Local/Network Channel Availability

Frequently asked questions

The transmission technology that is the standard for the over-the-air delivery of local television broadcast station programming.

As defined by Nielsen Media Research, DMA (Designated Market Area) refers to the geographic area that local television stations (usually one per major network) primarily serve.

DNS (Distant Network Signal) is any television station delivered outside of its home DMA. Federal law prohibits the delivery of DNS programming to any subscriber who does not meet the strict eligibility requirements associated with this type of service.

HDTV/3D-HDTV (High Definition Television) is the most technically advanced television broadcast technology currently available.

LIL (Local Into Local) programming refers to local television stations that are made available to subscribers via satellite in their home DMA.

An off-air signal is available to anyone who can receive it using a rooftop or smaller antenna. For purposes of DNS eligibility, the FCC has defined a legally acceptable minimum level of off-air signal reception.

SDTV (Standard Definition Television) is the basic television format.

The physical location at which a subscriber receives DIRECTV programming.

Document indicating a local station is willing to permit the importation of a distant signal into its DMA to a subscriber who would otherwise be ineligible to receive it.

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