How much does it cost?

About the same as cable, unless you're one of those cheapies who only have the 'basic' 15 channels. The first 125 Direct TV channels run $39.95 per month, plus a little tax in many states. After all, they have to pay for the Senator's free service.

Can you install it yourself?

Of course (not!) Just like you can restore the '68 'vette in the garage. You know, the one that's been in there since you had pimples? Actually, it's not much harder to install Direct TV or Dish Network than to put those kid's toys together on Christmas Eve! Most of the companies even translate the Japanese for you.

How about portability?

Yep. It does seems like we all move a lot more than we used to. Unless you move to Alaska, Hawaii (like you're really going to watch TV there!), or some foreign country like New Jersey, they will be glad to keep taking your money. Many will even re-install the equipment for free.

Can you get free installation?

If you like to shop, there is always a deal. It may take a lot of digging. Just let you fingers do the pounding on the keyboard. Everything can be shopped on the internet. Even Direct TV or Dish Network.

What about hooking it into my phone line?

Don't skip plugging in the phone jack. For some services, like ordering your very own personal movie, if you don't have it plugged into a phone line, it costs an extra fee every time you order.

How about putting it on several TV's?

Sure, you can even get pipe Direct TV or Dish Network into your shower, with the right stuff. Just be positive it's only one way. It will cost you $4.99 per month per set.

What's with the access card?

Think key. Ever been to a hotel? Wanna get into the room? Same thing. Direct TV or Dish Network figured out a way to keep us all honest. After all, unless they're on public TV, those actors don't work for peanuts!

How does this 'Interactive' service work?

On certain channels (which usually have a little 'I' on them, for some reason), you can interact with the feature showing, or even with the commercial. Just like the guy in the Chocolate Factory, I guess. It will even give you additional entertainment and electronic shopping.

Want internet through Direct TV or Dish Network?

No problem. The consumer is king. Be sure they translate the instructions for hooking THAT up, though.

We've come a long way from the wire antenna that had to be pointed in just a certain direction to pick up your favorite station. And fuzz out some of the others in the process.