Free To Air programming is completely different than Pay TV programming. A lot of religious, ethnic, and network feeds. It is not an alternative or even on the same league as Pay TV.
The
FTA channels are un-encrypted and available free without any contracts, subscription, or monthly payment. It makes sense to have an
FTA "motorized" system, specially if you are the DIY tech guy type.
Some people are satisfied with the few channels they get with an FTA system. However, if you are looking for the premium channels (i.e. HBO, etc) without strings attached, I would recommend the
Dish NOW system. It is a pre-paid, pay as you go, system offered by Dish Network. It is only available through authorized Dish Network dealers, such as Sadoun.