How to get set up for Satellite Radio?

Question

HI

I am not very knowledgable when it comes to computers and technology so I am hoping I can get some basic info about obtaining satellite radio? I know there are two providers XM and Sirius and you need to have a digital radio.

Do I just go to an electronics store and ask for a digital radio? I want something I can leave on my kitchen counter (or something similar)? Should I ask for any particular features? Then I take it I go on line to one of the providers and sign up monthly or yearly and then.....what comes next? do I have to install anything - do I have to have "someone" come to my home and install this thing? Sorry for asking what are probably really basic/obvious questions but I want to make sure I know something before I try and purchase all of this "stuff".

thanks for any advice/help

Answer 1

very easy to do.

buy a xm or sirius radio.  If you do have a  normal stereo

in your kitchen buy the Mini-Tuner and Home Dock Kit ($70)if not buy a Dock & Play Universal Boombox ($100)

set up as per instructions very very easy to do then call or go online to subscribe yearly even 3 yr is cheaper than month to month.  If you can hook up and program VCR or can use cell phone u can set up sat radio

Answer 2

Let me make this simple. Go to:

www.xmradio.com    or

www.sirius.com

and browse the web site. All your questions will be answered easily and there's a phone number, email and live chat if you have questions.

This is better for someone at your knowledge level than trying to follow directions posted on YA (no offense to other answers).

-a guy named duh

Answer 3

Satellite radio is fairly easy to set up.  All you need is the receiver, an antenna connected to the receiver, and an output for the sound.  All receivers come with an antenna.

The user guide that comes with the receiver will explain everything about setting up the radio.  You will need to have a clear view of the southern sky.  If your kitchen has a window that faces the south, you will be in great shape.  Otherwise, you will have to snake the antenna through the house to get it pointing out a window facing the south.

Most receivers can be connected to a home theater system, but you can also buy a player built specifically for the receiver.  I had one that looked like a boombox.  Most players come with a built-in antenna that will work indoors in most conditions, unless you have a steel structure, steel or aluminum blinds in your windows, and/or steel or tin roofing on the house.  The players have a connection in the back where you can disconnect the player's antenna, and plug in the antenna that comes with your receiver.

In the user manual, there should be instructions on how to receive the programming.  Satellite radio is a subscription service, so you will need to set up an account.  There should be an 800-number somewhere in the guide that you will have to call to set up the service.  XM Radio is all set up by a computer.  You will be instructed to tune your receiver to channel 1 or 0, which will display the receiver's ID number.  You will be asked to give that number, which will then register that receiver with you.  You can opt to pay by credit card, check by phone, or to receive a paper bill and you will pay manually.  It's advised that for the first payment you do so by credit card, especially if you wish to receive service immediately.

Good luck with your decision.  One thing you will realize with satellite radio:  you will never want to go back to terrestrial (AM/FM) radio.  I had to get rid of my XM because I was getting to the point of no longer being able to afford it.  I was pulled away from my precious XM kicking and screaming.