Frequently Asked Questions
About XM Radio
What is XM Satellite Radio?
XM Radio broadcasts 130 digital channels of 100% commercial-free music, news, sports and children's programming direct to activated XM radios via satellite and our extensive repeater network, which supplements the satellite signal to ensure seamless transmission. Our content originates from our Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City studios in Canada and Washington, DC, Nashville and New York studios in the US, and is then fed through XM's broadcast center, the world's largest all-digital studio complex in Washington, DC, and uplink to our (Boeing 702) satellites. These satellites transmit the signal across North America. Each satellite provides 18kw of total power making them the most powerful commercial satellites ever built, providing coast-to-coast coverage. XM Satellite Radio is changing the way people listen to radio in the same way cable changed television.
How long before I hear XM after I activate my radio?
- Please ensure that your antenna has an unobstructed view of the southern sky
- Please leave your radio on and tuned to channel 1, the Preview channel
- After 15 minutes tune your radio to channel 7, the 70s channel
- Once you can hear audio on channel 7, tune your radio to channel 175, MLB Home Plate
- If you can hear channel 7 and 175 your activation is complete and you may begin to enjoy the entire channel line-up
- If an hour passes and you do not hear any of the channels (other than channel 1) please refresh your radio at http://refresh.xmradio.ca or call 1-877-GET-XMSR (438-9677) for assistance