Satellite Radio Companies

The introduction of satellite radio has been one of the biggest innovations in recent FM broadcasting history. This radio signal can be heard at a distances of thirty five thousand kilometers and beyond. That is more that twenty two miles with a clear reception, no static and more than one hundred stations to listen to. The inception of this concept was 1992 when the Federal Communications Commissions gave up the S band on the radio wave spectrum (2.3 GHz) to Digital Audio Radio Service. The companies that were initially given a license to broadcast on this spectrum were XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Currently, there are three satellite radio services broadcasting around the world: XM and Sirius in North America and WorldSpace in Europe, Asia and Africa.

The three satellite radio companies each have a different system for broadcasting their signals. This means that a customer would end up buying specific equipment depending on what company they subscribe to. There are three parts to a satellite radio system: the ground repeaters, the satellites and the radio receivers. The XM satellite radio has satellites that are geographically located above the equator at all times. To combat the issue of obstacles such as hills, bridges and buildings, the XM radio service has a network of repeaters. These are antennas that get the signal from the satellites and transmit it to the subscriber?s radio. The Sirrus radio service is set up a little differently. The satellites are elliptical in structure and they orbit the Earth. Because these satellites are on a higher level, the signal is usually clear and there is no need to have quite as many repeaters.

The satellite radio programmers are able to choose what music or program to fill air time. Many use CD?s or have musicians come in to perform live. This sound is transmitted via a digital format. The signal is encoded by the satellite and then sent to the repeater antennae. The repeater moves it along to the subscriber?s radio which decodes the signal and plays the sound. Satellite radio also utilizes digital compression which is a method of reducing a set amount of information into a bandwidth using complex algorithms. If you are a subscriber, you will have to purchase the correct equipment to get the signal.

The amount of people who subscribe to satellite radio has grown due to the improvements made to the technology. The appeal of the radio station has always been the fact that the radio doesn?t depend on advertising to pay the bills, therefore the programs available are commercial free.

Jason Allen is a staff writer at Wireless Times and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including Entertainment Digest.

XM Satellite Radio vs. Sirius Satellite: Which Stock to Buy?

Continuing with the rivalry that every oligopoly sector provides, I will try and tackle the radio industry this update. However, while my other contests have been focused on the technical and fundamentals of each company, this update will be a little different as finding a winner will not be so rudimentary.

Looking at the radio giants of XM Satellite Radio (XMSR) and Sirius Satellite (SIRI), the positives and negatives are not as transparent as originally desired. Speaking in terms of fundamentals, it does seem like XM has the slight advantage. The company has the potential, according to Yahoo Finance, to grow over 25% over the next five years and grow almost 14% this year. Compared to Sirius?s potential growth of negative 28% this year and a growth only limited to 20% there might be an advantage to buy XM in the long run. However, what is interesting to note is that out of the last nine actions committed by financial institutions, XM has been downgraded six times, while during the last eight actions of Sirius, the company has been upgraded six times. Such statistics post a conundrum for investors with fundamentals spread all over. In terms of actual data, both companies have posted numbers surprising investors in a negative way. Three out the last four earning results, XM has failed to even meet earnings expectations illustrating a possible slowdown in terms of margins. Sirius did only slightly better only failing to meet expectations two out the last four reports. Margins for both in terms of revenue are both similar and adequate, but profit has been negative for over three years severely underlined by poor cash flow from operating margins and other areas. Therefore, the numbers for both companies may not be completely reflected over the power each contains in its industry, but do not provide any relief for investors looking to get into to one of these stocks.

In terms of technical analysis, both again seem to provide a conundrum in terms of a better buying opportunity. Since 2003 Sirius has grown about 100% in terms of potential capital gains. However, such a statistic is flawed as the reflection of increased fluctuations during the period makes this stock too volatile to properly invest in. There is also an important notation that the stock also decreased 50% in value during one year in 2002 illustrating the difficult nature of buying this stock at the right time. Sirius currently also looks like it has reached its maximum level at about 12.00 and does not provide much upside. Like Sirius, XM had its own increase of nearly 900% during the run from 2003 to 2005. However, since then the stock has been on the decline falling nearly 50% worrying investors if the stock will ever rise again.

Nevertheless, while some investors may argue that this is the perfect time to invest in an oversold equity, when looking at the potential recession in sight and the idea that such radio brands produce luxury items, there is little assurance that the stocks will rise to its glory days. Personally, I think the radio industry is a dying one with little potential to grow in the next five to ten years. Such a sentiment along with the technical and fundamental facts have allowed me to stay clear of both equities as I do not see any encouragement from any of the factors which makes me want to buy either Sirius or XM Radio.

Dennis Biray presents advice on all kinds of topics ranging from finance and investing to fitness to sports. For more information email him at dbiray@gmail.com, or to view other articles written by him visit http://www.biraynetworks.co.nr

Is Sirius Satellite Radio a True Contender in the Satellite Radio Business?

At present, XM satellite radio has over 7 million subscribers. In comparison to this overwhelming response, Sirius satellite radios confirm applications from over 4 million subscribers. This marked difference between the two gives a clear picture of public opinion. In relation to digital channels, XM Satellite Radio offers over 170 stations from which to choose. Phenomenal in its own rite, Sirius satellite radio offers their subscribers more than 120 channels to choose from but they are still not in very close competition with XM in this respect. When it comes to airing good music that suits different tastes, XM satellite radio has 69 music channels. In this subdivision, Sirius satellite radio service is not far behind and is marked at 67 channels. Though the number of channels may hardly be a deciding factor, what tips the scale for XM satellite radio is its uncontested attempt to offer the maximum number of music channels that are aired commercial free.

In relation to the subjects they base their shows on, entertainment includes comedy, chat shows, books, drama and variety shows. The Sirius satellite radio company is not too far behind when offering the same avenues of entertainment. Since entertainment is at its best in both services, for youngsters the preference towards XM lies in their award-winning XM KiDS channel, which is part of the children's programming network.

As far as Traffic & Weather coverage is concerned XM, over around the clock reporting for 21 major markets, as compared to the 20 markets Sirius has set foot upon, the competition is close. Though this calculation may not speak volumes about XM, the fact that each of XM?s ventures have their own dedicated channel wherein Sirius broadcasts through numerous sharing channels, presents a clearer picture. Despite these evaluations the final decision, whether Sirius is a contender at all or a tough one will be a contentious matter for a long time to come.

As with any two companies that sell the same commodity, the competition is cut throat. This is obvious when considering the amount of revenue that is put at stake if your competitor takes one of your potential clients. Of course, advertising plays a very important role in influencing the market and catching our attention. In the true marketing sense, a commercial that is well received is often the one that wins the battle. Many times choosing a product is based upon whether or not it leaves an impression on you. Keeping this aside, we may never know whether a company is really worth it or not. When comparing whether or not Sirius satellite radio is a contender to XM it may be best to wait and see.

Jerry Baker writes about technology and its influence on our life and families. XM Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio are the two big players in this field. FInd out more about Satellite radio and how to get connected at http://www-satellite.info

Satellite Radio

Whether driving to work or cruising through the countryside, people don?t flip radio channels anymore. Satellite radio provides uninterrupted services to millions of listeners around the world. As the name suggests, satellite radio uses the technology of satellites to deliver audio signals. Satellite radio signals are broadcast in digital form, which a quality of reception that matches that of audio CDs.

Satellite radios receive signals that are broadcast by communications satellites. These signals cover a wider area than normal radio signals. Satellite radio functions in any location where there is a line of sight between the antenna and the satellite. The most powerful broadcasts are accessible over 100 miles from the source.

Satellite radio technology requires access to a commercial satellite for transmitting signals and are therefore commercial business entities. In 1992, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) allocated the ""S"" band (2.3 GHz) for nationwide broadcasting of satellite-based Digital Audio Radio Service (DARS). XM and Sirius are two services that provide satellite radio broadcasts all over the United States.

Satellite radio signals are strong and do not require a satellite dish to receive it. The key components of a satellite radio infrastructure are satellites, ground repeaters and radio receivers.

A radio receiver has an electronic serial number or Radio ID to identify it. An authorization code is needed to activate a unit. Most services also include ?free to air? channels. These systems are proprietary, using different codecs for audio data compression, encryption and conditional access. Satellite radio also transmits program-associated data (PAD), with an artist?s name and the title of each song.

Major car manufacturers install satellite radio receivers in some of their models. Several models of portable satellite radio receivers are available from electronic firms. Since satellite radio is still in its infant stage, it is inevitable that the technology will continue to improve. In view of its inherent advantages, satellite radios are likely to grow in popularity and become a common household purchase in the near future.

Satellites provides detailed information on Satellite Tv, Satellite, Satellite Dish, Satellite Radio and more. Satellites is affiliated with Satellite Tv System

Some Of The Facts You Should Know About Satellite Radio

Here are a few FAQs about everyone's favorite radio service.

Question #1: Can you give us an overview of what satellite radio is? Who provides satellite radio service?

Answer: Satellite radio is a subscription based radio service. It has far more programs and music than the traditional radio does, and it is available internationally by WorldSpace and stateside by Sirius and XM Satellite Radio.

Question #2: Are there any advantages to having satellite radio?

Answer: The genres, styles, and eras of music you can choose from is almost limitless. Getting the programming you want, (weather, traffic, talk radio, news, and entertainment), without the annoyance of commercials. Satellite radio is broadcast into your car, RV, yacht, sauna, or home by use of a digital signal that completely eradicates that entire mind frying static. Once you purchase the equipment and properly install it, you will be supplied with a complete list of programming and channels right on the receiver. Local traffic and weather are available, provided by Sirius and XM Satellite Radio.

Question #3: Are there any disadvantages to having satellite radio?

Answer: If you don't live in the continental United States, you cannot receive the satellite signal. This includes Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. Territories.

Question #4: What do XM and Sirius Radio provide?

Answer: -XM: 150 channels, 2 NASCAR racing channels, Major League Baseball, Professional Golf Association, ACC, Big Ten, and PAC-10 football and basketball coverage. You can have all of this awesome stuff for only $12.95 a month.

-Sirius: 120 Channels, Live National Hockey League, National Football League, National Basketball Association, English Premier League Soccer, and college sports game coverage. You can get all of this great programming for only $12.95 a month.

Question #5: How do I go about installing a satellite radio?

Answer: There are a few things you will need before installing a satellite radio. First of all, you will need an antenna powerful enough to pick up the radio signal and deliver it to your receiver. Secondly, you will need a satellite radio tuner so that you can actually get the signal from the antenna. There are 3 basic types of satellite radio tuners: Plug and play, which can be used on the go in a specially designed boom box, or car, the Universal tuner, which is most commonly used in the car, and then there is the home satellite radio tuner, which hooks directly into the receiver. Thirdly, you will require a satellite radio receiver which allows you to select the channels. Lastly, you absolutely need to purchase a satellite radio subscription from either XM Satellite Radio or Sirius Radio.

Question #6: How do I get the best satellite quality sound in my car?

Answer: In order to get the great sound you deserve from your satellite radio you should do 1 of 3 things:

a.Install an in-dash receiver with a built-in tuner. b.Install a satellite radio ready receiver and connect it to an external satellite radio tuner. c.Install a plug-and-play radio satellite radio tuner by connecting it directly to your vehicle?s stereo auxiliary input.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as a iPod car accessories at www.caraccessoriesetc.com

Frequently Asked Questions About Satellite Radio

Are you interested in satellite radio but have some questions about it? If you do, you should read on. This article will attempt to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about satellite radio.

What is satellite radio? This is the most basic question of course. Satellite radio is a subscription based service where users can receive music and talk programming on their radios broadcast from a satellite.

How does it sound? Since it is broadcast in an all digital format, satellite radio will sound better than your standard FM station. It will have music quality compatible to a CD player.

Do I have to buy a new radio? Unfortunately yes you do have to buy a new radio. Your current radio will not be capable of receiving the satellite signal. If you do not want to completely replace your radio, you can purchase an adapter that will allow you to play it over your radio.

Can I get local stations over satellite? No, you can only get local stations with an FM receiver.

Can I use my satellite radio in my home? Yes, you can get satellite radio in your home. Some radios will even allow you to transfer the receiver from your car to your homes stereo.

What kind of programming is available? All sorts of programs are available. You can find talk shows, music stations broadcasting all genres of music (many commercial free) sports, weather and even traffic in major cities.

I have Sirius and want to switch to XM. Can I use the same radio? No, the two major providers (Sirius and XM) do not use compatible equipment. If you want to switch providers you will have to buy all new equipment.

Learn about free satellite tv , satellite radio and internet on the authors website.

How Does Satellite Radio Work?

There's been a big push in the consumer electronics industry lately. It's been the movement towards satellite radio, but one of the biggest questions being asked is how does this technology work?

How do you get all of these fantastic stations tuned into one satellite radio receiver? There's a lot more going on behind the scenes then just clicking the on button. How is it possible the signal can be so crystal clear?

Well first off you need to decide on a provider. IN the US there are two main providers: XM radio and Sirius. Each station provides fantastic satellite radio programming, and the way each service works is very similar so there isn't a big learning curve between the two. How ever the type of programming that each provider offers varies, so depending on your listening habits you should consider this closely. In Canada XS is currently the only provider available. Hence there really isn't a big choice for you to make there.

After you've decided on a provider you need to run down to your local consumer electronics store and pick up a satellite radio receiver, or purchase one online. The Satellite radio itself is the second most important component in the system, and in discovering how satellite radio works.

Different satellite radio receivers are designed to unscramble signals that are sent from satellites orbiting earth. Each satellite radio service launches satellites into orbit; the provider will then send encrypted signals to each satellite. These orbiting satellites send the signals back down to us. When a subscriber selects a particular satellite station their radio receiver the radio decodes the signal sent from the satellite and provides the requested station.

So you can see that satellite radio behaves similarly to traditional radio. A signal is broadcast, and our radios at home and in our cars pick it up. However traditional signals are broadcast over the airwaves while satellite radio is provided via the satellites in space. Unlike traditional radio, which at times isn't the cleanest sound, satellite radio provides users with a clear sound no matter how far away from their local city they are. There is minimal range limit with a satellite radio signal, so it's possible to continue to listen to the exact same station almost no anywhere.For more information about how satellite radio works, and what products are available please visit our website http://www.satellite-radio-roundup.com.