Using new compression schemes and improved spectrum management systems, EchoStar Communications continues to add local broadcast channels to its direct-to-home (DTH) satellite TV offerings. Last week they announced the addition of the Eugene, Ore. and Memphis, Tenn.; DMAs #121 and #43, respectively. The company said it now offers local channels in 73 cities and their metro areas nationwide.
This is the first time local TV channels are available via satellite TV in these two markets. The channels will be offered at a $1 per month discount to the regular price of $5.99 per month for DISH Network customers in Eugene until the local ABC station KEZI is added to the package.
A Dish 500 antenna is required to receive the local channels via satellite. A second dish, available free of charge, may be required to receive UPN Ch. 30 (WLMT), in Memphis.
The local TV channels now available to Eugene, Ore. subscribers includes: CBS Ch. 13 (KVAL), FOX Ch. 34 (KLSR), NBC Ch. 16 (KMTR), UPN Ch. 36 (KTVC) and PBS Ch. 28 (KEPB).
In Memphis, Tenn., the local TV channels offered are: ABC Ch. 24 (WPTY), CBS Ch. 3 (WREG), NBC Ch. 5 (WMC),FOX Ch. 13 (WHBQ), UPN Ch. 30 (WLMT) and PBS Ch. 10 (WKNO).
DISH Network offers local channels via satellite to Eugene customers in four Oregon counties: Benton, Coos, Douglas and Lane. Local channels in the Memphis DMA include three states and 10 Tennessee counties: Crockett, Dyer, Fayette, Gibson, Hardeman, Haywood, Lauderdale, McNairy, Shelby and Tipton. Memphis local channels are also available in seven Arkansas counties: Crittenden, Cross, Lee, Mississippi, Phillips, Poinsett and St. Francis as well as 11 Mississippi counties: Alcorn, Benton, Coahoma, De Sota, Lafayette, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Tate, Tippah and Tunica.
For more information visit www.dishnetwork.com.