| Technology has come a long way and with the | | | | Software based: |
| Internet this is no exception. One technology that | | | | Requires no hardware. Software can be |
| has advanced rapidly is satellite TV which will allow | | | | downloaded onto your PC instantly. Once installed, |
| you to watch free TV on your PC. Two methods | | | | the television channels are streamed through your |
| exist and are described below. | | | | connection. The faster your connection, the |
| Hardware based: | | | | better picture and sound you will get. A |
| Requires specialized hardware attached to your | | | | Broadband connection will deliver much improved |
| PC known as PCTV cards. Depending on your | | | | audio and video, while a modem connection at |
| preference, there are two types of TV tuner | | | | 56k pitcher and audio quality will be less desirable. |
| cards, one is internal and the other is external. | | | | There are no complicated installation processes, |
| - External hardware: | | | | you simply download it and then click install, it |
| Usually comes in a box that connects to your PC | | | | couldn't be any easier. There is no need to be a |
| via USB port (USB 2.0 will perform best) or audio | | | | computer wiz to operate this system, which |
| video inputs. Wireless solutions also exist and can | | | | makes it so appealing to the average person. |
| be used with media centers for a home theater | | | | Best of all there is usually no subscription needed. |
| system. | | | | When deciding which solution is the best, for me |
| - Internal hardware cards are more popular since | | | | it's software based. The low cost and flexibility |
| they are PCI based and easy to install. They also | | | | can't be beat. If you travel a lot, having Satellite |
| eliminate the bulky hardware that is required with | | | | on your PC will help pass the time away if you |
| external connections. For best picture and audio | | | | have a wireless connection and can connect to a |
| quality the cost of the hardware can be | | | | network. Sure beats sitting in an airport for hours |
| expensive. | | | | waiting for your flight to depart. At least you can |
| The other end will be connected to your | | | | watch free TV on your PC anywhere in the |
| telephone line Dish, or cable line depending on the | | | | world. |
| type of broadband access you are subscribing to. | | | | |