Hi-tech-tv.com: Television technology news & answers

Question: I just got a new HDTV and was planning on calling Directv to upgrade my standard programming to their HD one.

I know there have been guys post here in the past about the deals they got from upgrading to Directv’s HD package. So I was just curious if you guys can share what they offered you to swith to their HD programming. Plus what number did you guys call, Directv’s customer service line?

Finally, does anyone know what’s the model number of their latest HD-DVR system. Just wanted to make sure when I place the order, they don’t give me one of their older models. Thanks

Answer: I took the latest flyer they had and called the number on the back and asked for the deal with HD Plus for $49.99 a month, no fee per month for HD access ($9.99) and free DVR instead of the one-time $199 setup charge.

They told me it was for new subscribers only and I said that it was terrible to offer new subscribers better deals then ones for 12 year subscribers. We negotiated and I got HD access for one year free. A DVR unit for free. I didn’t get the $49.99 package cost – but kept the same cost I have now. I only had to pay $19.99 for installation.

Be nice and ask for what you can. You’ll have to push back a couple of times.

Question: Hey guys, my brother who lives in S. Jersey currently has directv. He uses his friend’s address in NY as his service address, so he gets all the NY sports and locals. Problem for him now is that he is moving into a townhouse in Lower Merion, PA(right outside of Philly).

He needs someone to tell him whether or not his deck is in the right position to get a directv signal. If he can get it, he also needs an installer. Obviously, he can’t go through directv since his service address is in NY.

Any suggestions here?

Answer 1: You can probably google that, and I’d bet he can do the installation himself (it’s not a hard job).

Answer 2: Use a compass. If the deck faces south, he cool. You can mount the dish on a tripod on the deck for him, its pretty easy.

Answer 3: I believe google has a tool and from PA, it would be southwest. Essentially you shoot and point for texas. Also if he is moving, he should be able to call direcTV. Another train of thought is to call an install place directly, explain the situation, since it is just a dish install and some cabling they could do it for a fee, as they have all the tools. One of the best places to look for these installers is to look in the sunday paper, they always have ads looking to hire people.