#1. What is TVStraightTalk.com?
TVStraightTalk.com helps television consumers make programming choices that meet their lifestyles. We are an objective third party that helps you evaluate the best television options based on your needs and demands.
#2. Where is TVStraightTalk.com?
TVStraightTalk.com is located in Plano, TX, with field representatives located throughout the nation.
#3. Is TVStraightTalk.com a national or local site?
TVStraightTalk.com is a national site throughout the United States.
#4. How much does it cost to use TVStraightTalk.com?
The basic service price for your personal TV consultation is only $9.99. Additional consultations can be requested for additional charges.
#5. How secure is my information?
All information is very secure. Please refer to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions section of the site.
#6. Can TVStraightTalk.com change my level of service with or without my permission?
TVStraightTalk.com cannot and is not authorized by any provider to change, add or delete any level of service on any account. To ensure your privacy, all changes must be made by you.
#7. What are some differences between cable and satellite providers?
Cable
Satellite
Costs
• Generally offer various packaging. • No equipment cost normally with basic level of service. • Monthly fees for equipment rental. • Installation rates vary.
• Offer various packaging. • Receivers must be purchased. • Monthly fees for equipment usage. • Installation rates vary.
Technology
• Coaxial, fiber-optics, or microwave. • Depending on provider may not be as clear a picture as satellite.
• Satellite transmission. • Can be affected by weather.
Convenience
• Generally no contracts.
• Depends on provider.
Local channels
• Carried.
• Depends on market.
Multiple Products
• Some providers offer Internet and phone.
• Internet and PVR services provided.
Service
• Generally either a monthly fee or trip charge.
• Generally a trip charge by contract provider.
Equipment
• Generally no equipment with basic level of service.
• Receivers for all other levels of service and needed for each TV to view different programs.
• Receivers for each TV wanting service.
#8. What do cable and satellite companies provide?
Here are some of the advantages of both providers: Billing
Cable and satellite providers will send you one bill each month. Many providers now offer online or automatic payments.
Equipment
Cable operators will lease all the cable equipment needed (such as a remote and converter, if required -- depending on the service you choose). There are additional costs if you want cable service on a second or third TV. With most satellite providers, you own the equipment, so you're responsible for buying the new components or just wanting the newest technology. There are additional costs if you want satellite service on a second or third TV.
Installation
Cable technicians will install everything you need for cable service upon ordering service. Satellite equipment can be installed yourself or contracted out by another party.
Internet Access
Cable and satellite providers offer high-speed Internet access. Typically, a cable modem does run at faster speeds than satellite.
Local Channels
Cable brings you local broadcast channels as part of their lowest service. Satellite offers local channels in select markets; you will pay an extra fees for them.
Rain Fade
You won't experience reception problems with cable due to “rain fade.” Satellite dishes can experience interference problems that are weather related.
Telephone Requirements
It varies with each cable provider in order to purchase additional services. In order to purchase pay-per-view via a satellite provider, a telephone line is required.
HDTV offerings
High definition television is a high-resolution, digital, wide-screen TV format, with increased audio output, featuring twice the color resolution and a picture that’s six times sharper than a traditional TV set. Cable operators carry in some markets and the service is available with satellite provider – both requiring HD equipment. Cable operators who offer, can carry local programming in HDTV additionally.
#9. What is available in my neighborhood?
To find out who your local cable operator is, we recommend you contact your local or state cable and telecommunications agency. You can also find this information at www.ncta.com in the FAQ section. For satellite, we recommend you contact www.directv.com or www.dishnetwork.com.
#10. What is broadband?
Broadband is the high-speed transmission of voice, data and video signals over a single line to the house. A broadband infrastructure provides delivery of new advanced services, including digital networks, video-on-demand, interactive television, high-speed Internet access and telephony. For the consumer, this means that their company can offer them faster Internet service than a dial-up telephone line via a cable modem, increased programming choices via digital channel capacity, and residental telephone service.
#11. Who do I contact with a complaint?
For either a cable or satellite complaint, please contact your provider directly using their customer service line. If your complaint is not resolved to your satisfaction, you can also contact your city franchise officials or the FCC directly. If you have a complaint about anything on this site, please contact us directly via our Support section.
Frequently Asked Questions
