Frequently Asked Questions:

Q) Why should I get satellite TV? Is it better than Cable?

A) Satellite television has more high definition than cable, and many more digital channels overall. As more and more people purchase televisions with high definition, the demand for satellite television is growing proportionally. Satellite TV also features ‘time shifting’, which lets you watch local channels from across Canada. For example, you could catch the local news from Toronto, and watch other shows in the Ontario time zone. Often, you can catch your favourite show several times per day. You will also find the bundles and packages much more flexible with satellite TV. You can even pick individual channels! Finally, satellite TV is mobile, allowing you to hook up a receiver in your RV, cottage or cabin so you don’t miss your shows while you’re on vacation.

Q) What systems do you sell?

A) We deal exclusively with Bell and Starchoice.

Q) Why should I order my system through City Wireless?

A) City Wireless is the largest independent dealer/installer in Western Canada. We’ve installed over ninety thousand systems throughout Alberta since our inception in 1991. We’re the satellite experts! As a local company, this means you’re dealing with somebody right here in Calgary, not stuck on hold pressing buttons to get through to a huge call center. We can usually get you installed quicker than if you went directly to Bell or Starchoice.

Q) Do you do commercial installs?

A) Yes! We’ve installed satellite TV in all kinds of commercial establishments, from bars and restaurants, to office buildings, dental offices, etc. Many professionals are recognizing the benefits of having satellite television in their premises to entertain their clients, or to keep them occupied and happy while they wait for service. We’re the preferred installer for Bell commercial projects in Calgary, Lethbridge, Red Deer, and Medicine Hat.

Q) What other products/services does City Wireless offer?

A) We sell and install home theatre/audio, big screen HD televisions, and alarm systems for individual residents and large-scale builders. No job is too big or too small! For rural customers unable to get cable Internet or ADSL, we have satellite Internet. We also deal in Bell cell phones and accessories.

Q) Is your work guaranteed?

A) All of our installs are fully guaranteed for ninety days.

Q) How many televisions can I hook up with satellite TV?

A) Both Bell and Starchoice allow you to have multiple televisions hooked up. The maximum number of receivers allowed is 8 with Bell and 6 with Starchoice. Each television must have a separate receiver, unless you don’t mind two televisions being on the same channel. For example, a person living alone might have television in their living room and bedroom, and don’t mind that they must be on the same channel. Keep in mind that a high definition signal cannot be split, so you can only share a non-high definition receiver between multiple televisions.

Q) Can I record programs onto a hard drive?

A) Yes. Both Bell and Starchoice have PVR’s that allow you to record many hour of television.

Q) How long does it take to get satellite TV installed?

A) We can get to most jobs within city limits in 2-4 days. Out of town jobs could take longer, and are usually booked when we have multiple jobs in an area.

Q) Can anybody get Satellite TV?

A) To get Bell or Starchoice, you must have a clear line of site to the south-southeast. The dishes need to aim at approximately 129 or 154 degrees respectively, and point upwards at about 30 degrees. Any buildings, trees, etc must be cleared by this 30-degree upward angle. If you are uncertain about obstacles, we can do a sight survey of your property to determine if satellite TV can be installed.

Also, you must have a signed letter of permission from your landlord to have a satellite dish installed if you are renting your property. This includes people living in apartments, condos, and even houses. All rental customers must have the letter of permission. We have a standard letter of permission we can email or snail mail to you, if you wish.

Q) Can I rent the equipment?

A) Bell gives you the option to rent or buy, while Starchoice requires the purchase of the equipment.

Q) What are the payment options?

A) We take cash, debit, and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express). Please keep in mind that if you intend to sign up with Bell, you are required to have a credit card number registered on your account. Even if you plan on paying for your system with cash or debit card, a credit card is necessary when we register your receivers on the Bell computer system.

Q) Which is better, Bell or Starchoice?

A) Both are excellent companies! Things to consider when trying to decide which company better meets your needs: Do you prefer to buy or rent? Will you be travelling to the USA with an RV? Do you have a clearer line of sight at 129 degrees or 154 degrees? Do you require international programming? Do you want the highest number of HD channels? Do you require a specific channel that is available on one, but not the other?

Q) Can I install satellite TV myself?

A) Yes, many people do the install themselves. We have everything you need to do your own installs, including wires, connectors, switches, tripods, satellite finders, etc. Keep in mind that you need four wires coming down from the dish if you will be installing high definition or international programming on a Bell system. It is highly recommended that you have your system professionally installed if you are not experienced with these types of installs.

Q) Will the weather affect my television?

A) It is very rare for the weather to have any adverse affect on your satellite TV. Even after severe storms, we have very few, if any calls from customers that have had problems. This is one reason we recommend that a professional installer setup your system for you. Our installers are fully trained to complete installs to a high standard. Furthermore, all work is fully guaranteed for ninety days.

Q) Can I get Internet service through satellite?

A) Yes, we sell and install high-speed satellite Internet service.

Q) I have some old equipment that somebody gave/sold me. Can I set up an account and use this equipment?

A) You should be able to use the equipment, but keep in mind that there is a good chance it’s no longer under warranty. Also, before equipment can be registered and activated under a new account, the previous owner must call Bell or Starchoice and have the equipment de-registered from their name. Be aware that if the previous owner didn’t leave their account in good standing, Bell or Starchoice probably won’t allow the equipment to be registered under a new name.

Note that old equipment may not be fully compatible with changes introduced by Bell or Starchoice. For example, an old 18 inch Bell dish cannot deliver their international or high definition programming.

For all of these reasons, it is highly recommended that you purchase your own equipment. If you do decide to purchase used equipment, be advised that shouldn’t pay more than twenty five percent of the original cost under any circumstances.

Q) I’m moving. Should I take my dish with me?

A) No. Leave your dish behind. Both Bell and Starchoice will install a new dish at your new location at no charge, subject to their moving policy. Both companies limit the number of free moves a customer can receive in a given calendar year. Please consult the Bell or Starchoice websites for more information.