Q. What does Over-the-Top (OTT) streaming of content mean?
A. OTT refers to film and television content streamed direct to the consumer via a high-speed internet connection. You'll view this content over the same broadband connection as the one you use for email and web browsing. The fiber optic technology supplied by Fiber Connect will eliminate buffering, slow download speeds and data caps.
Q. What are my advantages to using OTT versus cable or satellite?
A. OTT lets consumers choose the specific content they want rather than purchasing bundled content. Costs for content can be as low as $5/month with a growing amount of free content available. There is a wide choice for live, recorded (on-demand) and film content including original films. No equipment needs to be rented. All you'll need is your TV (smart or one with an attached streaming device - see below), a computer, tablet or smartphone to view programing anywhere you have an internet connection. You can record shows for playback at anytime. And, no contracts between you and the content provider are required. You can subscribe and unsubscribe to a streaming service when you want.
Q. Since content is delivered via the internet, what will Fiber Connect's 1 Gigabit (1,000 Mbps) achieve in download times?
A. The download speeds listed are estimates. Achieving them will depend primarily on whether you are hardwired or using WiFi to connect with your modem (ONT)and the age and capability of your connected hardware.
4-minute song (4MB): .03 seconds
5-minute video (30MB): 0.2 seconds
9-hour audio book (110MB): 0.9 seconds
45-minute TV show (200MB): 1.7 seconds
2-hour movie (1.5GB): 8 seconds
2-hour HD movie (4GB): 25 seconds
Q. How do I stream content to my TV?
A. Streaming to your TV requires that you have a smart TV or a non-smart TV equipped with a streaming device such a Roku or Amazon Fire Stick, or an Apple TV. The video link to setting up a Roku Stick will demonstrate how easy and quick it is to install a device yourself.
Helpful Links:
How to Set Up Your Roku Streaming Device
3 Easy Ways to Connect Your Smart TV to the Internet
Q. Will Fiber Connect technicians help with installing streaming devices?
A. Yes. Contact Us to schedule an appointment: 413.429.4555, email support@bfcam.com A charge will apply for on-site technician assistance.
Q. What are some of the streaming services to which I can subscribe?
A. Some of the major paid subscriptions services for video-on-demand include Netflix, Sling, Hulu, YouTube TV, Amazon Prime, HBO Now and the Disney+. For live TV streaming, you can subscribe to Hulu with Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV Now. To get an idea of channel lineups, click the link below for a comparison among the major services.
If you are looking to stream a major network, there is CBS All Access with video-on-demand and live programing and soon NBC Peacock But, you can also get CBS as well as the other major networks - NBC, ABC and Fox - with subscriptions to DirecTV Now, YouTube TV and Hulu Live TV.
If you're a sports fan, there is ESPN+. See the link below to compare sports offerings on various streaming services.
Some of the free streaming services are Crackle (Sony-owned site and one of the best for video-on-demand), Pluto TV (streams live content especially news, weather and sports), Tubi (offers a sizeable library of movies and TV with its free service supported by ads) and PBS Kids.
Visit each of the streaming services' websites for further information and cost.
Helpful Links:
Comparison of Streaming Services for Sports
Best Live Streaming Services for Cord Cutters
The TV Subscriptions You’ll Need to Watch Your Favorite Show
Q. Can I keep my DirecTV service?
A. Yes, if you prefer all-time access to live programing. Your costs may be higher than OTT subscriptions and weather may interrupt your satellite signal.