Many people are frustrated with the standard cable service; the lack of diversity in programming, the less than stellar signal, the unpredictability of service interruption, the lack of a digital service, and the climbing costs. Many individuals long for the service provided by satellite TV.

Before you take the plunge to purchase or rent a satellite dish and the necessary equipment, it's a good idea to carefully evaluate your situation and determine if the satellite TV system will work for you.

Are you a homeowner?
Check to make sure your home is not covered under a homeowner's association. Many of these associations have rules and covenants that limit placement of satellite dishes to certain areas. Please note, your HOA may try to block your efforts to get a satellite, claiming that the Satellite dish is in a common area. Your rights to get a satellite system are protected under the Satellite Home Owner Improvement Act.

Is there a clear, unobstructed view of the southern sky? The dish needs to be placed on the southern side of the home, consider whether trees or other buildings would interfere with the signal.

Are you in an apartment or condominium?
If you are in a condo, your property may not have an access that has a southern exposure. Again, homeowner's associations often make it difficult to for condo owners to install a dish. Know what your rights are under the Satellite Home Owner Improvement Act. Maybe you could band together with other condo owners to install a dish and a multiswitch. That way you can all enjoy the benefits of satellite TV but limit the amount of dishes mounted on the rooftop of the building.

If you are in an apartment, does your balcony offer a southern exposure? Again, if you anticipate problems with your landlord, check your rights under the Satellite Home Owner Improvement Act. A landlord cannot prohibit the mounting of the satellite to a balcony. Nor can he or she require the dish to be installed by an electrician or for the renter to get a permit for the installation.

Choosing the right service
There are several exceptional satellite TV companies available to choose from (DirecTV, DISH Network, VOOM, etc.) These companies all offer competitive pricing for similar services. The main difference between the companies is their programming. Each company offers a particular 'niche' programming. Check out each company to see which programming is more in line with your interests.

Choose the right dish
Depending which service you select, your dish will vary slightly in size. Each company has a preferred size dish the dish is usually included in the satellite TV package. Some dish manufacturers offer variations in dishes, white dishes to blend against a white background, a mesh dish to blend against a darker background, etc.

Choosing the right installer
When you select a service company the installation of the dish and equipment will be subcontracted out to experienced installers. Reputable companies will use reputable installers.

Satellite TV will enhance your television options and enjoyment. Evaluate carefully what system is right for you before you purchase any equipment and in the long run you'll have years of happy viewing.