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EX-31.2 - DISH DBS CORPexhibit312q12011.htm
EX-32.1 - DISH DBS CORPexhibit321q12011.htm
EX-32.2 - DISH DBS CORPexhibit322q12011.htm
EX-31.1 - DISH DBS CORPexhibit311q12011.htm
 
 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
Form 10-Q
(Mark One)
[X]    QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED MARCH 31, 2011.
 
OR
 
[ ]    TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM _______________ TO ________________.    
 
Commission File Number: 333-31929
 
DISH DBS Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
 
 Colorado
 
84-1328967
 
 
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9601 South Meridian Boulevard
 
 
 
 
Englewood, Colorado
 
80112
 
 
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip code)
 
    
(303) 723-1000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
 
Not Applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes S No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes o No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer o
 
Accelerated filer o
 
Non-accelerated filer S
 
Smaller reporting company o
 
 
 
 
 
  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
 
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No S
 
As of April 29, 2011, the registrant's outstanding common stock consisted of 1,015 shares of common stock, $0.01 par value.
 
The registrant meets the conditions set forth in General Instruction (H)(1)(a) and (b) of Form 10-Q and is therefore filing this Form 10-Q with the reduced disclosure format.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


 
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
 
*
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 4.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1A.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
 
*
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 3.
Defaults Upon Senior Securities
 
 
*
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 4.
(Removed and Reserved)
 
 
None
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 5.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 6.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*
This item has been omitted pursuant to the reduced disclosure format as set forth in General Instruction (H)(2) of Form 10-Q.


PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
 
We make “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 throughout this report. Whenever you read a statement that is not simply a statement of historical fact (such as when we describe what we “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “expect” or “anticipate” will occur, and other similar statements), you must remember that our expectations may not be achieved, even though we believe they are reasonable. We do not guarantee that any future transactions or events described herein will happen as described or that they will happen at all. You should read this report completely and with the understanding that actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. Whether actual events or results will conform with our expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. The risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following:
 
We face intense and increasing competition from satellite and cable television providers, telecommunications companies and providers of video content via the Internet, especially as the pay-TV industry matures, which may require us to increase subscriber acquisition and retention spending or accept lower subscriber acquisitions and higher subscriber churn.
 
Competition from digital media companies that provide/facilitate the delivery of video content via the Internet, could materially adversely affect us.
 
We may pursue acquisitions and other strategic transactions to complement or expand our business that may not be successful and we may lose up to the entire value of our investment in these acquisitions and transactions.
 
If we do not improve our operational performance and customer satisfaction, our gross new subscriber additions may decrease and our subscriber churn may increase.
 
If DISH Network gross new subscriber additions decrease, or if subscriber churn, subscriber acquisition costs or retention costs increase, our financial performance will be adversely affected.
 
Economic weakness, including higher unemployment and reduced consumer spending, may adversely affect our ability to grow or maintain our business.
 
Programming expenses are increasing and could adversely affect our future financial condition and results of operations.
 
We depend on others to provide the programming that we offer to our subscribers and, if we lose access to this programming, our gross new subscriber additions may decline and subscriber churn may increase.
 
We may be required to make substantial additional investments to maintain competitive programming offerings.
 
Technology in our industry changes rapidly and could cause our services and products to become obsolete. We may have to upgrade or replace subscriber equipment and make substantial investments in our infrastructure to remain competitive.
 
Increased distribution of video content via the Internet could expose us to regulatory risk.
 
Our business depends on certain intellectual property rights and on not infringing the intellectual property rights of others.
 
Any failure or inadequacy of our information technology infrastructure could harm our business.

i


 
We may need additional capital, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, to continue investing in our business and to finance acquisitions and other strategic transactions.
 
If Voom prevails in its breach of contract suit against us, we could be required to pay substantial damages, which would have a material adverse affect on our financial position and results of operations.
 
We rely on EchoStar Corporation, or EchoStar, to design and develop all of our new set-top boxes and certain related components, and to provide transponder capacity, digital broadcast operations and other services to us. Our business would be adversely affected if EchoStar ceases to provide these services to us and we are unable to obtain suitable replacement services from third parties.
 
We rely on one or a limited number of vendors, and the inability of these key vendors to meet our needs could have a material adverse effect on our business.
 
Our programming signals are subject to theft, and we are vulnerable to other forms of fraud that could require us to make significant expenditures to remedy.
 
We depend on third parties to solicit orders for DISH Network services that represent a significant percentage of our total gross subscriber acquisitions.
 
Our competitors may be able to leverage their relationships with programmers so that they are able to reduce their programming costs and offer exclusive content that will place them at a competitive advantage to us.
 
We depend on the Cable Act for access to programming from cable-affiliate programmers at cost-effective rates.
 
We face increasing competition from other distributors of foreign language programming that may limit our ability to maintain our foreign language programming subscriber base.
 
Our local programming strategy faces uncertainty because we may not be able to obtain necessary retransmission consents at acceptable rates from local network stations.
 
The injunction against our retransmission of distant networks, currently waived, may be reinstated.
 
We are subject to significant regulatory oversight and changes in applicable regulatory requirements, including any adoption or modification of laws or regulations relating to the Internet, which could adversely affect our business.
 
We have substantial debt outstanding and may incur additional debt.
 
We have limited owned and leased satellite capacity and failures or reduced capacity could adversely affect our business.
 
Our owned and leased satellites are subject to construction, launch, operational and environmental risks that could limit our ability to utilize these satellites.
 
We generally do not have commercial insurance coverage on the satellites we use and could face significant impairment charges if one of our satellites fails.
 
We may have potential conflicts of interest with EchoStar due to DISH Network Corporation's ("DISH") common ownership and management.
 
We rely on key personnel and the loss of their services may negatively affect our businesses.
 
We are party to various lawsuits which, if adversely decided, could have a significant adverse impact on our business, particularly lawsuits regarding intellectual property.
 
Our business depends on Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, licenses that can expire or be revoked or modified and applications for FCC licenses that may not be granted.

ii


 
We are subject to digital HD “carry-one, carry-all” requirements that cause capacity constraints.
 
Our parent, DISH, is controlled by one principal stockholder who is also our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.
 
There can be no assurance that there will not be deficiencies leading to material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting.
 
We may face other risks described from time to time in periodic and current reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC.
 
All cautionary statements made herein should be read as being applicable to all forward-looking statements wherever they appear. Investors should consider the risks described herein and should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. We assume no responsibility for updating forward-looking information contained or incorporated by reference herein or in other reports we file with the SEC.
 
In this report, the words “DDBS,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to DISH DBS Corporation and its subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires. “DISH” refers to DISH Network Corporation, our ultimate parent company, and its subsidiaries including us. “EchoStar” refers to EchoStar Corporation and its subsidiaries.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

iii


Item 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
DISH DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Dollars in thousands, except share amounts)
(Unaudited)
 
 
As of
 
 
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
Current Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
    Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
880,887
 
 
$
507,266
 
 
    Marketable investment securities
 
1,690,851
 
 
1,592,911
 
 
    Trade accounts receivable - other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts
 
 
 
 
 
 
       of $13,418 and $29,650, respectively
 
713,443
 
 
771,383
 
 
    Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero
 
21,854
 
 
14,155
 
 
    Inventory
 
427,345
 
 
487,046
 
 
    Deferred tax assets
 
284,936
 
 
281,957
 
 
    Other current assets
 
53,825
 
 
70,515
 
 
Total current assets
 
4,073,141
 
 
3,725,233
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Noncurrent Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Restricted cash and marketable investment securities
 
174,395
 
 
132,395
 
 
    Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of
 
 
 
 
 
$2,724,579 and $2,684,364, respectively
 
3,253,352
 
 
3,230,849
 
 
    FCC authorizations
 
679,570
 
 
679,570
 
 
    Other noncurrent assets, net
 
72,284
 
 
67,586
 
 
Total noncurrent assets
 
4,179,601
 
 
4,110,400
 
 
      Total assets
 
$
8,252,742
 
 
$
7,835,633
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities and Stockholder's Equity (Deficit)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Trade accounts payable - other
 
$
119,002
 
 
$
161,413
 
 
    Trade accounts payable - EchoStar
 
249,654
 
 
238,629
 
 
    Deferred revenue and other
 
845,321
 
 
803,737
 
 
    Accrued programming
 
1,052,922
 
 
1,089,976
 
 
    Litigation accrual (Note 11)
 
284,346
 
 
619,022
 
 
    Other accrued expenses
 
520,563
 
 
512,705
 
 
    Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations
 
1,027,622
 
 
1,030,895
 
 
Total current liabilities
 
4,099,430
 
 
4,456,377
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-Term Obligations, Net of Current Portion:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion
 
5,478,723
 
 
5,484,041
 
 
    Deferred tax liabilities
 
843,623
 
 
621,943
 
 
    Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and
 
 
 
 
 
       other long-term liabilities
 
206,906
 
 
215,832
 
 
Total long-term obligations, net of current portion
 
6,529,252
 
 
6,321,816
 
 
      Total liabilities
 
10,628,682
 
 
10,778,193
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 8)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stockholder's Equity (Deficit):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Common stock, $.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized,
 
 
 
 
 
1,015 shares issued and outstanding
 
 
 
 
 
     Additional paid-in capital
 
1,185,906
 
 
1,170,560
 
 
     Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 
6,164
 
 
3,765
 
 
     Accumulated earnings (deficit)
 
(3,568,010
)
 
(4,116,885
)
 
Total stockholder's equity (deficit)
 
(2,375,940
)
 
(2,942,560
)
 
        Total liabilities and stockholder's equity (deficit)
 
$
8,252,742
 
 
$
7,835,633
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

1


DISH DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
Subscriber-related revenue
 
$
3,195,666
 
 
$
3,035,401
 
 
Equipment sales and other revenue
 
15,893
 
 
13,829
 
 
Equipment sales - EchoStar
 
3
 
 
912
 
 
Services and other revenue - EchoStar
 
9,028
 
 
6,520
 
 
       Total revenue
 
3,220,590
 
 
3,056,662
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Costs and Expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Subscriber-related expenses (exclusive of depreciation
 
 
 
 
 
shown below - Note 5)
 
1,692,308
 
 
1,639,208
 
 
Satellite and transmission expenses (exclusive of
 
 
 
 
 
depreciation shown below - Note 5):
 
 
 
 
 
      EchoStar
 
108,886
 
 
101,478
 
 
      Other
 
10,078
 
 
9,871
 
 
Equipment, services and other cost of sales
 
22,072
 
 
16,902
 
 
Subscriber acquisition costs:
 
 
 
 
 
      Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar
 
 
 
 
 
(exclusive of depreciation shown below - Note 5)
 
54,426
 
 
26,903
 
 
      Other subscriber promotion subsidies
 
226,822
 
 
313,683
 
 
      Subscriber acquisition advertising
 
73,358
 
 
71,402
 
 
Total subscriber acquisition costs
 
354,606
 
 
411,988
 
 
General and administrative expenses - EchoStar (exclusive of
 
 
 
 
 
depreciation shown below - Note 5)
 
11,940
 
 
11,430
 
 
General and administrative expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown below - Note 5)
 
147,860
 
 
138,275
 
 
Litigation expense (Note 11)
 
(340,676
)
 
30,193
 
 
Depreciation and amortization (Note 5)
 
228,126
 
 
239,492
 
 
       Total costs and expenses
 
2,235,200
 
 
2,598,837
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)
 
985,390
 
 
457,825
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Income (Expense):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
 
3,640
 
 
3,527
 
 
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized
 
(119,973
)
 
(120,938
)
 
Other, net
 
12,568
 
 
128
 
 
       Total other income (expense)
 
(103,765
)
 
(117,283
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
 
881,625
 
 
340,542
 
 
Income tax (provision) benefit, net
 
(332,751
)
 
(122,317
)
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
548,874
 
 
$
218,225
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive Income (Loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on
 
 
 
 
 
available-for-sale securities
 
2,399
 
 
738
 
 
Comprehensive income (loss)
 
$
551,273
 
 
$
218,963
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

2


DISH DBS CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
548,875
 
 
$
218,225
 
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 Depreciation and amortization
 
228,126
 
 
239,492
 
 
 Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments
 
(12,454
)
 
 
 
 Non-cash, stock-based compensation
 
15,177
 
 
6,316
 
 
 Deferred tax expense (benefit)
 
218,076
 
 
(31,350
)
 
 Other, net
 
1,429
 
 
1,427
 
 
 Change in noncurrent assets
 
(4,180
)
 
(2,005
)
 
 Change in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and
 
 
 
 
 
other long-term liabilities
 
(8,926
)
 
(116
)
 
 Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net
 
(243,560
)
 
160,257
 
 
 Net cash flows from operating activities
 
742,563
 
 
592,246
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Purchases of marketable investment securities
 
(1,000,772
)
 
(1,466,869
)
 
Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities
 
905,231
 
 
1,147,291
 
 
Purchases of property and equipment
 
(232,903
)
 
(266,607
)
 
Change in restricted cash and marketable investment securities
 
(42,000
)
 
431
 
 
Proceeds from sale of strategic investments
 
10,000
 
 
 
 
Other
 
 
 
103
 
 
 Net cash flows from investing activities
 
(360,444
)
 
(585,651
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Repayment of long-term debt and capital lease obligations
 
(8,498
)
 
(7,079
)
 
 Net cash flows from financing activities
 
(8,498
)
 
(7,079
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 
373,621
 
 
(484
)
 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
 
507,266
 
 
98,226
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
 
$
880,887
 
 
$
97,742
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:
 
 
 
 
 
Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest)
 
$
114,752
 
 
$
119,361
 
 
Cash received for interest
 
$
3,399
 
 
$
3,526
 
 
Cash paid for income taxes
 
$
1,971
 
 
$
328
 
 
Cash paid for income taxes to DISH
 
$
99,274
 
 
$
149,983
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

3

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Unaudited)
 

 
1.    Organization and Business Activities
 
Principal Business
 
DISH DBS Corporation (which together with its subsidiaries is referred to as “DDBS,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” and/or “our”) is a holding company and an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network Corporation (“DISH”). DDBS was formed under Colorado law in January 1996 and its common stock is held by DISH Orbital Corporation, a direct subsidiary of DISH. We operate the DISH Network® direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) subscription television service (“DISH Network”) in the United States which had 14.191 million subscribers as of March 31, 2011. We have deployed substantial resources to develop the “DISH Network DBS System.” The DISH Network DBS System consists of our licensed Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) authorized DBS and Fixed Satellite Service (“FSS”) spectrum, our owned and leased satellites, receiver systems, third-party broadcast operations, customer service facilities, leased fiber network, in-home service and call center operations, and certain other assets utilized in our operations.
 
On January 1, 2008, DISH completed the distribution of its technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets (the “Spin-off”) into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar Corporation (“EchoStar”). DISH, including us, and EchoStar operate as separate publicly-traded companies, and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other. However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.
 
2.    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 
Basis of Presentation
 
The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information. Accordingly, these statements do not include all of the information and notes required for complete financial statements prepared under GAAP. In our opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. Our results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. For further information, refer to the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 (“2010 10-K”). Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.
 
Principles of Consolidation
 
We consolidate all majority owned subsidiaries, investments in entities in which we have controlling influence and variable interest entities where we have been determined to be the primary beneficiary. Non-majority owned investments are accounted for using the equity method when we have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of the investee. When we do not have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of an investee, the cost method is used. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
 
Use of Estimates
 
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense for each reporting period. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, allowances for doubtful accounts, self-insurance obligations, deferred taxes and related valuation allowances, uncertain tax positions, loss contingencies, fair value of financial instruments, fair value of options granted under our stock-based compensation plans, fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, capital leases, asset impairments, useful lives of property, equipment and intangible assets, retailer incentives, programming expenses, subscriber lives and royalty obligations. Weak economic conditions have increased the inherent uncertainty in the estimates and assumptions indicated above. Actual results may differ from previously estimated amounts, and such differences may be material to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected prospectively in the period they occur.

4

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the carrying value for cash and cash equivalents, current marketable investment securities, trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts, and current liabilities is equal to or approximates fair value due to their short-term nature or proximity to current market rates.
 
Fair values for our publicly traded debt securities are based on quoted market prices. The fair values of our private debt is estimated based on an analysis in which we evaluate market conditions, related securities, various public and private offerings, and other publicly available information. In performing this analysis, we make various assumptions regarding, among other things, credit spreads, and the impact of these factors on the value of the notes. See Note 6 for the fair value of our long-term debt.
 
3.    Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Other Investment Securities
 
Our marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities consist of the following:
 
 
As of
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
 
2011
 
2010
 
(In thousands)
Marketable investment securities:
 
 
 
Current marketable investment securities - VRDNs
$
960,383
 
 
$
1,021,697
 
Current marketable investment securities - other
730,468
 
 
571,214
 
 Total current marketable investment securities
1,690,851
 
 
1,592,911
 
Restricted marketable investment securities (1)
68,907
 
 
59,638
 
 Total marketable investment securities
1,759,758
 
 
1,652,549
 
 
 
 
 
Restricted cash and cash equivalents (1)
105,488
 
 
72,757
 
 
 
 
 
Total marketable investment securities and restricted cash
$
1,865,246
 
 
$
1,725,306
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
Restricted marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents are included in “Restricted cash and marketable investment securities” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
Marketable Investment Securities
 
Our marketable investment securities portfolio consists of various debt instruments, all of which are classified as available-for-sale.
 
Current Marketable Investment Securities - VRDNs
 
Variable rate demand notes (“VRDNs”) are long-term floating rate municipal bonds with embedded put options that allow the bondholder to sell the security at par plus accrued interest. All of the put options are secured by a pledged liquidity source. Our VRDN portfolio is comprised of investments in many municipalities, which are backed by financial institutions or other highly rated companies that serve as the pledged liquidity source. While they are classified as marketable investment securities, the put option allows VRDNs to be liquidated generally on a same day or on a five business day settlement basis.
 

5

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Current Marketable Investment Securities - Other
 
Our current marketable investment securities portfolio includes investments in various debt instruments including corporate and government bonds.
 
Restricted Cash and Marketable Investment Securities
 
As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, our restricted marketable investment securities, together with our restricted cash, included amounts required as collateral for our letters of credit or surety bonds and for our litigation with TiVo (See Note 11) and ESPN (See Note 8).
 
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities
 
As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we had accumulated net unrealized gains of $6 million and $4 million, both net of related tax effect, respectively, as a part of “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within “Total stockholder's equity (deficit).” A full valuation allowance has been established against any deferred taxes that are capital in nature. The components of our available-for-sale investments are detailed in the table below.
 
 
As of March 31, 2011
 
As of December 31, 2010
 
 
 Marketable
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Marketable
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Investment
 
 Unrealized
 
 Investment
 
 Unrealized
 
 
 Securities
 
 Gains
 
 Losses
 
 Net
 
 Securities
 
 Gains
 
 Losses
 
 Net
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 VRDNs
$
960,383
 
 
$
 
 
$
 
 
$
 
 
$
1,021,697
 
 
$
 
 
$
 
 
$
 
 
 Other (including restricted)
799,375
 
 
7,101
 
 
(937
)
 
6,164
 
 
630,852
 
 
4,905
 
 
(1,140
)
 
3,765
 
 
Total marketable
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
investment securities
$
1,759,758
 
 
$
7,101
 
 
$
(937
)
 
$
6,164
 
 
$
1,652,549
 
 
$
4,905
 
 
$
(1,140
)
 
$
3,765
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of March 31, 2011, restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities include debt securities of $1.598 billion with contractual maturities of one year or less and $162 million with contractual maturities greater than one year. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities as a result of our ability to sell these securities prior to maturity.
 

6

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Marketable Investment Securities in a Loss Position
 
The following table reflects the length of time that the individual securities, accounted for as available-for-sale, have been in an unrealized loss position, aggregated by investment category. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, the unrealized losses on our investments in debt securities primarily represent investments in mortgage backed securities. We do not intend to sell our investments in these debt securities before they recover or mature, and it is more likely than not that we will hold these investments until that time. In addition, we are not aware of any specific factors indicating that the underlying issuers of these debt securities would not be able to pay interest as it becomes due or repay the principal at maturity.  Therefore, we believe that these changes in the estimated fair values of these marketable investment securities are related to temporary market fluctuations. 
 
 
 
Primary
 
As of March 31, 2011
 
 
 
Reason for
 
Total
 
Less than Six Months
 
Six to Nine Months
 
Nine Months or More
 
Investment
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Fair
 
Unrealized
 
Category
 
Loss
 
Value
 
Value
 
Loss
 
Value
 
Loss
 
Value
 
Loss
 
 
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities
 
Temporary market fluctuations
 
$
256,589
 
 
$
224,379
 
 
$
(221
)
 
$
1,104
 
 
$
(5
)
 
$
31,106
 
 
$
(711
)
 
Total
 
 
 
$
256,589
 
 
$
224,379
 
 
$
(221
)
 
$
1,104
 
 
$
(5
)
 
$
31,106
 
 
$
(711
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of December 31, 2010
 
 
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities
 
Temporary market fluctuations
 
$
197,600
 
 
$
71,279
 
 
$
(133
)
 
$
20,051
 
 
$
(79
)
 
$
106,270
 
 
$
(928
)
 
Total
 
 
 
$
197,600
 
 
$
71,279
 
 
$
(133
)
 
$
20,051
 
 
$
(79
)
 
$
106,270
 
 
$
(928
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements
 
We determine fair value based on the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Market or observable inputs are the preferred source of values, followed by unobservable inputs or assumptions based on hypothetical transactions in the absence of market inputs. We apply the following hierarchy in determining fair value:
 
Level 1, defined as observable inputs being quoted prices in active markets for identical assets;
Level 2, defined as observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets; and
Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs for which little or no market data exists, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other participants therefore requiring assumptions based on the best information available.
 
Our assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows:
 
 
 
As of
 
 
 
March 31, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
 
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Debt securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 VRDNs
 
$
960,383
 
 
$
 
 
$
960,383
 
 
$
 
 
$
1,021,697
 
 
$
 
 
$
1,021,697
 
 
$
 
 
 Other (including restricted)
 
799,375
 
 
6,140
 
 
793,235
 
 
 
 
630,852
 
 
10,738
 
 
620,114
 
 
 
 
Total marketable
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
investment securities
 
$
1,759,758
 
 
$
6,140
 
 
$
1,753,618
 
 
$
 
 
$
1,652,549
 
 
$
10,738
 
 
$
1,641,811
 
 
$
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

7

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Gains and Losses on Sales and Changes in Carrying Values of Investments
 
“Other, net” income and expense included on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) includes other changes in the carrying amount of our marketable and non-marketable investments as follows:
 
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
Other Income (Expense):
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Other investment securities - gains (losses) on sales
 
$
10,000
 
 
$
 
 
Marketable investment securities - unrealized gains (losses)
 
 
 
 
 
     on investments accounted for at fair value
 
2,454
 
 
 
 
Other
 
114
 
 
128
 
 
Total
 
$
12,568
 
 
$
128
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4.    Inventory
 
Inventory consists of the following:
 
 
As of
 
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Finished goods - DBS
$
301,087
 
 
$
304,552
 
 
Raw materials
87,394
 
 
143,100
 
 
Work-in-process - used
35,352
 
 
36,186
 
 
Work-in-process - new
3,512
 
 
3,208
 
 
Total inventory
$
427,345
 
 
$
487,046
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.    Property and Equipment
 
Depreciation and Amortization Expense
 
Depreciation and amortization expense consists of the following:
 
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Equipment leased to customers
 
$
182,987
 
 
$
205,398
 
 
Satellites
 
32,091
 
 
22,183
 
 
Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other
 
13,048
 
 
11,911
 
 
 Total depreciation and amortization
 
$
228,126
 
 
$
239,492
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of sales and operating expense categories included in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) do not include depreciation expense related to satellites or equipment leased to customers.
 

8

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Satellites
 
We currently utilize 13 satellites in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator, six of which we own. We currently utilize capacity on five satellites from EchoStar, which are accounted for as operating leases. See Note 10 for further discussion of our satellite leases with EchoStar. We also lease two satellites from third parties, which are accounted for as capital leases and are depreciated over the shorter of the economic life or the term of the satellite agreement.
 
Operation of our programming service requires that we have adequate satellite transmission capacity for the programming we offer. Moreover, current competitive conditions require that we continue to expand our offering of new programming, particularly by expanding local high definition ("HD") coverage and offering more HD national channels. While we generally have had in-orbit satellite capacity sufficient to transmit our existing channels and some backup capacity to recover the transmission of certain critical programming, our backup capacity is limited.
 
In the event of a failure or loss of any of our satellites, we may need to acquire or lease additional satellite capacity or relocate one of our other satellites and use it as a replacement for the failed or lost satellite. Such a failure could result in a prolonged loss of critical programming or a significant delay in our plans to expand programming as necessary to remain competitive and thus may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
 
Prior to 2011, certain satellites in our fleet experienced anomalies, some of which have had a significant adverse impact on their remaining useful life and/or commercial operation. There can be no assurance that future anomalies will not further impact the remaining useful life and/or commercial operation of any of these satellites. See “Long-Lived Satellite Assets” below for further discussion of evaluation of impairment. There can be no assurance that we can recover critical transmission capacity in the event one or more of our in-orbit satellites were to fail. We do not anticipate carrying insurance for any of the in-orbit satellites that we use, and we will bear the risk associated with any in-orbit satellite failures. Recent developments with respect to certain of our satellites are discussed below.
 
Leased Satellites
 
EchoStar VIII. EchoStar VIII was designed to operate 32 DBS transponders in the continental United States at approximately 120 watts per channel, switchable to 16 DBS transponders operating at approximately 240 watts per channel. EchoStar VIII was also designed with spot-beam technology. This satellite has experienced several anomalies prior to 2011 and during January 2011, the satellite experienced an anomaly, which temporarily disrupted electrical power to some components causing an interruption of broadcast service. In addition, one of the two on board computers used to control the satellite failed in connection with this anomaly. None of these anomalies has impacted the commercial operation or estimated useful life of the satellite. However, there can be no assurance that this anomaly or any future anomalies will not reduce its useful life or impact its commercial operation.
 
Long-Lived Satellite Assets
 
We evaluate our satellite fleet for impairment as one asset group and test for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that its carrying amount may not be recoverable. While certain of the anomalies discussed above, and previously disclosed, may be considered to represent a significant adverse change in the physical condition of an individual satellite, based on the redundancy designed within each satellite and considering the asset grouping, these anomalies are not considered to be significant events that would require evaluation for impairment recognition. Unless and until a specific satellite is abandoned or otherwise determined to have no service potential, the net carrying amount related to the satellite would not be written off.
 
 

9

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

6.    Long-Term Debt
 
Fair Value of our Long-Term Debt
 
The following table summarizes the carrying and fair values of our debt facilities as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010:
 
 
As of
 
 
March 31, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
 
Carrying
 
 
 
Carrying
 
 
 
 
Value
 
Fair Value
 
Value
 
Fair Value
 
 
(In thousands)
 
6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011 (1)
$
1,000,000
 
 
$
1,017,500
 
 
$
1,000,000
 
 
$
1,032,500
 
 
7 % Senior Notes due 2013
500,000
 
 
543,125
 
 
500,000
 
 
532,815
 
 
6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014
1,000,000
 
 
1,057,560
 
 
1,000,000
 
 
1,032,500
 
 
7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2015
750,000
 
 
819,375
 
 
750,000
 
 
798,750
 
 
7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016
1,500,000
 
 
1,597,500
 
 
1,500,000
 
 
1,548,600
 
 
7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019
1,400,000
 
 
1,519,000
 
 
1,400,000
 
 
1,463,000
 
 
Mortgages and other notes payable
77,638
 
 
77,638
 
 
77,965
 
 
77,965
 
 
Subtotal
6,227,638
 
 
$
6,631,698
 
 
6,227,965
 
 
$
6,486,130
 
 
Capital lease obligations (2)
278,707
 
 
 
 
286,971
 
 
 
 
Total long-term debt and capital
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 lease obligations (including current portion)
$
6,506,345
 
 
 
 
$
6,514,936
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1)    Our 6 3/8% Senior Notes with an aggregate principal balance of $1.0 billion mature on October 1, 2011.
(2)     Disclosure regarding fair value of capital leases is not required.
 
7.    Stock-Based Compensation
 
Stock Incentive Plans
 
DISH maintains stock incentive plans to attract and retain officers, directors and key employees. Our employees participate in the DISH stock incentive plans. Stock awards under these plans include both performance and non-performance based stock incentives. As of March 31, 2011, there were outstanding under these plans stock options to acquire 18.8 million shares of DISH's Class A common stock and 0.9 million restricted stock units associated with our employees. Stock options granted prior to and on March 31, 2011 were granted with exercise prices equal to or greater than the market value of DISH Class A common stock at the date of grant and with a maximum term of approximately ten years. While historically DISH's board of directors has issued stock awards subject to vesting, typically at the rate of 20% per year, some stock awards have been granted with immediate vesting and other stock awards vest only upon the achievement of certain DISH-specific objectives. As of March 31, 2011, DISH had 75.3 million shares of its Class A common stock available for future grant under its stock incentive plans.
 
During December 2009, DISH paid a dividend in cash of $2.00 per share on their outstanding Class A and Class B common stock to shareholders of record on November 20, 2009. In light of such dividend, during February 2010, the exercise price of 16.9 million stock options, affecting approximately 400 of our employees, was reduced by $2.00 per share (the “Stock Option Adjustment”). Except as noted below, all information discussed below reflects the Stock Option Adjustment.
 

10

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

In connection with the Spin-off, as permitted by existing stock incentive plans and consistent with the Spin-off exchange ratio, each DISH stock option was converted into two stock options as follows:
 
an adjusted DISH stock option for the same number of shares that were exercisable under the original DISH stock option, with an exercise price equal to the exercise price of the original DISH stock option multiplied by 0.831219.
a new EchoStar stock option for one-fifth of the number of shares that were exercisable under the original DISH stock option, with an exercise price equal to the exercise price of the original DISH stock option multiplied by 0.843907.
 
Similarly, each holder of DISH restricted stock units retained his or her DISH restricted stock units and received one EchoStar restricted stock unit for every five DISH restricted stock units that they held.
 
Consequently, the fair value of the DISH stock award and the new EchoStar stock award immediately following the Spin-off was equivalent to the fair value of such stock award immediately prior to the Spin-off.
 
As of March 31, 2011, the following stock awards were outstanding:
 
 
 
As of March 31, 2011
 
 
 
DISH Awards
 
EchoStar Awards
 
Stock Awards Outstanding
 
 Stock
Options
 
 Restricted
Stock
Units
 
 Stock
Options
 
 Restricted
Stock
Units
 
Held by DDBS employees
 
18,806,172
 
 
933,746
 
 
946,546
 
 
58,484
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DISH is responsible for fulfilling all stock awards related to DISH common stock and EchoStar is responsible for fulfilling all stock awards related to EchoStar common stock, regardless of whether such stock awards are held by our or EchoStar's employees. Notwithstanding the foregoing, our stock-based compensation expense, resulting from stock awards outstanding at the Spin-off date, is based on the stock awards held by our employees regardless of whether such stock awards were issued by DISH or EchoStar. Accordingly, stock-based compensation that we expense with respect to EchoStar stock awards is included in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 

11

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Stock Award Activity
 
DISH stock option activity was as follows:
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31, 2011
 
 
 
Options
 
Weighted- Average Exercise Price
 
Total options outstanding, beginning of period
 
18,447,004
 
 
$
17.76
 
 
Granted
 
890,000
 
 
$
24.36
 
 
Exercised
 
(151,132
)
 
$
11.62
 
 
Forfeited and cancelled
 
(379,700
)
 
$
14.95
 
 
Total options outstanding, end of period
 
18,806,172
 
 
$
18.08
 
 
Performance based options outstanding, end of period (1)
 
9,802,750
 
 
$
15.36
 
 
Exercisable at end of period
 
5,534,921
 
 
$
22.81
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1)
These stock options, which are included in the caption “Total options outstanding, end of period,” were issued pursuant to performance based stock incentive plans. Vesting of these stock options is contingent upon meeting certain DISH-specific goals which are not yet probable of being achieved. See discussion of the 2005 LTIP, 2008 LTIP and other employee performance awards below.
 
We realized tax benefits from stock awards exercised during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 as follows:
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Tax benefit from stock awards exercised
 
$
795
 
 
$
87
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Based on the closing market price of DISH Class A common stock on March 31, 2011, the aggregate intrinsic value of stock options associated with our employees was as follows:
 
 
 
As of March 31, 2011
 
 
 
Options Outstanding
 
Options Exercisable
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Aggregate intrinsic value
 
$
126,173
 
 
$
15,093
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

12

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
DISH restricted stock unit activity was as follows:
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31, 2011
 
 
 
Restricted
Stock
Awards
 
Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
 
Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period
 
1,271,984
 
 
$
22.06
 
 
Granted
 
 
 
$
 
 
Vested
 
 
 
$
 
 
Forfeited and cancelled
 
(338,238
)
 
$
26.34
 
 
Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period
 
933,746
 
 
$
20.51
 
 
Restricted Performance Units outstanding, end of period (1)
 
933,746
 
 
$
20.51
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(1)    These Restricted Performance Units, which are included in the caption “Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period,” were issued pursuant to performance based stock incentive plans. Vesting of these Restricted Performance Units is contingent upon meeting certain DISH-specific goals which are not yet probable of being achieved. See discussion of the 2005 LTIP, 2008 LTIP and other employee performance awards below.
 
Long-Term Performance Based Plans
 
2005 LTIP. During 2005, DISH adopted a long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the “2005 LTIP”). The 2005 LTIP provides stock options and restricted stock units, either alone or in combination, which vest over seven years at the rate of 10% per year during the first four years, and at the rate of 20% per year thereafter. Exercise of the stock awards is subject to a performance condition that a DISH-specific subscriber goal is achieved by March 31, 2015.
 
Contingent compensation related to the 2005 LTIP will not be recorded in our financial statements unless and until management concludes achievement of the performance condition is probable. Given the competitive nature of DISH's business, small variations in subscriber churn, gross new subscriber addition rates and certain other factors can significantly impact subscriber growth. Consequently, while it was determined that achievement of the goal was not probable as of March 31, 2011, that assessment could change at any time.
 
If all of the stock awards under the 2005 LTIP were vested and the goal had been met or if management had determined that achievement of the goal was probable during the three months ended March 31, 2011, we would have recorded total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for our employees as indicated in the table below. If the goal is met and there are unvested stock awards at that time, the vested amounts would be expensed immediately on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), with the unvested portion recognized ratably over the remaining vesting period.
 
 
 
2005 LTIP
 
 
 
 
 
Vested
 
 
 
Total
 
Portion
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
DISH awards held by DDBS employees
 
$
37,739
 
 
$
23,442
 
 
EchoStar awards held by DDBS employees
 
7,388
 
 
4,580
 
 
Total
 
$
45,127
 
 
$
28,022
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

13

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

2008 LTIP. During 2008, DISH adopted a long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the “2008 LTIP”). The 2008 LTIP provides stock options and restricted stock units, either alone or in combination, which vest based on DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals. Exercise of the stock awards is contingent on achieving these goals by December 31, 2015.
 
Although no awards vest until DISH attains the performance goals, compensation related to the 2008 LTIP will be recorded based on management's assessment of the probability of meeting the remaining goals. If the remaining goals are probable of being achieved, we will begin recognizing the associated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) over the estimated period to achieve the goal. See table below titled “Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense.”
 
During the first quarter of 2011, DISH determined that 100% of the 2008 LTIP performance goals are probable of achievement. Although 100% of those goals are probable of achievement, only 25% of the vesting conditions have been met as of March 31, 2011. As a result, we recorded non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, as indicated in the table below titled “Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Recognized.”
 
Other Employee Performance Awards. In addition to the above long-term, performance stock incentive plans, DISH has other stock awards that vest based on certain other DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals. Exercise of these stock awards is contingent on achieving certain performance goals.
 
Additional compensation related to these awards will be recorded based on management's assessment of the probability of meeting the remaining performance goals. If the remaining goals are probable of being achieved, we will begin recognizing the associated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) over the estimated period to achieve the goal. See table below titled “Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense.”
 
Although no awards vest until the performance goals are attained, DISH determined that certain goals were probable of achievement and, as a result, recorded non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, as indicated in the table below titled “Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Recognized.”
 
Given the competitive nature of DISH's business, small variations in subscriber churn, gross new subscriber addition rates and certain other factors can significantly impact subscriber growth. Consequently, while it was determined that achievement of certain DISH-specific subscriber and financial goals was not probable as of March 31, 2011, that assessment could change at any time.
 
The non-cash stock-based compensation expense associated with these awards is as follows:
 
Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense
 
2008 LTIP
 
Other Employee Performance Awards
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Remaining expense estimated to be recognized during 2011
 
$
5,467
 
 
$
1,013
 
 
Estimated contingent expense subsequent to 2011
 
9,320
 
 
24,456
 
 
Total estimated remaining expense over the term of the plan
 
$
14,787
 
 
$
25,469
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

14

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Recognized
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
2008 LTIP
 
$
12,804
 
 
$
582
 
 
Other employee performance awards
 
75
 
 
309
 
 
Total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense recognized
 
 
 
 
 
 for performance based awards
 
$
12,879
 
 
$
891
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Of the 18.8 million stock options and 0.9 million restricted stock units outstanding under the DISH stock incentive plans associated with our employees as of March 31, 2011, the following awards were outstanding pursuant to the performance based stock incentive plans:
 
 
As of March 31, 2011
 
Performance Based Stock Options
 
Number of Awards
 
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
 
2005 LTIP
 
2,387,500
 
 
$
23.25
 
 
2008 LTIP
 
5,415,250
 
 
$
10.76
 
 
Other employee performance awards
 
2,000,000
 
 
$
18.41
 
 
Total
 
9,802,750
 
 
$
15.36
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restricted Performance Units and Other
 
 
 
 
 
2005 LTIP
 
292,496
 
 
 
 
2008 LTIP
 
41,250
 
 
 
 
Other employee performance awards
 
600,000
 
 
 
 
Total
 
933,746
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock-Based Compensation
 
During the three months ended March 31, 2010, we incurred $3 million of additional non-cash, stock-based compensation cost in connection with the Stock Option Adjustment discussed previously. This amount is included in the table below. Total non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for all of our employees is shown in the following table for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 and was allocated to the same expense categories as the base compensation for such employees:
 
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Subscriber-related
 
$
977
 
 
$
449
 
 
General and administrative
 
14,200
 
 
5,867
 
 
Total non-cash, stock-based compensation
 
$
15,177
 
 
$
6,316
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of March 31, 2011, our total unrecognized compensation cost related to the non-performance based unvested stock awards was $26 million and includes compensation expense that we will recognize for EchoStar stock awards held by our employees as a result of the Spin-off. This cost is based on an estimated future forfeiture rate of approximately 4.0% per year and will be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately three years. Share-based compensation expense is recognized based on stock awards ultimately expected to vest and is reduced for estimated forfeitures. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Changes in the estimated forfeiture rate can have a significant effect on share-based compensation expense since the effect of adjusting the rate is recognized in the period the forfeiture estimate is changed.

15

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
Valuation
 
The fair value of each stock option for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 was estimated at the date of the grant using a Black-Scholes option valuation model with the following assumptions:
 
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
Ended March 31,
Stock Options
 
2011
 
2010
Risk-free interest rate
 
2.24% - 2.68%
 
2.89%
Volatility factor
 
35.82% - 39.59%
 
35.47%
Expected term of options in years
 
4.9 - 6.3
 
5.9
Weighted-average fair value of options granted
 
$9.16 - $9.81
 
$8.14
 
 
 
 
 
While DISH currently does not intend to declare additional dividends on its common stock, they may elect to do so from time to time. Accordingly, the dividend yield percentage used in the Black-Scholes option valuation model is set at zero for all periods. The Black-Scholes option valuation model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of traded stock options which have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Consequently, our estimate of fair value may differ from other valuation models. Further, the Black-Scholes option valuation model requires the input of subjective assumptions. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect the fair value estimate.
 
We will continue to evaluate the assumptions used to derive the estimated fair value of DISH's stock options as new events or changes in circumstances become known.
 
8.    Commitments and Contingencies
 
Commitments
 
Guarantees
 
In connection with the Spin-off, we distributed certain satellite lease agreements to EchoStar and remained the guarantor under those capital leases for payments totaling approximately $272 million over approximately the next four years.
 
In addition, during the third quarter 2009, EchoStar entered into a new satellite transponder service agreement for Nimiq 5 through 2024. We sublease this capacity from EchoStar and DISH guarantees a certain portion of its obligation under this agreement through 2019. As of March 31, 2011, the remaining obligation under this agreement is the guarantee of $542 million.
 
As of March 31, 2011, we have not recorded a liability on the balance sheet for any of these guarantees.
 
Contingencies
 
In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a separation agreement with EchoStar that provides, among other things, for the division of certain liabilities, including liabilities resulting from litigation. Under the terms of the separation agreement, EchoStar has assumed certain liabilities that relate to its business including certain designated liabilities for acts or omissions prior to the Spin-off. Certain specific provisions govern intellectual property related claims under which, generally, EchoStar will only be liable for its acts or omissions following the Spin-off and DISH will indemnify EchoStar for any liabilities or damages resulting from intellectual property claims relating to the period prior to the Spin-off as well as our acts or omissions following the Spin-off.

16

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C.
 
During 2001, Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C. (“Broadcast Innovation”) filed a lawsuit against us, DirecTV, Thomson Consumer Electronics and others in United States District Court in Denver, Colorado. Broadcast Innovation is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. The suit alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,076,094 (the '094 patent) and 4,992,066 (the '066 patent). The '094 patent relates to certain methods and devices for transmitting and receiving data along with specific formatting information for the data. The '066 patent relates to certain methods and devices for providing the scrambling circuitry for a pay television system on removable cards. Subsequently, DirecTV and Thomson settled with Broadcast Innovation leaving us as the only defendant.
During 2004, the District Court issued an order finding the '066 patent invalid. Also in 2004, the District Court found the '094 patent invalid in a parallel case filed by Broadcast Innovation against Charter and Comcast. In 2005, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit overturned that finding of invalidity with respect to the '094 patent and remanded the Charter case back to the District Court. During June 2006, Charter filed a reexamination request with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The District Court has stayed the Charter case pending reexamination, and our case has been stayed pending resolution of the Charter case.
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Channel Bundling Class Action
 
During 2007, a purported class of cable and satellite subscribers filed an antitrust action against us in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. The suit also names as defendants DirecTV, Comcast, Cablevision, Cox, Charter, Time Warner, Inc., Time Warner Cable, NBC Universal, Viacom, Fox Entertainment Group and Walt Disney Company. The suit alleges, among other things, that the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to provide customers with access only to bundled channel offerings as opposed to giving customers the ability to purchase channels on an “a la carte” basis. On October 16, 2009, the District Court granted defendants' motion to dismiss with prejudice. The plaintiffs have appealed. We intend to vigorously defend this case. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
ESPN
 
During 2008, we filed a lawsuit against ESPN, Inc., ESPN Classic, Inc., ABC Cable Networks Group, Soapnet L.L.C. and International Family Entertainment (collectively, “ESPN”) for breach of contract in New York State Supreme Court. Our complaint alleges that ESPN failed to provide us with certain high-definition feeds of the Disney Channel, ESPN News, Toon and ABC Family. ESPN asserted a counterclaim, and then filed a motion for summary judgment, alleging that we owed approximately $35 million under the applicable affiliation agreements. We brought a motion to amend our complaint to assert that ESPN was in breach of certain most-favored-nation provisions under the applicable affiliation agreements. On April 15, 2009, the New York State Supreme Court granted our motion to amend the complaint, and granted, in part, ESPN's motion on the counterclaim, finding that we are liable for some of the amount alleged to be owing but that the actual amount owing is disputed. We appealed the partial grant of ESPN's motion to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department. After the partial grant of ESPN's motion, ESPN sought an additional $30 million under the applicable affiliation agreements. On March 15, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court affirmed the prior grant of ESPN's motion and ruled that we owe the full amount of approximately $65 million under the applicable affiliation agreement. There can be no assurance that ESPN will not seek, and that the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department will not award a higher amount. On December 29, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department affirmed the partial grant of ESPN's motion on the counterclaim. However, it did not rule on the amount that we owe ESPN pursuant to its counterclaim. The appellate court will determine this amount as part of a separate proceeding. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we have $42 million recorded as a “Litigation accrual” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, which reflects our estimated exposure for ESPN's counterclaim. We intend to vigorously prosecute and defend this case.

17

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
Ganas L.L.C.
 
During August 2010, Ganas, L.L.C. (“Ganas”) filed suit against us, Sabre Holdings Corporation, SAP America, Inc., SAS Institute Inc., Scottrade, Inc., TD Ameritrade, Inc., The Charles Schwab Corporation, Tivo Inc., Unicoi Systems Inc., Xerox Corporation, Adobe Systems Inc., AOL Inc., Apple Inc., Axibase Corporation, DirecTV, E*Trade Securities L.L.C., Exinda Networks, Fidelity Brokerage Services L.L.C., Firstrade Securities Inc., Hewlett-Packard Company, iControl Inc., International Business Machines Corporation and JPMorgan Chase & Co. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 7,136,913, 7,325,053, and 7,734,756. The patents relate to hypertext transfer protocol and simple object access protocol. Ganas is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Katz Communications
 
During 2007, Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. (“Katz”) filed a patent infringement action against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The suit alleges infringement of 19 patents owned by Katz. The patents relate to interactive voice response, or IVR, technology. The case has been transferred and consolidated for pretrial purposes in the United States District Court for the Central District of California by order of the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
NorthPoint Technology
 
On July 2, 2009, NorthPoint Technology, Ltd. filed suit against us, EchoStar and DirecTV in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 6,208,636 (the '636 patent). The '636 patent relates to the use of multiple low-noise block converter feedhorns, or LNBFs, which are antennas used for satellite reception. On April 21, 2011, the US Patent and Trademark Office issued an order granting reexamination of the '636 patent.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Olympic Developments
 
On January 20, 2011, Olympic Developments AG, LLC (“Olympic”) filed suit against us, Atlantic Broadband, Inc., Bright House Networks, LLC, Cable One, Inc., Cequel Communications Holdings I, LLC, CSC Holdings, LLC, GCI Communication Corp., Insight Communications Company, Inc., Knology, Inc., Mediacom Communications Corporation and RCN Telecom Services, LLC in the United States District Court for the Central District of California alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,475,585 and 6,246,400. The patents relate to on-demand services. Olympic is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 

18

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Personalized Media Communications
 
During 2008, Personalized Media Communications, Inc. (“PMC”) filed suit against us, EchoStar and Motorola, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 4,694,490; 5,109,414; 4,965,825; 5,233,654; 5,335,277; and 5,887,243, which relate to satellite signal processing. PMC is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Retailer Class Actions
 
During 2000, lawsuits were filed by retailers in Colorado state and federal courts attempting to certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of our retailers. The plaintiffs requested that the Courts declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged agreements between us and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost incentives and payments, charge backs and other compensation. On September 20, 2010, we agreed to a settlement of both lawsuits that provides, among other things, for mutual releases of the claims underlying the litigation, payment by us of up to $60 million, and the option for certain class members to elect to reinstate certain monthly incentive payments, which the parties agreed have an aggregate maximum value of $23 million. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many class members will elect to reinstate these monthly incentive payments. As a result, we recorded $60 million as a “Litigation accrual” as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. On February 9, 2011, the court granted final approval of the settlement, and $60 million was paid on April 28, 2011.
 
Suomen Colorize Oy
 
During October 2010, Suomen Colorize Oy (“Suomen”) filed suit against DISH Network L.L.C., our indirect wholly owned subsidiary, and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 7,277,398. Suomen is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. The abstract of the patent states that the claims are directed to a method and terminal for providing services in a telecommunication network.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Technology Development Licensing
 
On January 22, 2009, Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. (“TDL”) filed suit against us and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois alleging infringement of United States Patent No. Re. 35,952, which relates to certain favorite channel features. TDL is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. In July 2009, the Court granted our motion to stay the case pending two reexamination petitions before the Patent and Trademark Office.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
TiVo Inc.
 
On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo Inc. See Note 11 for further discussion.
 

19

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Voom
 
In January 2008, Voom HD Holdings (“Voom”) filed a lawsuit against us in New York Supreme Court, alleging breach of contract and other claims arising from our termination of the affiliation agreement governing carriage of certain Voom HD channels on the DISH Network satellite TV service. At that time, Voom also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent us from terminating the agreement. The Court denied Voom's request, finding, among other things, that Voom had not demonstrated that it was likely to prevail on the merits. In April 2010, we and Voom each filed motions for summary judgment. Voom later filed two motions seeking discovery sanctions. On November 9, 2010, the Court issued a decision denying both motions for summary judgment, but granting Voom's motions for discovery sanctions. The Court's decision provides for an adverse inference jury instruction at trial and precludes our damages expert from testifying at trial. We appealed the grant of Voom's motion for discovery sanctions to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department. On February 15, 2011, the appellate Court granted our motion to stay the trial pending our appeal. Oral argument took place on April 27, 2011. Voom is claiming over $2.5 billion in damages. We intend to vigorously defend this case. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Other
 
In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business, including, among other things, disputes with programmers regarding fees. In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
 
9.    Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors
 
DDBS's senior notes are fully, unconditionally and jointly and severally guaranteed by all of our subsidiaries other than minor subsidiaries and the stand alone entity DDBS has no independent assets or operations. Therefore, supplemental financial information on a condensed consolidating basis of the guarantor subsidiaries is not required. There are no restrictions on our ability to obtain cash dividends or other distributions of funds from the guarantor subsidiaries, except those imposed by applicable law.
 
10.    Related Party Transactions
 
Related Party Transactions with EchoStar
 
Following the Spin-off, EchoStar has operated as a separate public company, and we have no continued ownership interest in EchoStar. However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Charles W. Ergen or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.
 
EchoStar is our primary supplier of set-top boxes and digital broadcast operations and our key supplier of transponder capacity. Generally, the prices charged for products and services provided under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off are based on pricing equal to EchoStar's cost plus a fixed margin (unless noted differently below), which will vary depending on the nature of the products and services provided.
 
In connection with the Spin-off and subsequent to the Spin-off, we and EchoStar have entered into certain agreements pursuant to which we obtain certain products, services and rights from EchoStar, EchoStar obtains certain products, services and rights from us, and we and EchoStar have indemnified each other against certain liabilities arising from our respective businesses. We also may enter into additional agreements with EchoStar in the future. The following is a summary of the terms of the principal agreements that we have entered into with EchoStar that may have an impact on our financial position and results of operations.

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
“Equipment sales - EchoStar”
 
Remanufactured Receiver Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a remanufactured receiver agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which EchoStar has the right, but not the obligation, to purchase remanufactured receivers and accessories from us at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the equipment purchased. This agreement expires on January 1, 2012. EchoStar may terminate the remanufactured receiver agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice to us. We may also terminate this agreement if certain entities acquire us.
 
“Services and other revenue - EchoStar”
 
Professional Services Agreement. Prior to 2010, in connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into various agreements with EchoStar including the Transition Services Agreement, Satellite Procurement Agreement and Services Agreement, which all expired on January 1, 2010 and were replaced by the Professional Services Agreement. During 2009, DISH and EchoStar agreed that EchoStar shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to receive from DISH the following services, among others: information technology, travel and event coordination, internal audit, legal, accounting and tax, benefits administration, program management and other support services. Additionally, DISH and EchoStar agreed that DISH shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to engage EchoStar to manage the process of procuring new satellite capacity for them and receive logistics, procurement and quality assurance services from EchoStar. The professional services agreement expires on January 1, 2012, but renews automatically for successive one-year periods thereafter, unless terminated earlier by either party upon at least 60 days notice. However, either party may terminate the services it receives with respect to a particular service for any reason upon at least 30 days notice.
 
Management Services Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a management services agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which DISH makes certain of its officers available to provide services (which are primarily legal and accounting services) to EchoStar. Specifically, R. Stanton Dodge and Paul W. Orban remain employed by DISH, but also serve as EchoStar's Executive Vice President and General Counsel, and Senior Vice President and Controller, respectively. EchoStar makes payments to DISH based upon an allocable portion of the personnel costs and expenses incurred by DISH with respect to such officers (taking into account wages and fringe benefits). These allocations are based upon the estimated percentages of time to be spent by DISH's executive officers performing services for EchoStar under the management services agreement. EchoStar also reimburses DISH for direct out-of-pocket costs incurred by DISH for management services provided to EchoStar. DISH and EchoStar evaluate all charges for reasonableness at least annually and make any adjustments to these charges as DISH and EchoStar mutually agree upon.
 
The management services agreement automatically renewed on January 1, 2011 for an additional one-year period until January 1, 2012 and renews automatically for successive one-year periods thereafter, unless terminated earlier: (i) by EchoStar at any time upon at least 30 days prior notice; (ii) by DISH at the end of any renewal term, upon at least 180 days notice; or (iii) by DISH upon notice to EchoStar, following certain changes in control.
 
Satellite Capacity Leased to EchoStar. During 2009, we entered into a satellite capacity agreement pursuant to which EchoStar leases certain satellite capacity from us on EchoStar I. The fee for the services provided under this satellite capacity agreement depends, among other things, upon the orbital location of the satellite and the length of the lease.
 
The lease generally terminates upon the earlier of: (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite (unless EchoStar determines to renew on a year-to-year basis); (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder on which service is being provided fails; or (iv) a certain date, which depends, among other things, upon the estimated useful life of the satellite, whether the replacement satellite fails at launch or in orbit prior to being placed into service, and the exercise of certain renewal options. EchoStar generally has the option to renew this lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the satellite's life. There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised.
 
Real Estate Lease Agreement. During 2008, DISH entered into a sublease for space at 185 Varick Street, New York, New York to EchoStar for a period of approximately seven years. The rent on a per square foot basis for this sublease was comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic area at the time of the sublease, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises.

21

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
“Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar”
 
Broadcast Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a broadcast agreement pursuant to which EchoStar provides certain broadcast services to us, including teleport services such as transmission and downlinking, channel origination services, and channel management services for a period ending on January 1, 2012. We may terminate channel origination services and channel management services for any reason and without any liability upon at least 60 days notice to EchoStar. If we terminate teleport services for a reason other than EchoStar's breach, we are obligated to pay EchoStar the aggregate amount of the remainder of the expected cost of providing the teleport services. The fees for services provided under the broadcast agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the products and services provided.
 
Broadcast Agreement for Certain Sports Related Programming. During May 2010, we entered into a broadcast agreement pursuant to which EchoStar provides certain broadcast services to us in connection with our carriage of certain sports related programming. The term of this agreement is for ten years. If we terminate this agreement for a reason other than EchoStar's breach, we are generally obligated to reimburse EchoStar for any direct costs EchoStar incurs related to any such termination that it cannot reasonably mitigate. The fees for the broadcast services provided under this agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and provide such services.
 
Satellite Capacity Leased from EchoStar. In connection with the Spin-off and subsequent to the Spin-off, we entered into certain satellite capacity agreements pursuant to which we lease certain satellite capacity on certain satellites owned or leased by EchoStar. The fees for the services provided under these satellite capacity agreements depend, among other things, upon the orbital location of the applicable satellite and the length of the lease. The term of each of the leases is set forth below:
 
EchoStar III, VI, VIII and XII. We lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar VI, VIII and XII. The leases generally terminate upon the earlier of: (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite (unless we determine to renew on a year-to-year basis); (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder on which service is being provided fails; or (iv) a certain date, which depends upon, among other things, the estimated useful life of the satellite, whether the replacement satellite fails at launch or in orbit prior to being placed into service and the exercise of certain renewal options. We generally have the option to renew each lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the respective satellite's life. There can be no assurance that any options to renew such agreements will be exercised. In August 2010, our lease of EchoStar III terminated when it was replaced by EchoStar XV.
 
EchoStar IX. We lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX. Subject to availability, we generally have the right to continue to lease satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX on a month-to-month basis.
 
EchoStar XVI. We will lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar XVI after its service commencement date and this lease generally terminates upon the earlier of: (i) the end of life or replacement of the satellite; (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder(s) on which service is being provided under the agreement fails; or (iv) ten years following the actual service commencement date. Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the satellite. There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised. EchoStar XVI is expected to be launched during the second half of 2012.
 
EchoStar XV. EchoStar XV is owned by us and is operated at the 61.5 degree orbital location. The FCC has granted EchoStar an authorization to operate the satellite at the 61.5 degree orbital location. For so long as EchoStar XV remains in service at the 61.5 degree orbital location, we are obligated to pay EchoStar a fee, which varies depending on the number of frequencies being used by EchoStar XV.
 
Nimiq 5 Agreement. During 2009, EchoStar entered into a fifteen-year satellite service agreement with Telesat Canada (“Telesat”) to receive service on all 32 DBS transponders on the Nimiq 5 satellite at the 72.7 degree orbital location (the “Telesat Transponder Agreement”). During 2009, EchoStar also entered into a satellite service agreement (the “DISH Telesat Agreement”) with us, pursuant to which we will receive service from EchoStar on all 32 of the DBS transponders covered by the Telesat Transponder Agreement. We and EchoStar are currently receiving service on 24 of these DBS transponders and will receive service on the remaining eight DBS transponders over a phase-in period that will be completed in 2012. We have also guaranteed certain obligations of EchoStar under the Telesat Transponder Agreement. See discussions under “Guarantees” in Note 8.

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Under the terms of the DISH Telesat Agreement, we make certain monthly payments to EchoStar that commenced in 2009 when the Nimiq 5 satellite was placed into service and continue through the service term. Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH Telesat Agreement, the service term will expire ten years following the date it was placed into service. Upon expiration of the initial term we have the option to renew the DISH Telesat Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the Nimiq 5 satellite. Upon in-orbit failure or end of life of the Nimiq 5 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite. There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.
 
QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. During 2008, EchoStar entered into a ten-year satellite service agreement with SES Latin America S.A. (“SES”), which provides, among other things, for the provision by SES to EchoStar of service on 32 DBS transponders on the QuetzSat-1 satellite expected to be placed into service at the 77 degree orbital location during the second half of 2011. During 2008, EchoStar also entered into a transponder service agreement (“QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement”) with us pursuant to which we will receive service from EchoStar on 24 of the DBS transponders.
 
Under the terms of the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement, we will make certain monthly payments to EchoStar commencing when the QuetzSat-1 satellite is placed into service and continuing through the service term. Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement, the service term will expire ten years following the actual service commencement date. Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end of life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite. Upon a launch failure, in-orbit failure or end of life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite. There can be no assurance that any options to renew this agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.
 
TT&C Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a telemetry, tracking and control (“TT&C”) agreement pursuant to which we receive TT&C services from EchoStar for a period ending on January 1, 2012. The fees for services provided under the TT&C agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin. We may terminate the TT&C agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice.
 
“Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar”
 
Receiver Agreement. EchoStar is currently our sole supplier of set-top box receivers. The table below indicates the dollar value of set-top boxes and other equipment that we purchased from EchoStar as well as the amount of purchases that are included in “Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). The remaining amount is included in “Inventory” and “Property and equipment, net” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(In thousands)
Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar
 
$
272,126
 
 
$
385,848
 
 
 
 
 
 
Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar included
 
 
 
 
 in “Cost of sales – subscriber promotion subsidies – EchoStar”
 
$
54,426
 
 
$
26,903
 
 
 
 
 
 
In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a receiver agreement pursuant to which we have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase digital set-top boxes and related accessories, and other equipment from EchoStar for a period ending on January 1, 2012. The receiver agreement allows us to purchase digital set-top boxes, related accessories and other equipment from EchoStar at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the equipment purchased. Additionally, EchoStar provides us with standard manufacturer warranties for the goods sold under the receiver agreement. We may terminate the receiver agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice to EchoStar. EchoStar may terminate the receiver agreement if certain entities were to acquire us. The receiver agreement also includes an indemnification provision, whereby the parties indemnify each other for certain intellectual property matters.

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DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

 
“General and administrative expenses - EchoStar”
 
Product Support Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a product support agreement pursuant to which we have the right, but not the obligation, to receive product support from EchoStar (including certain engineering and technical support services) for all set-top boxes and related accessories that EchoStar has previously sold and in the future may sell to us. The fees for the services provided under the product support agreement are calculated at cost plus a fixed margin, which varies depending on the nature of the services provided. The term of the product support agreement is the economic life of such receivers and related accessories, unless terminated earlier. We may terminate the product support agreement for any reason upon at least 60 days notice. In the event of an early termination of this agreement, we are entitled to a refund of any unearned fees paid to EchoStar for the services.
 
Real Estate Lease Agreements. We have entered into lease agreements pursuant to which we lease certain real estate from EchoStar. The rent on a per square foot basis for each of the leases is comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic area, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises. The term of each of the leases is set forth below:
 
Inverness Lease Agreement. The lease for certain space at 90 Inverness Circle East in Englewood, Colorado expires on January 1, 2012.
 
Meridian Lease Agreement. The lease for all of 9601 S. Meridian Blvd. in Englewood, Colorado is for a period ending on January 1, 2012 with a renewal option for one additional year.
 
Santa Fe Lease Agreement. The lease for all of 5701 S. Santa Fe Dr. in Littleton, Colorado is for a period ending on January 1, 2012 with a renewal option for one additional year.
 
EDN Sublease Agreement. The sublease for certain space at 211 Perimeter Center in Atlanta, Georgia is for a period ending on October 31, 2016.
 
Gilbert Lease Agreement. The lease for certain space at 801 N. DISH Dr. in Gilbert, Arizona is a month to month lease and can be terminated by either party upon 30 days prior notice.
 
DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. Effective January 1, 2010, we entered into a two-year agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive certain services associated with an online video portal. The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services. We have the option to renew this agreement for three successive one year terms and the agreement may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.
 
DISH Remote Access Services Agreement. Effective February 23, 2010, we entered into an agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive, among other things, certain remote DVR management services. The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services. This agreement has a term of five years with automatic renewal for successive one year terms and may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.
 
SlingService Services Agreement. Effective February 23, 2010, we entered into an agreement with EchoStar pursuant to which we will receive certain place-shifting services. The fees for the services provided under this services agreement depend, among other things, upon the cost to develop and operate such services. This agreement has a term of five years with automatic renewal for successive one year terms and may be terminated for any reason upon at least 120 days notice to EchoStar.
 
Other Agreements - EchoStar
 
Tax Sharing Agreement. In connection with the Spin-off, DISH entered into a tax sharing agreement with EchoStar which governs our respective rights, responsibilities and obligations after the Spin-off with respect to taxes for the periods ending on or before the Spin-off. Generally, all pre-Spin-off taxes, including any taxes that are incurred as a result of restructuring activities undertaken to implement the Spin-off, are borne by DISH, and DISH will indemnify EchoStar for such taxes. However, DISH is not liable for and will not indemnify EchoStar for any taxes that are incurred as a result of the Spin-off or

24

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

certain related transactions failing to qualify as tax-free distributions pursuant to any provision of Section 355 or Section 361 of the Code because of: (i) a direct or indirect acquisition of any of EchoStar's stock, stock options or assets; (ii) any action that EchoStar takes or fails to take; or (iii) any action that EchoStar takes that is inconsistent with the information and representations furnished to the IRS in connection with the request for the private letter ruling, or to counsel in connection with any opinion being delivered by counsel with respect to the Spin-off or certain related transactions. In such case, EchoStar is solely liable for, and will indemnify DISH for, any resulting taxes, as well as any losses, claims and expenses. The tax sharing agreement will only terminate after the later of the full period of all applicable statutes of limitations, including extensions, or once all rights and obligations are fully effectuated or performed.
 
TiVo. On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo Inc. See Note 11 for further discussion.
 
EchoStar XV Launch Service. During 2009, EchoStar assigned certain of its rights under a launch contract to us for EchoStar's fair value of $103 million. This amount was paid to EchoStar during the first quarter of 2010. We recorded these rights at EchoStar's net book value of $89 million and recorded the $14 million difference between EchoStar's net book value and our purchase price as a capital transaction with EchoStar. We used these rights to launch EchoStar XV in July 2010.
 
Weather Related Programming Agreement. During May 2010, we entered into an agreement pursuant to which, among other things, EchoStar agreed to develop certain weather related programming and we received the right to distribute such programming. This agreement was terminated during June 2010. In July 2010, we purchased EchoStar's interest in the entity that held such weather related programming for $5 million.
 
International Programming Rights Agreement. During the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, we purchased approximately zero and $2 million, respectively, of certain international rights for sporting events from EchoStar, included in “Subscriber-related expenses” on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), of which EchoStar only retained a certain portion.
 
Acquisition of South.com, L.L.C. During October 2010, we purchased all of South.com, L.L.C. from EchoStar and another party for $5 million. South.com, L.L.C. is an entity that holds certain authorizations for multichannel video and data distribution service (MVDDS) spectrum in the United States.
 
Other Agreements
 
In November 2009, Mr. Roger Lynch became employed by both DISH and EchoStar as Executive Vice President. Mr. Lynch is responsible for the development and implementation of advanced technologies that are of potential utility and importance to both DISH and EchoStar. Mr. Lynch's compensation consists of cash and equity compensation and is borne by both EchoStar and DISH.
 

25

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

Related Party Transactions with NagraStar L.L.C.
 
Prior to the Spin-off, we owned 50% of NagraStar L.L.C. (“NagraStar”), which was contributed to EchoStar in connection with the Spin-off. NagraStar is a joint venture between EchoStar and Nagra USA, Inc. that is our provider of encryption and related security systems intended to assure that only paying customers have access to our programming.
 
The table below summarizes our transactions with NagraStar.
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Purchases (including fees):
 
 
 
 
 
Purchases from NagraStar
 
$
20,729
 
 
$
20,073
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of
 
 
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Amounts Payable and Commitments:
 
 
 
 
 
Amounts payable to NagraStar
 
$
7,012
 
 
$
13,272
 
 
Commitments to purchase from NagraStar
 
$
13
 
 
$
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
11.    Subsequent Events
 
Blockbuster
 
On April 6, 2011, DISH was selected as the winning bidder in the bankruptcy court auction for substantially all of the assets of Blockbuster, Inc. DISH's winning bid was valued at approximately $320 million. On April 26, 2011 DISH completed the acquisition of Blockbuster. After making certain adjustments at closing of the transaction, including adjustments for available cash and inventory, DISH paid approximately $226 million in cash to acquire Blockbuster.
 
Related Party Transactions with DISH
 
On April 19, 2011, we paid a dividend of approximately $1.5 billion to DISH Orbital Corporation, our direct parent company, in connection with, among other things, the funding of DISH’s investments in DBSD North America and DISH’s acquisition of Blockbuster.
 
TiVo Inc.
 
In connection with DISH's litigation with TiVo Inc. ("TiVo"), which is described in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption “Item 3. Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc.,” on April 20, 2011, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit vacated the District Court's contempt ruling on infringement, articulated a new standard for determining “colorable difference” and remanded that issue back to the District Court for determination. The Federal Circuit also vacated the District Court's amended injunction requiring that DISH inform the court of any further attempts to design around TiVo's United States Patent No. 6,233,389 (the '389 patent) and seek approval from the court before any such design-around is implemented. The Federal Circuit also vacated the infringement damages for the period after DISH deployed its original alternative technology (although it did not foreclose that damages may be reinstated if upon remand a new court or jury decision found that the original alternative technology infringed TiVo's '389 patent). The Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court's contempt ruling on disablement, holding that the original 2006 injunction required that DISH disable DVR functionality in all but approximately

26

DISH DBS CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS- Continued
(Unaudited)

192,000 digital set-top boxes deployed with customers (the “Disablement Provision”) and affirmed the $90 million in contempt sanctions awarded against DISH for violating the Disablement Provision.
 
On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo. The settlement resolves all pending litigation between DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, including litigation relating to alleged patent infringement involving certain DISH Network digital video recorders, or DVRs, which litigation is described in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption "Item 3. Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc."
 
Under the settlement agreement, all pending litigation will be dismissed with prejudice and all injunctions that permanently restrain, enjoin or compel any action by DISH or EchoStar will be dissolved. DISH and EchoStar are jointly responsible for making payments to TiVo in the aggregate amount of $500 million, including an initial payment of $300 million and the remaining $200 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017. Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar from DISH, DISH will be responsible for the initial payment to TiVo, except for a contribution from EchoStar totaling approximately $10 million, representing an allocation of liability relating to EchoStar's sales of DVR-enabled receivers to an international customer. Future payments will be allocated between DISH and EchoStar based on historical sales of certain licensed products, with DISH being responsible for approximately 95% of each annual payment.
 
As previously disclosed, our total litigation accrual for TiVo was $517 million as of December 31, 2010. As a result of the settlement agreement, as of March 31, 2011, we reversed $335 million of this accrual and we will make a payment of approximately $290 million for our portion of the initial payment to TiVo. Of this amount, approximately $182 million relates to prior periods and the remaining $108 million represents a prepayment. Our $108 million prepayment and our $190 million share of the remaining payments, a total of $298 million, will be expensed ratably as a subscriber-related expense from April 1, 2011 through July 31, 2018, the expiration date of the '389 patent.
 
In addition, under the settlement agreement, TiVo granted DISH a license under its '389 patent and certain related patents, for the remaining life of those patents, with respect to DISH-branded and co-branded products and services.
 
DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, have also agreed on mutual releases of certain related claims and agreed not to challenge each other's DVR technology-related patents that are licensed under the settlement agreement.
 
Because both DISH and EchoStar were defendants in the TiVo lawsuit, DISH and EchoStar were jointly and severally liable to TiVo for any final damages and sanctions that could have been awarded by the District Court. As previously disclosed, DISH determined that it was obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for substantially all liability arising from this lawsuit. EchoStar contributed an amount equal to its $5 million intellectual property liability limit under the Receiver Agreement. DISH and EchoStar further agreed that EchoStar's $5 million contribution would not exhaust EchoStar's liability to us for other intellectual property claims that may arise under the Receiver Agreement. DISH and EchoStar also agreed that DISH would each be entitled to joint ownership of, and a cross-license to use, any intellectual property developed in connection with any potential new alternative technology. Any amounts that EchoStar is responsible for under the settlement agreement with TiVo are in addition to the $5 million contribution previously made by EchoStar.
 

27

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 
You should read the following narrative analysis of our results of operations together with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes to the financial statements included elsewhere in this quarterly report. This management's narrative analysis is intended to help provide an understanding of our financial condition, changes in financial condition and results of our operations and contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions and projections about our industry, business and future financial results. Our actual results could differ materially from the results contemplated by these forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 and this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”
 
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
 
Overview
 
The DISH Network® direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) subscription television service (“DISH Network”) added approximately 58,000 net new subscribers during the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to approximately 237,000 net new subscribers during the same period in 2010. This decrease primarily resulted from a decline in gross new subscriber activations and increased churn.
 
During the three months ended March 31, 2011, DISH Network added approximately 681,000 gross new subscribers compared to approximately 833,000 gross new subscribers during the same period in 2010, a decrease of 18.2%. Our gross activations in 2011 were negatively impacted relative to 2010 by increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing and the effectiveness of certain competitors' promotional offers, which included an increased level of discounts. In addition, our gross activations in 2011 continue to be adversely affected by sustained economic weakness and uncertainty, including, among other things, the weak housing market in the United States combined with lower discretionary spending.
 
Our average monthly subscriber churn rate for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was 1.47% compared to 1.40% for the same period in 2010. Generally, we experience lower churn during the first quarter of each year. In general, our churn rate is impacted by the quality of subscribers acquired in past quarters, our ability to provide outstanding customer service, and our ability to control piracy. There can be no assurance that churn will continue at this rate during the remainder of 2011.
 
Net income for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $549 million, compared to $218 million for the same period in 2010. Net income improved primarily due to a reduction in our accrued expenses related to the TiVo Inc. settlement, price increases during the past year and fewer gross new subscriber activations this quarter.
 
Programming costs represent a large percentage of our “Subscriber-related expenses.” Going forward, our margins may face pressure if we are unable to renew our long-term programming contracts on favorable pricing and other economic terms. Additionally, our gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn rate may be negatively impacted if we are unable to renew our long-term programming contracts before they expire.
 
As the pay-TV industry matures, we and our competitors increasingly must seek to attract a greater proportion of new subscribers from each other's existing subscriber bases rather than from first-time purchasers of pay-TV services. Some of our competitors have been especially aggressive by offering discounted programming and services for both new and existing subscribers. In addition, programming offered over the Internet has become more prevalent as the speed and quality of broadband networks have improved. Significant changes in consumer behavior with regard to the means by which they obtain video entertainment and information in response to digital media competition could materially adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition or otherwise disrupt our business.
 
While economic factors have impacted the entire pay-TV industry, our relative performance has also been driven by issues specific to DISH Network. In the past, our subscriber growth has been adversely affected by signal theft and other forms of fraud and by operational inefficiencies at DISH Network.
 
To combat signal theft and improve the security of our broadcast system, we completed the replacement of our security access devices to re-secure our system during 2009. We expect that additional future replacements of these devices will be necessary to keep our system secure. To combat other forms of fraud, we continue to monitor our third party distributors to ensure adherence to our business rules.
 
 

28

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

 
While we have made improvements in responding to and dealing with customer service issues, we continue to focus on the prevention of these issues, which is critical to our business, financial position and results of operations. To address our operational inefficiencies, we continue to focus on simplifying and standardizing our operations. For example, we have streamlined our hardware offerings and continue to make significant investments in staffing, training, information systems, and other initiatives, primarily in our call center and in-home service operations. These investments are intended to help combat inefficiencies introduced by the increasing complexity of our business, improve customer satisfaction, reduce churn, increase productivity and allow us to scale better over the long run. We cannot, however, be certain that our increased spending will ultimately be successful in yielding such returns.
 
We have been investing more in advanced technology equipment as part of our subscriber acquisition and retention efforts. Initiatives to transmit certain programming only in MPEG-4 and to activate most new subscribers only with MPEG-4 receivers have accelerated our deployment of MPEG-4 receivers. To meet current demand, we have increased the rate at which we upgrade existing subscribers to HD and DVR receivers. While these efforts may increase our subscriber acquisition and retention costs, we believe that they will help mitigate subscriber churn in the future and reduce costs over the long run.
 
We are also continuing to change equipment for certain subscribers to make more efficient use of transponder capacity in support of HD and other initiatives. We expect to continue these initiatives through 2011. We believe that the benefit from the increase in available transponder capacity outweighs the short-term cost of these equipment changes.
 
To maintain and enhance our competitiveness over the long term, we are promoting a suite of integrated products designed to maximize the convenience and ease of watching TV anytime and anywhere, referred to as “TV Everywhere.” TV Everywhere utilizes, among other things, online access and Slingbox “placeshifting” technology. There can be no assurance that these integrated products will positively affect our results of operations or our gross new subscriber additions.
 
Recent Developments
 
In connection with DISH's litigation with TiVo Inc. ("TiVo"), which is described in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption “Item 3. Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc.,” on April 20, 2011, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit vacated the District Court's contempt ruling on infringement, articulated a new standard for determining “colorable difference” and remanded that issue back to the District Court for determination. The Federal Circuit also vacated the District Court's amended injunction requiring that DISH inform the court of any further attempts to design around TiVo's United States Patent No. 6,233,389 (the '389 patent) and seek approval from the court before any such design-around is implemented. The Federal Circuit also vacated the infringement damages for the period after DISH deployed its original alternative technology (although it did not foreclose that damages may be reinstated if upon remand a new court or jury decision found that the original alternative technology infringed TiVo's '389 patent). The Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court's contempt ruling on disablement, holding that the original 2006 injunction required that DISH disable DVR functionality in all but approximately 192,000 digital set-top boxes deployed with customers (the “Disablement Provision”) and affirmed the $90 million in contempt sanctions awarded against DISH for violating the Disablement Provision.
 
On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo. The settlement resolves all pending litigation between DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, including litigation relating to alleged patent infringement involving certain DISH Network digital video recorders, or DVRs, which litigation is described in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 under the caption "Item 3. Legal Proceedings - TiVo Inc."
 
Under the settlement agreement, all pending litigation will be dismissed with prejudice and all injunctions that permanently restrain, enjoin or compel any action by DISH or EchoStar will be dissolved. DISH and EchoStar are jointly responsible for making payments to TiVo in the aggregate amount of $500 million, including an initial payment of $300 million and the remaining $200 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017. Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar from DISH, DISH will be responsible for the initial payment to TiVo, except for a contribution from EchoStar totaling approximately $10 million, representing an allocation of liability relating to EchoStar's sales of DVR-enabled receivers to an international customer. Future payments will be allocated between DISH and EchoStar based on historical sales of certain licensed products, with DISH being responsible for approximately 95% of each annual payment.
 
As previously disclosed, our total litigation accrual for TiVo was $517 million as of December 31, 2010. As a result of the settlement agreement, as of March 31, 2011, we reversed $335 million of this accrual and we will make a payment of

29

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

approximately $290 million for our portion of the initial payment to TiVo. Of this amount, approximately $182 million relates to prior periods and the remaining $108 million represents a prepayment. Our $108 million prepayment and our $190 million share of the remaining payments, a total of $298 million, will be expensed ratably as a subscriber-related expense from April 1, 2011 through July 31, 2018, the expiration date of the '389 patent.
 
In addition, under the settlement agreement, TiVo granted DISH a license under its '389 patent and certain related patents, for the remaining life of those patents, with respect to DISH-branded and co-branded products and services.
 
DISH and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, have also agreed on mutual releases of certain related claims and agreed not to challenge each other's DVR technology-related patents that are licensed under the settlement agreement.
 
Because both DISH and EchoStar were defendants in the TiVo lawsuit, DISH and EchoStar were jointly and severally liable to TiVo for any final damages and sanctions that could have been awarded by the District Court. As previously disclosed, DISH determined that it was obligated under the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off to indemnify EchoStar for substantially all liability arising from this lawsuit. EchoStar contributed an amount equal to its $5 million intellectual property liability limit under the Receiver Agreement. DISH and EchoStar further agreed that EchoStar's $5 million contribution would not exhaust EchoStar's liability to us for other intellectual property claims that may arise under the Receiver Agreement. DISH and EchoStar also agreed that DISH would each be entitled to joint ownership of, and a cross-license to use, any intellectual property developed in connection with any potential new alternative technology. Any amounts that EchoStar is responsible for under the settlement agreement with TiVo are in addition to the $5 million contribution previously made by EchoStar.
 
Liquidity Drivers
 
Like many companies, we make general investments in property such as satellites, information technology and facilities that support our overall business. As a subscriber-based company, however, we also make subscriber-specific investments to acquire new subscribers and retain existing subscribers. While the general investments may be deferred without impacting the business in the short-term, the subscriber-specific investments are less discretionary. Our overall objective is to generate sufficient cash flow over the life of each subscriber to provide an adequate return against the upfront investment. Once the upfront investment has been made for each subscriber, the subsequent cash flow is generally positive.
 
There are a number of factors that impact our future cash flow compared to the cash flow we generate at a given point in time. The first factor is how successful we are at retaining our current subscribers. As we lose subscribers from our existing base, the positive cash flow from that base is correspondingly reduced. The second factor is how successful we are at maintaining our subscriber-related margins. To the extent our “Subscriber-related expenses” grow faster than our “Subscriber-related revenue,” the amount of cash flow that is generated per existing subscriber is reduced. The third factor is the rate at which we acquire new subscribers. The faster we acquire new subscribers, the more our positive ongoing cash flow from existing subscribers is offset by the negative upfront cash flow associated with new subscribers. Finally, our future cash flow is impacted by the rate at which we make general investments and any cash flow from financing activities.
 
Our subscriber-specific investments to acquire new subscribers have a significant impact on our cash flow. While fewer subscribers might translate into lower ongoing cash flow in the long-term, cash flow is actually aided, in the short-term, by the reduction in subscriber-specific investment spending. As a result, a slow down in our business due to external or internal factors does not introduce the same level of short-term liquidity risk as it might in other industries.
 
Availability of Credit and Effect on Liquidity
 
The ability to raise capital has generally existed for us despite the weak economic conditions. Because of the cash flow of our company and the absence of any material debt payments until October 2011, modest fluctuations in the cost of capital will not impact our current operational plans. Currently, we have no existing lines of credit, nor have we historically.
 
Future Liquidity
 
Our “Subscriber-related expenses” as a percentage of “Subscriber-related revenue” was 53.0% during the three months ended March 31, 2011 compared to 54.0% during the same period in 2010. This improvement was driven largely by higher average monthly revenue per subscriber (“ARPU”), primarily attributable to price increases during the past year. “Subscriber-related expenses” continued to be negatively impacted by increased programming costs and initiatives to improve customer service. We continue to focus on addressing operational inefficiencies specific to DISH Network, which we believe will contribute to long-term subscriber growth.

30

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

 
Voom
 
If Voom prevails in its breach of contract suit against us, we could be required to pay substantial damages, which would have a material adverse affect on our financial position and results of operations. In January 2008, Voom HD Holdings (“Voom”) filed a lawsuit against us in New York Supreme Court, alleging breach of contract and other claims arising from our termination of the affiliation agreement governing carriage of certain Voom HD channels on the DISH Network satellite TV service. At that time, Voom also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent us from terminating the agreement. The Court denied Voom's request, finding, among other things, that Voom had not demonstrated that it was likely to prevail on the merits. In April 2010, we and Voom each filed motions for summary judgment. Voom later filed two motions seeking discovery sanctions. On November 9, 2010, the Court issued a decision denying both motions for summary judgment, but granting Voom's motions for discovery sanctions. The Court's decision provides for an adverse inference jury instruction at trial and precludes our damages expert from testifying at trial. We appealed the grant of Voom's motion for discovery sanctions to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department. On February 15, 2011, the appellate Court granted our motion to stay the trial pending our appeal. Oral argument took place on April 27, 2011. Voom is claiming over $2.5 billion in damages.
 
DBSD North America (ICO)
 
Over the past several years, DISH has made various strategic investments in DBSD North America Inc. (“DBSD North America”), a subsidiary of ICO Global Communications (Holdings) Limited (“ICO”). DBSD North America is developing an advanced hybrid system which combines both satellite and terrestrial communications capabilities capable of supporting wireless voice, data and/or Internet services throughout the United States. DISH has committed, through various agreements described below, to acquire 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America for approximately $1.4 billion. DISH's ultimate acquisition of 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including approval by the FCC and DBSD North America's emergence from bankruptcy.
 
Investment in DBSD North America as of the Balance Sheet Dates. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, DISH's other investment securities portfolio included DBSD North America's 7.5% Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2009 of $112 million and $56 million, respectively. In addition, as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, DISH held a $47 million line of credit pursuant to the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, dated as of April 7, 2008 between DISH and DBSD North America. During the quarter ended March 31, 2011, DISH made additional investments in DBSD North America pursuant to various agreements discussed below.
 
Investment Agreement. On February 1, 2011, DISH entered into an $87.5 million Credit Facility with DBSD North America and committed to acquire 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America (the “Investment Agreement”) for approximately $1.4 billion subject to certain adjustments, including interest accruing on DBSD North America's existing debt. As of March 31, 2011, DISH had funded $50 million under the Credit Facility.
 
On February 24, 2011 and again on March 15, 2011, DISH amended the Investment Agreement (the “Revised Investment Agreement”). Pursuant to the Revised Investment Agreement, on March 22, 2011, DISH initiated a tender offer to purchase all of DBSD North America's outstanding 7.5% Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2009, certain claims against a DBSD North America's debtor affiliate and certain allowed claims against DBSD North America. The tender offer expired on April 18, 2011 and on April 20, 2011 DISH made payments of approximately $746 million to purchase tendered DBSD North America's 7.5% Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2009, certain claims against a DBSD's debtor affiliate and claims against DBSD North America.
 
Restructuring Support Agreement and Implementation Agreement. In connection with the Revised Investment Agreement on March 15, 2011, DISH entered into a Restructuring Support Agreement and an Implementation Agreement with ICO Global Communications (Holdings) Limited (“ICO”), the parent company of DBSD North America, pursuant to which ICO provided DISH with certain assets, rights and ICO's support of the reorganization of DBSD North America in exchange for approximately $325 million in consideration, $290 million of which will be creditable against any amounts payable to ICO or any successor under the plan of reorganization of DBSD North America. DISH has also agreed to indemnify ICO against certain liabilities in connection with certain pending litigation related to DBSD North America.
 
On March 21, 2011, DISH paid $35 million to ICO pursuant to the Implementation Agreement, which is included in “Marketable and other investment securities” on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2011. On April 26, 2011, subsequent to the date of the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet, DISH made a second payment of approximately $280 million to ICO pursuant to the Implementation Agreement for the capital stock of DBSD North America.

31

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

 
Blockbuster. On April 6, 2011, DISH was selected as the winning bidder in the bankruptcy court auction for substantially all of the assets of Blockbuster, Inc. DISH's winning bid was valued at approximately $320 million. On April 26, 2011 DISH completed the acquisition of Blockbuster. After making certain adjustments at closing of the transaction, including adjustments for available cash and inventory, DISH paid approximately $226 million in cash to acquire Blockbuster.
 
From time to time we evaluate opportunities for strategic investments or acquisitions that may complement our current services and products, enhance our technical capabilities, improve or sustain our competitive position, or otherwise offer growth opportunities. We may make investments in or partner with others to expand our business into mobile and portable video, IPTV, data and voice services. Future material investments or acquisitions may require that we obtain additional capital, assume third party debt or incur other long-term obligations.
 
The Spin-off. On January 1, 2008, DISH completed the distribution of its technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets (the “Spin-off”) into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar. DISH including us, and EchoStar operate as separate publicly-traded companies, and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other. However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both DISH and EchoStar are owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer or by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.
 
EXPLANATION OF KEY METRICS AND OTHER ITEMS
 
Subscriber-related revenue. “Subscriber-related revenue” consists principally of revenue from basic, premium movie, local, HD programming, pay-per-view, Latino and international subscription television services, equipment rental fees and other hardware related fees, including fees for DVRs, equipment upgrade fees and additional outlet fees from subscribers with multiple receivers, advertising services, fees earned from our in-home service operations and other subscriber revenue. Certain of the amounts included in “Subscriber-related revenue” are not recurring on a monthly basis.
 
Equipment sales and other revenue. “Equipment sales and other revenue” principally includes the non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories to retailers and other third-party distributors of our equipment domestically and to DISH Network subscribers.
 
Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar. “Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar” includes revenue related to equipment sales, professional services, and other agreements with EchoStar.
 
Subscriber-related expenses. “Subscriber-related expenses” principally include programming expenses, costs incurred in connection with our in-home service and call center operations, billing costs, refurbishment and repair costs related to receiver systems, subscriber retention and other variable subscriber expenses.
 
Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar. “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” includes the cost of leasing satellite and transponder capacity from EchoStar and the cost of digital broadcast operations provided to us by EchoStar, including satellite uplinking/downlinking, signal processing, conditional access management, telemetry, tracking and control, and other professional services.
 
Satellite and transmission expenses - other. “Satellite and transmission expenses - other” includes executory costs associated with capital leases and costs associated with transponder leases and other related services.
 
Equipment, services and other cost of sales. “Equipment, services and other cost of sales” principally includes the cost of non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories to retailers and other third-party distributors of our equipment domestically and to DISH Network subscribers. In addition, this category includes costs related to equipment sales, professional services, and other agreements with EchoStar.
 
Subscriber acquisition costs. In addition to leasing receivers, we generally subsidize installation and all or a portion of the cost of our receiver systems to attract new DISH Network subscribers. Our “Subscriber acquisition costs” include the cost of our receiver systems sold to retailers and other third-party distributors of our equipment, the cost of receiver systems sold directly by us to subscribers, including net costs related to our promotional incentives, costs related to our direct sales efforts and costs related to installation and acquisition advertising. We exclude the value of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers from “Subscriber acquisition costs.”
 

32

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

SAC. Subscriber acquisition cost measures are commonly used by those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry. We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating the “average subscriber acquisition costs per new subscriber activation,” or SAC, and we believe presentations of SAC may not be calculated consistently by different companies in the same or similar businesses. Our SAC is calculated as “Subscriber acquisition costs,” plus the value of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers, divided by gross new subscriber additions. We include all the costs of acquiring subscribers (e.g., subsidized and capitalized equipment) as our management believes it is a more comprehensive measure of how much we are spending to acquire subscribers. We also include all new DISH Network subscribers in our calculation, including DISH Network subscribers added with little or no subscriber acquisition costs.
 
General and administrative expenses. “General and administrative expenses” consists primarily of employee-related costs associated with administrative services such as legal, information systems, accounting and finance, including non-cash, stock-based compensation expense. It also includes outside professional fees (e.g., legal, information systems and accounting services) and other items associated with facilities and administration.
 
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized. “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” primarily includes interest expense, prepayment premiums and amortization of debt issuance costs associated with our senior debt (net of capitalized interest) and interest expense associated with our capital lease obligations.
 
Other, net. The main components of “Other, net” are gains and losses realized on the sale of investments, impairment of marketable and non-marketable investment securities and equity in earnings and losses of our affiliates.
 
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”). EBITDA is defined as “Net income (loss)” plus “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” net of “Interest income,” “Taxes” and “Depreciation and amortization.” This “non-GAAP measure” is reconciled to “Net income (loss)” in our discussion of “Results of Operations” below.
 
DISH Network subscribers. We include customers obtained through direct sales, third-party retailers and other third-party distribution relationships in our DISH Network subscriber count. We also provide DISH Network service to hotels, motels and other commercial accounts. For certain of these commercial accounts, we divide our total revenue for these commercial accounts by an amount approximately equal to the retail price of our lowest, widely advertised residential programming package (but taking into account price changes and other factors), and include the resulting number, which is substantially smaller than the actual number of commercial units served, in our DISH Network subscriber count. For the three months ended March 31, 2011, we made two changes to this calculation methodology compared to prior periods. Beginning February 1, 2011, the retail price of our lowest, widely advertised residential programming package was our DISH America programming package. The price for this package was used in the calculation rather than America's Top 120 programming package, which had been used in prior periods. We also determined that two of our commercial business lines, which had previously been included in the described calculation, could be more accurately reflected through actual subscriber counts. The net impact of these two changes was to increase our subscriber count by approximately 6,000 subscribers in the quarter. Prior period DISH Network subscribers have not been adjusted for this revised commercial accounts calculation as the impacts were immaterial.
 
Average monthly revenue per subscriber (“ARPU”). We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating ARPU and believe presentations of ARPU may not be calculated consistently by other companies in the same or similar businesses. We calculate average monthly revenue per subscriber, or ARPU, by dividing average monthly “Subscriber-related revenue” for the period (total “Subscriber-related revenue” during the period divided by the number of months in the period) by our average DISH Network subscribers for the period. Average DISH Network subscribers are calculated for the period by adding the average DISH Network subscribers for each month and dividing by the number of months in the period. Average DISH Network subscribers for each month are calculated by adding the beginning and ending DISH Network subscribers for the month and dividing by two.
 
Average monthly subscriber churn rate. We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating subscriber churn rate and believe presentations of subscriber churn rates may not be calculated consistently by different companies in the same or similar businesses. We calculate subscriber churn rate for any period by dividing the number of DISH Network subscribers who terminated service during the period by the average DISH Network subscribers for the same period, and further dividing by the number of months in the period. When calculating subscriber churn, the same methodology for calculating average DISH Network subscribers is used as when calculating ARPU.
 
 
 

33

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Three Months Ended March 31, 2011 Compared to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2010.
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
Variance
 
Statements of Operations Data
 
2011
 
2010
 
Amount
 
%
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Revenue:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Subscriber-related revenue
 
$
3,195,666
 
 
$
3,035,401
 
 
$
160,265
 
 
5.3
 
 
Equipment sales and other revenue
 
15,893
 
 
13,829
 
 
2,064
 
 
14.9
 
 
Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar
 
9,031
 
 
7,432
 
 
1,599
 
 
21.5
 
 
 Total revenue
 
3,220,590
 
 
3,056,662
 
 
163,928
 
 
5.4
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Costs and Expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Subscriber-related expenses
 
1,692,308
 
 
1,639,208
 
 
53,100
 
 
3.2
 
 
 % of Subscriber-related revenue
 
53.0
%
 
54.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar
 
108,886
 
 
101,478
 
 
7,408
 
 
7.3
 
 
 % of Subscriber-related revenue
 
3.4
%
 
3.3
%
 
 
 
 
 
Satellite and transmission expenses - other
 
10,078
 
 
9,871
 
 
207
 
 
2.1
 
 
 % of Subscriber-related revenue
 
0.3
%
 
0.3
%
 
 
 
 
 
Equipment, services and other cost of sales
 
22,072
 
 
16,902
 
 
5,170
 
 
30.6
 
 
Subscriber acquisition costs
 
354,606
 
 
411,988
 
 
(57,382
)
 
(13.9
)
 
General and administrative expenses
 
159,800
 
 
149,705
 
 
10,095
 
 
6.7
 
 
 % of Total revenue
 
5.0
%
 
4.9
%
 
 
 
 
 
Litigation expense
 
(340,677
)
 
30,193
 
 
(370,870
)
 
NM
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
228,126
 
 
239,492
 
 
(11,366
)
 
(4.7
)
 
 Total costs and expenses
 
2,235,199
 
 
2,598,837
 
 
(363,638
)
 
(14.0
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)
 
985,391
 
 
457,825
 
 
527,566
 
 
NM
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Income (Expense):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
 
3,640
 
 
3,527
 
 
113
 
 
3.2
 
 
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized
 
(119,973
)
 
(120,938
)
 
965
 
 
0.8
 
 
Other, net
 
12,568
 
 
128
 
 
12,440
 
 
NM
 
 
 Total other income (expense)
 
(103,765
)
 
(117,283
)
 
13,518
 
 
11.5
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
 
881,626
 
 
340,542
 
 
541,084
 
 
NM
 
 
Income tax (provision) benefit, net
 
(332,751
)
 
(122,317
)
 
(210,434
)
 
NM
 
 
 Effective tax rate
 
37.7
%
 
35.9
%
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
548,875
 
 
$
218,225
 
 
$
330,650
 
 
NM
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other Data:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DISH Network subscribers, as of period end (in millions)
 
14.191
 
 
14.337
 
 
(0.146
)
 
(1.0
)
 
DISH Network subscriber additions, gross (in millions)
 
0.681
 
 
0.833
 
 
(0.152
)
 
(18.2
)
 
DISH Network subscriber additions, net (in millions)
 
0.058
 
 
0.237
 
 
(0.179
)
 
(75.5
)
 
Average monthly subscriber churn rate
 
1.47
%
 
1.40
%
 
0.07
%
 
5.0
 
 
Average monthly revenue per subscriber (“ARPU”)
 
$
75.39
 
 
$
71.18
 
 
$
4.21
 
 
5.9
 
 
Average subscriber acquisition cost per subscriber (“SAC”)
 
$
725
 
 
$
741
 
 
$
(16
)
 
(2.2
)
 
EBITDA
 
$
1,226,085
 
 
$
697,445
 
 
$
528,640
 
 
75.8
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

34

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

 
DISH Network subscribers. As of March 31, 2011, we had approximately 14.191 million DISH Network subscribers compared to approximately 14.337 million subscribers at March 31, 2010, a decrease of 1.0%. DISH Network added approximately 58,000 net new subscribers during the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to approximately 237,000 net new subscribers during the same period in 2010. This decrease primarily resulted from a decline in gross new subscriber activations and increased churn.
 
During the three months ended March 31, 2011, DISH Network added approximately 681,000 gross new subscribers compared to approximately 833,000 gross new subscribers during the same period in 2010, a decrease of 18.2%. Our gross activations in 2011 were negatively impacted relative to 2010 by increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing and the effectiveness of certain competitors' promotional offers, which included an increased level of discounts. In addition, our gross activations in 2011 continue to be adversely affected by sustained economic weakness and uncertainty, including, among other things, the weak housing market in the United States combined with lower discretionary spending.
 
Our average monthly subscriber churn rate for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was 1.47%, compared to 1.40% for the same period in 2010. Generally, we experience lower churn during the first quarter of each year. In general, our churn rate is impacted by the quality of subscribers acquired in past quarters, our ability to provide outstanding customer service, and our ability to control piracy. There can be no assurance that churn will continue at this rate during the remainder of 2011.
 
When the size of our subscriber base increases, even if our subscriber churn rate remains constant, increasing numbers of gross new DISH Network subscribers are required to sustain net subscriber growth.
 
We have not always met our own standards for performing high-quality installations, effectively resolving subscriber issues when they arise, answering subscriber calls in an acceptable timeframe, effectively communicating with our subscriber base, reducing calls driven by the complexity of our business, improving the reliability of certain systems and subscriber equipment, and aligning the interests of certain third party retailers and installers to provide high-quality service. Most of these factors have affected both gross new subscriber additions as well as existing subscriber churn. Our future gross new subscriber additions and subscriber churn may be negatively impacted by these factors, which could in turn adversely affect our revenue growth.
 
Subscriber-related revenue. DISH Network “Subscriber-related revenue” totaled $3.196 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011, an increase of $160 million or 5.3% compared to the same period in 2010. This change was primarily related to the increase in “ARPU” discussed below.
 
ARPU. “Average monthly revenue per subscriber” was $75.39 during the three months ended March 31, 2011 versus $71.18 during the same period in 2010. The $4.21 or 5.9% increase in ARPU was primarily attributable to price increases during the past year. ARPU also continues to increase as a result of higher hardware related fees which include rental fees, fees earned from our in-home service operations and fees for DVRs. This increase was partially offset by increases in the amount of promotional discounts on programming offered to our subscribers.
 
Subscriber-related expenses. “Subscriber-related expenses” totaled $1.692 billion during the three months ended March 31, 2011, an increase of $53 million or 3.2% compared to the same period in 2010. The increase in “Subscriber-related expenses” was primarily attributable to higher programming costs and an increase in customer retention expense. The increase in programming costs was driven by rate increases in certain of our programming contracts, including the renewal of certain contracts at higher rates. These increases were partially offset by reduced costs related to our call centers and in-home service operations. We continue to address our operational inefficiencies by streamlining our hardware offerings and making significant investments in staffing, training, information systems, and other initiatives, primarily in our call centers and in-home service operations. “Subscriber-related expenses” represented 53.0% and 54.0% of “Subscriber-related revenue” during the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The improvement in this expense to revenue ratio primarily resulted from an increase in “Subscriber-related revenue,” partially offset by higher programming costs, discussed above.
 
In the normal course of business, we enter into contracts to purchase programming content in which our payment obligations are fully contingent on the number of subscribers to whom we provide the respective content. Our programming expenses will continue to increase to the extent we are successful in growing our subscriber base. In addition, our “Subscriber-related expenses” may face further upward pressure from price increases and the renewal of long-term programming contracts on less favorable pricing terms.

35

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

 
Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar. “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” totaled $109 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011, an increase of $7 million or 7.3% compared to the same period in 2010. The increase in “Satellite and transmission expenses - EchoStar” is due to an increase in uplink services driven by the launch of additional local channels and additional satellites being placed into service. See Note 10 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
 
Subscriber acquisition costs. “Subscriber acquisition costs” totaled $355 million for the three months ended March 31, 2011, a decrease of $57 million or 13.9% compared to the same period in 2010. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decline in gross new subscriber additions.
 
SAC. SAC was $725 during the three months ended March 31, 2011 compared to $741 during the same period in 2010, a decrease of $16 or 2.2%. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in hardware costs per activation, partially offset by an increase in advertising costs per activation. Hardware costs decreased due to an increase in the deployment of remanufactured receivers. The mix of new versus remanufactured receivers deployed can vary considerably from quarter to quarter.
 
During the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, the amount of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new subscribers totaled $139 million and $205 million, respectively. This decrease in capital expenditures under our lease program for new subscribers resulted primarily from a decrease in gross new subscribers and in hardware costs per activation, which was primarily driven by an increase in the deployment of remanufactured receivers.
 
Capital expenditures resulting from our equipment lease program for new subscribers were partially mitigated by the redeployment of equipment returned by disconnecting lease program subscribers. However, to remain competitive we upgrade or replace subscriber equipment periodically as technology changes, and the costs associated with these upgrades may be substantial. To the extent technological changes render a portion of our existing equipment obsolete, we would be unable to redeploy all returned equipment and consequently would realize less benefit from the SAC reduction associated with redeployment of that returned lease equipment.
 
Our SAC calculation does not reflect any benefit from payments we received in connection with equipment not returned to us from disconnecting lease subscribers and returned equipment that is made available for sale or used in our existing customer lease program rather than being redeployed through our new lease program. During the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, these amounts totaled $21 million and $24 million, respectively.
 
We have been deploying receivers that utilize 8PSK modulation technology and receivers that utilize MPEG-4 compression technology for several years. These technologies, when fully deployed, will allow more programming channels to be carried over our existing satellites. A majority of our customers today, however, do not have receivers that use MPEG-4 compression and a smaller but still significant percentage do not have receivers that use 8PSK modulation. We may choose to invest significant capital to accelerate the conversion of customers to MPEG-4 and/or 8PSK to realize the bandwidth benefits sooner. In addition, given that all of our HD content is broadcast in MPEG-4, any growth in HD penetration will naturally accelerate our transition to these newer technologies and may increase our subscriber acquisition and retention costs. All new receivers that we purchase from EchoStar now have MPEG-4 technology. Although we continue to refurbish and redeploy MPEG-2 receivers, as a result of our HD initiatives and current promotions, we currently activate most new customers with higher priced MPEG-4 technology. This limits our ability to redeploy MPEG-2 receivers and, to the extent that our promotions are successful, will accelerate the transition to MPEG-4 technology, resulting in an adverse effect on our SAC.
 
Our “Subscriber acquisition costs” and “SAC” may materially increase in the future to the extent that we transition to newer technologies, introduce more aggressive promotions, or provide greater equipment subsidies.
 
Litigation expense. “Litigation expense” totaled a negative $341 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011, a reduction in expense of $371 million compared to the same period in 2010. See Note 11 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
 
Depreciation and amortization. “Depreciation and amortization” expense totaled $228 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011, an $11 million or 4.7% decrease compared to the same period in 2010. This change in “Depreciation and amortization” expense was primarily due to a decrease in depreciation on equipment leased to subscribers, partially offset by an increase in depreciation on satellites. The increase in depreciation on satellites is a result of EchoStar XIV and EchoStar XV being placed into service.
 

36

Item 2.    MANAGEMENT’S NARRATIVE ANALYSIS OF RESULTS OF OPERATIONS - Continued

 
Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA was $1.226 billion during the three months ended March 31, 2011, an increase of $529 million or 75.8% compared to the same period in 2010. The following table reconciles EBITDA to the accompanying financial statements.
 
 
For the Three Months
 
 
 
Ended March 31,
 
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
EBITDA
 
$
1,226,085
 
 
$
697,445
 
 
 Interest expense, net
 
(116,333
)
 
(117,411
)
 
 Income tax (provision) benefit, net
 
(332,751
)
 
(122,317
)
 
 Depreciation and amortization
 
(228,126
)
 
(239,492
)
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
548,875
 
 
$
218,225
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or GAAP, and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP. EBITDA is used as a measurement of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure for those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry. Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.
 
Income tax (provision) benefit, net. Our income tax provision was $333 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011, an increase of $210 million compared to the same period in 2010. The increase in the provision was primarily related to the increase in “Income (loss) before income taxes,” and an increase in our effective tax rate.
 
Net income (loss). “Net income (loss)” was $549 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011, an increase of $331 million compared to $218 million for the same period in 2010. The increase was primarily attributable to the changes in revenue and expenses discussed above.
 
 
Item 4.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.
 
There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during our most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
 
 

37

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a separation agreement with EchoStar that provides, among other things, for the division of certain liabilities, including liabilities resulting from litigation. Under the terms of the separation agreement, EchoStar has assumed certain liabilities that relate to its business including certain designated liabilities for acts or omissions prior to the Spin-off. Certain specific provisions govern intellectual property related claims under which, generally, EchoStar will only be liable for its acts or omissions following the Spin-off and we will indemnify EchoStar for any liabilities or damages resulting from intellectual property claims relating to the period prior to the Spin-off as well as our acts or omissions following the Spin-off.
 
Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C.
 
During 2001, Broadcast Innovation, L.L.C. (“Broadcast Innovation”) filed a lawsuit against us, DirecTV, Thomson Consumer Electronics and others in United States District Court in Denver, Colorado. Broadcast Innovation is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. The suit alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,076,094 (the '094 patent) and 4,992,066 (the '066 patent). The '094 patent relates to certain methods and devices for transmitting and receiving data along with specific formatting information for the data. The '066 patent relates to certain methods and devices for providing the scrambling circuitry for a pay television system on removable cards. Subsequently, DirecTV and Thomson settled with Broadcast Innovation leaving us as the only defendant.
During 2004, the District Court issued an order finding the '066 patent invalid. Also in 2004, the District Court found the '094 patent invalid in a parallel case filed by Broadcast Innovation against Charter and Comcast. In 2005, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit overturned that finding of invalidity with respect to the '094 patent and remanded the Charter case back to the District Court. During June 2006, Charter filed a reexamination request with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The District Court has stayed the Charter case pending reexamination, and our case has been stayed pending resolution of the Charter case.
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Channel Bundling Class Action
 
During 2007, a purported class of cable and satellite subscribers filed an antitrust action against us in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. The suit also names as defendants DirecTV, Comcast, Cablevision, Cox, Charter, Time Warner, Inc., Time Warner Cable, NBC Universal, Viacom, Fox Entertainment Group and Walt Disney Company. The suit alleges, among other things, that the defendants engaged in a conspiracy to provide customers with access only to bundled channel offerings as opposed to giving customers the ability to purchase channels on an “a la carte” basis. On October 16, 2009, the District Court granted defendants' motion to dismiss with prejudice. The plaintiffs have appealed. We intend to vigorously defend this case. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
ESPN
 
During 2008, we filed a lawsuit against ESPN, Inc., ESPN Classic, Inc., ABC Cable Networks Group, Soapnet L.L.C. and International Family Entertainment (collectively, “ESPN”) for breach of contract in New York State Supreme Court. Our complaint alleges that ESPN failed to provide us with certain high-definition feeds of the Disney Channel, ESPN News, Toon and ABC Family. ESPN asserted a counterclaim, and then filed a motion for summary judgment, alleging that we owed approximately $35 million under the applicable affiliation agreements. We brought a motion to amend our complaint to assert that ESPN was in breach of certain most-favored-nation provisions under the applicable affiliation agreements. On April 15, 2009, the New York State Supreme Court granted our motion to amend the complaint, and granted, in part, ESPN's motion on the counterclaim, finding that we are liable for some of the amount alleged to be owing but that the actual amount owing is disputed. We appealed the partial grant of ESPN's motion to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department. After the partial grant of ESPN's motion, ESPN sought an additional $30 million under the applicable affiliation agreements. On March 15, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court affirmed the prior grant of ESPN's motion and ruled that we owe the full amount of approximately $65 million under the applicable affiliation agreement. There can be no assurance that ESPN will not seek, and that the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department will not award a higher amount. On December 29, 2010, the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department affirmed the

38

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION - Continued

partial grant of ESPN's motion on the counterclaim. However, it did not rule on the amount that we owe ESPN pursuant to its counterclaim. The appellate court will determine this amount as part of a separate proceeding. As of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, we have $42 million recorded as a “Litigation accrual” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, which reflects our estimated exposure for ESPN's counterclaim. We intend to vigorously prosecute and defend this case.
 
Ganas L.L.C.
 
During August 2010, Ganas, L.L.C. (“Ganas”) filed suit against us, Sabre Holdings Corporation, SAP America, Inc., SAS Institute Inc., Scottrade, Inc., TD Ameritrade, Inc., The Charles Schwab Corporation, Tivo Inc., Unicoi Systems Inc., Xerox Corporation, Adobe Systems Inc., AOL Inc., Apple Inc., Axibase Corporation, DirecTV, E*Trade Securities L.L.C., Exinda Networks, Fidelity Brokerage Services L.L.C., Firstrade Securities Inc., Hewlett-Packard Company, iControl Inc., International Business Machines Corporation and JPMorgan Chase & Co. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 7,136,913, 7,325,053, and 7,734,756. The patents relate to hypertext transfer protocol and simple object access protocol. Ganas is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Katz Communications
 
During 2007, Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. (“Katz”) filed a patent infringement action against us in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The suit alleges infringement of 19 patents owned by Katz. The patents relate to interactive voice response, or IVR, technology. The case has been transferred and consolidated for pretrial purposes in the United States District Court for the Central District of California by order of the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
NorthPoint Technology
 
On July 2, 2009, NorthPoint Technology, Ltd. filed suit against us, EchoStar and DirecTV in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 6,208,636 (the '636 patent). The '636 patent relates to the use of multiple low-noise block converter feedhorns, or LNBFs, which are antennas used for satellite reception. On April 21, 2011, the US Patent and Trademark Office issued an order granting reexamination of the '636 patent.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Olympic Developments
 
On January 20, 2011, Olympic Developments AG, LLC (“Olympic”) filed suit against us, Atlantic Broadband, Inc., Bright House Networks, LLC, Cable One, Inc., Cequel Communications Holdings I, LLC, CSC Holdings, LLC, GCI Communication Corp., Insight Communications Company, Inc., Knology, Inc., Mediacom Communications Corporation and RCN Telecom Services, LLC in the United States District Court for the Central District of California alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 5,475,585 and 6,246,400. The patents relate to on-demand services. Olympic is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

39

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION - Continued

 
Personalized Media Communications
 
During 2008, Personalized Media Communications, Inc. (“PMC”) filed suit against us, EchoStar and Motorola, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas alleging infringement of United States Patent Nos. 4,694,490; 5,109,414; 4,965,825; 5,233,654; 5,335,277; and 5,887,243, which relate to satellite signal processing. PMC is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe any of the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Retailer Class Actions
 
During 2000, lawsuits were filed by retailers in Colorado state and federal courts attempting to certify nationwide classes on behalf of certain of our retailers. The plaintiffs requested that the Courts declare certain provisions of, and changes to, alleged agreements between us and the retailers invalid and unenforceable, and to award damages for lost incentives and payments, charge backs and other compensation. On September 20, 2010, we agreed to a settlement of both lawsuits that provides, among other things, for mutual releases of the claims underlying the litigation, payment by us of up to $60 million, and the option for certain class members to elect to reinstate certain monthly incentive payments, which the parties agreed have an aggregate maximum value of $23 million. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty how many class members will elect to reinstate these monthly incentive payments. As a result, we recorded $60 million as a “Litigation accrual” as of March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. On February 9, 2011, the court granted final approval of the settlement, and $60 million was paid on April 28, 2011.
 
Suomen Colorize Oy
 
During October 2010, Suomen Colorize Oy (“Suomen”) filed suit against DISH Network L.L.C., our indirect wholly owned subsidiary, and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 7,277,398. Suomen is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. The abstract of the patent states that the claims are directed to a method and terminal for providing services in a telecommunication network.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Technology Development Licensing
 
On January 22, 2009, Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. (“TDL”) filed suit against us and EchoStar in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois alleging infringement of United States Patent No. Re. 35,952, which relates to certain favorite channel features. TDL is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. In July 2009, the Court granted our motion to stay the case pending two reexamination petitions before the Patent and Trademark Office.
 
We intend to vigorously defend this case. In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain user-friendly features that we currently offer to consumers. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
TiVo Inc.
 
On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo Inc. See Note 11 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.

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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION - Continued

 
Voom
 
In January 2008, Voom HD Holdings (“Voom”) filed a lawsuit against us in New York Supreme Court, alleging breach of contract and other claims arising from our termination of the affiliation agreement governing carriage of certain Voom HD channels on the DISH Network satellite TV service. At that time, Voom also sought a preliminary injunction to prevent us from terminating the agreement. The Court denied Voom's request, finding, among other things, that Voom had not demonstrated that it was likely to prevail on the merits. In April 2010, we and Voom each filed motions for summary judgment. Voom later filed two motions seeking discovery sanctions. On November 9, 2010, the Court issued a decision denying both motions for summary judgment, but granting Voom's motions for discovery sanctions. The Court's decision provides for an adverse inference jury instruction at trial and precludes our damages expert from testifying at trial. We appealed the grant of Voom's motion for discovery sanctions to the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department. On February 15, 2011, the appellate Court granted our motion to stay the trial pending our appeal. Oral argument took place on April 27, 2011. Voom is claiming over $2.5 billion in damages. We intend to vigorously defend this case. We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.
 
Other
 
In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of business, including, among other things, disputes with programmers regarding fees. In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
 
Item 1A. RISK FACTORS
 
Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 includes a detailed discussion of our risk factors. The information presented below updates, and should be read in conjunction with, the risk factors and information disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2010.
 
We may pursue acquisitions and other strategic transactions to complement or expand our business that may not be successful and we may lose up to the entire value of our investment in these acquisitions and transactions.
 
Our future success may depend on opportunities to buy other businesses or technologies that could complement, enhance or expand our current business or products or that might otherwise offer us growth opportunities. We may not be able to complete such transactions and such transactions, if executed, pose significant risks and could have a negative effect on our operations. Any transactions that we are able to identify and complete may involve a number of risks, including:
 
the diversion of our management's attention from our existing business to integrate the operations and personnel of the acquired or combined business or joint venture;
possible adverse effects on our operating results during the integration process;
a high degree of risk involved in these transactions, which could become substantial over time, and higher exposure to significant financial losses if the underlying ventures are not successful; and
our possible inability to achieve the intended objectives of the transaction.
 
In addition, we may not be able to successfully or profitably integrate, operate, maintain and manage our newly acquired operations or employees. We may not be able to maintain uniform standards, controls, procedures and policies, and this may lead to operational inefficiencies.
 
New acquisitions, joint ventures and other transactions may require the commitment of significant capital that would otherwise be directed to investments in our existing businesses. In addition, we may make cash distributions to DISH to finance acquisitions or investments that will not be part of our business.
 
For example, DISH recently entered into separate transactions to acquire 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America upon DBSD North America's emergence from bankruptcy and to purchase substantially all of the assets of Blockbuster. These transactions pose substantial risks and require the commitment of significant capital, and may result in significant financial losses if the intended objectives of the transactions are not achieved. In addition, these transactions may divert management's attention from our existing business in connection with our integration of the operations and personnel of the acquired businesses.
 

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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION - Continued

Item 5. OTHER INFORMATION
 
On April 29, 2011, DISH and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo Inc. See Note 11 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion.
 
Item 6.    EXHIBITS
 
(a)    Exhibits.
 
31.1£
Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.
31.2£
Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.
32.1£
Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.
32.2£
Section 906 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.
_________________________
 
£    Filed herewith.
 
 

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SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
DISH DBS CORPORATION
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Charles W. Ergen                                       
 
 
Charles W. Ergen
 
 
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
(Duly Authorized Officer)
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Robert E. Olson                                         
 
 
Robert E. Olson
 
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
(Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
 
Date: May 2, 2011
 
 

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