TV Solutions for RV Living
There are four main types of TV service ideally suited to RVers.
Analog TV Antennas
These are the type of antennas many of us baby boomers grew up with on our houses. They pick up local analog TV signals. This is the least desirable option due to the fact that local analog signals are few and far between, not that high quality and on their way out. I'm not going to spend much time on this topic but thought I'd mention it because it is an option. Just keep in mind that TV is going digital now so these antennas and the signals they receive will soon be a thing of the past. Probably not a good investment.
Satellite TV
This is the preferred system. I have a portable high definition DIRECTV Satellite System. That's me to the right aiming my dish ->
You can get a very nice tripod system like I have usually for little to no money down if you sign a 2 year contract for the actual service which will run you anywhere from $30 to $150 per month depending on the channels you choose.
I also have a nice 36 inch LCD flat screen TV wall mounted in my RV. It doesn't take up much space at all. Add a 500 or 1000 watt surround sound system and you have the full home theater experience on the road.
The main problem I see some people having with these systems is finding the signal. It's not difficult if you know how and have the right equipment on hand. I've seen some people struggle to find the signal for almost two hours before they finally give up in frustration. It never takes me longer than about 15 minutes to set mine up using my system.
If you don't want to deal with tripods or aiming your satellite dish there are automatic, roof mounted systems available that range from about $1500.00 to $5,000.00 or more installed if you buy them new. You can probably get a better deal if you purchased used off ebay or craigs list.
Cable TV provided by the RV Park
Many RV parks provide Cable TV to their residents. Some are free and some you pay for. It depends on the park. Talk to the park managers for your options. Cable TV is not wireless, but since it is an option for RVers I thought I'd mention it. The downside is you can't take it with you and you and you are still dependent on a particular location for service. Also, if you want more than just the basic channels you often have to get a special cable box. This is only a good solution if you plan to stay at the RV park for quite awhile.
Internet TV an emerging trend
Internet or Web TV is evolving fast, especially now that most people use some sort of high speed Internet service. It's still not as good as Satellite or Cable but you would be surprised at all the channels, programs and movies you can get right on your PC via a high speed internet connection for next to nothing. I cover this topic and some of the options available below.
Web TV has come along way since it first was introduced to the public. Although it's still not up to the standard of Satellite or Cable, it has one major advantage over both... NO MONTHLY FEES! You can literally watch hundreds of TV channels, movies, news, sports and more and all you need is a computer with fast Internet Access (WiFi, Cable or Satellite). There are many Web TV sources available online. Below you will find a few of the more popular ones. Enjoy!
Instantly Turn Your Computer Into A Super TV!
Why pay over $90.00 a month for Cable or Satellite TV? Over 3000 STATIONS on your PC or Laptop!! Now you can watch hundreds of LIVE worldwide channels on your PC, including Movie Channels: PLUS unlimited music & video downloads for a one-time fee of $49.95! 100% Legal - WORKS ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD!
Watch Direct TV Movies
Unlimited 24/7 TV and Premium Movie Downloads!!! No time limits, no bandwidth limits, no content limits!!! Download anything you want, any time you want. We provide you FREE Movie download software, DVD Copy Software, Movie Players, CD Burning Software, VIP technical support and much more. Notice: This is a peer to peer file sharing software system, meaning you are paying a one time fee for software that allows you to access a network of other PC's where everyone shares files with each other. Please observe copywrite laws.
World Wide Internet Television
Free site with thousands of Internet TV stations. You need to have the latest FREE versions of Windows Media Player, Quick Time Player, Real Player and Win Amp installed to get the most out of this site but it is totally free.