Connect and Play Receivers
Learn all you need to know about connect and play receivers
The new wave of satellite radio technology still harbors portability, except no longer is it the receiver that moves. With XM’s Connect and Play revolution, independent receivers sit in the different zones where you live your life (home, car, etc.), and it’s the satellite antennae that you bring with you.
Your Passport to Programming
The key to connect and play receivers is the XM Connect and Play mini tuner, which offers a smaller antenna than before that is more discreet and stylish and can be used inside or outside. There is also a docking device included in the package, but instead of mounting the receiver, you mount your XM Passport—a portable chip the size of a flash memory card that stores all of your account information. This makes your account portable, whereas you previously would have had to have a separate account for every receiver you used.
This technology works with a number of products that are deemed XM-ready, meaning there is a channel dedicated to amplifying satellite radio signals. All you do is place your mini tuner in its dock and plug in the antenna. The antenna-tuner satellite radio kits are less than $100, so having one for your home theater, car stereo, office and cottage is not out of the question.
Spread the Word
Digital antennae require a south-facing window, which many people cannot accommodate because of obstructions outside or the nonexistence of said window near their stereo. For this situation, signal repeaters can be coupled with connect and play receivers. A signal repeater works the same way a wireless router does for your Internet connection. By placing the repeater in the southern window of your home and plugging the repeater antenna into your Passport antenna, you can guarantee clear radio signals regardless of where you’re listening.
With the proliferation of connect and play technology, satellite radio is coming into its own. It is becoming a staple in the home and is included in many home theater constructions. The technology makes satellite radio transferable, as well—as more connect and play brands produce equipment, it will become less an additional feature and more a basic specification. This way, when you are driving your dad’s car, and he doesn’t have a subscription, you can plug in your Passport and listen to what you want.
