What equipment is needed for DIRECTV now?

Getting Started with DIRECTV Now

DIRECTV Now is a streaming service which is a direct broadcast of TV and on demand programs over the internet. What’s unique is that there is no need for a cable box or satellite dish. The beauty of DIRECTV Now is that you can watch it from anywhere you have internet and a compatible device.

Well then, what devices are necessary for you to start using DIRECTV Now? Here is a beginner’s guide to get you started.

Internet Connection

First, you will need an internet connection that is capable of sustaining streaming videos. For a single stream where the video quality is standard definition, DIRECTV Now suggests a minimum of 3 Mbps. For an HD stream, 8 Mbps is sufficient Other than that, the higher the internet connection, the better the experience is going to be.

Compatible Device

Following this, you will require a compatible streaming gadget for consumption of the content from DIRECTV Now. Options include:

Smartphones and Tablets – Download the DIRECTV Now application from the Apple Store or Google Play Store to watch when you are on the move.

Smart TV/Apps - DIRECTV Now supports streaming on Smart TV through Apps on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast and Android TV. You only need to tune to the DIRECTV Now channel to watch the content immediately.

Computers – DIRECTV Now can also be watched on a laptop or desktop by using the web browser. Streaming performance is always good on new computers.

Smart TVs – Some smart TVs from some manufacturers like Samsung, LG and Sony among others have the option of downloading the DIRECTV Now app directly on the television set. Well, just look at your TV and type it in the app store that is on your television.

Game Consoles – Grab the DIRECTV Now app on your Xbox One or PlayStation 4 and blend live sports and news right into your gaming experience.

Wireless Device Requirements

For streaming boxes, smart TVs, computers and game consoles, you’ll will require wireless internet connection to enable the DIRECTV Now to stream in the desired room.

A few wireless requirements to consider:A few wireless requirements to consider:

WiFi Standards – It is recommended to look for routers that offer dual-band 802. 11ac connectivity at the very least. This provides sufficient bandwidth for streaming high-definition videos to multiple devices at an acceptable speed. Ensure the wireless device you are also compatible with the 802. 11ac standard.

Router Placement – Place your wireless router in a central area of your living space to get reception in the particular room or area you wish to view the DIRECTV Now content in. Do not put it in a basement or a distant room of the house.

Frequency Congestion – When possible, use the 5GHz WiFi band on your router and the streaming device. This usually offers less susceptibility to interference from other WiFi signals than the 2. 4GHz.

Strong Signal – Place your streaming box or TV right next to your wireless router or if possible use a cable connection for the best signal. WiFi extenders can also assist to access the signal in distant rooms.

Internet Speed Requirements

As we have seen earlier, DIRECTV Now for example, needs a download speed of at least 3 Mbps for each stream for getting Standard Definition picture quality and 8 Mbps per stream to get High Definition picture quality. Even more speed is good, for example to stream your favorite movies or series on multiple devices at once.

Here are a few factors that determine how fast your internet speeds will be with DIRECTV Now:Here are a few factors that determine how fast your internet speeds will be with DIRECTV Now:

Faster internet packages bring in better speeds for streaming – Your Internet Plan. Stream viewing on multiple devices should be done when there is a plan that has at least 25 Mbps download speed.

Number of Streams – Each of these streams needs 3-8+ Mbps depending on the quality of the stream. Hence if more devices are streaming, it requires higher internet speeds.

4K Streaming - In order to enjoy 4K streaming, it is recommended that internet connection speeds should be more than 25 Mbps per stream.

Number of Connected Devices – The number of home electronics such as Smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, gaming consoles etc. , that are connected to the home internet reduces the bandwidth available for streaming DIRECTV Now.

Time of Day – internet speeds may also be noticeably reduced in the evening hours as more people in your neighbourhood use the internet for video streaming. Concentrate your most crucial broadcasts during other than prime time hours of low viewership.

Data Termination – The streaming service will perform slowly especially when downloading or uploading large data on your home network. Stop other bandwidth-intensive tasks for the optimum streaming.

If these speeds ever fall too low you will have issues as low as buffering, pixelation, freezing and the lot while streaming DIRECTV Now.

TV and Audio Equipment

Of course, you will need a good television set to watch all that DIRECTV Now has to offer you. Any television with an HDMI port will work, but here are some equipment recommendations:Any television with an HDMI port will work, but here are some equipment recommendations:

Television Display - DIRECTV Now is best enjoyed on an HDTV device for watching high-definition channels, while 4K device gives an even better display of selected programs in Ultra HD. Approximately a 50 inch television screen size should ideally be considered.

Smart TV Features – When do decide to upgrade the television, go for the one that has a built-in smart platform that allows the delivery of the DIRECTV Now app right on the screen without having to connect another streaming device. Some of the most commonly used operating systems are Samsung Smart TV, LG webOS, Android TV and others. Consumption of apps such as DIRECTV Now will help you future proof your television.

Audio Output – Connect your television display with a compatible sound bar, speaker system or home theater receiver and speaker set for the high-quality audio experience that is a hallmark of DIRECTV Now. Surround sound is especially useful if one has many speakers and watches sports, movies, and concerts.

Remote Control – After setup, many smart remotes from Logitech and others may offer a one-touch button for DIRECTV Now on mobile apps; there are native remotes for each streaming device. This enables one to incorporate streaming into the home entertainment systems without any hassle.

That sums up the basic hardware you will require to begin live streaming DIRECTV Now. Fast internet, a modern streaming device, wireless connectivity to support video, an updated television display and supporting audio gear will allow you to sit back and watch over 125 channels including live sporting events, news, and the latest series and movies. Check out the best internet for DIRECTV Now by comparing internet providers in your area to get the best connection speed and value.