Dish Rolls Out Digital-To-Analog ‘Pal’ Box

Dish Network’s digital-to-analog converter box, DTVPal, is now available for purchase nationwide, the satellite provider said Thursday.

The DTVPal qualifies for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s TV Converter Box Coupon Program. Consumers can purchase the converter box for $19.99 after the $40 government coupon is applied, as the manufacturer’s suggested price for the DTVPal is $59.99.

The DTVPal by Dish Network was deemed a “top choice” by CNET, and is the only converter box that comes with a nationwide customer care and service network to facilitate installation, including knowledgeable, multilingual agents and technicians trained in the digital transition, according to the satellite company.

The DTVPal includes an analog pass-through feature, which means it can take both analog and digital signals—ideal for all consumers, as many stations are low-power and are not required to switch to digital broadcasts by 2009.

Additional components include: an easy-to-follow setup wizard; an electronic program guide with up to seven days of program listings; parental controls; program search; auto tune timers for program recording on a connected VCR; closed caption support; a remote control; and signal strength screen pop-ups that can troubleshoot lost signals.