So whos NOT getting a Hopper due to lack of OTA?

[Hall]

Pretty much all of the existing USB tuners are ATSC/QAM so the chipsets are readily available so what extra money?

There would have to be some level of software support on Dish's side (in the receiver(s)) in order to implement this. I've no doubt that the chipset and it's firmware handles both ATSC and QAM but device the tuner is being used in has to know what to do with this data.

I assume there are others in areas where OTA is difficult to recieve.

How many satellite customers also have cable service in their homes ? More importantly, remember that the number of Dish customers who want options, be it ATSC or QAM, on top of their satellite service is very small.

 

[Hall]

Isn't the pre-installed software (on new units) extremely stripped down, i.e. has very few end-user features ? It's main function is to boot the box up, acquire satellites, show basic setup screens, and most importantly, download everyday software ?

 

[handymantoo]

I do not plan to upgrade until OTA arrives. I have two 722k with dual ota and I receive stations from Boston and Providence and do more recording on OTA than Dish programming. I really would like two hoppers, but I'll wait for the OTA!!

 

[Jhon69]

If DISH could add PBS to PTAT? that would help sell subscribers to upgrade to the Hopper.

 

[isaacmorseMI]

If DISH could add PBS to PTAT? that would help sell subscribers to upgrade to the Hopper.

I honestly don't think it would.

Sent from my iPad 2 using Forum Runner

 

[Ronnie-]

I honestly don't think it would.

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I do not either.

IMO, the CW would add more value to it than adding PBS. Not that I watch anything on either, but the wife would enjoy the addition (and I guess it would free up one more tuner for me)

 

[Chris Leer]

well msmith198025 i honestly think it would sell more subscribers to upgrade to the hopper also but i am waiting until OTA support is available in our area to upgrade to one.

 

[ScottChez]

Someone asked what I wanted for Fathers day, I said the Hopper. Oh wait, it cant get the locals- PBS in HD, METV, MyTV, Local Weather, LiveWell PBS Iowa, PBS Kids ect with out the OTA.
Plus I want Hopper 1 to see Hopper 2 recordings (integration), and what about the Wakling Dead on AMC? Hummm

So I said guess we wait till my Birthday or Xmass. Wonder if dish sells Gift cards?

 

[beercan]

Waiting for at least 5 s/w revisions after OTA for da' Hopper is released. My 2-722s with OTA working just fine now thank you.

 

[Jhon69]

I do not either.

IMO, the CW would add more value to it than adding PBS. Not that I watch anything on either, but the wife would enjoy the addition (and I guess it would free up one more tuner for me)

Guess it all depends which age bracket you fall into.

 

[budda]

Why should Dish have to concern themselves with QAM? Just extra money they have to spend on a product to produce.

Because people want it. Or should I say customers.

 

[Pakbackr]

The deal-breaker for me isn't the OTA issue, although it is a consideration. Frankly, the deal-breaker with me on the Hopper is the lack of a 2nd TV output like the 622/722/922 have now. It is so integrated into my set-up, I am not sure I can live without it.

 

[dwarren2]

The deal-breaker for me isn't the OTA issue, although it is a consideration. Frankly, the deal-breaker with me on the Hopper is the lack of a 2nd TV output like the 622/722/922 have now. It is so integrated into my set-up, I am not sure I can live without it.

I think your a bit off base. The Hopper does have a TV2 equivalent out put. It's called a Joey. It just costs you $7/mo but it is also an HD output, not SD and you can have more than 1 HF remote viewing output. The Hopper requires a new mind set.

 

[JM42]

The deal-breaker for me isn't the OTA issue, although it is a consideration. Frankly, the deal-breaker with me on the Hopper is the lack of a 2nd TV output like the 622/722/922 have now. It is so integrated into my set-up, I am not sure I can live without it.

A Joey with modulator is a viable option. It's an issue you'll have to eventually come to terms with. Dish will keep the current VIPs around for years - as long as they have enough churn to keep the refurbs coming, but the last new duo receivers are probably already in the warehouse.

 

[cditty]

Dish doesn't operate like DirecTV. Exceedingly unlikely that we will lose a sat tuner.

I hope you are correct. I can make it with 2 OTA tuners and turn off PTA and gain a sat tuner.

 

[primetimeguy]

I hope you are correct. I can make it with 2 OTA tuners and turn off PTA and gain a sat tuner.

That would be my plan as well.

 

[navychop]

I believe Scott posted that initially, one USB single OTA tuner per Hopper. Would need 2 Hoppers to get 2 OTA tuners working.

 

[Faw]

I believe Scott posted that initially, one USB single OTA tuner per Hopper. Would need 2 Hoppers to get 2 OTA tuners working.

So the OTA tuners have to be in the hopper? I thought they could be on hoppers and joeys...

 

[patmurphey]

If DISH could add PBS to PTAT? that would help sell subscribers to upgrade to the Hopper.

Different transponder in NY, maybe elsewhere, too.

 

[Scott Greczkowski]

So the OTA tuners have to be in the hopper? I thought they could be on hoppers and joeys...

No only on the Hoppers