Go Sat, Go!

From the man who created CHiPS, an idea we blogged in January is finally here: Sat-Go:

  • Integrated 17-inch LCD monitor and satellite receiver with two speakers
  • Compact and portable flat antenna and satellite receiver
  • DIRECTV® programming accessed through a platform based on DIRECTV’s D11 set top box
  • Small profile IR remote
  • Component and composite A/V inputs
  • Composite A/V out
  • Satellite in connection
  • Phone Jack
  • USB connection
  • AC and DC capable (cigarette lighter adapter included)
  • Rechargeable, replaceable, laptop-style battery

All this for US$1,500. Today’s press release:

Just in time for the summer travel season, DIRECTV, Inc., the nation’s leading satellite television service provider, is launching DIRECTV(R) Sat-Go ("Satellite-to-Go"), the world’s first portable satellite TV system.

Beginning today, the DIRECTV(R) Sat-Go unit, created by DIRECTV and TV producer/writer, Rick Rosner, is available to DIRECTV customers for $1,499. DIRECTV customers who are interested in purchasing a DIRECTV Sat-Go unit can call 1-800-DIRECTV. The DIRECTV Sat-Go will be available at participating retail locations across the country soon.

"DIRECTV’s digital satellite technology enables us to do what no cable service can, offer consumers TV programming that they can watch wherever they are," said Eric Shanks, executive vice president, DIRECTV Entertainment. "DIRECTV Sat-Go is the perfect companion for a summer road trip and the ultimate tailgating accessory for any sporting event. Since we unveiled a prototype of the unit in January, the DIRECTV Sat-Go has created an exciting buzz in the marketplace and we are thrilled to make it available now to DIRECTV customers across the country."

The DIRECTV(R) Sat-Go is specifically designed to be compact and highly portable. The unit comes in an easy-to-carry, briefcase-like design that includes a 17-inch LCD monitor with integrated DIRECTV Receiver, flat antenna and replaceable/rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The unit also includes AC/DC adaptors for home and car.

Once the DIRECTV Sat-Go unit is opened, there is no installation necessary. It’s quick and simple setup makes it easy for customers to find line-of-sight with DIRECTV satellites and receive DIRECTV(R) programming within minutes (provided the user is within range of the DIRECTV signal).

When not being used as a portable/ travel unit, the DIRECTV Sat-Go can also be utilized as an additional in-home DIRECTV Receiver and television. The LCD TV screen has a built-in DIRECTV Receiver, which can be separated from the DIRECTV Sat-Go antenna casing and connected to a customer’s existing DIRECTV Satellite Dish.