Wireless Spectrum Licenses Number of Other Applicants Qualified to Participate in Auction Number of other applicants qualified to participate in the AWS-3 auction Represents the number of other applicants qualified to participate in the auction. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Aggregate Reserve Price for Licenses in Specified Band One Aggregate reserve price for licenses in the 1695-1710 MHz band Represents the aggregate reserve price for licenses in the specified band one. Schedule of marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities Investment [Table Text Block] Wireless Spectrum Licenses Aggregate Reserve Price for Licenses in Specified Band Two Aggregate reserve price for paired licenses in the 1755-1780/2155-2180 MHz bands Represents the aggregate reserve price for licenses in the specified band two. Amount of decrease in additional paid-in capital (APIC), net of deferred taxes, resulting from deemed dividend distribution to the related party. Deemed distribution, net of deferred taxes Adjustments to Additional Paid in Deemed Dividend Distribution To Related Party Net Of Deferred Taxes Director Defendants Other Than Board of Directors Chairman [Member] Director Defendants Represents information related to Director Defendants, other than board of directors. Number of Claims Asserted Number of claims asserted by Jacksonville PFPF Represents the number of claims asserted by Jacksonville PFPF in second amended complaint. Subscriber Acquisition Advertising Cost Subscriber acquisition advertising Represents the amount of costs incurred on advertising for the period, which are expenses incurred with the objective of increasing revenue for subscriber acquisition. Echo Star XVIII Launch Service [Member] EchoStar XVIII Launch Service Represents details pertaining to EchoStar XVIII Launch Service. Amount Payable for Launch Contract Amount payable for launch contract Represents the amount payable for launch contract. Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award percentage of performance goals probable of achievement. Percentage of performance goals probable of achievement Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Percentage of Performance Goals Probable of Achievement Amendment Description Represents information pertaining to L-Band Acquisition, LLC (LBAC). LBand Acquisition LLC [Member] LBAC Amendment Flag Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Modified Interim Build out Requirement Population Percentage Modified 700 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the minimum percentage of E Block population in each area covered by an individual license to which the entity must provide terrestrial signal coverage and offer terrestrial service within some specified period. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Modified Final Build out Requirement Population Percentage Modified 700 MHz Final Build-Out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the minimum percentage of E Block population in each area covered by an individual license to which the entity must provide terrestrial signal coverage and offer terrestrial service by the end of license term. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Period for Approval Prior to Commencement of Planned H Block Auction Minimum period for approval prior to the commencement of planned H Block auction Represents the minimum period for approval prior to the commencement of the FCC's planned H Block auction. Amount to be Reimbursed if Subsidiary is not Successful Bidder at Auction Amount to be reimbursed on confirmation of the order issued by Bankruptcy Court as a qualified bidder, if the subsidiary is not successful bidder at auction Represents the amount to be reimbursed on confirmation of the order issued by Bankruptcy Court as a qualified bidder, if the subsidiary is not the successful bidder at the auction. Garnet Digital LLC [Member] Garnet Digital Represents information pertaining to Garnet Digital, LLC. Cost of Sales Subscriber Promotion Subsidies Represents the amount of subscriber promotions subsidies recognized in cost of sales. Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies Loss Contingency Payments of Accrued Interest Payment of accrued interest Represents the payments made in the period in relation to interest accrued on litigation accrual. Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the 2013 LTIP). Long Term Incentive Plan 2013 [Member] 2013 LTIP Schedule of Interest on Long Term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of interest on long-term debt Schedule of interest on long-term debt. Schedule of Other Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of other long term debt and capital lease obligations Schedule of other long-term debt and capital lease obligations. Note Payable 8.00 Percent for Echo Star VII Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 13 Years from Launch [Member] 8% note payable for EchoStar VII satellite vendor financing, payable over 13 years from launch Represents details pertaining to 8% note payable for EchoStar VII satellite vendor financing, payable over 13 years from launch. Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar X satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star X Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] 6% note payable for EchoStar X satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star XI Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] 6% note payable for EchoStar XI satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar XI satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. 6% note payable for EchoStar XIV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar XIV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star XIV Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar XV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star XV Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] 6% note payable for EchoStar XV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Mortgages and Other Unsecured Notes Payable [Member] Mortgages and other unsecured notes payable due in installments through 2017 with interest rates ranging from approximately 2% to 13% Represents details pertaining to mortgages and other unsecured notes payable due in installments through 2017 with interest rates ranging from approximately 2% to 13%. Current Fiscal Year End Date Total Other debt and capital lease obligations. Other Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations current. Other Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current Less current portion Defined Contribution Plan Matching Contribution Net of Forfeiture Matching contributions, net of forfeitures, under 401(k) plan Defined contribution plan matching contribution net of forfeitures. Defined contribution plan increased employer maximum annual contribution per employee. Defined Contribution Plan Employer Increased Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee Increased employer maximum contribution as of January 1, 2013 Defined Contribution Plan Discretionary Stock Contribution Net of Forfeiture Discretionary stock contributions, net of forfeitures, under 401(k) plan Defined contribution plan discretionary stock contribution net of forfeiture. Defined Contribution Plan Cost Recognized [Abstract] Expense recognized related to 401(k) plan Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Table Text Block] Summary of activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts Schedule of valuation and qualifying accounts. Award Type [Axis] Threshold for reduction in exercise price due to dividend declaration (in dollars per share) Threshold for Reduction in Exercise Price Due to Dividend Declaration Represents reduction in exercise price due to dividend declaration. Expense estimated to be recognized during 2014 Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost in Current Fiscal Year Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost in the current remaining fiscal period. Adjustment to Recognized Noncash Stock Based Compensation Expense Adjustment to recognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense Adjustment to recognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense. Schedule of Commitments [Line Items] Commitments Document Period End Date Programming Contracts Term Term of programming contracts Represents the programming contracts term. Dish Orbital II LLC [Member] DISH Orbital II L.L.C Represents the DISH Orbital II L.L.C, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network and entity's affiliate. Represents details pertaining to the International Programming Rights Agreement. International Programming Rights Agreement [Member] International Programming Rights Agreement Amount assumed in vendor financings Related Party Transactions Amount Assumed In Vendor Financings. Related Party Transactions Amount Assumed in Vendor Financings Amount paid to affiliate Related Party Transactions Amount Paid To Affiliate. Related Party Transactions Amount Paid to Affiliate Number of days to store HD primetime programs recordings Represents the number of days to store HD primetime programs recordings. Number of Days to Store HD Prime Time Programs Recordings Loss Contingency Litigation Settlement Reversal of Litigation Accrual Reversal of litigation accrual Loss contingency litigation settlement reversal of litigation accrual. Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense Claims Paid Prepayment Portion of litigation payment related to future period prepayments Liability for unpaid claims and claims adjustment expense claims paid prepayment. Litigation Settlement Remaining Payments Dish Network's share of remaining litigation payments Litigation settlement remaining payments. Entity [Domain] Litigation settlement gross amount related to future periods. Litigation settlement gross amount related to future periods Litigation Settlement, Gross Amount Related to Future Periods Reduction in Litigation Expense Represents the reduction in litigation expense. Reduction in litigation expense Represents the net assets distributed to parent in noncash investing and financing activities. Net Assets Distributed to Parent Net satellite broadband assets distributed to DISH Network Deemed Dividend Distribution Deemed dividend Represents the amount of deemed dividends distributed during the period. Related Party Transactions Distribution of Assets and Liabilities Distribution to DOC of the assets and liabilities associated with satellite broadband business Represents information pertaining to distribution to DOC of the assets and liabilities associated with satellite broadband business. Deferred Tax Liabilities Unrealized Gains on Investments Unrealized gains on investments Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences from unrealized gains on investments. Adjustment to Recognized Noncash Stock Based Compensation Expense to be Expensed over Remaining Vesting Period Adjustment to recognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense to be expensed over the remaining vesting period Adjustment to recognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense to be expensed over the remaining vesting period. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 00.00 to 10.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $00.00 - $10.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 0.00 dollars to 10.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 10.01 to 15.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $10.01 - $15.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 10.01 dollars to15.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 15.01 to 20.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $15.01 - $20.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 15.01 dollars to 20.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 20.01 to 25.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $20.01 - $25.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 20.01 dollars to 25.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 25.01 to 30.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $25.01 - $30.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 25.01 dollars to 30.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 30.01 to 35.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $30.01 - $35.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 30.01 dollars to 35.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 35.01 to 40.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $35.01 - $40.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 35.01 dollars to 40.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 00.00 to 40.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $00.00 - $40.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 0.00 dollars to 40.00 dollars. Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations net of current portion. Other Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Net of Current Portion Capital Leased Assets [Axis] Represents the information categorized by the capital leased assets. Capital Leased Assets [Domain] Represents the information related to the capital leased assets. Fss Satellite AnikF 3 [Member] FSS Satellite Anik F3 Represents Anik F3, an FSS satellite. Represents Ciel II, a Canadian DBS satellite. Canadian Dbs Satellite Ciel II [Member] Canadian DBS Satellite Ciel II Percentage of Ku Band Capacity Leased Ku-band capacity leased (as a percent) Percentage of Ku-band capacity leased. Capital Lease Term Term of capital lease Capital lease term. Percentage of Satellite Capacity Leased Satellite capacity leased (as a percent) Percentage of satellite capacity leased. Capital Lease Initial Term Initial term of capital lease Capital lease initial term. Capital Leases Future, Minimum Payments Executory Costs and Orbital Location Lease Less: Amount representing lease of the orbital location and estimated executory costs (primarily insurance and maintenance) including profit thereon, included in total minimum lease payments Capital leases future minimum payments executory costs and orbital location lease. Capital Leases Future Minimum Payments Including Interest Net minimum lease payments The total contractually required rental payments on capitalized leases including the amount of imputed interest necessary to reduce the net minimum lease payments to present value. Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Tax Credit and Other Carryforwards NOL, credit and other carryforwards Deferred tax assets operating loss tax credit and other carryforwards. Deferred Tax Assets Unrealized Losses on Investments Unrealized losses on investments Deferred tax assets unrealized losses on investments. The amount as of the balance sheet date of the estimated future tax effects arising from unrealized gain on items included in other long-term liabilities which will increase future taxable income when such gain is realized. Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Long Term Liabilities Other liabilities Employee Stock Purchase Plan maximum fair value of common stock permitted to be purchased per annum. Employee Stock Purchase Plan Maximum Fair Value of Common Stock Permitted to be Purchased Per Annum Maximum fair value of capital stock permitted to be purchased by employees in any one year under ESPP Long Term Deferred Revenue Distribution and Carriage Payments [Policy Text Block] Long-Term Deferred Revenue, Distribution and Carriage Payments Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments policy. Sales tax policy. Sales Tax [Policy Text Block] Sales Taxes Additional disclosures Available-for-sale Securities, Other Disclosure Items [Abstract] Subscriber Related Expenses [Policy Text Block] Subscriber-Related Expenses Represents disclosure of variable subscriber expenses. Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Policy Text Block] Subscriber Acquisition Costs Subscriber acquisition costs policy. Accounting Policies [Table] Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Accounting Policies [Line Items] Significant accounting policies Length of Time Investment been in Continuous Loss Position Considered Temporary Length of time an investment has been in a continuous loss position in which the decline in value is considered as temporary Length of time investment been in continuous loss position considered temporary. Length of Time Investment been in Continuous Loss Position Evaluated on Case by Case Basis The length of time an investment has been in a continuous loss position in which the decline in value would be evaluated on a case by case basis to determine if the decline in value is other-than-temporary Length of time investment been in continuous loss position evaluated on case by case basis. Length of time investment been in continuous loss position to be considered as other than temporary. Length of Time Investment been in Continuous Loss Position to be Considered as Other than Temporary Length of time an investment has been in a continuous loss position in which the decline in value is considered other-than-temporary Long Term Deferred Revenue Distribution and Carriage Payments [Abstract] Long-Term Deferred Revenue, Distribution and Carriage Payments Deferred Subscriber Fees Deferral Period Period of deferral for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred Deferred subscriber fees deferral period. Deferred Upfront Payments Amortization Period Deferred upfront payment, amortization period Deferred upfront payments amortization period. Stock option converted into new stock options (in shares) Represents the share-based payment award, right to receive award upon holding one unit of award. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Right to Receive Award upon Holding One Unit of Award Multiplication Factor for Conversion of Original Stock Option to New Stock Option Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to new stock option Represents the multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to new stock option. Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer A New Stock Option for a Portion of Original Stock Option Portion of the number of shares that were exercisable under the original option needed to receive a new stock option (as a percent) A new stock option for a portion of original stock option. Entity Voluntary Filers Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Nonvested Right to Receive Award upon Holding One Unit of Award One EchoStar restricted stock unit converted into new Dish Network restricted stock units (in shares) Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award equity instruments other than options nonvested right to receive award upon holding one unit of award. Entity Current Reporting Status Share Based Compensation Award Terms [Abstract] 2005 LTIP Terms Entity Filer Category Percentage awards vesting per annum during first four years Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award, percentage awards vested per year during first four years. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Percentage Awards Vested Per Year During First Four Years Entity Public Float Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Percentage Awards Vested Per Year after First Four Years Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award, percentage awards vested per year after first four years. Percentage awards vesting per annum after first four years Entity Registrant Name Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Compensation Costs [Abstract] Share-based expense Entity Central Index Key Unrecognized compensation expense relating to long-term performance based incentive awards Total unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense. Total Unrecognized Noncash Stock Based Compensation Expense Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion. Unrecognized Noncash Stock Based Compensation Expense on Vested Portion Portion vested (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Portion Meeting Vesting Condition Represents the share based payment award portion vested during the period. Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost [Abstract] Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost for Remainder of Fiscal Year Remaining expense estimated to be recognized during 2014 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost for remainder of fiscal year. Estimated remaining non-cash stock-based compensation expense Estimated Remaining Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense [Abstract] Represents the share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost Total estimated remaining expense over the term of plan Details reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by an entity prior to the spinoff. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Original Award Issuer [Domain] Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Holder [Domain] Details pertinent to an equity-based compensation award held by employees. Description and amounts of significant related party transactions entered into by another related party with a direct or indirect ownership interest in the reporting entity. Related Party Transaction Primary Related Party [Axis] Primary Related Party [Domain] Related parties with a direct or indirect ownership interest in the reporting entity. Commitments [Table] Schedule of disclosures relating to commitments of the entity. Represents the details of commitments of the entity as at the reporting date. Schedule of Commitments [Table] Loss Contingency Terms [Abstract] Loss Contingency Terms Number of asset groups considered for impairment of DISH branded pay-TV DBS satellite fleet Represents the number of asset groups considered for impairment of satellite fleet. Number of Asset Groups Considered for Impairment of Satellite Fleet EchoStar I Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar I. Echo Star I [Member] Echo Star VII [Member] EchoStar VII Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VII. Echo Star X [Member] EchoStar X Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar X. EchoStar XI Represents the information pertaining to satellites' assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XI. Echo Star XI [Member] EchoStar XIV Represents the information pertaining to satellites' assets under construction, leased from EchoStar, EchoStar XVI. Echo Star XIV [Member] Dish Digital Holding LLC [Member] DISH Digital Holding LLC Represents information pertaining to DISH Digital Holding LLC. Document Fiscal Year Focus Echo Star XV [Member] EchoStar XV Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XV. Document Fiscal Period Focus EchoStar VI Represents the information pertaining to satellites' assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star VI, which are accounted for as operating leases. Echo Star VI [Member] Echo Star XII [Member] EchoStar XII Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star XII, which are accounted for as operating leases. Furniture Fixtures Equipment and Other [Member] Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Represents the information pertaining to furniture, fixtures, equipment and other. Represents the information pertaining to satellites' assets owned by the entity, EchoStar V. Echo Star V [Member] 148 degree orbital location Long-term debt issue price as a percentage of principal amount. Long Term Debt, Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Debt instrument issuance as a percentage of the face amount Share Based Compensation, Arrangement by Share Based Payment, Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost after Current Fiscal Year Estimated contingent expense subsequent to 2014 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost after next fiscal year. Long Term Debt, Redemption with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes with net proceeds of certain equity offerings or capital contributions Long-term debt redemption with net proceeds from equity offerings as a percentage of principal amount. Debt Repurchase Price, Percentage in Event of Change of Control Percentage of principal amount at which notes may be required to be repurchased in event of change of control Debt repurchase price percentage in the event of change of control. TiVo v. Dish Network and EchoStar Corporation Represents information pertaining to legal proceedings of TiVo vs Dish Network and Echostar Corporation. TiVo vs Dish Network and EchoStar Corporation [Member] Application Development Agreement Application Development Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Application Development Agreement. Hopper Litigation [Member] Represents information pertaining to The Hopper litigation. Hopper litigation Legal Entity [Axis] XiP Encryption Agreement Represents details pertaining to the XiP Encryption Agreement. XiP Encryption Agreement [Member] Document Type Katz Communications [Member] Katz Communications-Patent infringement Represents details pertaining to patent infringements alleged by Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. Schedule of future maturities of contractual obligations. Schedule of Future Maturities of Contractual Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of future maturities of long-term debt, capital lease and contractual obligations Tabular disclosure of the aggregate amount of maturities of long-term borrowings including capital lease obligations for each of the five years and thereafter following the date of the latest balance sheet date presented. Schedule of Future Maturities of Contractual Obligations [Table] Contractual Obligations Type [Axis] Information pertaining to the future maturities of contractual obligations of the entity. Represents the type of contractual obligations, such as long-term borrowings, capital lease obligations, interest expense on long-term debt and capital lease obligations, satellite-related obligations, operating lease obligations, purchase and other obligations. Contractual Obligations Type [Domain] Satellite Related Obligation [Member] Satellite-related obligations Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity. Purchase obligations Represents the information pertaining to purchases obligations of the entity. Long Term Purchase Commitment [Member] Contractual Obligations [Line Items] Commitment and contingencies Number of transponders subleased Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Subleased Represents information pertaining to the number of transponders subleased under the related party transactions agreement. Represents details pertaining to Pragmatus Telecom. Pragmatus Pragmatus Telecom [Member] Represents the details pertaining to the administrative support such as legal, information systems, marketing, human resources, accounting and finance services to DISH Network's Blockbuster, Wireless Spectrum and other business segments. Administrative Support Services Agreement [Member] Blockbuster, Wireless and Other Segments Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, from Related Parties, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - EchoStar Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable from related parties, current. Equipment Sales and Other Revenue Equipment sales and other revenue Equipment sales and other revenue. Number of patents remain in the lawsuit Number of Patents Remain in Lawsuit Represents number of patents remaining in the lawsuit after transfer and consolidation of the case for pretrial purposes in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. Equipment Sales, Services and Other Revenue Related Party Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar Equipment sales, services and other revenue related party. Satellite and Transmission Expenses Related Party EchoStar Satellite and transmission expenses, related party. Satellite and transmission expenses Satellite and Transmission Expenses Other Other Satellite and transmission expenses, other. Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Abstract] Subscriber acquisition costs: Technology Development Licensing [Member] Technology Development Licensing Represents details pertaining to patent infringements alleged by Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. Other Subscriber Promotions Subsidies Other subscriber acquisition costs Other subscriber promotion subsidies. General and Administrative Expenses, Related Party General and administrative expenses - EchoStar General and administrative expenses, related party. General and administrative expenses Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) before Income Tax Income (loss) before income taxes. Cash Paid for Income Taxes to Parent Cash paid for income taxes to DISH Network Cash paid for income taxes to parent. Cash paid for income taxes to parent Vendor Financing Vendor financing Vendor financing. Change in Long Term Deferred Revenue Distribution and Carriage Payments and Other Long Term Liabilities Change in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities Change in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities. Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors Financial information for subsidiary guarantors. Financial Information for Subsidiary Guarantors [Text Block] Document and Entity Information Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Litigation Liabilities Litigation expense accrual (Note 11 and Note 15) Increase (decrease) in accrued litigation liabilities. Increase (Decrease) in Litigation Settlements Litigation settlement payments (Note 11 and Note 15) The increase (decrease) during the period in the carrying amount of litigation settlement. Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue and Other Deferred revenue and other The increase (decrease) in deferred revenues and other. Payments under Indefinite Lived License Agreement Purchase of FCC Licenses Payments to acquire non-depleting intangible assets (primarily FCC spectrum). Capital Distribution to Affiliate Capital distribution to EchoStar Represents the capital distribution during the reporting period. Capital distribution to DOC Represents the capital transaction with related party in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax, during the reporting period. Capital Transaction with Related Party in Connection with Purchases of Strategic Investments Net of Tax Capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax of $2,895 (Note 15) Tax on Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Strategic Investments Capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments, tax Tax on capital distribution to the related party in connection with the purchases of strategic investments. Number of Subscribers Number of subscribers Number of subscribers. Schedule of Depreciation and Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of depreciation and amortization expense Schedule of depreciation and amortization expense. DBS Satellites [Member] DBS satellites Represents details pertaining to DBS satellites' assets owned by the entity. Building, Furniture, Fixtures Other Equipment [Member] Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Represents buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property plant and equipment owned by the entity. Depreciation and Amortization [Line Items] Depreciation and amortization expense Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit Utilized by Reporting Entity Number of satellites utilized in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity. Senior Notes 7 Percent Due, 2013 [Member] 7 % Senior Notes due 2013 Represents details pertaining to the 7 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2013. Trade accounts receivable - other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $20,010 and $15,981, respectively Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit, Utilized by Reporting Entity Owned Owned Satellites Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity owned. Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit, Utilized by Reporting Entity under Operating Leases Number of satellites utilized under operating lease Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity under operating leases. Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit, Utilized by Reporting Entity under Capital Leases Number of satellites utilized under capital lease Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity under capital leases. Senior Notes 6.625 Percent Due 2014 [Member] 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014 Represents details pertaining to the 6 5/8 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2014. Senior Notes 7.750 Percent Due 2015 [Member] 7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2015 Represents details pertaining to the 7 3/4 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2015. Senior Notes 7.125 Percent Due 2016 [Member] 7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016 Represents details pertaining to the 7 1/8 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2016. Senior Notes 7.875 Percent Due 2019 [Member] 7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019 Represents details pertaining to the 7 7/8 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2019. Senior Notes 6.750 Percent Due 2021 [Member] 6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021 Represents details pertaining to the 6 3/4 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2021. Senior Notes 4.625 Percent Due 2017 [Member] 4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017 Represents details pertaining to 4 5/8 percent senior notes, which are due in 2017. Senior Notes 5.875 Percent Due 2022 [Member] 5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2022 Represents details pertaining to 5 7/8 percent senior notes, which are due in 2022. Senior Notes 5 Percent Due 2023 [Member] 5% Senior Notes due 2023 Represents details pertaining to the 5 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2023. Mortgage and Other Notes Payable [Member] Mortgages and other notes payable Represents details pertaining to mortgages and other notes payable. Marketable Investment Securities and Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents. Total marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents Represents the amount of marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents. Settlement Period of Security Settlement period Settlement period of security. Amounts payable to NagraStar Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Trade accounts payable - EchoStar Other Debt Securities Nonrestricted and Restricted [Member] Other (including restricted) Investments in debt securities other than variable rate demand obligations, auction-rate securities, or mortgage backed securities. Includes investments that are restricted and those that are not restricted. Networks Inc Terrestal Transaction [Member] Networks Inc. Terrestal Represents the transaction to acquire the legal entity Networks Inc. Terrestal. DBSD North America Inc and Asset Purchase Agreement TerreStar [Member] DBSD North America and TerreStar Transactions Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America and TerreStar Transactions. Sprint Settlement Agreement [Member] Sprint Settlement Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Sprint Settlement Agreement related to the DBSD North America and TerreStar transactions. Wireless Spectrum Represents details pertaining to Wireless Spectrum, a segment of entity. Wireless Spectrum [Member] RUS Implementation Agreement Represents details pertaining to Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement. Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement [Member] El Paso Lease Agreement [Member] El Paso Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to El Paso Lease Agreement. Remanufactured Receiver Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Remanufactured Receiver Agreement. Remanufactured Receiver Agreement [Member] Professional Services Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Professional Services Agreement. Professional Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Management Services Agreement. Management Services Agreement [Member] Management Services Agreement Varick Sublease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Varick Sublease Agreement. Varick Sublease Agreement Broadcast Agreement [Member] Broadcast Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement. Certain Sports Related Programming Broadcast Agreement [Member] Certain Sports Related Programming Broadcast Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement for certain sports related programming. Trade accounts payable - other Accounts Payable, Current EchoStar XVI [Member] EchoStar XVI Represents information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star XVI, which are accounted for as operating leases. Quetz Sat 1 Transponder Agreement [Member] QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement Represents details pertaining to QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement. DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement Represents details pertaining to DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement. DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. QuetzSat 1 Lease Agreement [Member] Tivo Inc [Member] Represents details pertaining to Tivo Inc. Tivo Inc Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Telemetry Tracking and Control Agreement [Member] TT&C Agreement Represents details pertaining to TT and C Agreement. Represents details pertaining to the Receiver Agreement. Receiver Agreement [Member] Receiver Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Product Support Agreement. Product Support Agreement [Member] Product Support Agreement Inverness Lease Agreement [Member] Inverness Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Inverness Lease Agreement. Santa Fe Lease Agreement [Member] Santa Fe Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to Santa Fe Lease Agreement. Gilbert Lease Agreement [Member] Gilbert Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to Gilbert Lease Agreement. DISH Online.Com Services Agreement [Member] DISH Online.com Services Agreement Represents details pertaining to DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. DISH Remote Access Services Agreement [Member] DISH Remote Access Services Agreement Represents details pertaining to DISH Remote Access Services Agreement. Sling Service Services Agreement [Member] Sling Service Services Agreement Represents details pertaining to Sling Service Services Agreement. EchoStar XV Launch Service Represents details pertaining to EchoStar XV Launch Service. EchoStar XV Launch Service [Member] Weather Related Programming Agreement [Member] Weather Related Programming Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Weather Related Programming Agreement. Acquisition of South.Com LLC Purchase Agreement [Member] Acquisition of South.com, L.L.C Represents details pertaining to the acquisition of South.com, L.L.C. Patent Cross License Agreements [Member] Patent Cross-License Agreements Represents details pertaining to Patent Cross-License Agreements. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Interim Build Out Requirement Population Percentage AWS-4 Interim Build-Out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the minimum percentage of population in each area covered by an individual license to which the entity must provide terrestrial signal coverage and offer terrestrial service within some specified period. Accelerated period to meet Final Build-Out Requirement on failure to meet Interim Build-Out Requirement Wireless spectrum licenses accelerated period to meet final build-out requirement on failure to meet interim build out requirement. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Accelerated Period to Meet Final Build out Requirement on Failure to Meet Interim Build Out Requirement AWS-4 Final Build-Out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the minimum percentage of population in each area covered by an individual license to which the entity must provide terrestrial signal coverage and offer terrestrial service by the end of license term. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Final Build Out Requirement Population Percentage Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Interim Build Out Requirement Geographic Area Percentage 700 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement (as a percent) Wireless spectrum licenses minimum interim build-out requirement geographic area percentage. Wireless spectrum licenses minimum final build-out requirement geographic area percentage. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Final Build Out Requirement Geographic Area Percentage 700 MHz Final Build-Out Requirement (as a percent) Satellite Lease Guarantees [Member] Satellite lease guarantees Satellite lease guarantees. Satellite transponder guarantees Satellite transponder guarantees. Satellite Transponder Guarantees [Member] Affiliation Agreement ESPN [Member] ESPN-Affiliation agreements Represents details pertaining to affiliation agreements with ESPN. Loss Contingency Court Ruling Court ruling Loss contingency court ruling. Minimum Number of Autonomous Streamlined Signal Processors Represents the minimum number of autonomous streamlined signal processors. Minimum number of autonomous streamlined signal processors Number of Reexamination Petitions Pending before Patent and Trademark Office Number of reexamination petitions pending before patent and trademark office Number of reexamination petitions pending before patent and trademark office. Notice period required to extend the agreement term Represents the required notice period to exercise option to extend agreement under the related party transaction. Related Party Transactions, Required Notice Period to Exercise Option to Extend Agreement Echo Star [Member] EchoStar Represents details pertaining to EchoStar, a legal entity in which the director owns majority voting interests. Nagra Star LLC [Member] NagraStar Represents details pertaining to NagraStar, an equity method investee of the entity. Blockbuster Inc [Member] Blockbuster, Inc. Represents details pertaining to Blockbuster, Inc. Minimum required notice period for termination of agreement by related party Represents information pertaining to required notice period for termination of agreement from related party under related party transactions agreement. Related Party Transactions Agreement, Minimum Termination Notice Required from Related Party Required notice period for termination of agreement Related Party Transactions, Agreement Automatic Renewal Period Automatic renewal period Represents information pertaining to the related party transactions automatic renewal period. Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Available Number of DBS transponders available to receive services Represents information pertaining to the number of DBS transponders available to receive services under the related party transactions agreement. Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Used Represents information pertaining to the number of DBS transponders currently used under related party transactions agreement. Number of DBS transponders currently used Represents information pertaining to the number of DBS transponders expected to receive services under the related party transactions agreement. Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Expected to Receive Services Number of DBS transponders expected to receive services Term of renewal option exercised Related Party Transaction Agreement Renewal Option Term Exercised Represents information pertaining to the related party transactions agreement term of renewal option exercised. Notice period to exercise option to extend agreement Represents information pertaining to the related party transactions renewal option term. Term of renewal option Related Party Transactions, Agreement Renewal Option Term Required notice for renewal of agreement Period of Notice Required to be Given by Reporting Entity to Extend Term of Agreement Related party transactions required notice period for renewal of agreement. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Maximum Number of One Year Renewal Options Number of successive one year renewal options Represents information pertaining to the maximum number of one year renewal options under the related party transactions agreement. Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Minimum notice period for termination of agreement Represents information pertaining to the minimum notice period for termination of agreement under the related party transactions. Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Specific Service Minimum notice period for termination of a specific service Represents information pertaining to minimum notice period for termination of a specific service under related party transactions. Required notice period for termination by the reporting entity Represents information pertaining to required notice period for termination of agreement by the reporting entity under the related party transactions agreement. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related Party, Ownership Interest In Subsidiary Related party ownership interest in subsidiary (as a percent) Represents the related party ownership interest in subsidiary. Represents information pertaining to the related party transactions agreement term. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Term Agreement term Related Party Transactions, Agreement Term with Third Party Represents information pertaining to the related party transactions agreement term with third party. Agreement term with third party Agreement term from commencement of service date Represents information pertaining to the related party transactions agreement term from commencement of service date. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Term from Commencement of Service Date Related Party Transactions Agreement Maximum Number of Three Year Renewal Options Number of consecutive three year renewal options Represents information pertaining to the maximum number of three year renewal options under related party transactions agreement. Settop Boxes and Other Equipment Purchased from Related Party Set-top boxes and other equipment purchases from EchoStar Set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from related party. Related Party Transactions, Fair Value of Rights Fair value of rights assigned Related party transactions fair value of rights. Related Party Transactions, Recorded Value of Rights Recorded value of rights assigned Related party transactions recorded value of rights. Related Party Transactions, Rights Excess Amount Paid Excess of paid amount over recorded amount of rights assigned Related party transactions rights excess amount paid. Contribution from Related Party for Initial Settlement Contribution from related party Represents information pertaining to the contribution from related party for initial settlement under the related party transactions agreement. Loss Contingency Settlement Agreement Consideration Percentage to be Made by Related Party Percentage of litigation settlement amount to be made by related party annually Represents the percentage of litigation settlement amount to be paid by related party. Litigation Settlement, Number of Annual Installments Litigation settlement number of annual installments Represents the number of annual installments in the litigation settlement. Payments by Related Party for Acquisition Settlement Agreement Net payment for agreement settlement Payments by related party for acquisition settlement agreement. Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member] LTIP 2005 Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "LTIP 2005"). Long Term Incentive Plan 2008 [Member] LTIP 2008 Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "2008 LTIP"). Schedule of Share Based Compensation Stock Awards Outstanding by Company and Award [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the number outstanding stock awards. Schedule of stock awards outstanding Schedule of Share Based Compensation Realized Tax Benefits from Stock Awards Exercised [Table Text Block] Schedule of realized tax benefits from stock awards exercised Schedule of share based compensation realized tax benefits from stock awards exercised. Schedule of aggregate intrinsic value of stock options associated with employees Schedule of aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding and exercisable. Schedule of Aggregate Intrinsic Value of Stock Options Outstanding and Exercisable [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrecognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense Schedule of unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation. Schedule of Unrecognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Noncash Stock Based Compensation Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of non-cash, stock-based compensation expense recognized Schedule of non-cash stock-based compensation expense. Schedule of Nonvested Performance Based Plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of awards outstanding pursuant to performance-based stock incentive plans Schedule of nonvested performance based plans. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Future Forfeiture Rate Future forfeiture rate (as a percent) Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated future forfeiture rate. Long Term Performance Based Plans [Member] Long-Term Performance Based Plans Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plans. Other Employee Performance Awards [Member] Other Employee Performance Awards Represents details pertaining to the Employee Performance Stock Awards of the entity. Stock Option Adjustment [Member] Represents details pertaining to the 2012 stock option adjustment. Stock Option Adjustment Dish Network Stock Awards [Member] DISH Network Awards Represents information related to Dish network stock awards. Held by Employees of Entity [Member] Represents the stock awards held by employees of the entity. Held by DISH DBS employees Represents information related to EchoStar stock awards. EchoStar Stock Awards [Member] EchoStar awards Non Performance Based Stock Awards [Member] Non-Performance Based Stock Awards Represents details pertaining to the non-performance based awards of the entity. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Original Award Issuer [Axis] Pertinent data describing and reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by an entity prior to the spinoff. Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Holder [Axis] Pertinent data describing and reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by an entity prior to the spinoff. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Plan Modification Number of Options Affected Number of stock options subject to an exercise price change in connection with the Stock Option Adjustment (in shares) Represents the number of stock options subject to an exercise price change in connection with the Stock Option Adjustment. Reduction in Exercise Price Due to Dividend Declaration Reduction in exercise price due to dividend declaration (in dollars per share) Reduction in exercise price due to dividend declaration. Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation policy. Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Construction in Progress [Table Text Block] Schedule of construction in progress Schedule of construction in progress. Construction in Progress by Type [Axis] Construction in progress by type. Construction in Progress by Type [Domain] Construction in progress by type. Satellites [Member] Satellites Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity. Number of other satellites relocated in event of failure or loss of any satellite. Number of Other Satellites Relocated in Event of Failure or Loss of any Satellite Number of other satellites to be relocated in the event of failure or loss of any satellite Senior Notes 4.25 Percent Due 2018 [Member] 4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018 Represents details pertaining to the 4 1/4 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2018. Senior Notes 5.125 Percent Due 2020 [Member] 5 1/8% Senior Notes due 2020 Represents details pertaining to the 5 1/8 percent Senior Notes, which are due in 2020. Available For Sale Securities Cash Consideration for Receiving Shares of Common Stock Amount of cash consideration for receiving shares of common stock from a single issuer Represents the amount of cash consideration given for receiving shares of common stock from a single issuer. Senior Notes 5 Percent Due 2017 [Member] 5% Senior Notes due 2017 Represents information pertaining to the 5 percent senior notes, which are due in 2017. 6 1/4% Senior Notes due 2023 Represents information pertaining to the 6 1/4 percent senior notes, which are due in 2023. Senior Notes 6.25 Percent Due 2023 [Member] Deferred Cost of Sales Customer Contract Commitment Term Customer contract commitment period associated with deferred cost of sales promotional items Deferred Cost Of Sales Customer Contract Commitment Term. Proceeds from Issuance of Restricted Debt Proceeds from issuance of restricted debt. Proceeds from issuance of restricted debt Release of Restricted Debt Escrow Release of restricted debt escrow Release of restricted debt escrow. Funding of Restricted Debt Escrow Funding of restricted debt escrow Funding of restricted debt escrow. Transfer of Regulatory Authorization from Related Party Transfer of regulatory authorization from EchoStar Transfer of regulatory authorization from related party. One Hundred Three Degree Orbital Location [Member] Represents information pertaining to the 103 orbital location agreement. 103 degree orbital location member Light Squared LP Entities [Member] LightSquared LP Entities Represents information pertaining to LightSquared LP Entities. Tax Sharing Agreement [Member] Tax Sharing Agreement Represents information pertaining to the tax sharing agreement. This category includes information about investments in debt and equity securities, which are not otherwise provided for in the existing taxonomy in the form of Domain Members or individual elements. Other Debt and Equity Securities [Member] Current marketable investment securities - other Long Term Incentive Plan 2008 2013 and Other [Member] LTIP 2008, LTIP 2013 and Other Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plans (the "LTIP 2008" and "LTIP 2013") and other Employee Performance Stock Awards of the entity. Harbinger Capital Partners LLC and Other Affiliates [Member] Represents details pertaining to LightSquared Bankruptcy alleged by Harbinger Capital Partners LLC and other affiliates of Harbinger. Harbinger Norman IP Holdings [Member] Norman IP Holdings Represents details pertaining to patent infringements alleged by Norman IP Holdings, LLC. Related party transaction expenses from transactions with related party, less than. Payments to third party by related party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Less than Related Party Transaction, Aggregate Payments to Third Party by Related Parties under Extension Option Less than Related party transaction aggregate payments to third party by related parties under extension option, less than. Payments to third party by related party under extension option Additional term of renewal option Represents the additional term of renewal option. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Additional Renewal Option Term Accrued programming Accrued Liabilities, Current Recognized Noncash Stock Based Compensation Expense [Abstract] Recognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense Schedule of Purchases from Related Party [Table Text Block] Schedule of dollar value of set-top boxes and other equipment purchased from EchoStar and purchases included in "Cost of sales- subscriber promotion subsidies-EchoStar" Schedule of purchases from related party. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Outstanding Awards Pursuant to Performance Based Stock Incentive Plans [Abstract] Outstanding awards pursuant to performance-based stock incentive plans Wireless Spectrum Licenses Final Build Out Requirement Extension Term Extension term of AWS-4 Final Build-Out Requirement Represents the extension term of wireless spectrum licenses final build-out requirement. Maximum Bid Price Per Unit Maximum bid price per MHz/POP (in dollars per unit) Represents the maximum bid price per unit quoted by the entity in an auction. Represents the aggregate bid price quoted by the entity in an auction. Aggregate Bid Price Aggregate bid price 2012 stock option adjustment Stock Option Adjustment 2012 [Member] Stock option adjustment 2012 Represents details pertaining to the 2012 stock option adjustment. Proposed Asset Purchase Agreement [Member] Proposed asset purchase agreement Represents information pertaining to a proposed asset purchase agreement. Loss Contingency Number of Plaintiffs Seeking Preliminary Injunction Number of plaintiffs seeking a preliminary injunction Represents the number of plaintiffs seeking a preliminary injunction. Represents the amount of break-up fee to be paid on confirmation of the order issued by Bankruptcy Court as a qualified bidder. Payments to be Made for Break Up Fee Payments to be made for break up fee Light Squared Transaction Shareholder Derivative Actions [Member] LightSquared transaction shareholder derivative actions Represents information pertaining to the LightSquared transaction shareholder derivative actions. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Accelerated Period to Meet Modified Build Out Requirement on Failure to Meet Interim Build Out Requirement Accelerated period to meet Modified 700 MHz Build-Out Requirement on failure to meet Modified 700 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement Wireless spectrum licenses accelerated period to meet Modified 700 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement on failure to meet Modified 700 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement. Payments to Related Parties Payments to the related party Represents the amount of expenses, fees and commissions paid for transactions between the related parties. Capital Distribution to Related Party Capital distribution Capital distribution to related party. Long Term Debt, Redemption Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Percentage of principal amount at which the entity may redeem some or all of the notes at any time Long-term debt redemption price as a percentage of principal amount. Echo Star IX [Member] EchoStar IX Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star IX, which are accounted for as operating leases. Echo Star VIII [Member] EchoStar VIII Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star VIII, which are accounted for as operating leases. Decrease in accumulated depreciation of property and equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant and Equipment, Period Increase (Decrease) Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar by the entity, Nimiq 5. Nimiq 5 [Member] Nimiq 5 Accumulated depreciation Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Anik F3 [Member] Anik F3 Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from other third party, Anik F3, which are accounted for as capital leases. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from other third party, Ciel II, which are accounted for as capital leases. Ciel II [Member] Ciel II Quetz Sat 1 [Member] QuetzSat-1 Represents information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, QuetzSat-1, which are accounted for as operating leases. Assets under Construction Echo Star XVIII [Member] EchoStar XVIII Represents details pertaining to the EchoStar XVIII satellite under construction. Voom Settlement Agreement Represents information pertaining to confidential settlement agreement and release entered into by the entity with Voom HD Holdings LLC and CSC Holdings, LLC, and for certain limited purposes, MSG Holdings, L.P. Voom Settlement Agreement [Member] Prior Telemetry Tracking and Control Agreement [Member] Prior TT&C Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Prior TT and C Agreement. Prior Receiver Agreement [Member] Prior Receiver Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Prior Receiver Agreement. Stock Option Adjustment 2011 [Member] Stock option adjustment 2011 Represents details pertaining to the 2011 stock option adjustment. 2011 stock option adjustment Represents the payments under the multi-year affiliation agreement to the fair value of the settlement agreement. Litigation Settlement Gross Allocated to Fair Value of Settlement Agreement Payments under the multi-year affiliation agreement allocated to the fair value of the Voom Settlement Agreement Notes payable related to satellite vendor financing and other debt payable in installments through 2025 with interest rates ranging from approximately 6% to 13% Notes Payable Related to Satellite Vendor Financing and Other Debt Payable [Member] Represents details pertaining to the notes payable related to satellite vendor financing and other debt payable in installments through 2025 with interest rates ranging from approximately 6% to 13%. Prior Broadcast Agreement [Member] Prior Broadcast Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Prior Broadcast Agreement. Represents information pertaining to operating lease obligations. Operating Lease Obligations [Member] Operating lease obligations Schedule of DBS Satellites Schedule of DBS satellites. Schedule of DBS Satellites [Table Text Block] Computer hardware projects Represents information pertaining to the hardware related projects. Hardware Related Projects [Member] Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 40.01 to 45.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $40.01 - $45.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 40.01 dollars to 45.00 dollars. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 45.01 dollars to 50.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 45.01 to 50.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $45.01 - $50.00 Related Party Transactions Required Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Notice period for termination of agreement Related party transactions required notice period for termination of agreement. Transaction Agreement [Member] Transaction Agreement Represents information pertaining to the Transaction Agreement. Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction Investor Rights Agreement [Member] Investor Rights Agreement Represents information pertaining to the Investor Rights Agreement. Echo Star and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation [Member] EchoStar and HSSC Represents information pertaining to EchoStar and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated net unrealized gains, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation [Member] HSSC Represents information pertaining to Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Transferred Satellites Related Obligation [Member] Transferred Satellites-related obligations Represents information relating to satellite-related obligations that are transferred under the Transaction Agreement entered into by the entity. Dish Investors [Member] DISH Investors Represents information pertaining to EchoStar and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Related Party Transactions Number of Owned Satellites Transferred and Leased Back Number of owned satellites transferred and leased back Represents the number of owned satellites transferred and leased back in connection with the transaction involving the sale of property to another party and the lease of the property back to the seller. Cash in Exchange of Shares Issued Cash in exchange for shares of series of preferred tracking stock issued Represents the amount of cash transferred in exchange for shares of a series of preferred tracking stock issued under the agreement. Reduction in Contractual Obligation Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Reduction in contractual obligation Reduction in Contractual Obligation Due in Next Twelve Months 2014 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Reduction in Contractual Obligation Due in Second Year 2015 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Reduction in Contractual Obligation Due in Third Year 2016 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Reduction in Contractual Obligation Due in Fourth Year 2017 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the fourth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Accumulated net unrealized gains (losses) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Reduction in Contractual Obligation Due in Fifth Year 2018 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Reduction in Contractual Obligation Due after Fifth Year Thereafter Related Party Transactions Preferred Tracking Stock Issued by Related Party Preferred tracking stock issued by related party Represents the preferred tracking stock issued during the period by the related party. Percentage of economic interest in the Hughes Retail Group Represents the percentage of economic interest held in the Hughes Retail Group. Related Party Transactions Percentage of Economic Interest Held Tracking stock prohibited transfer period Represents the prohibited transfer period of preferred tracking stock issued during the period by the related party. Related Party Transactions Preferred Tracking Stock Prohibited Transfer Period Represents the aggregate reserve price for H Block of wireless spectrum. Wireless Spectrum Aggregate Reserve Price for Spectrum Aggregate reserve price of H Block wireless spectrum Do Not Call Litigation [Member] Do Not Call Litigation Represents information pertaining to the Do Not Call litigation which relates to violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act and Telephone Sales Rules, and analogous state statutes and state consumer protection laws. Period of Injunctive Relief Sought from Placing any Telemarketing Calls to Market or Promote Goods and Services Period of injunctive relief sought from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services Represents the period of injunctive relief from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services sought by plantiff. Light Squared Harbinger Capital Partners LLC [Member] Lightsquared Harbinger Capital Partners LLC Represents information pertaining to Lightsquared Harbinger Capital Partners LLC. Business Days Allowed to Terminate Existing Agreements Business days allowed to terminate existing agreements Represents the business days allowed to terminate existing agreements. (Purchases) Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities, net Amount of cash inflow (outflow) from sales and purchases of marketable investment securities. Proceeds from Payments for Marketable Securities Senior Notes 6.375 Percent Due 2011 [Member] 6 3/8% Senior Notes Due 2011 Represents details pertaining to 6 3/8% senior notes, which are due in 2011. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 00.00 to Dollars 50.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $00.00 - $50.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 0.00 dollars to 50.00 dollars per share. UTAM Inc [Member] UTAM, Inc. Represents information pertaining to UTAM, Inc. Sprint Corporation [Member] Sprint Represents information pertaining to Sprint Corporation. Remaining balance amount due of H Block spectrum licenses Represents the remaining balance amount due for H Block spectrum licenses of wireless spectrum. Wireless Spectrum Remaining Balance Amount due for Spectrum Payments for Clearance Costs Associated with Lower H Block Spectrum Payment for clearance costs associated with the lower H Block spectrum Represents the amount of cash paid for clearance costs associated with the lower H Block spectrum during the current period. Payments for Clearance Costs Associated with Upper H Block Spectrum Payment for clearance costs associated with the upper H Block spectrum Represents the amount of cash paid for clearance costs associated with the upper H Block spectrum during the current period. Maximum Period of Payments for Clearance Costs from Issuance of H Block Licenses Maximum period of payment for clearance cost from issuance of the H Block licenses Represents the maximum period of payment for clearance cost from issuance of the H Block licenses. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Interim Build Out Requirement Population Percentage Covered by H Block Spectrum Licenses H Block Interim Build-Out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the minimum percentage of population in each area covered by an individual H Block spectrum license to which reliable signal coverage is provided and service is offered. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Accelerated Period to Meet Interim Build Out Requirement Accelerated period to meet Interim Build-Out Requirement Represents the wireless spectrum licenses accelerated period to meet Interim Build-Out Requirement. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Accelerated Period to Meet Final Build Out Requirement Accelerated period to meet Final Build-Out Requirement Represents the wireless spectrum licenses accelerated period to meet Final Build-Out Requirement. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Final Build Out Requirement Population Percentage Covered by H Block Spectrum Licenses H Block Final Build-Out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the minimum percentage of population in each area covered by an individual H Block spectrum license to which reliable signal coverage is provided and service is offered by the end of license term. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Accelerated Period to Meet Build Out Requirement on Failure Accelerated period to meet Build-Out Requirement on failure Represents the accelerated period to meet Build-Out Requirement on failure. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Accelerated Period to Meet Final Build Out Requirement on Failure Accelerated period to meet final Build-Out Requirement on failure Represents the accelerated period to meet final Build-Out Requirement on failure. Represents the historical cost of tracking stock. Related Party Transactions Historical Cost of Tracking Stock Investment in EchoStar and HSSC preferred tracking stock - cost method Historical cost of tracking stock Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Strategic Investments Capital distribution to EchoStar Capital distribution to the related party in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax. Capital transaction recorded in additional paid-in capital Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction with Related Party [Abstract] Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction with EchoStar: Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Related Party Transactions Tracking Stock Capital Transaction Capital transaction Represents the amount of capital transaction cost relating to tracking stock. Deferred Taxes for Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Strategic Investments Deferred taxes for capital distribution to EchoStar Deferred taxes for capital distribution to the related party in connection with purchases of strategic investments. Schedule of Pay TV Satellites [Table Text Block] Schedule of pay-TV satellite fleet Schedule of pay-TV satellite fleet. Pay TV Satellites [Member] Pay-TV Satellites Represents details pertaining to Pay-TV Satellites assets owned by the entity. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Number of wireless spectrum licenses The number of wireless spectrum licenses acquired by the winning bidder. Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Fixed Assets Transferred Transfer of property and equipment, net Noncash or part noncash acquisition, fixed assets transferred. Expected Period Within Which Complaint Would Be Filed by Plaintiff Period within which second amended complaint is expected to be filed by Jacksonville PFPF Represents the expected period within which complaint would be filed by plaintiff. Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Voting interest (as a percent) Represents the voting interest in subsidiary, expressed as a percentage. Voting Interest in Subsidiary Commitments to Related Parties Commitments to NagraStar Represents the amount for commitments to related parties. Unsettled Trades Related to Repurchases of Long Term Debt Unsettled trades related to repurchases of long-term debt Represents the amount of unsettled trades related to repurchases of long-term debt in non-cash investing or financing activities. Exchange Agreement [Member] Exchange Agreement Represents information pertaining to the exchange agreement. DISH Digital Exchange Transaction Period Following The Fifth Anniversary of Exchange Agreement within which Nonvoting Interest is Redeemable at Fair Value Period following the fifth anniversary of exchange agreement within which non-voting interest is redeemable at fair value Represents the period following the fifth anniversary of the exchange agreement within which non-voting interest is redeemable at fair value. MVDDS Licenses Represents information pertaining to multichannel video distribution and data service licenses. Multichannel Video Distribution and Data Service Licenses [Member] Number of Geographical License Areas Number of geographical license areas Represents the number of geographical license areas. Additional License Term Additional license term Represents the additional license term requested. Amount of Carrying Value to be Written Off on Termination of License Amount of carrying value to be written-off on termination of license Represents the amount of carrying value to be written- off on termination of license by the FCC. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Amount of Refundable Deposit Payable AWS-3 Amount of refundable deposit payable Represents the amount of refundable deposits payable by auction participants. Personalized Media Communications Inc [Member] Personalized Media Communications, Inc. Represents information pertaining to Personalized Media Communications,Inc. Represents the amount of refundable upfront payment by auction participants. Wireless Spectrum Licenses, Amount of Upfront Payment AWS-3 Amount of refundable upfront payment Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Transfer of Investments and Intangibles Transfer of investments and intangibles, net Represents the value of investments and intangibles transferred from the entity's investments in noncash transactions. Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Table] Represents the tabular disclosure of supplemental cash flow information for the periods presented. Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items] Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information Supplemental Disclosure Of Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Deemed Distributions to Related Party in Connection with Exchange Agreement Deemed distribution to EchoStar- initial fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interest, net of deferred taxes of $8,491 Deemed distribution to the related party in connection with exchange agreement, net of tax. Deferred Taxes for Deemed Distributions to Related Party in Connection with Exchange Agreement Deferred taxes for deemed distribution to EchoStar- initial fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interest Deferred taxes for deemed distribution to the related party in connection with exchange agreement. Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital Assets Transferred to Related Party Net of Deferred Taxes Capital distribution, net of deferred taxes Amount of decrease in additional paid-in capital (APIC), net of deferred taxes, resulting from capital distribution to the related party. Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities: Non-cash, stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Advertising Costs Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising costs Advertising Expense Affiliated entity Affiliated Entity [Member] Non-cash stock-based compensation expense recognized Non-cash, stock-based compensation Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - other Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Total assets Assets Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Total current assets Assets, Current Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Noncurrent Assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value Fair value of marketable investment securities in a loss position Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract] Contractual maturities of restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] Change in unrealized holding gains (losses)on available-for-sale securities, net Unrealized Gains Losses, Net Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss), before Tax Accumulated net unrealized gains, before tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Unrealized Gains 12 months or more Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Unrealized Losses Less than 12 months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss Total 12 months or more Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Debt security Available-for-sale Securities Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Debt securities with contractual maturities extending longer than five years through and including ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value Unrealized loss on marketable investment securities in a loss position Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract] Debt securities with contractual maturities longer than ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value Marketable investment securities Debt securities Current marketable investment securities Available-for-sale Securities, Current Components of available-for-sale investments Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Debt securities with contractual maturities extending longer than one year through and including five years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value Debt securities with contractual maturities within one year Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Current Equity securities Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Mr. Ergen Board of Directors Chairman [Member] Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Percentage of equity acquired Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Purchase price Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Counterparty Name [Axis] 2018 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years Total minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due 2016 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years Depreciation expense - capital leases Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense Less: Amount representing interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Less: Current portion Capital Lease Obligations, Current Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Estimated fair value of satellites acquired under capital leases Capital Leased Assets, Gross Long-term portion of capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Satellite and other capital lease obligations 2015 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2014 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Future minimum lease payments under the capital lease obligation, together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Net Present Value [Abstract] Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Present value of net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Capital lease obligations Capital Leased Assets [Line Items] Accumulated depreciation on satellites acquired under capital leases Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash equivalents (including restricted) Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Class of Stock [Domain] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies (Note 8) Commitments and Contingencies. Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Class A common stock Common Class A [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Common stock, $.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, 1,015 shares issued and outstanding Common Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Dividend declared (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Class B common stock Common Class B [Member] Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Dividend in cash per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Temporary differences, which give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to DISH DBS Comprehensive 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liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Employer maximum annual contribution per employee under 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Amount Employer matching contribution as a percentage of voluntary employee contributions under 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match 401(k) Employee Savings Plan Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization (Note 6) Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Aggregate dividend declared Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Dividends to DISH Orbital Corporation (Note 15) Net amount of the allocated tax attributes payable Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Advances to affiliates Due from Affiliate, Current Repurchases of long-term debt Early Repayment of Senior Debt Total benefit (provision) for income taxes (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Reconciliation of amounts computed by applying the statutory Federal tax rate to income before taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] State income taxes, net of Federal benefit (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Other (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Statutory rate (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Stock option compensation (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based 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measurements on recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Transfer of investments from Level 1 to Level 2 Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Measurement Frequency [Axis] Transfer of investments from Level 2 to Level 1 Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair value of marketable securities Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Schedule of investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair value of MVDDS Licenses Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Net book value of asset Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments Gain (Loss) on Investments Schedule of changes in the carrying amount of marketable and non-marketable investments Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Litigation expense (Note 11) Litigation expense Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement General and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense General and administrative General and Administrative Expense [Member] Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Indefinite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block] Maximum grants receivable Grants Receivable Guarantee term Guarantor Obligations, Term Guarantees for payments Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax Authority [Domain] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income tax (provision) benefit, net Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other Total benefit (provision) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade accounts payable - other Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets and Liabilities, Net Change in restricted cash and marketable investment securities Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash and Investments Other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable, Related Parties Change in noncurrent assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Assets Trade accounts payable - EchoStar Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Related Parties Trade accounts receivable - other Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Changes in advances to affiliates Increase (Decrease) in Due from Affiliates, Current Accrued programming and other accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities Changes in current assets and current liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Allowance for doubtful accounts Increase (Decrease) in Other Receivables Other, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Restricted cash related to litigation released during the period Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash 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Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities Investments in Debt and Equity Instruments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) [Text Block] Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents and Other Investment Securities: Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities Land Land [Member] Operating lease obligations Operating Leases, Rent Expense Equipment Lease Programs Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Total liabilities and stockholder's equity (deficit) Liabilities and Equity Obligations and interest payments transferred Liabilities Assumed Transfer of liabilities and other Obligations and cash interest payments transferred Total long-term obligations, net of current portion Liabilities, Noncurrent Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Total liabilities Liabilities Long-Term Obligations, Net of Current Portion: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Liabilities and Stockholder's Equity (Deficit) Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Portion of litigation payment related to periods periods prior to 2011 Liability for Unpaid Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Claims Paid, Prior Years Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation accrual Litigation accrual Estimated Litigation Liability, Current Attorneys' fees Litigation Settlement, Expense Settlement amount Cash paid under settlement agreement Litigation Settlement, Amount Long-Term Debt Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term debt obligations Long-term Debt [Member] Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Initial settlement amount paid Loss Contingency Accrual, Payments Number of patents the suit alleges infringement of Loss Contingency, Patents Allegedly Infringed, Number Loss Contingencies [Table] Number of companies against whom similar complaints brought Loss Contingency, Number of Defendants Number of shareholders who filed lawsuits Loss Contingency, Number of Plaintiffs Claim amount Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Loss contingencies Recent developments Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Litigation accrual Aggregate of six annual installment amounts between 2012 and 2017, net of contribution from related party Loss Contingency Accrual Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Dish Network Majority Shareholder [Member] Total marketable investment securities Marketable Securities Marketable Investment Securities Marketable Securities [Abstract] Marketable Investment Securities Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted marketable investment securities Marketable Securities, Restricted, Noncurrent Advertising Costs Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract] Repurchases and redemption of Senior Notes Maturities of Senior Debt Principal balance of debt redeemed Maximum Maximum [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Noncontrolling interest recognized with acquisition of a controlling interest in subsidiary Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Non-voting interest (as a percent) Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Activity in Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Cash Flows From Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Cash Flows From Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations Net income (loss) attributable to DISH DBS Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows From Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest New Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Total other income (expense) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other Income (Expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Total rent expense for operating leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Operating income (loss) Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Organization and Business Activities Organization and Business Activities Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Deferred income tax (expense) benefit, net Deferred income tax (expense) benefit attributable to unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax Change in unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Other noncurrent assets, net (Note 4) Other Assets, Noncurrent Other current assets Other Assets, Current Other Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member] Cost of sales - equipment, services and other Cost of sales - equipment, services and other Other Cost of Operating Revenue Current marketable investment securities - other Other Debt Obligations [Member] Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax Other accrued expenses Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Capital distribution to affiliate Capital distribution to affiliate Payment to meet H Block auction requirements Payments for Deposits Settlement payment Payments for Legal Settlements Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Purchases of marketable investment securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Purchase of strategic investments included in noncurrent other investment securities Payments to Acquire Investments Purchases of property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Capital distribution to affiliate Payments of Capital Distribution Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Dividend paid to DOC Dividend to DISH Orbital Corporation Payments of Dividends Payment to acquire certain 700 MHz wireless licenses Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Employee Benefit Plans Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Axis] Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other 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Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property and Equipment and FCC Authorizations Schedule of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property and Equipment and FCC Authorizations Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Property and Equipment and FCC Authorizations Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property and equipment Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Trade Accounts Receivable Receivables, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits included in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, by Legal Entity [Table] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Redeemable noncontrolling interest (Note 2) Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Purchased set-top boxes and other equipment from EchoStar Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions with DISH Network Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Amount paid for related party transaction Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Related Party [Axis] Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Purchases from NagraStar Expenses associated with services Related Party Transactions Related Party [Domain] Decrease in mortgages and other notes payable Repayments of Debt Repayment of long-term debt and capital lease obligations Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease 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Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Purchase price as percentage of closing market price on the last business day of each calendar quarter under ESPP Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent Expiration term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Total revenue Total revenue Revenue, Net Scenario, Forecast [Member] Proposed asset purchase agreement Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Schedule of stock option activity associated with employees Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock 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taxes Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of transactions with NagraStar Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of quarterly results of operations Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of available-for-sale securities in continuous unrealized loss position by length of time and their fair value Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of inventory Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of Investments [Table] Spectrum Investments Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction with EchoStar Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents and Other Investment Securities Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Other investment securities: Schedule of carrying and fair values of the entity's debt facilities Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of allocated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for all employees Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable associated with employees Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Segments [Domain] Share-based compensation additional disclosures Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Additional General Disclosures [Abstract] Minimum number of calendar quarters to be employed for full-time employees to be eligible to participate in the ESPP Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Restricted stock unit activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Restricted stock units outstanding (in shares) Restricted Performance Units (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period (in shares) Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum Volatility factor, high end of range (as a percent) Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum Volatility factor, low end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Non-cash, stock-based compensation Stock-based compensation Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Risk-free interest rate, high end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum Awards vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period (in dollars per share) Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period (in dollars per share) Forfeited and cancelled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Forfeited and cancelled (in shares) Risk-free interest rate, low end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Granted (in shares) Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Dividend yield (as a percent) Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Exercisable at the end of the period (in shares) Number of stock options exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Aggregate intrinsic value Shares of common stock available for future grant under stock incentive plans Shares of common stock available for future grant under stock incentive plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Volatility factor (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Number of shares authorized to be issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Risk-free interest rate (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Black-Scholes option valuation model, assumptions Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Weighted-average fair value of options granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited and cancelled (in dollars per share) Forfeited and cancelled (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Total options outstanding, beginning of the period (in dollars per share) Total options outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share) Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Total options outstanding, end of period (in shares) Stock Awards Outstanding (in shares) Number of stock options outstanding (in shares) Performance Based Stock Options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Total options outstanding, beginning of period (in shares) Exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable: Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Number of employees affected by stock option adjustment Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Plan Modification, Number of Employees Affected Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Stock option activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Equity Award [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Exercise prices, outstanding stock option awards, high end of range (in dollars per share) Exercise prices, outstanding stock option awards, low end of range (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Software projects Software and Software Development Costs [Member] State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Scenario [Axis] Statement [Table] Statement Statement [Line Items] CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (DEFICIT) CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Equity Components [Axis] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Segments [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Number of shares of common stock purchased under ESPP Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Stock-based compensation Dividends to DISH Orbital Corporation (Note 16) Stockholder's Equity (Deficit): Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Total DISH DBS stockholder's equity (deficit) Balance Balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total stockholder's equity (deficit) Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance Balance Subscriber-related revenue Subscription and Circulation Revenue Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent events Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent event Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] DISH Network L.L.C. Subsidiaries [Member] Ownership percentage Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Schedule of reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits included in long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Statements of Cash Flow Data Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows Title of Individual [Axis] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Unsettled purchases of marketable investment securities Transfer to Investments Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Type of Arrangement [Member] Schedule of unrealized gain (loss) on marketable investment securities Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Interest and penalty (benefit) expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Reductions based on tax positions related to settlements with taxing authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Reductions based on tax positions related to the current years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized tax benefits if recognized, could favorably affect our effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Reductions based on tax positions related to the lapse of the statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Balance as of beginning of period Balance as of end of period Unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Accrued interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Principal balance reclassified to current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations Unsecured Debt, Current Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Charged to Cost and Expenses Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Balance at Beginning of Year Balance at End of Year Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Deductions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Current marketable investment securities - VRDNs VRDNs Variable Rate Demand Obligation [Member]