS). The technology was developed to compete with local cable television distribution services by providing higher quality satellite signals with more channels. In summary, DTH refers to the reception of satellite signals on a television set with a personal dish in an individual house. The satellites used for this purpose are geostationary satellites. The satellites digitally compress the signals, encrypt them, and then transmit them from high-power geostationary satellites. They are received by the dishes that are given to DTH consumers by DTH providers.
Although DBS and DTH offer the same services to consumers, there are some differences in technical specifications. While DBS is used to transmit satellite signals in a particular frequency band [the band differs in each country], DTH is used to transmit signals over a wide range of frequencies [normal frequencies including the KU and KA band]. The satellites used for the transmission of DTH signals are not part of any internationally planned frequency band. DBS has changed its plans in recent years to include new countries and also modify its mode of analog-to-digital transmission. But DTH is most famous for its services in analog and digital services, which includes audio and video signals. The dishes used for this service is also very small in size. When it comes to commercial use, DBS is known for its service that provides a group of free channels that are allowed for your destination country.
DTH in India
India is one of the largest DTH service providers in the world. The requirement is very high because of the high population and the increase of the number of spectators. The low cost of DTH compared to other local cable providers is also a major reason for this substantial growth. In India, the DTH requirement is more than in any country, as the population of viewers is at a very high rate.
The idea of DTH was first provided to India in 1996. But it was not approved then because there were concerns about national security. But the laws were changed by the year 2000 and thus DTH was allowed. Under the new standard, DTH providers are required to establish new stations within 12 months of obtaining the license. The cost of the license is almost $ 2.15 million in India with a validity of 10 years for the renewal. Recent reports suggest that nearly 25% of India's total population uses this facility, while others use local TV connections.
Some of the common DTH providers in India are :-
1. TATA Sky
2. BIG TV
3. Sun Direct DTH
4. Dish TV
5. Airtel DTH
6. DTH Videocon