You have read here about DISH Network's down-turn after a net subscriber loss of 25,000 for the second quarter, but CEO Charlie Ergen said the DBS company is working to address the challenges. The subscriber loss brought the total customer count to 13.585 million subscribers.

In a conference, Ergen outlined four areas that have impacted DISH's operations; the souring economy and difficulties in the housing market, which Ergen admitted was out of the company's control.

The other three matters included; ongoing piracy and fraud troubles; an intensely competitive environment in the pay-TV business; and operational efficiencies at the company.

Regarding piracy, DISH sent out a new generation of smart cards last month, and that could address illegitimate boxes receiving the DBS service; the operational issues involves answering the phones on time, and working on other efforts tied to customer service.

Lastly regarding the competition, Ergen said DISH is ramping up its high-def efforts. The service recently launched new HD channels - which numbered 114 as of last Friday - and is preparing to use a new satellite - EchoStar XI - by the end of the month.