DirecTV/ATSC RCA/ProScan Set-Top Receivers
Thomson Consumer Electronics showcased its new RCA/ProScan brand DirecTV/ATSC set-top receivers at the recent National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention in April. Thomson is introducing the new set-top models used to receive DirecTV and USSB programming in June 1999 under license from DirecTV. The suggested retail price of the HDTV-capable set-top receiver is estimated to be $600. Previously the DirecTV/ATSC set-top receiver was integrated into advanced digital TVs from RCA and ProScan, Hitachi and Toshiba. The availability of a stand-alone set-top receiver will offer consumers a set-top converter box for DTV/HDTV reception that can be connected to a new digital television monitor or to an existing analog television. As with the built-in DirectTV/ATSC receivers in digital TVs, a satellite dish and an off-air rooftop or indoor antenna needs to be installed to receive standard-definition and high-definition DirecTV programming as well as local digital terrestrial broadcast channels. Concurrent with the June rollout of the new set-top receivers, there will be new elliptical satellite dishes brought to market to support DirecTV high-definition programming such as the HBO HD channel. DirecTV is currently delivering high-definition programming from leased capacity aboard an expansion satellite platform (Galaxy II-R) orbiting at 95 degrees west longitude (VVL). The close proximity of this satellite location to the original DirecTV programming services offered from 101 degrees WL makes it possible for consumers to install a single, elliptical satellite dish to retrieve programming from both locations with only one dish. The orbital location of DirecTVís high-definition programming is likely to change once DirecTV receives all approvals of its recent Tempo acquisition. (See Todayís News, May 5, 1999) DirecTV will introduce a new advanced program guide later this year that will ring national and local digital broadcast television to consumers in a seamless manner. Consumers will be able to access local digital channels as well as national programming form DirecTV using their DirecTV System remote control. For more information, contact Bob Marsocci at DirecTV 310 726 4656.