Available for Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Six to Nine Months Fair Value Six to Nine Months, Fair value Available for sale securities continuous unrealized loss position six to nine months fair value. Available for Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Nine Months or Longer Fair Value Nine Months or More, Fair value Available for sale securities continuous unrealized loss position nine months or more fair value. Investment [Table Text Block] Schedule of marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents Available for Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than Six Months Aggregate Losses 1 Less than 6 months, Unrealized loss Available for sale securities continuous unrealized loss position less than six months aggregate losses. Available for Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Six to Nine Months Aggregate Losses 1 Six to Nine Months, Unrealized loss Available for sale securities continuous unrealized loss position six to nine months aggregate losses. Available for Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Nine Months or Longer Aggregate Losses 1 Nine Months or More, Unrealized loss Available for sale securities continuous unrealized loss position nine or more months aggregate losses. Adjustment to Recognized Non Cash 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. Award Type [Axis] 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 10.00 to 15.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $10.00 - $15.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 10.00 dollars to 15.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 15.00 to 20.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $15.00 - $20.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 15.00 dollars to 20.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 20.00 to 25.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $20.00 - $25.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 20.00 dollars to 25.00 dollars. Amendment Description Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 25.00 to 30.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $25.00 - $30.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 25.00 dollars to 30.00 dollars. Amendment Flag Range of Exercise Prices From Dollars 30.00 to 35.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $30.00 - $35.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 30.00 dollars to 35.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 35.00 to 40.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $35.00 - $40.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 35.00 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 and bs 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. Current Fiscal Year End Date Deferred tax assets net of valuation allowance. Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax asset after valuation allowance Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Long-term Liabilities Other long-term liabilities 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. Employee Stock Purchase Plan Minimum Requisite Service Period Minimum number of calendar quarters to be employed for full-time employees to be eligible to participate in the ESPP Employee Stock Purchase Plan minimum requisite service period. 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 Employee Stock Purchase Plan maximum fair value of common stock permitted to be purchased per annum. Defined contribution plan employer matching contribution as percentage of employee voluntary contribution. Defined Contribution Plan Employer Matching Contribution as Percentage of Employee Voluntary Contribution Employer matching contribution as a percentage of voluntary employee contributions under 401(k) plan Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Losses Less than 12 months, Unrealized loss 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 Text Block] Sales Taxes Sales tax policy. Subscriber Related Expenses [Policy Text Block] Subscriber-Related Expenses Represents disclosure of variable subscriber expenses. Subscriber Acquisition Costs Subscriber acquisition costs policy. Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Policy Text Block] Accounting Policies [Table] Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Accounting Policies [Line Items] Accounting policy disclosures Document Period End Date 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 an investment has been in a continuous loss position in which the decline in value is considered other-than-temporary Length of time investment been in continuous loss position to be considered as 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. Original Maturity Period Original maturity period at the time of purchase by the entity for liquid investments classified as cash equivalents Original maturity period. Deferred Upfront Payments Amortization Period Deferred upfront payment, amortization period Deferred upfront payments amortization period. Inventory Used Work in Process Net of Reserves Work-in-process - used Inventory used, work in process, net of reserves. Inventory New Work in Process Net of Reserves Work-in-process - new Inventory new, work in process, net of reserves. Entity [Domain] Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses Total Unrealized Losses Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Right to Receive Award upon Holding One Unit of Award 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. 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. 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. Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Losses 12 months or more, Unrealized loss 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. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options Outstanding Intrinsic Value [Abstract] Aggregate intrinsic value Share Based Compensation Award Terms [Abstract] 2005 LTIP Terms 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 Percentage awards vesting per annum after first four years 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. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Compensation Costs [Abstract] Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense Total Unrecognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense Total Total unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense. Unrecognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense on Vested Portion Vested Portion Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Remaining Portion to Meet Vesting Condition Represents the share based payment award remaining portion to meet vesting condition. Remaining portion to meet vesting condition (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. Portion vested (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost [Abstract] Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense 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 2012 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost for remainder of fiscal year. Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains Unrealized Gains Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost after Current Fiscal Year Estimated contingent expense subsequent to 2012 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost. Recognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense Recognized 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] Related Party Transaction Primary Related Party [Axis] 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. Primary Related Party [Domain] Related parties with a direct or indirect ownership interest in the reporting entity. Subscriber Related Expenses Related Party Subscriber-related expense, related party. Subscriber-related expenses Allocated Administrative Support Services Allocated administrative support services Represents the amount allocated towards administrative support services such as legal, information systems, marketing, accounting and finance services. Commitments [Table] Schedule of disclosures relating to commitments of the entity. Schedule of Commitments [Table] Represents the details of commitments of the entity as at the reporting date. Transactions of Related Party [Axis] Categories of transactions conducted by a related third party. Transactions of Related Party [Domain] Identification of transactions conducted by a related third party. Loss Contingency, Additional Damages Sought Value The value (monetary amount) of the additional award the plaintiff seeks in the legal matter. Additional claim amount Attorneys' fees Loss Contingency, Attorney Fees Sought, Value The value (monetary amount) of the attorney's fees the plaintiff seeks in the legal matter. Loss Contingency Terms Loss Contingency Terms [Abstract] Commitments [Line Items] Spectrum Investments In a business acquisition by a related party, represents the acquisition-date fair value of the total consideration transferred which consists of the sum of the acquisition-date fair values of the assets transferred by the acquirer, the liabilities incurred by the acquirer to former owners of the acquiree, and the equity interests issued by the acquirer. Purchase price of assets Related Party, Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Related Party, Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets The cash outflow by a related party to acquire assets without physical form usually arising from contractual or other legal rights, excluding goodwill. Payment to acquire certain 700 MHz wireless licenses 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. Echo Star XI [Member] EchoStar XI Represents the information pertaining to satellites' assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XI. EchoStar XIV Represents the information pertaining to satellites' assets under construction, leased from EchoStar, EchoStar XVI. Echo Star XIV [Member] Echo Star XV [Member] EchoStar XV Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XV. 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 VIII [Member] EchoStar VIII Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star VIII, which are accounted for as operating leases. 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 XII [Member] EchoStar XII Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star XII, which are accounted for as operating leases. Nimiq 5 [Member] Nimiq 5 Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar by the entity, Nimiq 5. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies 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 Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Number of Amplifier Losses in Reporting Period Loss of Travelling wave tube amplifiers ("TWTAs") Represents the number of satellites that experienced the loss of travelling wave tube amplifiers. Entity Voluntary Filers Total Number of Amplifier Losses Total number of TWTAs lost Represents the total number of satellites that experienced the loss of travelling wave tube amplifiers. Entity Current Reporting Status Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Used Number of DBS transponders currently used Related party transactions number of DBS transponders used. Entity Filer Category Debt instrument term. Debt Instrument Term Term of debt instrument Entity Public Float Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero Long Term Debt, Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Debt instrument issuance as a percentage of face amount Long-term debt issue price as a percentage of principal amount. Entity Registrant Name Long-term debt redemption price as a percentage of principal amount. 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 Entity Central Index Key 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 vs Dish Network and Echostar Corporation [Member] TiVo v. Dish Network and EchoStar Corporation Represents information pertaining to legal proceedings of TiVo vs Dish Network and Echostar Corporation. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Award Expiration Period The date when the equity-based award expires as specified in the award agreement, which may be presented in a variety of ways (for example, year, month and year, day, month and year, quarter of a year). Expiration term (in years) Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Voom Settlement Agreement [Member] 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. 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 Represents the payments under the multi-year affiliation agreement to the fair value of the settlement agreement. Schedule of Future Maturities of Contractual Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of future maturities of long-term debt, capital lease and contractual obligations Schedule of future maturities of contractual obligations. Schedule of Future Maturities of Contractual Obligations [Table] 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. Contractual Obligations Type [Axis] Information pertaining to the future maturities of contractual obligations of the entity. Contractual Obligations Type [Domain] 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. Satellite Related Obligation [Member] Satellite-related obligations Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity. Assets under Construction Echo Star XVI [Member] Satellite Under Construction - EchoStar XVI Represents details pertaining to the EchoStar XVI satellite under construction. Long Term Purchase Commitment [Member] Purchase obligations Represents the information pertaining to purchases obligations of the entity. Contractual Obligations [Line Items] Commitment and contingencies Contractual Obligation Due Remainder of Fiscal Year 2012 Amount of required minimum rental payments maturing in the remainder of the fiscal year following the latest fiscal year ended for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year. Expenditure Against Grants Received Amount expensed Expenditure against grants received. Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Subleased Related party transactions number of DBS transponders subleased. Number of transponders subleased Pragmatus Telecom [Member] Represents details pertaining to Pragmatus Telecom. Pragmatus 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 Spectrum and Other Segments Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, from Related Parties, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - EchoStar (in dollars) Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable from related parties, current Equipment Sales and Other Revenue Equipment sales and other revenue Equipment sales and other revenue. Document Fiscal Year Focus 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. Number of patents remain in the lawsuit Document Fiscal Period Focus Equipment Sales Related Party Equipment sales - EchoStar Equipment sales related party. 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 Other Other Satellite and transmission expenses, other. Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Abstract] Subscriber acquisition costs: Subscriber Promotions Subsidies Related Party Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - EchoStar Subscriber promotions subsidies, related party. Set-top boxes and other equipment included in "Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies - Echostar" 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. Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Trade accounts payable - EchoStar Amounts Payable and Commitments Litigation Expense Litigation expense (Note 8) Litigation expense. Litigation expense 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 Legal Entity [Axis] Vendor Financing Vendor financing Vendor financing. Document Type 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 Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Trade accounts receivable - other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $13,834 and $11,916, respectively 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) 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 affiliate 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. Schedule of Satellites [Table Text Block] Schedule of Satellites Schedule of satellites. 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 or bit 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 7 % senior notes, which are due in 2013. 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 6 5/8% 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 7 3/4% 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 7 1/8% 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 7 7/8% 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 6 3/4% 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. Accounts Payable, Current Trade accounts payable - other 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 5% 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. Other Debt Securities Non-restricted 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. Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other Other Other nonoperating income expense other. DBSD North America Transaction [Member] DBSD North America Represents the transaction to acquire the legal entity DBSD North America. 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. DBSD North America Inc [Member] DBSD North America Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America, a legal entity. Asset Purchase Agreement TerreStar [Member] TerreStar Represents the asset purchase agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar Networks, Inc. and its subsidiaries. Terre Star Transaction [Member] TerreStar Networks, Inc. ("TerreStar") Represents the transaction to acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar Networks, Inc. and its subsidiaries. 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 [Member] Wireless Spectrum Represents details pertaining to Wireless Spectrum, a segment of entity. Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement [Member] RUS Implementation Agreement Represents details pertaining to Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement. Varick Sublease Agreement [Member] Varick Sublease Agreement Represents details pertaining to Varick Sublease Agreement. El Paso Lease Agreement [Member] El Paso Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to El Paso Lease Agreement. Remanufactured Receiver Agreement [Member] Remanufactured Receiver Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Remanufactured Receiver Agreement. 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 Real Estate Lease Agreement [Member] Real Estate Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Real Estate Lease 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. EchoStar XVI [Member] EchoStar XVI Represents information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star XVI, which are accounted for as operating leases. 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. Ciel II [Member] Ciel II Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets leased from other third party, Ciel II, which are accounted for as capital leases. Quetz Sat 1 [Member] QuetzSat-1 Represents information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, QuetzSat-1, 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. Assets under Construction Echo Star XVIII [Member] EchoStar XVIII Represents details pertaining to the EchoStar XVIII satellite under construction. DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement Represents details pertaining to DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement. QuetzSat 1 Lease Agreement [Member] QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. Tivo Inc [Member] Represents details pertaining to Tivo Inc. Tivo Inc Represents details pertaining to TT and C Agreement. Telemetry Tracking and Control Agreement [Member] TT&C Agreement Receiver Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Receiver Agreement. Receiver Agreement [Member] Radio Access Network Agreement [Member] Radio Access Network Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Radio Access Network Agreement. Product Support Agreement [Member] Product Support Agreement Represents details pertaining to the 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. Move Networks Services Agreement [Member] Move Networks Services Agreement Represents details pertaining to Move Network Services agreement. EchoStar XV Launch Service [Member] EchoStar XV Launch Service Represents details pertaining to EchoStar XV Launch Service. 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. Related Party, Commitment to Acquire Ownership Percentage Commitment by related party to acquire equity ownership (as a percent) Commitment by a related party to acquire ownership percentage in an entity. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Interim Build Out Requirement Population Percentage 2 GHz 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 Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Final Build Out Requirement Population Percentage 2 GHz 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 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 700 MHz Final Build-out Requirement (as a percent) Wireless spectrum licenses minimum final build-out requirement geographic area percentage. Number of Satellites Agreed to Lease under Construction Number of satellites agreed to lease under construction Number of satellites agreed to lease under construction. Operating Leased Assets Term Transponder service agreement period Operating leased assets term. Patent Infringement, Katz Communications [Member] Katz Communications-Patent infringement Represents details pertaining to patent infringements alleged by Ronald A. Katz Technology Licensing, L.P. Satellite Lease Guarantees [Member] Satellite lease guarantees Satellite lease guarantees. Patent Infringement and Breach of Agreement [Member] Patent infringement or breach of agreement Represents details pertaining to patent infringements or breach of agreement. Satellite Transponder Guarantees [Member] Satellite transponder guarantees Satellite transponder guarantees. Affiliation Agreement ESPN [Member] ESPN-Affiliation agreements Represents details pertaining to affiliation agreements with ESPN. Patent Infringement, Technology Development Licensing [Member] Technology Development Licensing-Patent infringement Represents details pertaining to patent infringements alleged by Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. Affiliation Agreement, Voom Holdings [Member] Voom HD Holdings-Affiliation agreements Represents details pertaining to affiliation agreements with Voom HD Holdings. Loss Contingency Court Ruling Court ruling Loss contingency court ruling. Number of Patents Suit Alleges Infringement of Number of patents the suit alleges infringement of Number of patents suit alleges infringement of. 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. Number of Motions Seeking Discovery Sanctions Number of motions seeking discovery sanctions Number of motions seeking discovery sanctions. 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. 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. Related Party Transactions Agreement, Minimum Termination Notice Required from Related Party Minimum required notice period for termination of agreement by related party Related party transactions agreement minimum termination notice required from related party. Related Party Transactions Agreement Renewal Option Additional Term Additional term of renewal option Represents the additional term of renewal option. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Automatic Renewal Period Automatic renewal period Related party transactions agreement automatic renewal period. Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Available Number of DBS transponders available to receive services Related party transactions number of DBS transponders available. Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders, Available to Related Party Related party transactions number of DBS transponders available to related party. Number of DBS transponders available for related party to receive services Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Expected to Receive Services Number of DBS transponders expected to receive services Related party transactions number of DBS transponders expected to receive services. Related Party Transaction Agreement Renewal Option Term Exercised Related party transaction agreement renewal option term exercised. Term of renewal option exercised Related Party Transactions, Agreement Renewal Option Term Term of renewal option Related party transactions agreement renewal option term. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Maximum Number of One Year Renewal Options Number of successive one year renewal options Related party transactions agreement maximum number of one year renewal options. Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Minimum notice period for termination of agreement Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of agreement. Related Party Transactions, Required Notice Period for Renewal of Agreement Related party transactions required notice period for renewal of agreement. Required notice for renewal of agreement Related Party Transactions, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Specific Service Required notice for termination of individual service Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of specific service. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Required notice period for termination of agreement by the reporting entity Related party transactions agreement termination notice required by the reporting entity. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Termination Required Minimum, Notice Period from Related Party Providing Service Minimum Related party transactions, agreement termination required minimum notice period from related party providing service. Minimum required notice period for termination of agreement by related party providing service Related Party Transactions, Required Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Required notice period for termination of agreement Represents the required notice period for termination of an agreement. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Term Agreement term Related party transactions agreement term. Related Party Transactions, Agreement Term with Third Party Related party transactions agreement term with third party. Agreement term with third party Related Party Transactions, Agreement Term from Commencement of Service Date 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 Related party transactions agreement maximum number of three year renewal options. 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. Related Party Transaction Aggregate, Payments to Third Party by Related Parties Payments to third party by related party Related party transaction aggregate payments to third party by related parties. Contribution from Related Party for Initial Settlement Contribution from related party Contribution from related party for initial settlement. 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. Related Party Transaction Aggregate, Payments to Third Party by Related Parties, under Extension Option Payments to third party by related party under extension option Related party transaction aggregate payments to third party by related parties under extension option. 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] 2005 LTIP Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "2005 LTIP"). Long Term Incentive Plan 2008 [Member] The 2008 LTIP Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "2008 LTIP"). Long Term Incentive Plan 2008 and Other [Member] Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "2008 LTIP") and other Employee Performance Stock Awards of the entity. 2008 LTIP and Other Stock Awards Outstanding by Company and Award [Table Text Block] Schedule of stock awards outstanding Stock awards outstanding by company and award. 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 Outstanding and Exercisable [Table Text Block] Schedule of aggregate intrinsic value of stock options associated with entity's employees Schedule of aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding and exercisable. Schedule of Unrecognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrecognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense Schedule of unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation. Schedule of Non Cash 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] 2012 Stock Option Adjustment Represents details pertaining to the 2012 stock option adjustment. Stock Option Adjustment Dish Network Stock Awards [Member] Dish awards Represents information related to Dish network stock awards. Echostar Stock Awards [Member] Echostar awards Represents information related to Echostar stock awards. Accrued programming Accrued Liabilities, Current 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. 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 [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation policy. 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 Transponders Option One Number of DBS transponders, option one Represents the number of transponders option one. Watts Per Channel Option One Watts per channel, option one Represents the Watts per channel option one. 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 Number of other satellites relocated in event of failure or loss of any satellite. Number of on Board Computers Used to Control Satellite Failed Number of the on-board computers used to control the satellite failed Represents the number of the on-board computers used to control the satellite failed. Number of on Board Computers Used to Control Satellite Number of the on-board computers used to control the satellite Represents the number of the on-board computers used to control the satellite. Number of Transponders Available Option Two Number of DBS transponders available, option two Represents the number of transponders option two. Watts Per Channel Option Two Watts per channel, option two Represents the Watts per channel option two. 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. 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 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 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%. Other Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Total Other debt and capital lease obligations. Other Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current Less current portion Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations current. Defined Contribution Plan Employer Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee Employer maximum annual contribution per employee under 401(k) plan Defined contribution plan employer maximum annual contribution per employee. Defined contribution plan matching contribution net of forfeitures. Defined Contribution Plan Matching Contribution Net of Forfeiture Matching contributions, net of forfeitures, under 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan Employer Increased Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee Increased employer maximum contribution as of January 1, 2013 Defined contribution plan increased employer maximum annual contribution per employee. 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. 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. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Compensation Cost for Next Fiscal Year Expense estimated to be recognized during 2013 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated compensation cost for next of fiscal year. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost after Next Fiscal Year Estimated contingent expense subsequent to 2013 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost after next fiscal year. Adjustment to Recognized Non Cash 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 Programming Contracts Term Term of programming contracts Represents the programming contracts term. 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. Dish Orbital II LLC [Member] International Programming Rights Agreement [Member] International Programming Rights Agreement Represents details pertaining to the 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 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Amount paid to affiliate Related Party Transactions Amount Paid To Affiliate. Related Party Transactions Amount Paid to Affiliate Available for Sale Securities Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Less than Six Months Fair Value Less than Six months, Fair value Available for sale securities continuous unrealized loss position less than six months fair value. Operating Leased Assets Expiration Term Follwing Actual Service Commencement Date Expiration term following the actual service commencement date Represents the operating leased assets expiration term following the actual service commencement date. Operating Leased Assets Renewal Option Term Prior to Expiration of Initial Term Option to renew for additional term prior to expiration of initial term Represents the operating lease assets option to renew additional term prior to expiration of an initial term. Operating Leased Assets Additional Renewal Term after Exercising Renewal Option Prior to Expiration of Initial Term Option to renew for additional term after exercising renewal option prior to expiration of initial term Represents the operating lease assets term option to renew additional term after exercising renewal option prior to expiration of an initial term. Number of Days to Store HD Prime Time Programs Recordings Number of days to store HD primetime programs recordings Represents the number of days to store HD primetime 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. Related Party Transaction, Expenses Capitalized from Transactions with Related Party Capitalized expenses Capitalized expenses resulting from transactions (excluding transactions that are eliminated in consolidated or combined financial statements) with related party. 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 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated net unrealized gains (losses) Related Party Transactions Distribution of Assets and Liabilities Distribution to DOC of the assets and liabilities associated with satellite broadband business Related Party Transactions Distribution Of Assets And Liabilities. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated net unrealized gains (losses), net of related tax effect Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated depreciation on property and equipment Accumulated depreciation Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital 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: Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Non-cash, stock-based compensation Advertising costs Advertising Expense Advertising Costs AdvertisingCostsPolicyTextBlock Affiliated Entity [Member] Affiliated entity Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Non-cash stock-based compensation expense recognized Non-cash, stock-based compensation Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - other (in dollars) Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Allowance for doubtful accounts Assets, Current [Abstract] Current Assets: Assets [Abstract] Assets Assets, Noncurrent Total noncurrent assets Assets, Current Total current assets Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements Assets Total assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Noncurrent Assets: Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Current Debt security with contractual maturities within one year Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value Less than 12 months, Fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract] Fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] Contractual maturities of restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities Debt securities with contractual maturities after one year through five years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities Debt security Equity security Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses [Abstract] Unrealized loss Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value 12 months or more, Fair value Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Unrealized Gains (Losses), Net Available-for-sale Securities, Current Marketable investment securities (Note 4) Debt security Current marketable investment securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Unrealized Gains (Losses), Net Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value Total Fair Value Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses Unrealized (Losses) Available-for-sale Securities, Change in Net Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss), Net of Tax Change in unrealized holding gains (losses)on available-for-sale securities, net Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Components of available-for-sale investments Building and Building Improvements [Member] Buildings and improvements Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2014 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Present value of net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Total minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Accumulated depreciation on satellites acquired under capital leases Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Capital lease obligations Capital Leased Assets, Gross Estimated fair value of satellites acquired under capital leases Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense Depreciation expense - capital leases Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2015 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2013 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Net Present Value [Abstract] Future minimum lease payments under the capital lease obligation, together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2016 Capital Leased Assets [Line Items] Capital leased assets disclosures Capital Lease Obligations, Current Less: Current portion Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Long-term portion of capital lease obligations Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Less: Amount representing interest Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Cash equivalents (including restricted) Statements of Cash Flow Data Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Class of Stock [Domain] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies (Note 11) Commitments and Contingencies. Common Class A [Member] Class A common stock Common Stock [Member] Common Stock Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common stock, shares outstanding 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 Common Class B [Member] Class B common stock Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Cash dividend (in dollars per share) Employee Benefit Plans Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Temporary differences, which give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities Comprehensive Income (Loss): Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in progress Contract Revenue Cost Subscriber acquisition advertising 2014 Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year 2017 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year 2016 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months 2013 2015 Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year Thereafter Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year Commitment and Contingencies Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Contractual Obligation Total Cost of Sales [Member] Subscriber-related Cost of Goods and Services Sold Total subscriber acquisition costs Cost of Transmission [Abstract] Satellite and transmission expenses: Cost of Goods Sold, Subscription Subscriber-related expenses Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Costs and Expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown separately below - Note 6): Costs and Expenses Total costs and expenses Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current (provision) benefit: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current (provision) benefit Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Federal Long-term Debt, Gross Carrying Value Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term debt Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion) Debt Instrument [Axis] Aggregate principal amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Deferred Debt Issuance Costs Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Interest rate, low end of range (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Interest Annual Debt Service Requirements Additional borrowings Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Interest rate, high end of range (as a percent) Debt Securities [Member] Debt Securities Interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Federal Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Deferred (provision) benefit: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred tax expense (benefit) (Note 8) Total deferred (provision) benefit Deferred Long-term Liability Charges Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities Deferred tax assets (Note 8) Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred Tax Assets, Net Net deferred tax asset (liability) Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Deferred tax assets: Deferred Revenue and Credits, Current Deferred revenue and other Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Current portion of net deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Total deferred tax assets Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Deferred revenue Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Noncurrent portion of net deferred tax asset (liability) Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local NOL benefit for state income tax purposes Deferred Tax Assets, Other State taxes net of federal effect Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards Tax benefits related to credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other State taxes net of federal effect Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Deferred tax liabilities (Note 8) Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Depreciation and amortization Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Current portion of net deferred tax liability Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] 401(k) Employee Savings Plan Depreciation and amortization (Note 6) Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Aggregate dividend declared (in dollars per share) Dividends, Common Stock Dividends to DISH Orbital Corporation (Note 15) Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Advances to affiliates Due from Affiliate, Current Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract] Reconciliation of amounts computed by applying the statutory Federal tax rate to income before taxes Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Total benefit (provision) for income taxes (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Statutory rate (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes State income taxes, net of Federal benefit (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost Stock option compensation (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Other (as a percent) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Weighted-average period (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] Stock-Based Compensation Employee Stock Option [Member] Stock Options Employee Stock [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Unrecognized compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options Tax benefit from stock awards exercised Equipment Leased to Other Party [Member] Equipment leased to customers Equity Component [Domain] Equity Securities [Member] Equity Securities Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Total Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Recurring basis Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair value of marketable securities Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 2 Fair value of MVDDS Licenses Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Gain (Loss) on Investments Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in the carrying amount of marketable and non-marketable investments Litigation expense (Note 11) Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement Litigation expense Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments Other investment securities - gains (losses) on sales General and Administrative Expense General and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense [Member] General and administrative Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Maximum grants receivable Grants Receivable Guarantor Obligations, Term Guarantee term (in years) Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Guarantee for payments Long-Lived Assets Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Equity in losses (earnings) of affiliates Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax (provision) benefit, net (Note 8) Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other Total benefit (provision) Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Paid Cash paid for income taxes Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets and Liabilities, Net Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable, Related Parties 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 payable - other Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade Trade accounts receivable - other Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Change in noncurrent assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Noncurrent Assets Trade accounts payable - EchoStar Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Related Parties Changes in current assets and current liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Other, net Allowance for doubtful accounts Increase (Decrease) in Other Receivables Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Accrued programming and other accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Stockholder's Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Indefinite-Lived License Agreements FCC authorizations Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Interest Expense, Debt Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid Cash paid for interest Interest expense on long-term debt and capital lease obligations Interest Expense [Member] Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Finished goods - DBS Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Raw materials Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Inventory Inventory, Net Inventory Total inventory Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Investment Income, Interest Interest income Marketable Investment Securities and Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Investments in Debt and Equity Instruments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) [Text Block] Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Marketable investment securities: Marketable Investment Securities and Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Land [Member] Land Equipment Lease Programs Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total long-term obligations, net of current portion Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities Total liabilities Long-Term Obligations, Net of Current Portion: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities and Stockholder's Equity (Deficit) Total liabilities and stockholder's equity (deficit) Liabilities and Equity 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 Type [Domain] Litigation Settlement, Gross Cash paid under settlement agreement Settlement amount Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation accrual (Note 11) Estimated Litigation Liability, Current Litigation accrual Long-Term Debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations (Note 7) Long-term Debt, Fair Value Fair Value Long-term debt obligations Long-term Debt [Member] Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion (Note 7) Long-term Debt [Text Block] Long-Term Debt Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Claim amount Loss Contingency Accrual, at Carrying Value Litigation accrual Aggregate of six annual installment amounts between 2012 and 2017, net of contribution from related party Number of companies against whom similar complaints bought Loss Contingency, Number of Defendants Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss contingencies Recent developments Initial settlement amount paid Loss Contingency Accrual, Carrying Value, Payments Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Majority Shareholder [Member] Dish Network Marketable Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss) Marketable investment securities - unrealized gains (losses) on investments accounted for at fair value Marketable Investment Securities Marketable Securities, Available-for-sale Securities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Investment Securities Marketable Securities [Abstract] Marketable Securities, Restricted, Noncurrent Restricted marketable investment securities Marketable Securities Total Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract] Advertising Costs Maximum [Member] Maximum Minimum [Member] Minimum Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Activity in Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Cash Flows From Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows From Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Net cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Net income (loss) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash Flows From Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other income (expense) Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Other Income (Expense): Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Total rent expense for operating leases Operating Income (Loss) Operating income (loss) Operating income (loss) Operating lease obligations Operating Lease Expense [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Net operating loss carryforwards Organization and Business Activities Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Organization and Business Activities Other Assets, Current Other current assets Other Capitalized Property Plant and Equipment [Member] Other Other Assets, Noncurrent Other noncurrent assets, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Change in unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, net Other Cost of Operating Revenue Cost of sales - equipment, services and other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Debt Obligations [Member] Current marketable investment securities - other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, tax Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Other Income (Expense): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Other accrued expenses Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Capital distribution to affiliate Capital distribution to affiliate Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Other Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Debt issuance costs Settlement payment Payments for Legal Settlements Payments of Capital Distribution Capital distribution to affiliate Payments of Dividends Dividend paid to DOC Dividend to DISH Orbital Corporation Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchases of property and equipment Purchase of strategic investments included in noncurrent other investment securities Payments to Acquire Investments Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Purchases of marketable investment securities Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Employee Benefit Plans. Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Axis] Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Other Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Interest Received Cash received for interest Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments Proceeds from sale of strategic investments Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) Property, Plant, and Equipment, Fair Value Disclosure Fair value of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Depreciable life of assets Useful life of property and equipment Estimate Useful life of assets Useful life of property and equipment Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property and Equipment Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property and equipment, net (Note 6) Property and equipment, net Carrying value of property and equipment Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Total property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] 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 Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] 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 Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transactions Related Party [Domain] Related Party Transaction, Amounts of Transaction Amount paid for related party transaction Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Expenses from transactions with related party Related Party [Axis] Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Repayment of long-term debt and capital lease obligations Repayments of Senior Debt Repurchases and redemption of 6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011 Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted cash and cash equivalents Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Restricted cash and marketable investment securities (Note 4) Accumulated earnings (deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Earnings (Deficit) Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition [Abstract] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenues [Abstract] Revenue: Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent 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, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Options exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Expected term of options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Outstanding, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life Revenue, Net Total revenue Total revenue Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of the (provision for) benefit from income taxes Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of stock option activity associated with entity's employees Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of expense recognized related to the 401(k) Plan Schedule of Costs of Retirement Plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of restricted stock unit activity associated with entity's employees Schedule of supplemental cash flow statement disclosure Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of assumptions of Black-Scholes option valuation model Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases [Table Text Block] Future minimum lease payments under capital lease obligations Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of inventory Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of reconciliation of amounts computed by applying the statutory Federal tax rate to income before taxes Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of transactions with NagraStar Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of quarterly results of operations Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of available-for-sale securities in continuous unrealized loss position by length of time and investment category Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Spectrum Investments Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Marketable Investment Securities and Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Summary of carrying and fair values of debt facilities Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of allocated non-cash, stock-based compensation expense for all employees Schedule of exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable associated with entity's employees Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table 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 Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Segment [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Additional General Disclosures [Abstract] Share-based compensation additional disclosures Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Restricted stock units Share-based Compensation Non-cash, stock-based compensation Stock-based compensation 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 Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum Volatility factor, high end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Forfeited and cancelled (in shares) 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 Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period (in dollars per share) Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period (in dollars per share) Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum Risk free interest rate, high end of range (as a percent) Stock-Based Compensation Employee Stock Purchase Plan Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] 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, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested (in shares) Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited and cancelled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights Percentage of stock awards vesting per year (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum Risk free interest rate, low end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in dollars per share) 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) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Risk free interest rate (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Volatility factor (as a percent) Exercisable at end of period (in dollars per share) 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 percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average fair value of options granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Exercisable at end of period (in shares) Number of stock options exercisable 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 Common stock available for future grant under stock incentive plans (in shares) Stock option activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Number of shares authorized to be issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Black-Scholes option valuation model, assumptions Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Forfeited and cancelled (in shares) Exercise Price Range [Axis] Exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable: Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Total options outstanding, beginning of period (in dollars per share) Total options outstanding, end of period (in dollars per share) Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Options outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Plan Modification, Number of Employees Affected Number of employees affected by stock option adjustment 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 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Total options outstanding, beginning of period (in shares) Total options outstanding, end of period (in shares) Number of stock options outstanding (in shares) Award Type [Domain] Exercise prices, outstanding stock option awards, high end of range (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Transaction [Domain] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals by Transaction [Axis] Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Software related projects State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] State Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Statement [Line Items] Statement CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (DEFICIT) CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Business Segments [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Class of Stock [Axis] Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Dividend Dividends to DISH Orbital Corporation (Note 16) Stock-based compensation Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Exercised (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Number of shares of common stock purchased under ESPP Stockholder's Equity (Deficit): Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total stockholder's equity (deficit) Balance Balance Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Subscription and Circulation Revenue Subscriber-related revenue Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] 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 Statements of Cash Flow Data Statements of Cash Flow Data. Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Receipt of marketable investment securities with no cash consideration Transfer to Investments Type of Arrangement [Member] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrealized gain (loss) on marketable investment securities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Interest and penalty (benefit) expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Accrued interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Reductions based on tax positions related to the current years Unrecognized Tax Benefits Balance as of beginning of period Balance as of end of period Unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Reductions based on tax positions related to the lapse of the statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Reductions based on tax positions related to settlements with taxing authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Additions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized tax benefits if recognized, could favorably affect our effective tax rate Unsecured Debt, Current Principal balance reclassified to Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Charged to Cost and Expenses Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Balance at Beginning of Year Balance at End of Year Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Deductions Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Variable Rate Demand Obligation [Member] Current marketable investment securities - VRDNs VRDNs 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. Other Comprehensive Income Loss Available For Sale Securities Tax Deferred income tax (expense) benefit Deferred income tax (expense) benefit attributable to unrealized gains (losses) on available-for-sale-securities Deemed Dividend Distribution Deemed dividend Represents the amount of deemed dividends distributed during the period.