High-powered satellites built by Hughes Space and Communications Company (HSC) began bringing true direct broadcast satellite (DBS) service to homes throughout North America in 1994.

The spacecraft are HS-601 body-stabilized models ordered by DirecTV, Inc., a unit of Hughes Electronics Corporation. DirecTV-1, DirecTV-2, and DirecTV-3 are collocated at 101 degrees West longitude and are used exclusively by DirecTV. Collectively the three satellites have the capacity to deliver more than 200 channels of entertainment programming to subscribers that are equipped with DSSTM digital home receiving units, which feature an 18-inch dish.