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DirecTV - The Satellite TV Leader

Direct broadcast satellite (DBS) service, DirecTV, broadcasting to the U.S. and the rest of the Americas their digital satellite television and audio broadcasts. It is now considered the satellite television leader in the world. The DirecTV Group owns DirecTV, a subsidiary of News Corporation`s Fox Entertainment Group.

DirecTV typically uses smaller 18-inch satellite Dishes to receive its signals. Slightly larger, 18?24-inch oval antennas to access multi-satellites are becoming more common as DirecTV (as well as other DBS services) are attempting to squeeze more programming onto their growing systems, particularly local television network affiliates stations as well as hybrid systems that also receive broadband satellite Internet service.

DirecTV was launched in 1994 by General Motors subsidiary Hughes Electronics. It was the first high-powered DBS service in the world. In 1998 DirecTV acquired its partner, USSB for $1.3 billion. In 1999 DirecTV acquired PrimeStar for $1.83 billion. In 2003, a merger with Echostar, owner of Dish Network, fell through. On December 22nd, 2003, controlling interest in Hughes Electronics was sold by General Motors to News Corporation.