Audio Video News

Last week, EchoStar Communications announced the availability of its optional 8VSB tuner cartridge, which enables customers who have the Dish Network Model 6000 satellite television receiver to receive off-air analog and digital broadcasts such as those in the High Definition Television (HDTV) format, where available. EC says that the cartridge is now available at participating Dish Network retailers for a introductory price of $100. After Jan. 1 the cartridge will be available for $149.

According to EC, the 8VSB tuner cartridge uses "state-of-the-art 8VSB tuner technology for maximum off-air reception and performance." The company explains that by upgrading their Dish Network Model 6000 satellite receiver with the 8VSB tuner cartridge, consumers can channel surf between off-air analog and off-air digital broadcasts (where available) in addition to standard and high definition Dish Network satellite television programming.

The company's Model 6000 is an integrated HDTV satellite television receiver capable of receiving four channels of Dish Network's HDTV programming in addition to its full complement of standard definition digital satellite channels. EC says that the 6000 offers both component (Y, Pr, Pb) and RGB HDTV video outputs and is compatible with virtually all HDTV sets. EC adds that the Model 6000 and 8VSB tuner cartridge combination supports both 1080i and 720p HDTV resolution output formats and complies with standards established by the Advanced Television Standards Committee.

EC says that Dish Network customers will need a second dish, pointed at 61.5 degrees west longitude, in order to receive the high definition programming. The company offers an HDTV equipment package, which includes the Model 6000 satellite TV receiver and two satellite dishes for $699 without the 8VSB tuner cartridge. The Model 6000 also allows customers who do not yet have an HDTV set to downconvert the HDTV channels to the standard NTSC format.