The EchoStar 922’s user interface and remote control were selected as CES Innovations 2009 Design and Engineering Award honorees. Demos of the 922 will be held in the Sling Media, Inc., booth and in the DISH Network Corporation booth located in the southeast corner of Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center January 8-11.
Digital media operators, including satellite, cable, and, can benefit from the design and engineering expertise of EchoStar and the features of its 922, including its ability to reduce operational-related customer calls while providing a platform for launching multiple customer-requested content and features beyond linear programming. Diagnostic software tools allow service providers to analyze and cater to the needs of their overall customer base, improving customer service and reducing churn. The EchoStar 922 is an entertainment centerpiece combining the best of video and IP technologies into a stylish, black-chassis, set-top box displaying a capacitive-touch, backlit front bezel. By integrating Sling Media’s Slingbox technology, the EchoStar 922 allows TV aficionados to watch and control their favorite TV shows and sporting events from anywhere in the world via a broadband Internet connection on their laptop or mobile phone. Accessing multiple video sources, viewers will never run out of shows to watch. The EchoStar 922 features a massive 1 terabyte hard drive for up to 1,000 hours of storage and supports connecting an external hard drive for more storage.
Other 922 features include the following:
- Supports 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 480i, and 480p
- Internet-delivered Video on Demand
- Users can move forward one day at a time in the guide while browsing a full or partial screen program guide
- Connect to the home network via Ethernet, HomePlug Turbo (using home power lines), or WiFi (with optional WiFi adapter)
- Comprehensive search capability across all available video sources, including IP, VOD, linear TV or DVR
- Intuitive timer creation and DVR management, allowing users to categorize programming by groups (video source, title, genres) or by content description (date, length, ratings and more)
- Load photos, MP3s and selected Internet content
- Future upgrades may include photo sharing, movie ticket purchases, family calendar, instant messaging, streaming audio, and ability to transfer content within a home network
EchoStar will deliver the EchoStar 922 to its first operator, DISH Network, in spring 2009 as the HD DuoDVR SlingLoaded ViP 922, furnishing satellite TV customers with a break-through TV experience and letting DISH Network customers take their favorite shows on the road or into another room. EchoStar will also leverage the features of the 922 by announcing this spring a tru2way SlingLoaded STB for trials for the cable industry.