New Member
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3 Messages
DIRECTV removing network channels
If you are in a two network area… you will only have access to ONE of each of the major networks. Yesterday we lost ALL our Balt/Wash networks! I talked with THREE different DIRECTV reps totaling almost two hours… the first two lied about sending out notices… they both also stated this was due to the FCC and the networks!… also a lie!
Today, DIRECTV put the Balt/Wash Chanel’s back on the guide… but, look at these closely! All they did was change the local description to Harrisburg. All the Balt/Wash channels (4,5,7,9) are actually the Harrisburg stations! VERY misleading and underhanded move DirecTV !!!
shannon02
ACE - Expert
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21.3K Messages
4 years ago
Per FCC rules DTV can only give you the locals in your DMA (Designated Marketing Area) and they have redrawn them.
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Ernie51
New Member
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3 Messages
4 years ago
Shannon02
Thank you for more information than the DT reps. If that is true… do cable companies have to follow the FCC DMA?
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Ernie51
New Member
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3 Messages
4 years ago
I’m right about what? Cable companies in my zip code provide numerous local networks. Again, up until yesterday I had two of each of the four networks.
Just to be clear (ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox)… my zip code didn’t change. Why can cable companies and Directv (until yesterday) provide several network channels, but now you can’t?
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DIRECTVhelp
Community Support
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255.9K Messages
4 years ago
Hey @Ernie51 we're here to clear things up.
You're right DIRECTV as any other TV companies must follow FCC regulation to ensure first class, affordable telecommunications service for all consumers across the country.
It means that local channel networks are determined by the customer's Billing ZIP Code. You can check with your zip code what channels are in your area.
Also, thanks to @shannon02 for your prompt and accurate response.
David, DIRECTV Community Specialist
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TexasBrit
ACE - Expert
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14.1K Messages
4 years ago
It does not matter what you had yesterday, The FCC defines what locals directv has to deliver to you based on your location. Every so often the geographical boundaries change and so peoples locals change. Directv cannot change this. I have not seen the contracts for the CBS etc stations but I believe this is a clause in the contract also.
Cable networks don't have to follow the same rules. Most of them are grandfathered because they were in business before the FCC rulings were written.
You can write to the FCC and complain but I don't think it will get you anywhere.
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Juniper
ACE - Expert
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23.5K Messages
4 years ago
DirecTV may only provide you the locals based on your physical service address. This is per FCC regulations, so DirecTV has no choice in the matter. Unfortunately the Designated Market Area (DMA) lines do occasionally get redrawn. When that happens all DirecTV may do is follow the new boundaries.
I would double check what locals you should be receiving. Here is their channel lookup, just go to the tab that says "Regional Sports & Local" (hopefully the list is updated if there has been a recent DMA shift).
https://www.directv.com/satellite/channel-lineup/
Cable companies per being physical hard line, normally use the broadcast center as the DMA point. DirecTV being satellite service is spot beamed. As such cable and satellite do have different regulations to follow.
(edited)
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