FTA Questions for a n00b

[Jebus]

I'm currently running a 2700 w/ Magic card setup, but I'm thinking of also picking up a Fortec Star Lifetime Ultra FTA to test with and I've started to do some reading on the FTA receivers, but I've got a few questions that I was hoping someone wouldn't mind answering...

1. I see that they have Magic cards for the FTA receivers? Why? I thought the FTA receivers would pull in everything anyway.

2. (kind of related to the above question), I think from what I've read that the FTAs don't auto-roll (possibly that's why someone would want to use the Magic card on a FTA - as long as the FTA has the card slot). Does the Fortec Ultra autoroll?

3. Would I be better off sticking with my 2700 Magic card setup? Would it last longer? Any downside to using the FTA receivers (BTW - I'm pulling in BEV)? I think I've read that they don't have a program guide on the FTA receivers?

4. Any other comments a n00b such as myself should know?

Thanks

[azdssnoob]

1. I see that they have Magic cards for the FTA receivers? Why? I thought the FTA receivers would pull in everything anyway.

Yes...

The 5900 with the smart card slot will allow for future expansion.


2. (kind of related to the above question), I think from what I've read that the FTAs don't auto-roll (possibly that's why someone would want to use the Magic card on a FTA - as long as the FTA has the card slot). Does the Fortec Ultra autoroll?

Sofware , firmware works till something changes, the you need as to up date - flash, the unit. Current " fix " has been up for over one month now.

3. Would I be better off sticking with my 2700 Magic card setup? Would it last longer? Any downside to using the FTA receivers (BTW - I'm pulling in BEV)? I think I've read that they don't have a program guide on the FTA receivers?


Correct no electronic program guide as yet. Current " fix " 09/04 states to get BEV.



4. Any other comments a n00b such as myself should know?

Thanks


Start reading and decide.

Added note :

As these units seem to have a " limited " lifespan, at least for now, the prices are dropping. Saw Fortec Ultra on Ebay today for $ 160 / w shipping.

Good Luck

[Jebus]

Thanks for all the input azdssnoob! Just what I needed to know. I had also seen the Ultra on Ebay, that's kind of why I've been thinking of grabbing one to try out.

One other question though... how long do they expect the FTA receivers without the card slot to last?