this is 100% a subcontractor problem. I've had the DirecTV guys at my house 3 times, and only once did they not do the job (due to not having a tall enough ladder....they did not return again). It is definitely not just a subcontractor problem. It's a directv/directech problem. Directv is setting up installation dates that they can't handle. It's not a matter of a guy showing up with the wrong stuff, it's a matter of directv trying to sell more hardware than they actually have, and putting a greater emphasis on getting new customers over keeping existing customers. I estimated I've spent about $20,000 on their service over the years, and they've given me all sorts of garbage about being an A-list customer. I've been given all sorts of rebates and crap in the past few months, but they aren't getting the job done. perhaps it's regional then. I can only speak for my own experience.