Nowadays I’m likely to look outside the Big Three networks for my primetime viewing, as more original programs are being aired on channels such as Oxygen and USA.Confused? Here ‘s a little help . The perfect example is Hot in Cleveland on TV Land, which is a hilarious sitcom about four single women roommates starring Betty White and Valerie Bertinelli. I tune in to FX for Rescue Me for a glimpse into the life of complicated New York City firefighter Tommy Gavin.

Of course the big networks still have some really fantastic shows. I love Modern Family and The Middle on ABC. I like the Gordon Ramsey cooking competition shows shown on FOX. But I’ll definitely be watching CBS this fall. With all the hoopla surrounding Charlie Sheen’s dismissal from Two and a Half Men I’m dying to see how the show does without him. I heard on the news that Ashton Kutcher will be his replacement.

As parents, we want to give the best to our children. Sometimes what we withhold from our children is the best for them, especially when it comes to satellite TV. Satellite TV offers a plethora of age appropriate entertainment and educational programming along with a selection of programs full of crude language, violence and nudity, all available with the touch of a few buttons on a remote control.

To keep the balance in favor of children by protecting their sensibilities, satellite TV providers have built in protections so parents can control what their children view. Parents can protect and lock channels. The channels are still available, but a password must be submitted before the protected program is unlocked and available for viewing.

To set parental controls:
1.Press MENU on the remote.
2.Select LOCKS on the open menu.
3.Select CHANNEL LOCKS on submenu.
4.Scroll through the listed channel numbers, highlight the channel number and press SELECT for each channel to be locked.
5.Highlight and select the SAVE option when done
6.Set a 4-digit password. Highlight and select OK.
7.Press GUIDE on remote and view the channel listing. The channels locked will have an icon in the upper left corner.

So that leaves us loyal, long time customers to cringe when we see a free movie package, sports package, or others offered. There are still ways to trim down on your initial bill, and be able to afford some extras.

One feature that adds up is the DVR service. Companies charge a fee per DVR box, and another fee to actually us it, every month! If you feel you’re not using it enough to justify the fee, there’s an easy 15 dollar charge eliminated, if you have it in two rooms.Want more? Click here/tag Most of us, have a handful of channels we watch. However, we’re still paying for tens or even hundreds of channels that never get a glimpse, unless we’re passing it up to get to a favorite. Check the package you’re subscribed to, and see if your favorites are available in a cheaper channel plan. Most of our favorite networks air their newest episodes online after the premiere on satellite. So if you can wait a day, you won’t miss a minute. Another last ditch effort to lower that bill…talk to your satellite provider. Let them know the special that their competitor has going. They will almost always do their best to match it, or at least come down on your bill. No company wants to a see a loyal customer change to a competitors service!

5) Improved Reliability. Through advances in technology satellite’s rain-fade and other signal disturbances have become a thing of the past and with its extensive availability rural areas have access to programs where cable can’t reach.

4) Worry Free Installation. Installation is done free by a qualified professional usually within 48 hours of placing the order and will upgrade your equipment at no extra charge.

3) Extensive Sports and News Coverage. With satellite TV, you have at your fingertips coast-to-coast sports coverage ranging from the Major Leagues to little known sports and everything in-between. It’s easy to keep informed through local, national and international news programs.

2) Unbeatable Verity. Not only does Satellite offer the most HD channels, but also the verity of topics is extensive and you can even order international packages to keep ahead of trends.

1) Best in Customer Service. For almost ten years, satellite has ranked highest in customer satisfaction with its fast, friendly service and quick problem corrections.

Before you go with any company, make sure you read the fine print on their offers. Most companies have great introductory rates, then jack up the price after a trial period. Some are worst than others, so make sure that you look for options that will not end up costing you too much a year from the sign up date.

Long term contracts can be required to get these types of systems. Make sure you do not sign a contract unless you’re absolutely sure you want to commit to it. Take your time thinking about it, and do not rush the decision, you’ll be glad in the long run.

Channel selection is everything. Only focus on packages that have all the channels you will actually watch. If you aren’t going to watch 50 sports channels, maybe the sports package is not for you. Look for quality line ups at a fair price.

Always look for reviews of companies to see how they work, just in case you have to cancel your service. Never be too quick to sign anything, and always read all the paperwork that is given to you.

1. Encore Drama

Encore drama is home to some of the most intense story-lines on television. This is a great channel for climactic shows that will keep you on edge.

2. Turner Classic Movies

There is nothing better than unwinding at home with a dramatic, classic film. Fortunately, Turner Classic Movies provides an endless selection of dramatic classics for your viewing pleasure.Want more? Click here/tag