FCC Logo - Return to the FCC Home Page  
 Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau
 FCC site map 
Skip Topics Links
history
did you know
the fcc n you
what’s that mean
games
games
choose your zone
grades k - 3
grades 4 - 8
grades 9 - 12
Parents Place
Satellite Learning Center

Logo and link to kids.us
Our most commonly asked satellite questions are:
 
 What is a Satellite?
 What is a Satellite dish?
 How do Descramblers work?
 
image of earth and satelliteWhat is a Satellite?
A satellite is basically any object that revolves around a planet in a circular or elliptical path or orbit. The moon is Earth's original, natural satellite, and there are many manmade (artificial) satellites, their orbits are usually closer to Earth. Satellite service is the only broadband technology that is able to reach virtually any part of the United States. Television viewers are familiar with the concept of satellite dishes that receive TV channels. It can be used to carry phone calls, and radio signals, as well as video programs and internet service and are within the category of communications services called “broadband” services. Other broadband data is delivered in exactly the same way. For many rural areas of the United States, and especially Alaska, satellite service is the only way that residents and businesses will ever have access to the Internet and to other broadband services. Satellite is currently the most expensive way to deliver telecommunications and broad band services like Internet access.
return to top


What is a satellite dish?
satellite dish What is a satellite dish?
The dish is the part of satellite TV that you see the most. It is a reflector which is usually made out of aluminum. Dish sizes vary from small (3-4 feet) all the way to 16-20 Ft with the average falling between 7-12 ft, 10 ft being most common. This device focuses the microwave signals coming from the satellites much as the mirror in a reflecting telescope concentrates the light from distant galaxies.
return to top


How Do Descramblers Work?
Each device has a unique ID number, which you give to programming services to subscribe to a channel or package. The programming service broadcasts your ID number, and a special code that instructs your descrambler to work when tuned to a subscribed channel.
return to top


Skip right Column Links
Alexander Graham Bell originally wanted the greeting for the telephone to be Ahoy but Thomas Edison voted for Hello, a word he coined in 1877.

Funology.com Daily Fun

Do you have a broadband connection in your home?
     

  More info...

Note: This feature is for educational purposes only. It does not necessarily reflect the views of the FCC. The results of the survey will not be used in any FCC proceeding without notice.

 

 

last reviewed/updated on 06/24/04 



For comments or questions pertaining to CGB web pages, please e-mail rgoldbla@fcc.gov

Skip FCC Footer and Contact InfoFederal Communications Commission
445 12th Street SW
Washington, DC 20554
More FCC Contact Information...
Phone:  1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322)
TTY:  1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322)
Fax:  1-866-418-0232
E-mail:  fccinfo@fcc.gov
- Privacy Policy
- Website Policies & Notices
- Required Browser Plug-ins
- Freedom of Information Act