DirecTV is one of the most popular satellite television providers in the United States, offering a wide range of channels, packages, and features to its customers. One of the key benefits of DirecTV is its ability to support multiple TVs, making it an ideal choice for large families or households with multiple viewing areas. But how many TVs can you have on DirecTV? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide you with all the information you need to maximize your viewing experience.
Understanding DirecTV’s Equipment Requirements
Before we dive into the number of TVs you can have on DirecTV, it’s essential to understand the equipment requirements. DirecTV uses a satellite dish to receive signals, which are then transmitted to a receiver connected to your TV. The receiver is the brain of your DirecTV system, and it’s responsible for decoding the signals and providing access to your channels.
DirecTV offers several types of receivers, including:
- Genie HD DVR: This is the most advanced receiver offered by DirecTV, providing the ability to record up to five shows at once and store up to 200 hours of HD content.
- Genie Mini: This is a smaller, more compact receiver that’s designed for secondary TVs. It doesn’t have the ability to record shows, but it can access live TV and on-demand content.
- Wireless Genie Mini: This is a wireless version of the Genie Mini, providing more flexibility in terms of placement.
How Many TVs Can You Have on DirecTV?
The number of TVs you can have on DirecTV depends on the type of equipment you have and the package you’ve subscribed to. Here are some general guidelines:
- Genie HD DVR: You can connect up to eight TVs to a single Genie HD DVR, using a combination of Genie Minis and Wireless Genie Minis.
- Genie Mini: You can connect up to three Genie Minis to a single Genie HD DVR, providing access to live TV and on-demand content on up to three secondary TVs.
- Wireless Genie Mini: You can connect up to two Wireless Genie Minis to a single Genie HD DVR, providing wireless access to live TV and on-demand content on up to two secondary TVs.
It’s worth noting that each TV requires a separate receiver, and you’ll need to pay a monthly fee for each additional receiver. The cost of additional receivers varies depending on the type of receiver and the package you’ve subscribed to.
Additional Equipment Requirements
In addition to the receivers, you’ll also need a few other pieces of equipment to get started with DirecTV. These include:
- Satellite dish: This is the dish that receives signals from the DirecTV satellite. You’ll need to install the dish in a location with a clear view of the southern sky.
- Coaxial cables: You’ll need coaxial cables to connect your receivers to the satellite dish and to your TVs.
- Power supplies: You’ll need power supplies to power your receivers and other equipment.
Installation Requirements
DirecTV requires professional installation for all new customers. The installation process typically takes a few hours, and it involves installing the satellite dish, running coaxial cables, and setting up your receivers.
You can schedule an installation appointment with DirecTV by calling their customer service number or by visiting their website. The installation fee varies depending on the package you’ve subscribed to and the complexity of the installation.
Package Options and Pricing
DirecTV offers a range of package options to suit different budgets and viewing habits. Here are some of the most popular packages:
- Select Package: This is the most basic package offered by DirecTV, providing access to over 150 channels, including local channels and popular networks like ESPN and CNN.
- Entertainment Package: This package provides access to over 160 channels, including all the channels in the Select Package, plus additional channels like NFL Network and MLB Network.
- Choice Package: This package provides access to over 185 channels, including all the channels in the Entertainment Package, plus additional channels like HBO and Showtime.
- Xtra Package: This package provides access to over 235 channels, including all the channels in the Choice Package, plus additional channels like Starz and Encore.
- Ultimate Package: This is the most advanced package offered by DirecTV, providing access to over 250 channels, including all the channels in the Xtra Package, plus additional channels like NFL Sunday Ticket and MLB Extra Innings.
The pricing for these packages varies depending on the number of TVs you have and the equipment you need. Here’s a rough estimate of the monthly cost for each package:
| Package | Monthly Cost (1 TV) | Monthly Cost (2-3 TVs) | Monthly Cost (4-8 TVs) |
| — | — | — | — |
| Select | $50-$60 | $70-$80 | $100-$120 |
| Entertainment | $60-$70 | $80-$90 | $120-$140 |
| Choice | $70-$80 | $90-$100 | $140-$160 |
| Xtra | $80-$90 | $100-$110 | $160-$180 |
| Ultimate | $100-$110 | $120-$130 | $180-$200 |
Additional Fees and Charges
In addition to the monthly package cost, you may also be charged additional fees and charges, including:
- Equipment fees: You’ll need to pay a monthly fee for each additional receiver, which can range from $7 to $15 per month.
- Installation fees: You’ll need to pay a one-time installation fee, which can range from $99 to $199.
- DVR fees: You’ll need to pay a monthly fee for the Genie HD DVR, which can range from $10 to $20 per month.
- Additional channel fees: You may need to pay additional fees for premium channels like HBO and Showtime.
Conclusion
DirecTV is a popular satellite television provider that offers a wide range of channels, packages, and features to its customers. The number of TVs you can have on DirecTV depends on the type of equipment you have and the package you’ve subscribed to. With the right equipment and package, you can enjoy a seamless viewing experience on up to eight TVs.
We hope this article has provided you with all the information you need to maximize your viewing experience with DirecTV. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
How many TVs can I have on DirecTV?
DirecTV allows you to have multiple TVs connected to their service, but the exact number depends on the type of equipment you have and the package you subscribe to. With a Genie HD DVR, you can connect up to 8 TVs, while a Genie Mini can support up to 4 TVs. However, it’s essential to note that each TV will require its own receiver, which may incur additional costs.
It’s also worth mentioning that DirecTV offers various packages that cater to different household sizes and viewing needs. For instance, the “Whole-Home DVR” package allows you to record and watch content on multiple TVs simultaneously. To determine the best setup for your home, it’s recommended that you consult with a DirecTV representative to discuss your specific requirements and options.
What equipment do I need to connect multiple TVs to DirecTV?
To connect multiple TVs to DirecTV, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment. First, you’ll require a Genie HD DVR or a Genie Mini, which serves as the central hub for your DirecTV service. You’ll also need a receiver for each TV, which can be either a Genie Mini or a Wireless Genie Mini. Additionally, you may need to purchase a DirecTV-approved router and a DECA (DirecTV Ethernet Coaxial Adapter) to ensure a stable and reliable connection.
It’s crucial to ensure that all equipment is compatible with your DirecTV package and that you have the necessary cables and connectors to establish a secure connection. DirecTV offers a range of equipment options, so it’s best to consult with a representative to determine the most suitable setup for your specific needs.
Can I watch different channels on each TV with DirecTV?
Yes, with DirecTV, you can watch different channels on each TV, provided you have the necessary equipment and a suitable package. The Genie HD DVR and Genie Mini allow you to watch live TV, recorded content, and on-demand programming on multiple TVs simultaneously. However, the number of channels you can watch at the same time depends on the package you subscribe to and the equipment you have.
For instance, the “Whole-Home DVR” package enables you to watch up to 5 live channels and record up to 5 shows at the same time. If you want to watch different channels on each TV, you’ll need to ensure that your package supports this feature and that you have the necessary equipment to facilitate it.
Do I need to pay extra for each TV on DirecTV?
DirecTV charges a fee for each additional TV connected to their service. The cost varies depending on the type of equipment and package you have. For example, if you have a Genie HD DVR, you may need to pay a monthly fee for each additional Genie Mini or Wireless Genie Mini. However, some packages, such as the “Whole-Home DVR” package, include a certain number of TVs in the monthly fee.
It’s essential to review your DirecTV package and equipment to understand the costs associated with connecting multiple TVs. You may also want to consider upgrading to a package that includes more TVs or negotiating with a DirecTV representative to get the best deal for your household.
Can I use my own equipment with DirecTV?
DirecTV requires you to use their approved equipment to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. While you may be able to use some third-party equipment, such as routers or streaming devices, DirecTV recommends using their own equipment to avoid any potential issues or conflicts.
Using unauthorized equipment may void your warranty or cause problems with your service. DirecTV offers a range of equipment options, and their representatives can help you choose the best setup for your specific needs.
How do I set up multiple TVs on DirecTV?
Setting up multiple TVs on DirecTV requires some technical expertise, but it’s a relatively straightforward process. First, you’ll need to connect your Genie HD DVR or Genie Mini to your main TV and ensure it’s activated. Then, you’ll need to connect each additional TV to a receiver, such as a Genie Mini or Wireless Genie Mini, and link it to your main Genie HD DVR.
DirecTV offers online resources and customer support to help you with the setup process. You can also schedule a professional installation with a DirecTV technician, who will ensure that your equipment is properly installed and configured.
Can I watch DirecTV on multiple TVs in different rooms?
Yes, with DirecTV, you can watch TV on multiple TVs in different rooms, provided you have the necessary equipment and a suitable package. The Genie HD DVR and Genie Mini allow you to watch live TV, recorded content, and on-demand programming on multiple TVs simultaneously, regardless of the room they’re in.
However, you’ll need to ensure that each TV has a clear line of sight to the satellite dish and that the signal is strong enough to support multiple TVs. You may also need to use a DirecTV-approved router and DECA to ensure a stable and reliable connection.