If you’re still rocking one of these or any standard-definition receiver from DIRECTV, it’s time to make a change. A lot of local markets have already turned off their standard-definition service. Now, it seems like rumors abound that DIRECTV will be turning off all MPEG-2 based programming in the coming year. This means that you’ll need a more modern receiver to get any programming at all. If you have other HD receivers or DVRs in your home or office then the swap will be an easy one and probably won’t involve any extra cost for wiring. If you’re still looking at a round dish on the roof, though, it’s time to plan for a change.
MPEG-2 technology
MPEG-2 technology has been used for DIRECTV standard-definition programming since the beginning. This is the same technology that DVDs used, back then. It was pretty high tech at the time, sure. But it’s hardly ever used now.
DIRECTV started using its A3 system back in the mid-2000s. It’s the proprietary system it uses for HD programming based on the same MPEG-4 video standard used in Blu-ray Discs.
Standard definition is so yesterday
Standard definition hasn’t really been “standard” for almost a decade now and the fact that people are still holding on to old receivers tells you just how well DIRECTV equipment is made. It’s already been two years since DIRECTV stopped activating SD service for homes, and the number of receivers out there is starting to shrink.
Let’s face it — the last standard definition television was made in 2006 so it’s pretty unlikely you’re actually using that SD receiver on the kind of TV for which it was intended. You could be looking at crystal-clear HD on that HDTV or even move straight up to 4K which looks fabulous from DIRECTV. The best part is that there are upgrade deals available that can get you into the latest and greatest stuff with little or no out of pocket!
How to get the service you need.
It starts by calling the professionals at Solid Signal at 888-233-7563. Solid Signal is an authorized DIRECTV dealer so we’re able to take care of you, even better than DIRECTV can since we specialize in “the personal touch…” the kind of thing you can’t get from a gigantic business.
Solid Signal’s reps understand that you have spent a lot of time perfecting your setup and you don’t want just anyone coming in and touching it. We can help you install your equipment yourself, or recommend an installer in your area who will go above and beyond to customize your home theater to make it special for you.
We also understand that you may have stayed with standard definition for a reason. Perhaps you’re using that receiver as part of a tailgate setup or you take it to your cabin on occasion. Maybe it’s part of your marine or RV setup. We’re totally on board with these authorized uses of DIRECTV equipment. We’ll help you get your system futureproof no matter where it is. It doesn’t matter if it’s on land, sea, or on the road.
Folks, the one thing you don’t want to do is wait. As the cutoff gets closer and closer, people are going to be desperate to upgrade because they’ll lose service. This means there could be shortages of equipment and qualified installers. Sure, you waited this long but believe me this is the time to jump on the bandwagon. Your first stop is SolidSignal.com.