Satellite TV, a glorious technology which we enjoy only in the comforts of our home, is now even better. It has become portable. Yes, you can watch TV anywhere and anytime you like. It is much superior to cell phone TV’s since it has larger screen so you don’t have to squint anymore. Mobile TV has definitely been reinvented: satellite TV in a briefcase.

The recently release portable satellite TV includes a removable 17-inch LCD monitor with an integrated satellite receiver, AC/DC adapter, rechargeable battery (similar to that of a laptop), remote control, and a lid that serves as the antenna. All of these mechanisms are housed in a briefcase with a handle, which makes it easy to lug along with you wherever you go. All you need to do is to turn it on, line up the antenna, and you’re ready to go, as promised by its manufacturers.

The idea is so clever that you are already thinking of getting one for yourself. But before you go full speed towards a store and purchase your very own snazzy gadget, read first the downsides of a portable satellite TV:

• It is bulky and heavy.
  
  Yes, the briefcase idea is neat but you can not deny the fact that it is quite cumbersome to bring along. With a width of 19.5 inches and a weight of 27 pounds, this equipment is rather large and heavy as compared to a cell phone TV. It actually reminds people of the colossal computers decades ago. However, just like those computers, give it time and the inventors will surely find a way to fix this shortcoming.
  

• Setting up the antenna is tricky.
  
  Before you can start watching your
  favorite shows, you have to locate first a suitable spot to place the portable satellite TV to get the best reception there is. Lining up your antenna is the most delicate part in setting up this type of TV. The antenna needs to have a clear view of the southern sky. Tall buildings and even trees can thwart your purpose of getting a clear signal. In order for the TV to pull in a picture, the signal strength should be around 50% or more, 70% if you want to have the best possible picture.
  

• The bright sun can make viewing difficult.
  
  If you place the TV under direct sunlight, it would be difficult to see the display. Avoid placing it in areas that are very bright and will subdue the picture on your screen.
  
  
• Short battery life.
  
  Another inconvenience that you will encounter with a portable satellite TV is its battery. Its battery lasts only an hour and would take a full 8 hours to recharge. Of course you have the AC/DC adapter which you can use to plug into an outlet when you are in a house or a dorm room or connect it to the battery of your car or boat. However, the cord for the adapter is not too long, making it difficult to position the TV in an area with the best signal.
  

• The Price is not yet right.
  
  As of now, the portable satellite TV is expensive in the sense that you have to purchase the device and then sign-up for a monthly subscription for your satellite services.
  

Similar to computers, this will evolve into lighter and less bulky apparatus. With just a few adjustments to improve the size, weight, and other minor aspects, portable satellite TV will be a big hit. Just give it time and you will be seeing portable satellite TV being carried everywhere.