Discovery HD Theater To Discuss HDTV, Display Shows At CES

By Staff -- TWICE, 1/9/2003

LAS VEGAS — Discovery HD Theater, launched by Discovery Communications last year, will be exhibiting at International CES this week, to show its programming and discuss HDTV technology.

At the Discovery HD Theater booth, the company said representatives will be on hand to discuss the myriad programming options available on the only 24-hour HD network and the only HD channel offering consistent real-world entertainment. Network representatives can explore with exhibit viewers programs about nature, science, technology and world culture.

As part of the company's CES effort, John Ford, president of new media, Discovery Networks, U.S., will be a panelist for the HDTV: A New Definition for Television session. He will be one of the experts discussing how high definition is becoming more and more prolific in today's society. The session will discuss the obstacles the HD revolution has and is continuing to overcome. The session will be held January 9, from noon to 1 p.m. in Room N254.

When Discovery Communications Inc. launched Discovery HD Theater six months ago, it was the first family of basic cable networks to support the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) mandate to broadcast digital signals to spur the growth of HDTV and digital television. Since then the FCC announced even more specific time frames for new sets to be equipped with tuners for digital over-the-air broadcasts.

The 24-hour network launched on June 17, 2002, with more than 100 high definition hours, and has added almost as many new hours of programming to the network in the past few months. And, by the end of 2003, Discovery HD Theater will triple its starting library, including more original high definition premieres. The network said it is the first and only national HD carrier of the Tournament of Roses Parade, and also in January, Discovery HD Theater will host the world premiere of the anticipated Discovery Channel documentary, "Before We Ruled The Earth."

Discovery HD Theater is currently available to consumers via satellite on Echostar's Dish Network or via cable in approximately 40 markets nationwide — from Los Angeles to Miami, Chicago to Dallas.