If you want a satellite TV receiver but would prefer not to pay a great deal for it, you've probably already resigned yourself to the fact that you won't receive more than the most basic features. Fortunately, DirecTV's D12 receiver delivers these basic features in a manner that is superior to that of most competitors in its price range.

The back panel of the DirecTV D12 unit contains three coaxial cable connectors (satellite in, over-the-air antenna in and TV out), an S-Video out connector, two RCA video outputs and two sets of l/r audio outputs, a USB port, a power jack and a telephone jack.

The front panel of the DirecTV D12 contains several buttons for controlling the unit and its software, including a Power button, a Guide button, a Menu button, an Info button and an Active button that displays local weather and other personalized information when pressed. Four-direction arrow buttons allow you to maneuver through the on-screen guide. Both the access card slot and the Reset button are hidden behind a removable panel on the front of the unit. The D12's infrared sensor is a little smaller than normal, which makes it a bit difficult to use the remote control from an angle.

The DirecTV D12 measures just over 2 inches in thickness and its footprint is approximately 10X7 inches. A universal remote is included as well.

The receiver offers a basic collection of software-based features, including the ability to customize the on-screen guide by hiding certain channels. The included software also offers several parental control options, including setting limits based on show ratings, blocking channels, determining spending limits and limiting viewing hours. The DirecTV D12's program guide displays programs that air up to 3.5 days in the future and displays a small image of the current channel.

The DirecTV D12's on-screen guide allows you to look at programming for a specific time in the future, which saves you the hassle of scrolling through several hours of listings. Finally, this unit allows you to set the receiver to automatically tune to a channel at a particular time and date, which means that you won't miss a favorite show -- as long as you are sitting in front of the TV, of course.

The DirecTV D12 doesn't include any advanced features and it contains no DVR capabilities, but its low price is appealing, it's extremely easy to set up and it delivers its basic features well.


Pros: Extremely low price, small unit, nice collection of basic features, easy to set up
Cons: Small infrared sensor, program guide could include more days, no advanced features

Warranty
90 days, limited