The DirecTV Sat-Go portable receiver system gives you the option of "taking it with you" … the "it," in this case, being satellite TV.

The DirecTV Sat-Go unit includes a 17-inch LCD television and the DirecTV satellite receiver hardware, all in an approximately 20X20X5-inch carrying case with a handle. At a weight of around 27 pounds, you won't want to hike several miles with it, but it works well at a campsite. The LCD TV is great for outdoor use, as it remains bright and viewable even with some glare from sunlight. The unit also features two small built-in speakers; they obviously don't provide surround-sound quality, but they work adequately.

The case contains the satellite receiver, and you can remove the LCD screen from the case. A thin coaxial cable runs from the receiver to the LCD, carrying the signal.

You'll find a small remote control with the DirecTV Sat-Go. The front of the unit contains several buttons, including Guide, Menu, Active, Info and four-direction arrow buttons. Should you need to make a physical connection to the DirecTV Sat-Go while at home, the back of the unit also contains a few connectors, including a "satellite in" coaxial connector, RCA video and audio connectors (both in and out), YPbPr video output and a phone jack.

The biggest drawback to the DirecTV Sat-Go -- and it's a significant one -- is that the rechargeable lithium-ion battery can only power the unit for about 1 hour. So if you're planning to watch the big football game from your campsite, you'd better have a generator or your vehicle's cigarette lighter handy or you'll only catch the pre-game show and the first quarter. You can, however, run the DirecTV Sat-Go continuously from a power cord or with the included cigarette lighter adapter.

You also will need a clear view of the southern sky; if not, the built-in receiver will not be able to make a connection with the orbiting satellite. This means that the DirecTV Sat-Go likely won't work in heavily wooded or areas. On the plus side, though, the DirecTV Sat-Go's case contains a built-in compass, making it easy for you to find south.

At the time of this writing, those who already have DirecTV service at home can add the DirecTV Sat-Go service to their existing packages for the cost of adding another satellite receiver (about $5 monthly). The price for the physical unit is high, but the add-on costs are minimal for those who already subscribe to DirecTV. It's not the most cost-effective unit, but the Sat-Go is a very cool gadget.


Pros: Surprisingly easy to use, battery or plugged-in power options, low subscription cost, LCD TV is sharp and bright
Cons: Battery life is too short, overall unit is heavy, initial price is very high, probably won't work in heavily wooded areas

Warranty
90 days, limited