NEW DVR IS A HALF-INCH DEEP

Echostar, the former corporate parent of DISH Network, which it spun off in 2007, thereby becoming solely a technology company, today (Thursday) introduced a new DVR in the U.K., the Ultra Slim Box HDT-610R, that is just a half-inch deep. The DVR is intended for use with Britain’s Freeview system and with several on-demand including the BBC’s iPlayer, allowing users to watch BBC programs whenever they wish. The DVR, which Echostar pointedly observed was “designed in the U.K.,” also integrates a 500GB hard drive, allowing users to record up to 300 hours of standard-definition programs or 125 hours of high-definition. But the unit’s price is not as thin as its design. Amazon in the U.K. has it listed for £259.99 (about $425.00). There was no indication when or if a similar unit will be available in the U.S.