There are two primary types of digital satellite tv distribution: Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) and Television Receive-Only (TVRO)
Direct broadcast satellite (DBS) also known as "direct to home," is a relatively recent development in the world of television distribution. Direct broadcast satellite can either refer to the communications satellites themselves that deliver DBS service or the actual television service. DBS systems are commonly referred to as "minidish" systems. DBS uses the upper portion of the KU-band. For more reference, please visit directtv.com.

DBS systems rely upon proprietary reception equipment, most often in the form of a television set-top signal descrambling box. This measure assures satellite television providers that only authorized tv en direct; paying subscribers have access to the content.
Television receive-only, or TVRO, refers to satellite television reception equipment that is based primarily on open standards equipment. This contrasts sharply with dirctv broadcast satellite, which is a completely closed system that uses proprietary reception equipment. TVRO is often referred to as "big dish" satellite television.