What is XM radio and how does it work? Can it operate on or off computer?

February 19th, 2009

Rev. Dr. Glen asked:

I was hoping to hear some football games cannot get on radio or television. Found out about XM radio. How does it work? Where is the best place to get one? It seems more complicated and expensive than I thought. With this in mind probably will cancel my trial subcription. Any other ideas, information? Respones greatly appreciated. This new electronic and computer age is difficult for me.

Nicholas

posted by Administrator at 9:40 pm & filed under Radio |


No Comments to “What is XM radio and how does it work? Can it operate on or off computer?”

  1. February 23rd, 2009 at 5:39 am
    Duh said:

    Sirius/XM are the two recently merged satellite delivered radio services. Each has many channels that fit most tastes. The big difference is in sports. XM has MLB; Sirius has NFL. Both share a smattering of college Football.

    At some point in the next several months to a year, the programming from both will be available on receivers previously built for only one of the two services. There will also be a receiver that will receive both.

    But not quite yet.

    You can get an almost-full subscription to either that’s internet only; you can also get a trial subscription via internet stream as you have discovered.

    It works by bouncing radio signals through satellites and ground repeaters to give radio options in a cable-like setting.

    XM has ACC; Big Ten; Pac 10, SEC and a couple of other college conferences; Sirius offers: some Pac 10 & Big Ten, Big 12, Big East, Big West, Metro Atlantic, Mid-American, Missouri Valley, Ohio Valley, Patriot, Southern, Sun Belt, West Coast, Mountain West, Western Athletic, Conference USA, Colonial Athletic Association, Horizon League and the Ivy League. In both cases these may not be available on a trial.

    Though the receiver can be obtained through both companies, many are also available at electronics stores an online auction sites and virtual stores.

    To get full service to either is approximately $13/mo plus the cost of the receivers. That will change as the merger solidifies and packages from both are made available.

    Meanwhile I suggest you check both web sites and do your research, then purchase an inexpensive (possibly used receiver) for the band that most closely matches your needs. Then, when they are fully merged, you’ll be safe to buy a new receiver capable of receiving both.

    I find XM a bargain - I’d stick with it if I were you - and they had my team. Good luck & good listening (Go Gators!)
    -a guy named duh