In a deal said to be the first of its kind, online DVD rental service <A HREF="http://www.netflix.com/">NetFlix</A> has entered revenue-sharing agreements with Columbia Tristar and Warner Home Video. The agreement, announced December 7, will allow NetFlix to buy movies in larger quantities and at deeper discounts than previously. NetFlix is the first DVD Internet dealer to have a revenue sharing agreement with major motion picture distributors.

Last week, <A HREF="http://www.dishnetwork.com">EchoStar Communications</A> 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.

If you subscribe to a cable system or direct broadcast satellite service, you probably need a set-top box (STB) hooked up to your television. Where would you prefer to get your STB? According to a recent study, most TV viewers still prefer to buy retail.

According to comments filed by the<A HREF="http://www.ce.org"> Consumer Electronics Association</A> (CEA) last week, if the Federal Communications Commission is serious about developing a robust commercial market for digital cable set-top navigation devices, the agency must immediately revise its rules and the market incentives available to cable operators. The comments were filed in response to the Commission's <I>Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking</I>, regarding the commercial availability of navigation devices.