To: John F Beule who wrote (170 ) 5/13/1999 2:37:00 PM From: John F Beule Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 589
General Instrument Offers Free Installation Program forNew 4DTV(R) Subscribers SAN DIEGO, May 11 /PRNewswire/ -- General Instrument Corporation (NYSE: GIC) today announced that it is launching a new program with 4DTV Digital Satellite Receiver dealers that offers free installation to new 4DTV subscribers nationwide. The 4DTV National Free Installation Program, which began May 1, 1999 and continues until August 31, 1999, was designed to make it easier for consumers to enjoy the full benefits of C-Band TV, including digital programming. GI's 4DTV National Free Installation Program helps dealers develop long- term customer relationships and build sales by offering their customers up to $200 savings on the cost of installation, a quality, professional installation and detailed instruction on how to use the new 4DTV Digital Satellite Receiver. Professional installation is critical, since 4DTV installation requires a specific and precise installation process in order to minimize the possibility of future software or hardware problems. The 4DTV installation process may include: swapping out the analog receiver; reinstalling the module; setting the limits on the dish and programming in all of the satellites; and authorizing the Interactive Program Guide (IPG) and digital channels. GI's 4DTV National Free Installation Program, which was first tested in November 1998, is now being rolled out nationwide due to the enthusiastic reception of both the customers and dealers. More than 650 dealers are currently participating in the Program, providing complete U.S. coverage to all C-band TV dish owners. Customers can find their nearest participating dealer by calling toll-free 1-888-295-4DTV (4388). "This fantastic program demonstrates GI's commitment to its Digital Satellite dealers by supporting our efforts to expand our subscriber base and build positive relationships with our customers right from the beginning," said Richard Maddalena, owner and manager of A-1 Satellite in California. "This program has made it a lot easier to entice customers to make the transition to digital technology and take advantage of its expanded capabilities. Providing a professional installation and usage instruction increases their chances of satisfaction with their new 4DTV system." "The installation of the 4DTV receiver provides the ultimate in video performance, flexibility, choice, and long-term value," said Dorian Simpson, Director of C-Band Sales and Services at GI's Satellite and Broadcast Network Systems business unit. "GI's 4DTV National Free Installation Program helps dealers add to this performance and long-term value to build customer relationships and long-term loyalty. By providing proper installation, dealers can help ensure a smooth operation for their customers and minimize the possibility of future software and hardware complications." The 4DTV receiver can offer the consumer over 500 channels of programming. It is the only service that enables customers to receive both digital and analog signals for home usage. By adding the 4DTV receiver to a big dish system, viewers can receive four types of satellite signals: analog, analog scrambled (subscriber channels), plus the free digital and encrypted digital broadcasts. With over 500 channels, viewers can enjoy more Pay-Per-View channels, dozens of CD-quality music channels without commercial interruptions, new movie channels, sports, news, and more. General Instrument is a leading worldwide provider of integrated and interactive broadband access solutions, teaming with its business partners to lead the convergence of the Internet, telecommunications and video entertainment industries. Visit General Instrument at its Web Site -- gi.com SOURCE General Instrument Corporation CO: General Instrument Corporation ST: Pennsylvania, California IN: CPR TLS ENT SU: PDT 05/11/99 08:49 EDT prnewswire.com