I am surprised that there have been very few posts about the Echostar / Dish Network version of the digital to analog ATSC to NTSC converter. It has VCR timers (blasters?), along with a seven day TV Guide (?) program guide. It was shown at the CES two months ago and the $39 price is attractive. Does anyone have any more information?

I, too, am very interested in this one, but I also have not seen much written about it. I think the fact that it is apparently not available yet, nor will it be available until June/July probably has a lot to do with it. I am in no big hurry to get a convertor box. I will quite likely use one in the basement of my home and a second one in the second story. I certainly have been an early adopter of some new technology in the past and sometimes I have had buyers remorse for not waiting and/or doing my research before buying.

http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/02/22/echostars-tr-40-dtv-converter-box-not-available-til-june-jul/

Thanks for the photos, but I've been hearing a lot about the TR-40. Nothing concrete, just people hoping to get one. I'm in that boat, but may have to buy mine since I ordered my coupons shortly after I could, and it sounds like I may be receiving them soon. From what I understand the coupons issued now show a expire date of May 31, too soon for the June/July expected ship date of the TR-40.
And I don't believe the TR-40 has a IR blaster, but a simple 8 event timer to turn on/change channels at a scheduled time. Not as handy as a blaster, but better than nothing, which is what most others announced will have.

Do you guys have any idea what stores will carry this locally? It seems as if I have seen Dish equipment at Radio Shack and Sears in the past. Perhaps if I get near Burnsville Center I can stop in and check both places and ask them if they expect to carry them. Although chances are those of us checking forums may just know as much or more than many clerks are likely to know.

Hey I don't know if this thread is dead or not but...

I would like to know where to buy one too. I've read that they will not be available till June and even then in limited quantity. I got my $40 coupons already and they expire June 4. I have a feeling I will just miss them unless I can swing some kind of a pre-order deal with a vendor.

Anyone got any ideas?

According to the mgr. at the Burnsville "Ultimate Electronics" they will carry the TR-40, but not the TR-50. Not sure about other stores.

Do you guys have any idea what stores will carry this locally? It seems as if I have seen Dish equipment at Radio Shack and Sears in the past.Those would be the most logical places I would think.

yeah this box was on my list until you hear most people feel it will never come to market or only be available if you taker their dish network. then everyones attention shifted to maxmedia which seams to be the same if it ever comes to market.

Well, I have Dish Network already, so maybe I'll have an advantage.

I don't know if the MaxMedia will have or work with TVGOS like they're saying the TR-40 might though, and that's what myself and a lot of others on this forum mostly want it for.

The other thing is the "VCR Timer", which only the TR-40 will have.

i sent them an email explaining that most peoples coupons will expire before June so what is their excuse for make it coupon cost when they will be useless when this box comes to market.

This is the box that I recommended to my father for the OTA crt at his lake cabin...of course his coupon expires on May 29th. I knew this government coupon thing would be a fiasco....only a tiny handful of the boxes on the approved list will be available before his coupons expire.:rolleyes:

i tried to write the coupon people and point this out but no answer. This all stinks and what is OTA?

I, too, would like to purchase the TR-40 with my coupons but they expire 5/23/08. I guess I'll be a cash customer.

The reason that the coupons are good for but 90 days is that was what the representatives in Congress specified. It will take an Act of Congress to change that. Contact your Representatives.

OTA means "over the air" i.e., antenna reception.

The other thing is the "VCR Timer", which only the TR-40 will have. how would this work and why would you need it

The VCR timer is good for someone like me. I have a Hauppauge hardware MPEG-2 encoder on a dedicated PC, being used to record primetime programming onto a hard drive. I use the auxillary input of the card and not the internal tuner. The TR40 would probably be able to change channels by itself.

After I get the programming on the hard drive, I burn DVD+/-RW disks with the shows and watch the programs on a portable DVD player on the 55 minute public transist trip into the city each day, coming and going. Two hours a day on the bus! I presently use an HD set top box with both HD and analog output jacks. The Hauppage takes the output from the analog jacks. The HDTV to analog recordings are in vertically stretched, anamorphic form and when played on a widescreen portable DVD player look GREAT! Just like mini-HD. Very sharp and very clear!

I had a high cost Archos portable multimedia unit (3 inches x 5 inches total size), but the 7" screen DVD player is sized just right for my eyes. I watch 10 hr. of primetime programming every week on the bus. The bus is a long distance transit bus with reclining seats, personal air nozzles, overhead pointable lights, and now even free internet service. Not your inner-city rolling slum bus. It is a "get the lawyers to the city" type bus.

The TR40 would allow me to use the full HD STB in another location, and still get the job done on my recording tasks, this time with channels changing by themselves...

But alas, my government coupons also expire on May 23. Why not let us PRE-ORDER the TR40 box and use our coupons before they expire? I am a long term Dish customer, since 1997, and the VIP 722 can't be beat. Great hardware! Hopefully the TR40 will be the same. I am considering using the internet hookup to a laptop and the Slingbox, but the laptops are really too big compared to the perfect sized 7" , widescreen DVD player that I now use for bus entertainment.

The other thing is the "VCR Timer", which only the TR-40 will have. how would this work and why would you need it

I own the first model of the echostar dishplayer. I programed in the code for my vcr. Then looking through the on screen tv guide I pick out what shows I want to record. When the show comes on the dishplayer turns on to that station and sends out the signal for the vcr to turn on, turn to channel 3 or 4, and start recording. When the show is over the dishplayer tells the vcr to stop recording and turn off. I've owned this for 9 years. It also was capable of surfing the internet via phone line and recieving dish network.

Check this:
http://www.dishnetwork.com/digitaltransition/index.shtml#anchor4

Quote: "This means that you can use your $40 government coupon to get the TR-40 essentially for free (not including sales tax and shipping, where applicable). Our converter boxes will be available in the summer; so please hold-off getting your coupon until the summer as the coupons expire 90 days after they are issued. "

tivo won a lawsuit against echostar for patent infringement with dvrs hope that isn't the reason for all the delays. the fact it was cecb approved so long ago and not on the market yet is disappointing.

hold off until the supply of coupons is done. The goverment isn't giving this away forever, limited supply. bunch of jerks

Check this:
http://www.dishnetwork.com/digitaltransition/index.shtml#anchor4

Quote: "This means that you can use your $40 government coupon to get the TR-40 essentially for free (not including sales tax and shipping, where applicable). Our converter boxes will be available in the summer; so please hold-off getting your coupon until the summer as the coupons expire 90 days after they are issued. "

To make matters worse, remember that the government gives us nothing without having to take it from us first! Bunch of jerks indeed!

To make matters worse, remember that the government gives us nothing without having to take it from us first! Bunch of jerks indeed!

Now that the auctions are complete we now know who the govt takes it from--Verizon, who takes it from you, along with an additional "Converter Box Program & CEO New Yacht Recovery Fee".

tivo won a lawsuit against echostar for patent infringement with dvrs hope that isn't the reason for all the delays. the fact it was cecb approved so long ago and not on the market yet is disappointing.

I think the Tivo patent win was a hollow victory. The win dismissed all of the Tivo Hardware claims against Echostar. Echostar has since modified their software to avoid the Tivo software patent claims. As a result I believe aside from slightly less functional Echostar software ther is nothing left of the "Win".

Rick R

Hey I don't know if this thread is dead or not but...

I would like to know where to buy one too. I've read that they will not be available till June and even then in limited quantity. I got my $40 coupons already and they expire June 4. I have a feeling I will just miss them unless I can swing some kind of a pre-order deal with a vendor.

Anyone got any ideas?

I just got this reply from TR40@slingmedia.com

At this time we are working toward final arrangements with resellers as well as creating a Consumer Awareness program to better educate consumers on the products as well as the transition from analog to digital broadcasts on February 17, 2009.

Update: The TR-40 is expected to launch in June while the TR-50 is expected in September. We understand a great number of consumers have already received their coupons from the NTIA and are concerned that they will expire before the TR-40 is on the market. We are currently working with federal agencies to try and augment this process but we do not have any control over it.

Kindest Regards,

Sling Media

Hopefully they'll work something out since this appears to be the best converter on the market (almost).

Mick

why can't they take orders like maxmedia did. pay now get the box later. i read the goverment is giving credit back to the cards for defective boxes return. hell i'll buy now for delivery later

Count me in on a pre-order for the TR-40!

I too would like to have them accept my coupon now for later delivery, although according to Mosquito on the Maxmedia thread they cannot charge the coupons until they actually have the boxes. Get going Echostar!

i tried to write the coupon people and point this out but no answer. This all stinks and what is OTA?dagger666 did you write a letter or a email, and who was it addressed to?

I know people keep saying to contact your representatives in Congress , but have you looked at the dtv2009 BIOS (https://www.dtv2009.gov/Press.aspx)?
These would be two people at the NTIA Coupon Program you may want to contact.

Anita L. Wallgren (AWallgren@ntia.doc.gov)
Program Director
TV Converter Box Coupon Program
Anita Wallgren (202) 482-6266

Anthony G. Wilhelm (AWilhelm@ntia.doc.gov)
Director of Consumer Education and Public Information
TV Converter Box Coupon Program
Anthony Wilhelm (202) 482-6260

Here is the NTIA Contact Information and Telephone Roster (http://www.ntia.doc.gov/ntiahome/phones.htm)
Look the bottom of that page regarding E-mail Addresses.

Also please calm down and don't be too demanding when contacting these people.
I for one would not like to be in their position as they probably have very little control in the coupon program but may be able to help you.

Good luck :)

they started it and i don't think they care what anyone says. I don't even think they read email. A chicken with it's head cut off could have seen the problems this was going to have and ran it right from the begining.

A request: if this is meant to be the "main" TR-40 thread (and so far there seems to be no other candidates) please update the title to have proper product name, TR-40. I almost didn't see this thread because I wasn't searching on your "alternative spelling" You can keep TR40 in there somewhere too though, I suppose.

If it didn't say "Echostar", then it might be a bigger deal, but there's only one standalone ATSC tuner (-only) that will be available from Echostar, so it shouldn't be that confusing.

Only a moderator can change the title now. Not sure if the request would have to come from the Original Poster or if anyone could request it. I agree the dash should probably be in the title. Searches are very picky. Add the dash and you will get nothing the way it is now.

I just talked to my House of Representative's aide regarding the coupon fiasco. He assured me that my Representative (Mac Thornberry of Texas) is well aware of the problems facing those of us who got our coupons early. He assured me that Congress realizes they are going to have to come up with a solution and that he (the aide) has done extensive research into the problems presented regarding Low Power Stations and the need for analog pass through for the boxes. I suggested that they have the coupons expire in a year instead of 3 months and make it retroactive to all coupons issued to date. This should give all manufacturers a chance to get their boxes to market and for the consumer to make an educated choice of boxes. Of course, he said that since this is an election year, he wasn't sure that Congress could act in time to help those of us who already have our coupons. I stressed to him that time was of the essence and that this was just as important to the American people as his getting re-elected to Congress since Congress was the entity that screwed it up to start with! We parted with his assurance that Congressman Thornberry would work as fast as possible to enact a solution to this mess. I am not holding my breath, but if we all write our Congressmen, maybe they will realize how dire this situation has become.

If anyone finds out a way to pre-order these boxes so we can use our coupons before they expire, please let us know. :)

Does anyone know the exterior dimensions of this box? I need to fit one into my RV and space is limited.

If anyone finds out a way to pre-order these boxes so we can use our coupons before they expire, please let us know. :)

ConvertMyTV figured out a way accommodate pre-orders with the MaxMedia unit and they are paying hell for it over on the MaxMedia thread. Wonder if today's TIVO ruling over Dish will impact the offering of the E*50 or even the E*40?

as of today the site is down, just one page with the words customer service on it.

only the tr-50 was supposed to have a recorder built in so it should not effect the tr-40

as of today the site is down, just one page with the words customer service on it.

touché! That is a disconcerting development

only the tr-50 was supposed to have a recorder built in so it should not effect the tr-40

I was thinking if the tr-40 development and manufacturing is just a derivative of the tr-50 design (.i.e. tr-50 minus the recording capability). If the tr-50 development and manufacturing is stopped due to the TIVO ruling then E* has lost it’s benefit from economy of scale on both units. They may choose to throw in the towel on the tr-40 as well?

if that happens then i guess i'll buy the channel master cm-7000

as of today the site is down, just one page with the words customer service on it.
dagger what site are you refering to?
It must not be this one http://www.dishnetwork.com/digitaltransition/index.shtml#anchor4

Thanks Malouff, I signed up for the email updates about the TR-40 on your link.
I believe Dagger was talking about the Maxamedia "convertmyTV" website, it has problems at times.

A DISH Network digital-to-analog converter box is an electronic device that converts digital signals into analog signals so that digital broadcasts can be viewed on analog TVs – enabling your analog TV to be able to receive TV programming.

The TR-40 and TR-50 are DISH Network’s digital-to-analog converter boxes. The TR-40 will be priced at $39.99, when available, and is eligible for the government coupon program (click here to learn more). This means that you can use your $40 government coupon to get the TR-40 essentially for free (not including sales tax and shipping, where applicable). Our converter boxes will be available in the summer; so please hold-off getting your coupon until the summer as the coupons expire 90 days after they are issued.

like we have a choice now they have been sent out and the more i read this the more mad it makes me. they had 3 years from the switch date was set to get their box out on time being the time the first coupons were sent out. we only have 90 days since the coupons were sent out and we should gamble on getting coupons by holding ordering them until echostar is ready to ship their box. Screw you Echostar you got a lot of nerve printing that.

they had 3 years from the switch date was set to get their box out

Actually the final government specification of what was allowed in coupon elgible boxes was completed only a little more that a year before the coupons became available. The converter boxes that are now available were designed and put into production in a very short time.

Rick R

EchoStar TR-40 (new design) outside dimensions are:
H: 1.3” x W: 5.9” x D: 4.2” This is one of the smallest boxes so far!

EchoStar TR-40 (new design) outside dimensions are:
H: 1.3” x W: 5.9” x D: 4.2” This is one of the smallest boxes so far!

New design, and smaller?  Another increase in their unfulfilled promises, and perhaps an excuse for another delay.  Until we can actually buy it, its dimensions are 0x0x0, so yes, that's the smallest box imaginable.

mandy's dad can you provide a source for your information.

Echostar (Dish Network) TR-40 Converter Box gets a new look
http://www.soundadviceblog.com/?p=855

The TR-40 digital converter box from Echostar (also known as Dish Network) has a new look! My Echostar media contact, Francie Bauer, sent me the image posted above. The TR-40 will be 40%-60% smaller than the original design, shown below.

notice the slingbox logo is gone

...My Echostar media contact, Francie Bauer, sent me the image posted above...notice the slingbox logo is gone
n4ygt I still don't have my coupons and have not tried to call (650)-293-8640 the pre-order phone number.
I do have the number correct don't I the image is really fuzzy.

I guess I too should have had a Echostar contact:(

All I had was a SlingMedia contact Matt Whitlock (http://www.slingcommunity.com/article/26454/Sling-Gets-Into-the-Set-Top-Box-Game/#73087)who is supposedly still digging around for some more information since March 31st.

By any chance did you ask Francie Bauer about a pre-order and if the price is going to change?

I am surprised that there have been very few posts about the Echostar / Dish Network version of the digital to analog ATSC to NTSC converter. It has VCR timers (blasters?), along with a seven day TV Guide (?) program guide. It was shown at the CES two months ago and the $39 price is attractive. Does anyone have any more information?

Per Don Lindich's Sound Advice (http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08103/872573-96.stm?cmpid=business.xml) column, "The TR-40 has been rebranded the DTVPal and will be available in June or July."

WWL-TV news analyst Jerry Seregni (http://www.wwltv.com/gumbo/index.html?2+) also reports, "The TR-40 has been approved by the NTIA's coupon program and will be sold as the DTVPal by both EchoStar and Sling Media."

The DTVPal brand isn't shown on the DISH Network digital transition page (http://www.dishnetwork.com/digitaltransition/?R=cf&WT.srch=1#anchor4)for its CECBs. Regarding the TR-40: "Our converter boxes will be available in the summer; so please hold-off getting your coupon until the summer as the coupons expire 90 days after they are issued". Regarding the TR-50: "The TR-50 will not be eligible for the coupon program, pricing and availability will be announced soon."

Thank you seatacboy for reporting and giving the sources.
Now we know to stop searching for the TR-40 and the hunt is on for the dtvpal.

I wounder if since they changed the name if they also changed the pricing and features.

Does this also mean that SlingMedia will also have a dtvpal?

Most can remember the MaxMedia/ConvertMyTV change from MMDTVB03 to MMDTVB02

Looks like dtvpal.org dtvpal.com and dtvpal.tv were registered 2008-03-18 by Echostar Satellite, L.L.C. but dtvpal.com was dropped.

Those with contacts please keep us updated.

Does this also mean that SlingMedia will also have a dtvpal? Based on Jerry Seregni's report for WWL-TV (http://www.wwltv.com/gumbo/index.html?2+), "The TR-40 has been approved by the NTIA's coupon program and will be sold as the DTVPal by both EchoStar and Sling Media."

Seregni's report also emphasizes another distinctive feature of the DTVPal:

"Unlike many converters, EchoStar's DTVPal uses an external AC power supply ("wall wart"). The box requires 5 volts DC, so it could also be powered by a cigarette lighter adapter or a battery pack. EchoStar hasn't announced plans to offer either as an accessory, but viewers in this area who have asked whether converter boxes will let them use their battery-powered, analog TVs to get news and information during tropical storms or power outages after Feb. 17th would snap them up."

Another thread indicated that the EchoStar/Sling CECB styling also was being changed. The cosmetic changes and brand name changes probably do not affect the NTIA certification of this CECB, but stay tuned.

By looking at the photos of this box.... My guess is that it well have the same sort of problems as people are supposedly having with that magnavox box (aka overheating due to no vent holes).

echostar has one advantage the magnavox doesn't, the power supply is out side the box. Transformer type power cord so that should cut down on the over heating problems.

It's still the TR-40. It's just being branded to market as the DTVPAL. Both are valid ways to refer to it. Here's the latest I have with a rendering. There's nothing new in this doc, and I can't say for sure if the rendering is the final design of the box.

I wonder if they have promised the Moon, World, ... and are going to the forever to deliver?
My coupons expire 28 May 2008.
I think I need its VCR timers and other features to schedule recording of programs on my analog TiVo DVR.

I emailed the Sales & Equipment department at dishnetwork.com. I asked if I could pre-order the ECHOSTAR TR-40 before my coupon expires on 6/13/08.

This is a copy of the response I received:

Thank you for your email. We apologize for the inconvenience this issue may have caused. Please be advised that we will still honor the $40 coupon even if it has expired. Unfortunately, there is no way to pre-order a converter box.

We thank you for allowing us to be of assistance to you. If you have any further questions or concerns, please refer to www.dishnetwork.com or reply to this email.

Sincerely,

Charles T.

TID:OR-Chrysler

DISH Network eCare

and how are they going to do that, take the $40 loss on expired coupons or are they raising the price by $40. I would not take their word on that unless they know something we don't about the goverement changing the rules.

I think this threads name should be changed to "Echostar TVDPAL digital to analog converter (a.k.a. TR-40)

and how are they going to do that, take the $40 loss on expired coupons or are they raising the price by $40. I would not take their word on that unless they know something we don't about the goverement changing the rules.


They could back date the sale to cash in the coupon?:confused:

and how are they going to do that, take the $40 loss on expired coupons...

I've read that they're already planning on taking a loss on these boxes to promote Dish Network. Maybe they feel it's that important that they're willing to take a total loss on some boxes.

how would free digital TV decoder promote dish pay TV? How will this coupon thing effect retailer like Mosquito unless Echostar will pay the $40 which will cost them plenty. You should have them explain how they and retailers plan to honor expired coupons for this box. No way am i wasting another coupon on their word or anyone else's, got screwed by Maxmedia already. When my other coupon arrive if they arrive then I'll give it a try.

Not positive how these CECB coupons work but with grocery store coupons stores usually get 6 months to get the coupon back to the mfg. after they've expired. Maybe that's what's going on??
On another note here's a copy of a email I just got from Echostar when I inquired about the TR-40 ship date:

Thank you for your interest in the recently-announced EchoStar/Sling Media TR-40 or EchoStar TR-50 products.

EchoStar’s TR-40 over-the-air, digital-to-analog converter allows analog TVs to receive digital over-the-air broadcasts and comes with an onscreen setup wizard for easy installation. Other features include up to a seven-day electronic programming guide (EPG), program search, parental locks and VCR auto-tune timers. The box will be sold under both the EchoStar and Sling Media, Inc. brand names for $39.99 at retail, and can be purchased via the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program.

EchoStar will also offer the TR-50 DVR digital-to-analog converter box that includes a digital video recorder, allowing customers to view, record and play back local over-the-air analog and digital broadcasts, including high definition. The TR-50 DVR offers all of the TR-40 features, plus closed captioning, reminder pop-ups for pre-selected programming, simultaneous output from HD and SD connections, as well as Ethernet, modem and USB connections to support additional functionality. Pricing for the TR-50 DVR will be established in the coming months. The TR-50 will not be eligible for the $40 Digital-to-Analog Converter Box Coupon Program as it functionality extends far beyond the maximum functionality of eligible converter boxes as set forth by the NTIA.

At this time we are working toward final arrangements with resellers as well as creating a Consumer Awareness program to better educate consumers on the products as well as the transition from analog to digital broadcasts on February 17, 2009.

Update: The TR-40 is expected to launch in June while the TR-50 is expected in September. We understand a great number of consumers have already received their coupons from the NTIA and are concerned that they will expire before the TR-40 is on the market. We are currently working with federal agencies to try and augment this process but we do not have any control over it.

Kindest Regards,

Great, so football season starts before the TR-50 is in hand. Don't these people know any better.

Yes, it keeps getting further out as time progresses. Kinda like a carrot on the end of a string.:mad:

Yes, it keeps getting further out as time progresses. Kinda like a carrot on the end of a string.:mad:

A big brown carrot....

Well, when you read their press, they are advertising the TR-50 as a converter box that is also a DVR. If you look at it that way they probably figure they have until 2/09 to get it right.

that is their standard PR email because the TR-40 & TR-50 have been replaced by the TVDPAL. Nothing was said about the TR-50 fuction being the TVDPAL box.

If anyone double checks with Echostar about taking expired coupons for their TVDPAL box, i would make sure there isn't some small print like "If you sign up for our service we will take your expired coupons" crap ! Make them put it in writing that no gimmicks.

I emailed the Sales & Equipment department at dishnetwork.com. I asked if I could pre-order the ECHOSTAR TR-40 before my coupon expires on 6/13/08. This is a copy of the response I received:

Thank you for your email..... Please be advised that we will still honor the $40 coupon even if it has expired. Unfortunately, there is no way to pre-order a converter box. How will Echostar/Sling get around the NTIA rules (https://www.ntiadtv.gov/faq.cfm) regarding retailer redemption of the coupons? Will they obtain a waiver from NTIA of the 90-day expiry date for redemption purposes?

Answer ID 222 How long are coupons active?
Coupons expire 90 days after they are mailed. Each coupon has an expiration date printed on it.

Answer ID 217 Will TV converter box sales information be audited?
Program auditors may request sales data on specific TV converter box sales transactions. The retailer must provide hard copy or electronically readable transaction details within a stated time period.

Answer ID 250 What information must a retailer provide to get reimbursed for the converter box sales?
Retailers must provide a valid coupon, converter box UPC or SKU, and the retailers merchant ID. More details about the required data can be found at www.ntiadtv.gov.

they could just eat the $40 but like i said is there a catch. most people who got their coupons early have already used them so the number they might have to take could be very small. i don't think they are sending this offer out to the general public.

mandy's dad can you provide a source for your information.

Glen,

Dimensions are:

H: 1.3” x W: 5.9” x D: 4.2”



Regards,



Francie Bauer

Manager, Corporate Communications

DISH Network Corporation

EchoStar Corporation

720-514-5839

Does the last sentence of this entry bother anyone else?

http://www.slingcommunity.com/blog/entry/28036/Sling-Media-EchoStar-TR-40-DTV-Converter-Update/

sorry for the noobie kludge

I just saw the photo of the DTVPal...I think I'd rather have the original TR-40. How am I supposed to put an antenna on top of that curvy box?

I just saw the photo of the DTVPal...I think I'd rather have the original TR-40. How am I supposed to put an antenna on top of that curvy box?
If the original design had ventilation holes on the top, it wouldn't have been a place to put an antenna anyway, so you'd be losing nothing.

It wouldn't surprise me if the curves were intended for discouraging people from putting items atop the box.

And I don't believe the TR-40 has a IR blaster, but a simple 8 event timer to turn on/change channels at a scheduled time. Not as handy as a blaster, but better than nothing, which is what most others announced will have. "8 events" is exactly how much my JVC VCR can do, so that works out perfectly.

(My Digital-VHS can do something like 50 events, but since that will soon be sold, that won't be an issue for me.)

It wouldn't surprise me if the curves were intended for discouraging people from putting items atop the box.

I hate when they do that. What do they think this is, 1964? Nowadays it's normal for someone to have many components on their TV cart. To make components non-stackable is just clueless.

The CECBs seem to be small enough that they would be the smallest component in a system and would end up on top.

The CECBs seem to be small enough that they would be the smallest component in a system and would end up on top.Not if you also have a set-top antenna, as peepoop described (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13691951#post13691951).  At best you can find enough room atop the TV for both the antenna and the CECB.  I had that arrangement, and both fit, but it wasn't the best place for the antenna's reception, so now the CECB is there alone.

I believe all Dish Network STB put out a lot of heat and they recomend that all of their STB be the top item in a stack. It is a good thing that they are the only item I have that works that way. Personally I feel that they need to design their cooling so as to remove this requirement.

Rick R

Actually, I keep my Dish tuner down at floor level where it's coolest.

I believe all Dish Network STB put out a lot of heat and they recomend that all of their STB be the top item in a stack. It is a good thing that they are the only item I have that works that way. Personally I feel that they need to design their cooling so as to remove this requirement.

Rick R

A lot of people use laptop coolers (~$20) to cool their Dish DVR's which are the hottest of the bunch.

What odd prices to sell all thes dtv boxes for check it out at bpm08 dot com/store/page2.ht-m- (http://bpm08.com/store/page2.html)l it looks like a place in yonkers,ny I can only assume there are massive typos on this site I just utterly freaked :eek:when I found this just check out the sale prices

Looked at the dot com main and there are a lot of strange things about broken used units etc then urges you to become a broker you guys read it and see what you think:confused:

Some kind of scam. It says TR-40 now available, and the prices, >$200 for CECB's??
Someone else had a thread on this site. Stay clear, IMO.

Some kind of scam. It says TR-40 now available, and the prices, >$200 for CECB's??
Someone else had a thread on this site. Stay clear, IMO.Agreed I believe its a scam also didn't know we already had a thread on it never hurts to try and keep people aware and away from crap like that....

I've been waiting (impatiently) for this box. Perhaps the reason it's been delayed so long could be reliability issues......just a thought......who knows but it's the primary reason as to why products take longer to reach the market......If so, I hope they worked the bugs out of it!

HOWEVER......There's a (potentially) BIG BUG they seem to be working into it!!......Unless I'm wrong (which I certainly hope to be), while this box has some very nice features that the (so-called) first generation boxes lack, there could be a HUGE downside!......
It seems as if there's no manual channel change at the box itself.
As far as I'm concerned this is a big mistake! In fact, I'd gladly pay extra for this feature, since I consider it a necessity.
In order to record one show and watch another, two boxes are a must.
One would be dedicated to the recorder and one to the TV.
Let's say you wanted to simply make a manual recording.
OOOPS......you're changing channels on both boxes simultaneously with the remote!!
In this scenario, you're watching what you're recording anyway, so having two boxes serves no practical purpose!
I suppose the only (practical) option is to use two different brand boxes (I.E. the Zenith DTT900, which has manual controls) but then you lose the other useful features that the Echostar has (such as the program guide, timer and RF pass through).
......this could create major headaches for many of us!
......oh well, back to the drawing board!! :(
......or......who knows? Maybe these first (or second) generation boxes are designed to be cheap "throwaways" that are basically designed to simply get us reception in time for the transition next year.
......Then, after the coupon program is long gone......here comes the good stuff......all the features plus recording capability......all at a price you may not want to pay. :mad:

Or avoid the hassle and get either a DVD Recorder or HDD Recorder (TiVo, TR-50).
Most will do BOTH analog NTSC and digital ATSC channels.

============================================
BTW: Dish vip622 and vip722 HD-DVRs draw 120 watts...which is
more than the 80 watts for the hot running SA8300HD cable HD-DVR.

So PLEASE don't try to compare that experience to the 8 watt (max)
heat dissipation of converter boxes.

I've been waiting (impatiently) for this box. Perhaps the reason it's been delayed so long could be reliability issues......just a thought......who knows but it's the primary reason as to why products take longer to reach the market......If so, I hope they worked the bugs out of it!

HOWEVER......There's a (potentially) BIG BUG they seem to be working into it!!......Unless I'm wrong (which I certainly hope to be), while this box has some very nice features that the (so-called) first generation boxes lack, there could be a HUGE downside!......
It seems as if there's no manual channel change at the box itself.


Where are you finding details on the box?

If you have a recorder with an IR blaster, the Channel Master can be controlled with a Pio cable box code, which is an older, pretty universal code.

The LG and the RCA boxes can be controlled with LG/RCA satellite box codes, but ony newer recorders which are designed to control satellite boxes *might* have the codes.

So that's another possible option, anyway.

If you have a recorder with an IR blaster, the Channel Master can be controlled with a Pio cable box code, which is an older, pretty universal code.

The LG and the RCA boxes can be controlled with LG/RCA satellite box codes, but ony newer recorders which are designed to control satellite boxes *might* have the codes.The RCA DTC-100 blaster code is rather common. However the RCA DTA800B isn't the best for recording since it lacks anamorphic output and has the audio freeze problem which produces silent unattented recordings. Perhaps that will be fixed with the new DTA800B1.

The TR-40 holds promise for blaster control since surely it will use addressable E* IR codes and those have never really changed.

As far as I've ever heard, the TR-40 will not use an IR blaster - it will just have some way to set recordings through it's guide (like the Samsung DTB-H260F), or it will have a strictly manual timer. The best solution would be to have a combination of the two, so you can set through the guide, but can adjust the beginning and end times manually if need be. If it has a TVGOS sort of guide, like it sounds it might, than this may very well be possible, just like with all the old TVGOS units - or even with all the Echostar/Dish tuners and recorders and their proprietary guides. The fact that they are promising a "7-day guide" leads me to believe it's not just the ordinary, unreliable PSIP guide. TVGOS always went out a totally reliable 7 or 8 days. You'd need the reliability of the time received for recording setting, too - which the PSIP guides have never had, and TVGOS and Dish guides have always had completely (that's one of the reasons why it's such a bum feature in the DTB-H260F. If it turns out to be the PSIP method in the TR-40, I can assure you everyone's going to be extremely disappointed).

(I didn't realize that about the RCA code. Good that I know that now. Thanks - although I could never in good conscience recommend the box anyway like you say.)

I meant blasting *from* the recorder since most blasters control E* and of course Timers can be a backup and/or subchannels, etc.

I see. Yes, that would surely be nice. Hopefully, it will use those standard Dish codes.

It'd almost be the perfect box then. Much moreso than any other one, anyway. I really hope the PQ is top-notch.

For PQ I really wish it had S-video out, but from what I've read it will not:(
Otherwise I'd say it "sounds" like the perfect box.

For PQ I really wish it had S-video out, but from what I've read it will not:(
Otherwise I'd say it "sounds" like the perfect box.Yeah, that's why I said "almost". ;)

But if it converts my digital TVGOS signal to analog, so I can use it to keep my old TVGOS units fully-functioning, then that'd be more than perfect enough for me.

Where are you finding details on the boxYou didn't notice the images of the EchoStar/SlingMedia?
http://i29.tinypic.com/ra6kx0.jpg
They don't show any controls on the box just a activity light.

Ya, I don't really care for the curvy looks either. Prefer a metal box with square edges, like the Zenith and I too would have preferred some buttons on the unit other than just power. I'd of even paid more for the option of a display so I wouldn't have to turn the TV on to see what channel it was on, for example recording to DVDR when the TV would be off. It would just be reassuring it was on the correct channel.

not one box offers that. I don't think anyone took into account VCRs or DVRs.

stand the box on end, at the side the TV -closer to the connectors :)

FYI: your name is not on the front of the coupon card it is on the back...
on the magnetic swipe

If it is, no one checked either of my cards. I bought the DS box at RS and the Zenith at CC and used my mothers cards for both purchases. Different address, different last names and no one questioned anything. I'm going to hold out on mine until the last minute, maybe the TR-40 will be out before mine expire June 23rd. Otherwise I guess it looks like a couple more Zeniths and I'll pay cash for my Echostars.

aren't one of the rules is a friend can give you a card. You know people who are handy caped or can't get to the stores can have someone else buy the box for them. i don't know where you are going with this

The TR-40 will be priced at $39.99, when available, and is eligible for the government coupon program (click here to learn more). This means that you can use your $40 government coupon to get the TR-40 essentially for free (not including sales tax and shipping, where applicable).

I bet anything the box comes out at $59.99. Why would a box with more features than the currently priced $59.99 boxes be $20 cheaper?

I see. Yes, that would surely be nice. Hopefully, it will use those standard Dish codes.

It'd almost be the perfect box then. Much moreso than any other one, anyway. I really hope the PQ is top-notch.


......If you are using two (or more) of these boxes for recording/watching purposes, you'll still have the same problem I spoke about earlier.
......I.E. - let's say (quite hypothetically) an IR blaster from another recorder (such as ReplayTV, Tivo etc.) is capable of changing the channel on this box.
Your "watching" box will need to go to another channel of your choice.
As soon as you fire the remote for this "watching" box, you'll also be changing the channel on your "recording" box. Major headaches!
......Here's where the manual, on board channel buttons (for your "watching" box) would really come in handy. It made sense to Zenith/Insignia (both LG products) and there may be others as well. I still protest the fact that they couldn't add $1.00 worth of additional parts to this (otherwise perhaps interesting) box! :(

Where are you finding details on the box?

Heres the most up-to-date info. I could find (from ezdigitaltv.com)......

Update: The TR-40 DTV converter box will be available in mid-June 2008. It has been redesigned and will be sold as the "DTVPal" by both EchoStar and Sling Media. It will have a (VCR) Event Timer.

Latest information from EchoStar:

Digital to Analog Converter with built-in Digital Tuner and pass-through capability.
Allows Analog TV's to receive digital over-the-air broadcasts.
Provides dramatically better picture and sound quality than analog over-the-air.
Digital tuner enables reception of several channels of programming simultaneously, "multicasting" from participating stations, including news, weather, traffic and even digital music.
Digital tuner delivers interactive capability and data services such as enhanced closed captioning.
On-screen Setup Wizard for easy customer installation.
Electronic Program Guide (EPG) with instant access to up to seven days of program listings and information.
Program search
Parental locks
(VCR) Event Timer
Remote control with built-in aspect ratio and channel guide access.
$39.99 - FREE with $40 NTIA Coupon

Digital tuner enables reception of several channels of programming simultaneously, "multicasting" from participating stations, including news, weather, traffic and even digital music.

wonder if this is a fancy way of saying sub channels or does it mean pip.

......If you are using two (or more) of these boxes for recording/watching purposes, you'll still have the same problem I spoke about earlier.
......I.E. - let's say (quite hypothetically) an IR blaster from another recorder (such as ReplayTV, Tivo etc.) is capable of changing the channel on this box.
Your "watching" box will need to go to another channel of your choice.
As soon as you fire the remote for this "watching" box, you'll also be changing the channel on your "recording" box. Major headaches!
......Here's where the manual, on board channel buttons (for your "watching" box) would really come in handy. It made sense to Zenith/Insignia (both LG products) and there may be others as well. I still protest the fact that they couldn't add $1.00 worth of additional parts to this (otherwise perhaps interesting) box! :(

Reading your different scenarios, I couldn't help think about the " other"
box the TR-50. I know it is not a CECB, but would it work any better when
it is recording and another channel is running. http://www.engadget.com/photos/hands-on-with-the-echostar-tr-40-and-tr-50-converter-boxes/564647/

Just read over on DBStalk.com that echostar asked for beta testers for the TR-40 (had already filled the quota tho:(). Looks like it isn't vaporware after all. :)

The Dish Network DTVPal is now found on the NTIA listing of converter boxes:

https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm

The TR-40 is still found on the list.

Dang! On the email I sent Echostar a month ago I volunteered for that job but heard nothing back! Oh well I guess I'll just have to wait in line like the rest.

The Dish Network DTVPal is now found on the NTIA listing of converter boxes:

https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm

Digital tuner enables reception of several channels of programming simultaneously, "multicasting" from participating stations, including news, weather, traffic and even digital music.

wonder if this is a fancy way of saying sub channels or does it mean pip.First one.

This is the TR-40 renamed

http://www.slingcommunity.com/blog/entry/28036/Sling-Media-EchoStar-TR-40-DTV-Converter-Update/

I saw pictures of another brand of CECB with a plastic case and no visible ventilation holes. It seemed to me that there was one screw on the back panel. In such a model removal of the screw probably allowed the chassis to slide out. Then ventilation holes might be drilled in the plastic case.

Perhaps this will be the first thing DTVPal owners will have to do with this product unless production models have ventilation holes.

Check this:
http://www.dishnetwork.com/digitaltransition/index.shtml#anchor4

Quote: "This means that you can use your $40 government coupon to get the TR-40 essentially for free (not including sales tax and shipping, where applicable). Our converter boxes will be available in the summer; so please hold-off getting your coupon until the summer as the coupons expire 90 days after they are issued. "

Hmmm... I wonder how much shipping and tax will add to ... My "personal" guess is at least $20 bucks or more !:eek::mad::(

opinion only - non specific non factual info...

Earlier, Echostar had mentioned their own E* stores for distribution possibilities, which would cover a lot of territory, all local to the buyer. Additionally, there are enormous opportunities with SlingMedia's distribution setup, which includes many big name stores. Sears, WalMart, Circuit City, Best Buy, Target, and Amazon are among them. And my friend Costco. Here's hoping.


http://www.slingmedia.com/go/buy

Earlier, Echostar had mentioned their own E* stores for distribution possibilities, which would cover a lot of territory, all local to the buyer. Additionally, there are enormous opportunities with SlingMedia's distribution setup, which includes many big name stores. Sears, WalMart, Circuit City, Best Buy, Target, and Amazon are among them. And my friend Costco. Here's hoping.


http://www.slingmedia.com/go/buy

You just may be right there !:eek:

With the government coupon the TR-40/DTVPal would be free at local stores.

Tom Peterson used to say "Free is a very good price!"

My coupons expire 5/23. If this is the right CECB I would have no problem using my own cash for it.

With the government coupon the TR-40/DTVPal would be free at local stores.

Tom Peterson used to say "Free is a very good price!"

My coupons expire 5/23. If this is the right CECB I would have no problem using my own cash for it.

Sounds like a good idea, if it ever happens! I may just look into that one myself! NOT

Yep, DigaDo, free boxes would "sell" like hotcakes. I predict those of us with soon to be expiring coupons will cause a stampede. That's my plan, I'm hoping to use my second coupon there, and then wait for reviews on all the other boxes, non-CECBs as well, for my out of pocket box. I may pick up a full featured recorder as that last one, maybe the TR-50 if it isn't too spendy.

I noticed that Provantage is now listed on the NTIA Seller list.
Here is all the boxes they are currently selling (http://www.provantage.com/tv-converter-box-coupon-program~880NTIA.htm)

I immediately noticed the Echostar TR-40 (http://www.provantage.com/tv-converter-tr40~7NTIA004.htm) for $42.50

Why is it being sold as the TR-40 when it has been changed to the DTVPal?

Does this mean that those of you with expiring coupons now have an outlet to order?

Just in case Provantage decides to take down there listing I am including a screen grab.

it is listed as "Special Order" which would indicate that it isn't available yet.
Also
"This product is a Coupon Eligible Converter Box. Coupon cannot be applied to online orders. In order to redeem your qualifying $40 Coupon you must call 800-336-1166 during normal business hours. - Provantage is a Participating Retailer in the TV Converter Box Coupon Program"

What I would like to know is what happened to being $39.99

It shouldn't be available yet and should also be listed as the DTVPal.

I was just saying that those with expiring coupons should check if they can pre-order one with them.

What I would like to know is what happened to being $39.99


:D That's a good one, Malouff! As if one could actually expect the press release MSRP to match the retail price after these many months, delays in shipping, redesignation of the model number, general retail inflationary pressure at present, etc., etc. IF they had TR40s to sell (their site says its a special order), a retail price bump of only $2.51 would seem pretty modest.

I guess the idea of only paying local sales tax and/or shipping for a CECB got folks jazzed about the mythical TR40. I thought it was primarily the feature list. Or was that the feature list of its brother, the TR50? I wonder what that will be renamed in a few months :rolleyes:

......Here's where the manual, on board channel buttons (for your "watching" box) would really come in handy. It made sense to Zenith/Insignia (both LG products) and there may be others as well. I still protest the fact that they couldn't add $1.00 worth of additional parts to this (otherwise perhaps interesting) box! :( Don't you get it? This is not about "saving" our VCRs for continued use.

This is about the corporations forcing us to upgrade to new VCRs or DVRs with built-in digital tuners. This is about corporations selling more product so they can earn more profit. ----- If it were up to them, these converter boxes wouldn't even exist. They'd want us to go out and buy whole new TVs. Therefore the corporations are making these boxes to be as "inconvenient" as possible, so you'll feel the need to go out & buy new equipment.

They don't want you to use your old VCR or old TV. They want you to say, "This is too much hassle," and buy all-new equipment.

P.S.

My coupons expire July 7. Do you think the Echostar will be available before that date? (I am inclined to think "no".)

remember someone had an email from echostar that said they would honor expired coupons and posted it in this thread. I would find that email and send another to echostar asking if it was true and make sure there are no gimmicks attached.

remember someone had an email from echostar that said they would honor expired coupons and posted it in this thread. I would find that email and send another to echostar asking if it was true and make sure there are no gimmicks attached.

Why would anyone accept an expired coupon? The gov't wouldn't pay on it, so it'll end up that the acceptor asborbs that cost. For Echostar to do so on a $40 MSRP unit, that means they'll be giving it away for free which I don't think they will do.

But let's keep our fingers crossed anyway.

Why can't a supplier take payment from an active CECB Coupon now, back order the unit, then send it out when ready (June)?

If they read the MaxMedia thread they sure wouldn't want to do that. Besides it's been posted that that's illegal according to the govt. guidelines.

Why can't a supplier take payment from an active CECB Coupon now, back order the unit, then send it out when ready (June)?Jake, what happens then if the unit never comes to market, or if the dealer can't get any, or if the dealer can't get enough to cover the orders from all the people who've sacrificed coupons for it?  The coupon rules don't permit refunding the coupon value to the customer.

like i said write them and ask, it was posted in an email from the company in this thread. How many coupons do you think Echostar would have to eat, most have already bought a box since they are not making this offer public. You also would need to check if their is some kind of gimmick attached. They make a bundle on the dish network the little money they would loss won't even be noticed and what they could gain in subscribers for a company that ate $40 expired coupons could be millions, it's called good PR.

remember someone had an email from echostar that said they would honor expired coupons and posted it in this thread. I would find that email and send another to echostar asking if it was true and make sure there are no gimmicks attached.

When the box was 1st announced, someone form EchoStar said that the box was going to be used to gain "name recognition" for the EchoStar/Dish brand in hopes that if the customer later decided that they would like to get more TV stations, Dish would be the 1st name on their list.

Thus the box is somewhat like a "free sample" & they could easily afford to give them away.

By the way. In January the old Echostar broke into two companies. One is now called Dish Network and runs the satellite TV service. The other is Echostar and manufactures and sells TV electronics. This CECB is made by the latter.

One of the rational for dividing the company is so that the manufacturing side of the company could sell without having to protect the satellite business. I suspect this box and the OTA DVR box are a result of that decision.

Rick R

My coupons expire on 7/16/08, I hope Echostar makes the TR40 available by that time. I also hope that they are available for you other people who are getting close to your expiration date.

When the box was 1st announced, someone form EchoStar said that the box was going to be used to gain "name recognition" for the EchoStar/Dish brand in hopes that if the customer later decided that they would like to get more TV stations, Dish would be the 1st name on their list.

Thus the box is somewhat like a "free sample" & they could easily afford to give them away.Some "free sample" and "good PR" when the box they're giving away can give the people much better PQ than what they offer for a fee! :D

One of the rational for dividing the company is so that the manufacturing side of the company could sell without having to protect the satellite business. I suspect this box and the OTA DVR box are a result of that decision.Yes, thanks to TiVo.

http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display8.asp?PROD=DTVPAL-TR40&xzoom=Large#xview
Listed for pre-orders, no coupons for pre-orders.

Some "free sample" and "good PR" when the box they're giving away can give the people much better PQ than what they offer for a fee! :D

the box is nothing, it comes down to content. will digital OTA tv provide more content that cable or dish, it has a chance with 6 sud channles per station if they play it right.

This box is on pre-order only, and will not be instock until the week of june 16th

the box is nothing, it comes down to content. will digital OTA tv provide more content that cable or dish, it has a chance with 6 sud channles per station if they play it right.God, don't even say that. :eek:

This box is on pre-order only, and will not be instock until the week of june 16thExcellent! My coupons expire the 27th. :)

This box is on pre-order only, and will not be instock until the week of june 16th
Dang, my coupons expire on June 12th. Oh well it looks like i'll be looking for a different brand for my second one.

http://www.nulime.com/Digital-Analog-TV-Converter/p284135

instock May 21

http://www.nulime.com/Digital-Analog-TV-Converter/p284135

instock May 21
Does this site allow use of the $40 coupon?

All echostar press releases (If this helps anyone...)
http://sats.client.shareholder.com/releases.cfm

Perhaps official release dates or info will appear here ...




Official TR-40 release...
http://sats.client.shareholder.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=284881
''The box will be sold under both the EchoStar and Sling Media, Inc. brand names''

Sling Media's version of PR
http://www.slingmedia.com/get/pr-converterboxes.html

TR-50 Wins ''Best of CES''
http://sats.client.shareholder.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=286289

Some "free sample" and "good PR" when the box they're giving away can give the people much better PQ than what they offer for a fee! :D

Most people seem to be interested in quantity, not quality -they just want a whole bunch of stations & don't really care about how much the picture is compressed.

Does this site allow use of the $40 coupon?

In the description it says free with coupon but then their price is 40.95 so it looks like they just took the text from Dish..... and almost $10 in shipping.

I have a feeling this site may know that there are many folks looking for this CECB with coupons set to expire on 5/23 and set the availability date to capture those orders - regardless if they actually have the units.

If you click B/O a space is available for coupon.

But it won't accept either coupon.

I have a Sony PIP TV with 2 analog tuners and a Panasonic DVR/VCR with digital and analog tuners.
My question. How many converters will I need if I want to watch 2 different TV programs with the VCR turned off? Will the DVR/VCR work even if it isn't turned on for one tuner or do I need 2 converters one for each TV analog tuner.

Have another analog TV with analog VCR. Do I need 1 or 2 converters for this one if I want to watch TV with the VCR turned off?

You need two for the Sony - tho you could get away with just one if you'd use the tuner in the VCR.

You need one for the other TV.

How do I hook the converter up to each TV?

Also if the converter would work on the analog TV even if the VCR is turned off why wouldn't just 1 work on the Sony?

This is so confusing. I really thank you for your help.

How do I hook the converter up to each TV?

Also if the converter would work on the analog TV even if the VCR is turned off why wouldn't just 1 work on the Sony?

This is so confusing. I really thank you for your help.

Use either coax via the RF input or composite cable via the video input.

I assumed you wanted the PIP feature - for that you need 2 tuners, either two converters or one converter and the VCR. If you don't need PIP one converter is enough - or you don't need a converter at all - just use the VCR.
BTW if the PIP feature only works via the TV's built in tuners then you'll definitely need 2 converters using the coax outputs.

I just got a Harmony One (Logitech all in one remote...will that work 2 converters from 2 different manufacturers???????) And I was falling in love with the EchoStar...now I need a second converter from a different manufacturer?

The simpler setup with the analog VCR...How do I set up the converter? I figured it goes on the VCR not the TV...how would I use the VCR to record?

Gosh this is confusing....you guys are the best.

need the remote of the sony to get PIP. So far Logitech remote not working.
Don't quite understand what I need to attach to the A/V inputs of Sony. I have just one set between the Panasonic DVR and the Sony TV. I thought I had 2 splitters attached to coax but it seems to be only one going to Panasonic and it works fine.

You'll need to split the coax so it goes to both the VCR and converter. Leave the VCR as is and connect the output of the converter to an empty input of the Sony.

On the other TV if you want to record, the output of the converter will have to go to the VCR and the VCR will have to be on to be able to watch any TV.

This thread should be merged with the TR-40 thread - all the talk is going on over there.

You'll need to split the coax so it goes to both the VCR and converter. Leave the VCR as is and connect the output of the converter to an empty input of the Sony.

On the other TV if you want to record, the output of the converter will have to go to the VCR and the VCR will have to be on to be able to watch any TV.

Most VCR's go into passthru mode when turned off, therefore the VCR would NOT have to be on to watch TV (since you aren't using the VCR's tuner)

Most VCR's go into passthru mode when turned off, therefore the VCR would NOT have to be on to watch TV (since you aren't using the VCR's tuner)

The passthru is only true for coax - it won't pass signals via composite inputs when off - which is what I was recommending. For OTA in a few months coax passthru is useless on an analog TV and VCR. ..and before someone chimes in lets forget about LPS that won't shut down.

This is the TR-40 renamedIt's uncertain whether the DTVPal is simply a rebranding or if it has somewhat different chipsets and design.

^^^ what a way to PW. :cool:

Does it really make a diff? One merged into the other, as should the threads.

The Echostar TR-40 and its successor, the DTVPal, are standard def CECBs, not HDTV devices. Please move this thread to the new CECB subforum. Thank you.

Agreed... thanks Mod's

who ever said it was HD device

Does it really make a diff? One merged into the other, as should the threads. The Echostar TR-40 was a different design than the DTVPal (http://www.ezdigitaltv.com/DISH_Network_DTVPal.html), but it merging the threads under the heading DTVPal should be ok.

The Dish Network DTVPal is now found on the NTIA listing of converter boxes:

https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm Satellite Guys has a thread, "Want to Beta Test? (http://www.satelliteguys.us/frontpage-news/133190-want-beta-test.html)":
Attention SatelliteGuys: Would you like to help Dish Network Beta Test their upcoming DTVPAL (also known as the TR-40)? If yes then click here for more details on how to apply. You do not need to be a Dish Network customer to apply for this beta! This is good news for those interested in the DTVPal! There's little evidence that most other CECB vendors have undertaken beta testing to ferret out possible performance issues. It could help the DTVPal product avoid disappointing users with poor quality or design flaws.

..and before someone chimes in lets forget about LPS that won't shut down.

What does this mean?

LPS- Low Power Stations can still broadcast analog after Feb. 17, 09.
The major stations will be digital.

"The Echostar TR-40 and its successor, the DTVPal, are standard def CECBs, not HDTV devices. Please move this thread to the new CECB subforum. Thank you."

Won't they convert digital to analog? And what does CECB stand for?

Won't they convert digital to analog?

Yes. That's not what he meant by "HDTV device." He meant a box that receives digital OTA signals and delivers HD to a HD-capable TV. This forum was about HD receivers, antennas, etc., until all the CECB discussion came here for lack of a better place for it.

And what does CECB stand for?

Coupon-Eligible Converter Box, i.e. digital-to-analog converters that are eligible for the $40 government-subsidy coupons.

Thanks so much for your help!

I am a current Dish subscriber and contacted Dish/Echostar about the ETA for this device. They had no info as to when, or if it would be available. Strange.

I am a current Dish subscriber and contacted Dish/Echostar about the ETA for this device. They had no info as to when, or if it would be available. Strange.

I think they are now saying June/July, and in another forum someone noted a couple of online retailers who are saying they will be available between late May and mid-June - on the other hand, one tends not to rely on EITHER type of prediction noted here, i.e., either from the manufacturer or a retailer...

Bottom Line:

- You need one box for every channel you watch or record.

So if you're watching two channels, you need two converter boxes. If you're watching one channel while your VCR records a second channel, you need two converter boxes. And so on.

I am a current Dish subscriber and contacted Dish/Echostar about the ETA for this device. They had no info as to when, or if it would be available. Strange.
Solid Signal is taking pre-orders on the DTV Pal and expect to ship the week of June 16.

Solid Signal is taking pre-orders on the DTV Pal and expect to ship the week of June 16.

Any idea if they are they accepting the CECB Coupons for pre-orders?

Solid Signal is taking pre-orders on the DTV Pal and expect to ship the week of June 16.

Wow... My coupons expire on 6/17. What to do, what to do............

Any idea if they are they accepting the CECB Coupons for pre-orders?
Unfortunatley no because that is against the CECB program guidelines.

Bullet excerpts from the Solid Signal site:

• This box is on pre-order only, and will not be instock until the week of june 16th.
• PLEASE READ: You cannot use the government issued coupon unless converter box is in stock.

Looks like they changed the logo on the box.
Last me knew it looked like this with EchoStar on top in white
http://i29.tinypic.com/ra6kx0.jpg

It now looks like this with a DTVPal picture on top in white
http://www.ezdigitaltv.com/images/DTVPal.jpg

Here is the Logo
http://www.ezdigitaltv.com/images/DTVPalman.jpg

Thanks to EZDigitalTV for the update today (http://www.ezdigitaltv.com/DISH_Network_DTVPal.html) - yes I know not much new ;)

It does not come with Composite cables | A/V Cables though.

I sure hope it doesn't run hot like the DS box. I sure would have preferred a metal case vs. what looks like plastic. I guess the first mod will be to drill lots of holes in the top, unless maybe it will have a good heatsink on the chip, but holes still wouldn't hurt.

It does not come with Composite cables | A/V Cables though.At that price you couldn't really expect them to be included, and most of us who read AVSForum probably have some extra ones on hand.

dattier I wasn't expecting them to be included :rolleyes:
I was just saying I think this is the only real news other then the graphic change.

dattier I wasn't expecting them to be includedI never said you were.

I was able to order the Echostar TR-40 today thru Provantage. It had to be an "over the phone" order and they said that it will not ship until June. They did allow me to use my $40. coupon (unlike SolidSignal). Cost $42.50 plus $6.95 (for shipping) minus the $40 coupon = $9.45

you have to remember the power source isn't in the box but a transformer power Cord and that will cut down on heat. this box was made for portability so it can be used with portable TV's

The Artec T3A Pro also has a transformer power Cord that should cut down on heat and some ventilation holes on the bottom.

However, johnied has been reported that it isn't enough for the ventilation.
I wounder if the pads don't let the box set high enough for air to get underneath.

Bruce's Antenna Systems at www.watchdigitaltv.com also reported that the box got hot.

I was able to order the Echostar TR-40 today thru Provantage. It had to be an "over the phone" order and they said that it will not ship until June. They did allow me to use my $40. coupon (unlike SolidSignal). My coupon would have expired 5-23. The cost was $42.50 + $6.95 (shipping) - $40 coupon = $9.45

I haven't ordered thru Provantage as I have time before my coupons expire and would like to avoid the shipping if I can.
Here is the number for Provantage for those interested: 1-800-336-1166

I was able to order the Echostar TR-40 today thru Provantage. It had to be an "over the phone" order and they said that it will not ship until June. They did allow me to use my $40. coupon (unlike SolidSignal). Cost $42.50 plus $6.95 (for shipping) minus the $40 coupon = $9.45I tried to order today didn't, just got a recording of the the time of business hours. I am going to order one tomorrow morning. I hope echostar builds enough for all of us:)

I sure hope it doesn't run hot like the DS box. I sure would have preferred a metal case vs. what looks like plastic. I guess the first mod will be to drill lots of holes in the top, unless maybe it will have a good heatsink on the chip, but holes still wouldn't hurt.Your DTX9900 runs hot? I have mine sitting on top of the TV and leave it on 24/7. It feel a little warm on the top at the air-hole grille and a little warm on the bottom but that's it.

I was able to order the Echostar TR-40 today thru Provantage. It had to be an "over the phone" order and they said that it will not ship until June. They did allow me to use my $40. coupon (unlike SolidSignal). Cost $42.50 plus $6.95 (for shipping) minus the $40 coupon = $9.45
Is Provantage a legit company to order through? I would really like to get one of these boxes instead of settling on a Maggy.

I'm just assuming they're a legitimate company since they were among the "telephone retailers" listed on the government coupon web site. Their web site and phone order system seemed "good" to me?!?

I've ordered from Provantage before, maybe 3 years ago. They had a great price, prompt shipping, no problems. Not sure why they can do pre-orders. But if they have confirmation on the number of boxes they will be receiving, they can reserve one for you and as long as they are up front on the shipping date, that would seem to fit the rules the NTIA outlined in the FAQ. Echostar has been working on the expiring coupons issue with the NTIA. I would not assume legitimacy just because the NTIA has them on the list, just ask anyone who ordered from convertmy.tv and got told MaxMedia vaporware had shipped. But I have purchased from Provantage before, and all was well.

But I have purchased from Provantage before, and all was well.Good:) I was wondering if they were legit too! If I can get through to them tomorrow I'll place my order Thanks for the info

Most remember NTIA Answer 326 thanks to Mosquito
Can I redeem a coupon if I cannot immediately deliver a CECB to the consumer? (http://ntiadtv.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/ntiadtv.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=326&p_created=1207600154&p_sid=9K6Tcg3j&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ 9Niw2JnBfcHJvZHM9MCZwX2NhdHM9JnBfcHY9JnBfY3Y9JnBfc2VhcmNoX3R 5cGU9YW5zd2Vycy5zZWFyY2hfbmwmcF9wYWdlPTEmcF9zZWFyY2hfdGV4dD1 yZWRlZW0*&p_li=&p_topview=1)

I think Provantage is able to do this because of NTIA Answer 327
What if a consumer presents a coupon which is about to expire, and I do not have a CECB in stock and cannot predictably and assuredly deliver a CECB in the future? (http://ntiadtv.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/ntiadtv.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=327&p_created=1207600232&p_sid=9K6Tcg3j&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ 9Niw2JnBfcHJvZHM9MCZwX2NhdHM9JnBfcHY9JnBfY3Y9JnBfc2VhcmNoX3R 5cGU9YW5zd2Vycy5zZWFyY2hfbmwmcF9wYWdlPTEmcF9zZWFyY2hfdGV4dD1 yZWRlZW0*&p_li=&p_topview=1)
This rule gives retailers two options:
Looks like Solid Signal and FreeDTVShop are choosing this first option
First, the retailer can decline to redeem the coupon, and the consumer can identify another retailer.
(Note that if the consumer's card expires, it cannot be reissued).


Provantage is using the second option and absolutely certain that they can deliver the DTVPal within 60 days.
Second, one coupon redemption alternative allows the consumer's coupon to be authorized immediately, but not redeemed for up to 60 days. Sales Detail Reporting (SDR) allows the coupon to be authorized, but redemption and payment processing does not occur until the retailer presents a Sales Detail Report containing the UPC of the CECB sold. Retailers using SDR can wait up to 60 days after authorizing the coupon before they deliver the CECB to the consumer and the UPC via the SDR for payment. Note that payment will not be processed if the UPC is provided more than 60 days after authorization, and a consumer's card will be unusable for another purchase.
The critical thing is that retailers using SDR to delay their request for payment when out-of-stock, be absolutely certain that they can deliver the CECB to the consumer within 60 days.

I also don't know how this rule would apply to the MaxMedia box's sometime in June statement.
As far as I can tell they started to accept coupons on 03-21-08 and 60 days from then would be 05-20-08.

Thanks, Malouff - it's hard to keep up with the FAQ revisions, glad you are checking and shared with us! You meant 60 days being 5/20/08, I presume?

Most remember NTIA Answer 326 thanks to Mosquito
Can I redeem a coupon if I cannot immediately deliver a CECB to the consumer? (http://ntiadtv.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/ntiadtv.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=326&p_created=1207600154&p_sid=9K6Tcg3j&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ 9Niw2JnBfcHJvZHM9MCZwX2NhdHM9JnBfcHY9JnBfY3Y9JnBfc2VhcmNoX3R 5cGU9YW5zd2Vycy5zZWFyY2hfbmwmcF9wYWdlPTEmcF9zZWFyY2hfdGV4dD1 yZWRlZW0*&p_li=&p_topview=1)

I think Provantage is able to do this because of NTIA Answer 327
What if a consumer presents a coupon which is about to expire, and I do not have a CECB in stock and cannot predictably and assuredly deliver a CECB in the future? (http://ntiadtv.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/ntiadtv.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=327&p_created=1207600232&p_sid=9K6Tcg3j&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PSZwX2dyaWRzb3J0PSZwX3Jvd19jbnQ 9Niw2JnBfcHJvZHM9MCZwX2NhdHM9JnBfcHY9JnBfY3Y9JnBfc2VhcmNoX3R 5cGU9YW5zd2Vycy5zZWFyY2hfbmwmcF9wYWdlPTEmcF9zZWFyY2hfdGV4dD1 yZWRlZW0*&p_li=&p_topview=1)
This rule gives retailers two options:
Looks like Solid Signal and FreeDTVShop are choosing this first option


Provantage is using the second option and absolutely certain that they can deliver the DTVPal within 60 days.

The critical thing is that retailers using SDR to delay their request for payment when out-of-stock, be absolutely certain that they can deliver the CECB to the consumer within 60 days.

I also don't know how this rule would apply to the MaxMedia box's sometime in June statement.
As far as I can tell they started to accept coupons on 03-21-08 and 60 days from then would be 05-20-08.

Outstanding information. Thanks for the heads up.

I just ordered 2. Great customer service rep. They are definitely working on the 2 month extension premise.
The rep said that the government confirms each card and that there's no way they will expire. Hope that's true. My cards expire 5/28/08 so now 7/28/08.
The TR 40 are $42.50 each. So it's $5 for 2 plus $11 something for a total of $16.95.
She said the card will be charged when they ship.

Now what other converters do I order for the other lines? Can have 2 of these on one set because the remotes will clash. Have to have a second for an analog TV (the TR-40 is for the VCR)
The other set has PIP. So this is for one tuner on the TV need a second for the other tuner.
Exactly who do we have to thank for this whole digital thing they pulled on us?

I also don't know how this rule would apply to the MaxMedia box's sometime in June statement.
As far as I can tell they started to accept coupons on 03-21-08 and 60 days from then would be 05-20-08.

Okay...what features does the MaxMedia box have? Should I order this one?

I would stay away from MaxMedia and others would agree. Most consider it to be Vaporware.

Who knows what features it will have as they switched model numbers on those who ordered.
They also were constantly changing the features of their box.

Your DTX9900 runs hot? I have mine sitting on top of the TV and leave it on 24/7. It feel a little warm on the top at the air-hole grille and a little warm on the bottom but that's it.
Not hot to the touch, but quite warm. Also as the box warms up I dramatically start to loose signal reception on one station that I think has multipath problems. It starts out at ~50% signal strength cold and drops to 20% after ~20 minutes. My Zenith doesn't get warm at all and has no fade problem using the same feed on the same channel. I just hope the fact that the power supply sounds like it will be out of the actual unit will make the TR-40 run cooler. Personally I would have preferred a square metal case for the TR but I guess for $40 if it does what they say it can I'll be happy. I could easily see 3 or 4 in my future. Gotta keep those analog DVDR's working after 2/09.
It's possible my DS box is faulty, but I believe I've read others talking about the heat of their boxes too. This weekend I'll be hooking up my DS box for my inlaws. Hopefully it will work good for them. I'll miss it's nice guide though.

After reading the specifications for this STB http://www.ezdigitaltv.com/DISH_Network_DTVPal.html

It will have event timers, but will this actually have the IR blaster that will start and stop recording on the VCR. Sounds like it will only change the channel. You would have to syncronize your VCR to start and stop recording on your line inputs to coincide with the programming of the STB . Can anyone confirm this?:confused:

I asked John at FreeDTVShop.com why he was not allowing pre-orders according to NTIA 372 and he told me
SDR is not available for online sites. It uses a physical card swipe, and then a report to rectify the UPCs with the authorizations. All other redemption methods redeem the coupon right away, instead of just retrieving an authorization. This is how other online retailers got into trouble with redeeming cards early for backorders due to their use of the web service. We manually use the web site redemption method, which allows us to at least take your order ahead of time and then redeem your coupon upon shipping. It's the best solution available for now, but it does pose a problem as coupon expiration dates come to pass.
I did not know about this SDR method as I am just a consumer and thought all methods had the same rules.

Why you would physically want to go to a store and get a CECB within 60 days is beyond me and sounds stupid.
I don't see major stores like Wal-Mart and Radio Shack doing this.

I don't know what method Provantage is using but it must not be the SDR method.

It sounds to me like the DTVPal will not change the channel on the VCR but change the channel on the Converter box.

You would have to set up the VCR to record at the TV program(s) time(s) and leave the source as AV/in or Channel 3|4.

You would also have to disable the auto shut down of the Converter box.

After reading the specifications for this STB http://www.ezdigitaltv.com/DISH_Network_DTVPal.html

It will have event timers, but will this actually have the IR blaster that will start and stop recording on the VCR. Sounds like it will only change the channel. You would have to syncronize your VCR to start and stop recording on your line inputs to coincide with the programming of the STB . Can anyone confirm this?:confused:

According the the specs and photo provided in the link you posted, no.

All we know for sure is that it will have an "event timer". I think ezdigitaltv.com is just speculating on what that may entail. It would be nice to have a TVGOS style guide or one like Dish satellite receivers have, but I think it will be much simpler, probably similar to the Samsung DTB-H260F EPG.

Here is what Nulime responded with to my email concerning coupon usage:

Yes, we understand what you are trying to do. That coupon is NOT a coupon
for nuLime.com. It is government coupon. You send the government the coupon
you have to get your rebate. As such the coupon cannot be used during
checkout on our web site.

Thanks,
Customer Service
nuLime.com

This weekend I'll be hooking up my DS box for my inlaws. Hopefully it will work good for them. I'll miss it's nice guide though.Don't worry, the full, 7-day one in the TR-40 should make you forget soon enough. ;)

Hopefully, it will also use a common code that will allow it to be controlled by IR blasters. A fully manual timer would sure be nice too, but it doesn't sound like it'll have that.

Speaking of TVGOS, there are some new Sony LCD's recently released with it, and I'd have to assume it's digital-compatible, so maybe we'll get lucky and it'll be in the TR-40, also.

Here is what Nulime responded with to my email concerning coupon usage:

Yes, we understand what you are trying to do. That coupon is NOT a coupon
for nuLime.com. It is government coupon. You send the government the coupon
you have to get your rebate. As such the coupon cannot be used during
checkout on our web site.

Thanks,
Customer Service
nuLime.com

this is total BS

Here is what Nulime responded with to my email concerning coupon usage:

Yes, we understand what you are trying to do. That coupon is NOT a coupon
for nuLime.com. It is government coupon. You send the government the coupon
you have to get your rebate. As such the coupon cannot be used during
checkout on our web site.

Thanks,
Customer Service
nuLime.com

:eek: wrong, it's the retailers job and only his job to redeem the coupons. you don't send to the government for a rebate. :mad:

Speaking of TVGOS, there are some new Sony LCD's just being released with it, and I'd have to assume it's digital-compatible, so maybe we'll get lucky and it'll be in the TR-40, also.

Rammi...where did you see these Sony LCDs with TVGOS? Thanks - Tony

Rammi...where did you see these Sony LCDs with TVGOS? Thanks - Tonywww.crutchfield.com. Just got the latest catalog in the mail a day or two ago.

I just ordered 2. Great customer service rep. They are definitely working on the 2 month extension premise.
The rep said that the government confirms each card and that there's no way they will expire. Hope that's true. My cards expire 5/28/08 so now 7/28/08.
The TR 40 are $42.50 each. So it's $5 for 2 plus $11 something for a total of $16.95.
She said the card will be charged when they ship.

Daiquiri, did they send you an email confirming your order? I ask because I just did the same as you and ordered 2 myself. I gave them my email address but nothing yet. I just hope this goes as planned as I was sure I was going to miss out on the TR-40 with my expiring coupons. Guess I am just paranoid and want proof of an order.

Ordered one this afternoon waiting on a order confirmation......from Provantage

Since it's Friday probably won't get a notice until next week:( if even then.........

Don't worry, the full, 7-day one in the TR-40 should make you forget soon enough. ;)

Hopefully, it will also use a common code that will allow it to be controlled by IR blasters. A fully manual timer would sure be nice too, but it doesn't sound like it'll have that.

Yes that the plan anyway. People seem quite certain the TR-50 will have a "manual" timer option. I was kind of hoping the TR-40 would be the same too, although I could live with something nice like TVGOS. I sure don't want the PCIP timer like is on the Samsung 260. That wouldn't work at all.

The Echostar TR-40 was removed from the NTIA's official list! https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm

Along with the Digital STREAM D2A1D10 and D2A1D20

The Echostar TR-40 was removed from the NTIA's official list! https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm

Along with the Digital STREAM D2A1D10 and D2A1D20

It's now listed as the "DISH Network DTVPal."

The Echostar TR-40 was a different design than the DTVPal (http://www.ezdigitaltv.com/DISH_Network_DTVPal.html), but it merging the threads under the heading DTVPal should be ok.

How do we know it's a different design? Because the outside box shape is different? :rolleyes:
No one other than Dish knows - the TR-40 was vaporware and the DTVpal is its more likely to be available replacement with the same features as originally promised on the TR-40.

http://www.slingcommunity.com/blog/entry/28036/Sling-Media-EchoStar-TR-40-DTV-Converter-Update

Your DTX9900 runs hot? I have mine sitting on top of the TV and leave it on 24/7. It feel a little warm on the top at the air-hole grille and a little warm on the bottom but that's it.
Sorry to get OT but I think I know why the DS runs so much warmer than the Zenith, even though they both draw the same power. Yes the DS has air vents on the top but NONE on the bottom. The Zenith has vents on the top and bottom. Hot air rises, the cold bottom air is drawn up through the unit to cool it on the Zenith. On the DS since their is no holes on the bottom the hot air has no place to go, since it's not being replenished by cold air. It's just stagnant hot air. Poor design on the DS, if we have to mod. the Echo box it should have vent holes on the top AND bottom. Can't fool physics.

Thanks to all for the great info on this site!

I ordered the Echostar TR-40 from Provantage last week. They have sent me a confirmation e-mail showing:
Cost $42.50
Less "adjustment" of $40
Shipping $ 7.15
Total billed to my card $9.65

I have ordered PC components from them and have never had any probs.

Kinda worries me that Provantage still lists the item as the TR40 - didn't they get the memo about the name change. It also lists no specs - seems this was a rush on their part and probably other retailers to catch the early coupon holders.

After reading the specifications for this STB http://www.ezdigitaltv.com/DISH_Network_DTVPal.html

It will have event timers, but will this actually have the IR blaster that will start and stop recording on the VCR. Sounds like it will only change the channel. You would have to syncronize your VCR to start and stop recording on your line inputs to coincide with the programming of the STB . Can anyone confirm this?:confused:

I currently own the echostar 7100 dishplayer, have for 9 years. It has a blaster that turns on the vcr and starts it recording when set to record from the program guide, then tells it to turn off when done. I don't set the vcr, the dishplayer does it for me.

I currently own the echostar 7100 dishplayer, have for 9 years. It has a blaster that turns on the vcr and starts it recording when set to record from the program guide, then tells it to turn off when done. I don't set the vcr, the dishplayer does it for me.

I have Dish too and I am very familiar with the IR blaster feature on their Satellite receivers. It would be great if the DTV PAL would have the same feature. This is what I am trying to verify.

Just a heads up to anyone intersted, but a place called provantage (www.provantage.com) is accepting the $40 govt. issued coupons on the TR40 for pre-order. You have to call in your order. My coupons expire in a few days so I jumped on this for two and paid basically the cost of shipping.

I have Dish too and I am very familiar with the IR blaster feature on their Satellite receivers. It would be great if the DTV PAL would have the same feature. This is what I am trying to verify.Would an IR blaster be an allowed feature? Optional? Prohibited?

I was able to order the Echostar TR-40 today thru Provantage. It had to be an "over the phone" order and they said that it will not ship until June. They did allow me to use my $40. coupon (unlike SolidSignal). My coupon would have expired 5-23. The cost was $42.50 + $6.95 (shipping) - $40 coupon = $9.45

I tried to pre-order the DISH Network DTVPal converter box this morning around eight a.m. Central time from Provantage and was unable to do so. They still have it listed as the Echostar TR-40. It seems that the UPC number comes up as invalid for the TR-40 for their system. They are presently working on the problem. :(

Just called Provantage back - it will be 24 hours before they can resume taking pre-orders for the DISH Network DTVPal converter.

I tried to pre-order the DISH Network DTVPal converter box this morning around eight a.m. Central time from Provantage and was unable to do so. They still have it listed as the Echostar TR-40. It seems that the UPC number comes up as invalid for the TR-40 for their system. They are presently working on the problem. :(
Does anyone know whether Provantage (or any other vendor) will be sending the DTV-Pal version or the Echostar version when they become available -- was the latter actually ever manufactured, or just a protype and then changed to the DTV-Pal?

Does anyone know whether Provantage (or any other vendor) will be sending the DTV-Pal version or the Echostar version when they become available -- was the latter actually ever manufactured, or just a protype and then changed to the DTV-Pal?

I think the TR-40 was planned to go into production and be available in June. It seems that it was never be produced nor will it be. No inside info just what the talk has been.

Still haven't gotten a confirmation on my email but I do have confirmation numbers for each of my Gov't coupons. I don't think they would fool around with those.

Do we know if any of the other retailers will start taking preorders? I mean $2.50 is $2.50. Sure would like to know if any of the brick and morter stores will carry this or not. My coupons expire 6/22.

Just spoke to Steve at Provantage. Everything is good to go and I have a confirmation email from him. They expect them to start shipping in June or early July.

Just spoke to Steve at Provantage. Everything is good to go and I have a confirmation email from him. They expect them to start shipping in June or early July.
I just tried to order the Echostar/dtv-pal from Provantage and they now say that the Govt site they use to confirm coupon numbers will be down for at least 48 hours (this morning they had said they expected it up this afternoon). The CECB program seems to be full of snags.

Anyone who ordered from provantage, could you please check the status of your order?
I've just read on another forum that "They are cancelling all pre-orders for this Echostar tr40 due to being unavailable. Anyone who placed pre-order and used their $40 digital converter card will get $40 credit that can only be used to buy a different converter box at provantage. This is per their phone csr!"
Thanks.

I just spoke to Provantage. If a TR-40 is already ordered, it will be replaced by a DTVPal when the order is filled, but they are no longer accepting orders under the TR-40 designation. The CSR offered to transfer my call to sales if I wished to order the TVPal.

Solid signal is noe takink pre-orders for this box.

I hope they are not late because they are supplying Wilmington first.

Solid signal is noe takink pre-orders for this box.Yeah, they've been for maybe a week now. Can't use the coupons until they're actually in-stock next month, though. (Unless they've just changed things in the last couple of days since I checked.)

I just tried to order the Echostar/dtv-pal from Provantage and they now say that the Govt site they use to confirm coupon numbers will be down for at least 48 hours (this morning they had said they expected it up this afternoon). The CECB program seems to be full of snags.

6:02pm, just called them and got the same response "down for 48 hours"

I think the TR-40 was planned to go into production and be available in June. It seems that it was never be produced nor will it be. No inside info just what the talk has been.

I think the answer is simple...they changed the name - period.

I think the answer is simple...they changed the name - period.

They may have just changed the name or the design, I don't know of anyone that really knows. Do you have that information?

The question I answered was asking if the TR-40 was a prototype or a production unit. I answered that I thought it was a production unit that was never made available according to all the statements made that I ever saw.

janiegirl,

According to a conversation I had yesterday with Provantage, they will be shipping DTV-Pal to fill TR-40 orders.

My order still says Echostar TR 40 and is very much alive.

I can confirm that ALL orders for the TR 40 are in the process of being cancelled. The unit no longer qualifies for the converter box coupon, and as Provantage has already processed the existing orders by redeeming the $40 value from the card, they have no choice but to simply give customers credit for the value as it cannot be reloaded on the card.

I just got off the phone with Provantage customer service regarding this. They have thousands of pre-orders for this box, so it's taking them some time to process all of the cancellations, but no orders for this unit will actually be processed. Instead, they are recommending the TV/Pal replacement unit for new customers and are supposed to transfer existing orders to that unit as well (as far as I know, it's the same thing as the TR 40 - just a name change).

In fact, because of the DTV processing site maintenance underway today, Provantage is not accepting ANY converter box orders today. They want people to call tomorrow. I suspect this is going to be an issue with a lot of retailers. There is a maintenance notice on the DTV merchant website about a planned outage although I didn't pay attention to the exact details.

Existing orderers may want to doublecheck they are on course to get the replacement box automatically.

Provantage is not accepting orders for any converter box today. Apparently the coupon program processing site is down for a planned upgrade/maintenance and they cannot accept orders until the site goes online again. I was asked to call back Wednesday.

"Cancelled" and "replacement unit" that is an odd way of referring to a name change. Other online retailers are just using both "DTVPal" and "TR-40" in their description. I don't care what they call it, as long as I can find it.

I haven't seen it on the FCC list, but the name DTVPal is approved as a CECB box, so my guess is that the exterior beautification did not require retesting. It is a little awkward to find it, if one has to look under Echostar, DishNetwork, SlingMedia, TR-40, and the final name "DTVPal."

Thousands, I hope I'm not too late when I make up my mind. I'm expecting stores may be limited as to how many they get for the first batch, and taking coupons before they expire will make Provantage popular.

"Redeem" is not quite accurate, if they are using the process described in the FAQ upthread. Redeeming is what Convertmy.tv did, and that was against rules. No point in making it look like a Max Media disaster, when it is something entirely different.

I can confirm that ALL orders for the TR 40 are in the process of being cancelled. The unit no longer qualifies for the converter box coupon, and as Provantage has already processed the existing orders by redeeming the $40 value from the card, they have no choice but to simply give customers credit for the value as it cannot be reloaded on the card.

I just got off the phone with Provantage customer service regarding this. They have thousands of pre-orders for this box, so it's taking them some time to process all of the cancellations, but no orders for this unit will actually be processed. Instead, they are recommending the TV/Pal replacement unit for new customers and are supposed to transfer existing orders to that unit as well (as far as I know, it's the same thing as the TR 40 - just a name change).

In fact, because of the DTV processing site maintenance underway today, Provantage is not accepting ANY converter box orders today. They want people to call tomorrow. I suspect this is going to be an issue with a lot of retailers. There is a maintenance notice on the DTV merchant website about a planned outage although I didn't pay attention to the exact details.

Existing orderers may want to doublecheck they are on course to get the replacement box automatically.

Does this mean I can still "pre-order" DTVPal from ProAdvantage with my coupon which expires in 10 days?

"Redeem" is not quite accurate, if they are using the process described in the FAQ upthread. Redeeming is what Convertmy.tv did, and that was against rules. No point in making it look like a Max Media disaster, when it is something entirely different.

Exactly. Provantage appears to be doing it the correct and legal way by authorizing the cards instead of redeeming them. When a retailer authorizes a card, they have up to 60 days to wait for the box to become available, at which point they can redeem the card and ship the box.

So essentially, by preording this box, you have extended the life of your card by up to 60 days. Great news for those with coupons about to expire...

Kinda worries me that Provantage still lists the item as the TR40 - didn't they get the memo about the name change. It also lists no specs - seems this was a rush on their part and probably other retailers to catch the early coupon holders.

I guess they finally read the memo. I hope they post some specs when they repost the item as DTVPal.

All I know is that I have 'till June 27th to use my coupons, and I'm not going to jump the gun on anything that's not definite. That's all I'll say.

I just placed a pre-order with Provantage for 2 DTVPal. My coupon expires in 10 days.
Hopefully, this "new" name item is the same as TR-40. I was charged 42.50 each and 11.35 shipping. With the coupons, net is 16.35 total.

I also just pre-ordered two units, $16.35 net price

All I know is that I have 'till June 27th to use my coupons, and I'm not going to jump the gun on anything that's not definite. That's all I'll say.I guess I'm missing something here. Have there been any test results published on this unit. I know it looks good on paper, but I mean, people are pre-ordering sight-unseen -- based on what. How do they know this box is going to have adequate tuner performance or no heat problems or no audio problems, etc? Wasn't there just a whole bunch of people who got burned pre-ordering a Maxmedia box? I'm not saying it's the same thing here, but I would be more than a little leery of pre-ordering anything after that.

they ship fast, i ordered a CyberPower Systems
1085 10-Outlet Surge Protector - 3600 Joules 15A RJ11/RJ45/Coax and it came the next day.