Number of Subscribers for Broadband Services Number of subscribers for broadband services under the dishNET brand Represents the number of subscribers for broadband services. Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction with Related Party [Abstract] Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction with EchoStar: Schedule of marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities Investment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Pay TV Satellites [Table Text Block] Schedule of pay-TV satellite fleet Tabular disclosure of pay-TV satellite fleet. Represents the interim build-out requirement term for provision of services. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Interim Build Out Requirement Term for Provision of Services H Block Interim Build-out Requirement term for provision of services Wireless Spectrum Licenses Interim Build Out Requirement Population Percentage H Block Interim Build-out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the percentage of population in each area covered by an individual license to which the entity must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service within some specified period. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Final Build Out Requirement Term for Provision of Services H Block Final Build-out Requirement term for provision of services Represents the final build-out requirement term for provision of services. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Final Build Out Requirement Population Percentage H Block Final Build-out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the percentage of population in each area covered by an individual license to which the entity must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service by the end of license term. Related Party Transactions Historical Cost of Tracking Stock Historical cost of tracking stock Represents the historical cost of tracking stock. Investment in EchoStar and HSSC preferred tracking stock - cost method Capital transaction Represents the difference between the historical cost basis of the Tracking Stock received and the net carrying value of the satellites included in the Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction. Related Party Transactions Tracking Stock Capital Transaction Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Property and Equipment Write Down Property and equipment written down Represents the amount of property and equipment written down to the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), during the reporting period.. Amendment Description Echo Star Member and Ariane Space SA [Member] EchoStar and Ariane Represents information pertaining to EchoStar and ArianeSpace S.A. Amendment Flag Payments to Related Parties Payments to the related party Represents the amount of expenses, fees and commissions paid for transactions between the related parties. Capital Distribution to Related Party Capital distribution Capital distribution to related party. Represents the minimum percentage of E Block population in each area covered by an individual license to which the entity must provide terrestrial signal coverage and offer terrestrial service within some specified period. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Modified Interim Build Out Requirement Population Percentage Modified 700 MHz Interim Build-out Requirement (as a percent) Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Modified Final Build Out Requirement Population Percentage Modified 700 MHz Final Build-out Requirement (as a percent) Represents the minimum percentage of E Block population in each area covered by an individual license to which the entity must provide terrestrial signal coverage and offer terrestrial service by the end of license term. Minimum period for approval prior to the commencement of planned H Block auction Represents the minimum period for approval prior to the commencement of the FCC's planned H Block auction. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Period for Approval Prior to Commencement of Planned H Block Auction Represents the number of plaintiffs seeking a preliminary injunction. Loss Contingency Number of Plaintiffs Seeking Preliminary Injunction Number of plaintiffs seeking a preliminary injunction Garnet Digital LLC [Member] Garnet Digital Represents information pertaining to Garnet Digital, LLC. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Available For Sale Securities Adjustment before Tax Accumulated net unrealized gains, before tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Represents the accumulated appreciation or loss, before tax, in value of the total of available-for-sale securities at the end of an accounting period. Ariane Space SA [Member] Represents information pertaining to ArianeSpace S.A. (Ariane). Ariane Ariane Launch Services Agreement [Member] Ariane Launch Services Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Ariane Launch Services Agreement. Payments Made under Launch Contract Amount paid under launch contract Represents the amount of payment made under the launch contract. Payments to be Made for Break up Fee Payments for break-up fee on confirmation of order issued by Bankruptcy Court as a qualified bidder Payments to be made for break up fee. Percentage of performance goals probable of achievement Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award percentage of performance goals probable of achievement. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Percentage of Performance Goals Probable of Achievement L B and Acquisition LLC [Member] LBAC Represents the information pertaining to L-Band Acquisition, LLC (LBAC). Funding of Restricted Debt Escrow Funding of restricted debt escrow Funding of restricted debt escrow. Release of Restricted Debt Escrow Release of restricted debt escrow Release of restricted debt escrow. Current Fiscal Year End Date Award Type [Axis] DBSD North America Inc [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America, a legal entity. DBSD North America (ICO) Sprint Settlement Agreement [Member] Sprint Settlement Agreement Represents details pertaining to Sprint Settlement Agreement entered into by the entity. Asset Purchase Agreement Terre Star [Member] Represents the asset purchase agreement to acquire substantially all of the assets of TerreStar Networks, Inc. and its subsidiaries. TerreStar Networks, Inc. ("TerreStar") Long Term Performance Based Plans [Member] Represents details pertaining to 3 percent Convertible Subordinated Note due in 2011. Long-Term Performance Based Plans Strategic Marketable Investment Securities [Member] Investments in debt or equity securities of public companies that are highly speculative and have experienced and continue to experience volatility. Current marketable investment securities - strategic ARS and other, noncurrent ARS and other Auction Rate Securities and Other Securities Noncurrent [Member] Represents details pertaining to auction rate securities and other securities. Auction Rate Securities Fair Value Election [Member] ARS fair value election Represents details pertaining to auction rate securities accounted for under the fair value method. Other (including restricted) Other Debt Securities Nonrestricted and Restricted [Member] 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. DISH Network [Member] Represents details pertaining to Dish Network, a segment of the entity. DISH Blockbuster Blockbuster [Member] Represents details pertaining to Blockbuster, a segment of entity. Other Countries [Member] Other Represents information pertaining to other countries. Document Period End Date Wireless [Member] Represents details pertaining to Wireless segment of entity. Wireless DBS Satellites DBS Satellites [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBS satellites assets owned by the entity. Represents details pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity. Satellites [Member] Satellites Terre Star Mobile Satellite Service Business [Member] MSS business Represents information pertaining to TerreStar Mobile Satellite Service equipment. Building Furniture Fixtures Other Equipment [Member] Represents buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other property plant and equipment owned by the entity. Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other D1 [Member] D1 Represents information pertaining to the D1 satellite. T1 [Member] T1 Represents information pertaining to the T1 satellite. Echo Star XI [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XI. EchoStar XI Echo Star XIV [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellite assets under construction, leased from EchoStar, EchoStar XVI. EchoStar XIV Entity [Domain] Echo Star I [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar I. EchoStar I Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar V. 148 degree orbital location Echo Star V [Member] Wireless Spectrum Property, Plant and Equipment Capitalized Interest [Member] Wireless spectrum capitalized interest Represents details pertaining to wireless spectrum capitalized interest. Related Party Transactions, Required Notice Period to Exercise Option to Extend Agreement Notice period to exercise option to extend agreement Represents the required notice period to exercise option to extend agreement under related party transaction. Senior Notes 7 Percent Due 2013 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 % senior notes, which are due in 2013. 7 % Senior Notes due 2013 7% Senior Notes Due 2013 Senior Notes 6.625 Percent Due 2014 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6 5/8% senior notes, which are due in 2014. 6 5/8% Senior Notes due 2014 Senior Notes 4.25 Percent Due 2018 [Member] 4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018 Details pertaining to 4 1/4 percent senior notes, due in 2018. Senior Notes 5.125 Percent Due 2020 [Member] 5 1/8% Senior Notes due 2020 Details pertaining to 5 1/8 percent senior notes, due in 2020. Senior Notes 7.750 Percent Due 2015 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 3/4% senior notes, which are due in 2015. 7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2015 Senior Notes 7.125 Percent Due 2016 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 1/8% senior notes, which are due in 2016. 7 1/8% Senior Notes due 2016 7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019 Senior Notes 7.875 Percent Due 2019 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 7 7/8% senior notes, which are due in 2019. Senior Notes 6.750 Percent Due 2021 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6 3/4% senior notes, which are due in 2021. 6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021 Senior Notes 5 Percent Due 2023 [Member] 5% Senior Notes due 2023 Represents details pertaining to 5% senior notes, which are due in 2023. Senior Notes 5 Percent Due 2017 [Member] Represents information pertaining to 5 percent senior notes, due in 2017. 5% Senior Notes due 2017 6 1/4% Senior Notes due 2023 Senior Notes 6.25 Percent Due 2023 [Member] Represents information pertaining to 6 1/4 percent senior notes, due in 2023. Mortgage and Other Notes Payable [Member] Represents details pertaining to mortgages and other notes payable. Mortgages and other notes payable Document and Entity Information TerreStar Transaction (Note 10) Transaction in Process Transaction in process. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, from Related Parties, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - EchoStar A valuation allowance for trade receivables due to a related party entity (within one year or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Equipment and Merchandise Sales Rental and Other Revenue Equipment sales and other revenue This element represents the income generated from equipment and merchandise sales. It also includes rentals and other revenues during the reporting period. Equipment sales, services and other revenue - EchoStar Equipment Sales Services and Other Revenue Related Party This element represents the income generated from equipment sales to the related party. It also includes services and other revenues generated from the related party during the reporting period. Satellite and transmission expenses, related party. Satellite and Transmission Expenses Related Party EchoStar Satellite and transmission expenses Other Satellite and transmission expenses, other. Satellite and Transmission Expenses Other Subscriber acquisition costs: Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Abstract] This element represents the cost related to subscriber promotion and subsidies. Subscriber Promotions Subsidies Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies This element represents the cost related to subscriber promotion and subsidies during the reporting period. Other Subscriber Promotions Subsidies Other subscriber acquisition costs The aggregate total of expenses of managing and administering the affairs of the entity from related party, which are not directly or indirectly associated with the manufacture, sale or creation of a product or product line. General and Administrative Expenses Related Party General and administrative expenses - EchoStar General and administrative expenses 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 Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue and Other Deferred revenue and other Increase (decrease) in deferred revenue and other. Litigation expense accrual (Note 16 and Note 20) (Increase) decrease in accrued litigation liabilities. Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Litigation Liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Litigation Settlements Litigation settlement payments (Note 20) The increase (decrease) during the period in the carrying amount of litigation settlement. Payments under Indefinite Lived License Agreement Purchase of FCC Licenses Payments to acquire non-depleting intangible assets (primarily FCC spectrum). United Kingdom UNITED KINGDOM Launch service assigned from related party. Launch Service Assigned from Related Party Launch service assigned from EchoStar (Note 20) Launch service assigned from EchoStar (Note 20) Vendor Financing This element represents vendor financing during the reporting period. Vendor financing 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. Long Term Deferred Revenue Distribution and Carriage Payments [Policy Text Block] Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments policy. Long-Term Deferred Revenue, Distribution and Carriage Payments Sales Tax [Policy Text Block] Sales tax policy. Sales Taxes Subscriber Related Expenses [Policy Text Block] Represents disclosure of variable subscriber expenses. Subscriber-Related Expenses Subscriber Acquisition Costs [Policy Text Block] Subscriber acquisition costs policy. Subscriber Acquisition Costs Schedule of dilutive securities not included in the diluted EPS calculation Schedule of Dilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Schedule of dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share. Schedule of Depreciation and Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of depreciation and amortization expense Schedule of depreciation and amortization expense. Schedule of Construction in Progress [Table Text Block] Schedule of Construction in progress Schedule of construction in progress. 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. Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Long Term Incentive Plan 2005 [Member] Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "2005 LTIP"). LTIP 2005 Entity Voluntary Filers Patent Infringement and Brach of Agreement [Member] Patent infringement or breach of agreement Represents details pertaining to patent infringements or breach of agreement. Entity Current Reporting Status Long Term Incentive Plan 2008 [Member] Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the "2008 LTIP"). LTIP 2008 Entity Filer Category LTIP 2008, LTIP 2013 and Other Represents details pertaining to long-term, performance based stock incentive plans (the "2008 LTIP") and (the '2013 LTIP"), and other performance awards. Long Term Incentive Plan 2008, 2013 and Other [Member] Entity Public Float Long Term Incentive Plan 2013 [Member] LTIP 2013 Represents details pertaining to the long-term, performance based stock incentive plan (the 2013 LTIP). Entity Registrant Name Schedule of stock awards outstanding Stock awards outstanding by company and award. Stock Awards Outstanding by Company and Award [Table Text Block] Entity Central Index Key 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 outstanding and exercisable. Schedule of aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding and exercisable Schedule of unrecognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense Schedule of unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation. Schedule of Unrecognized Noncash Stock Based Compensation [Table Text Block] 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. Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Schedule of nonvested performance based plans. Schedule of Nonvested Performance Based Plans [Table Text Block] Schedule of awards outstanding pursuant to performance-based stock incentive plans Blockbuster Entertainment Limited and Blockbuster GB Limited [Member] Blockbuster UK Represents details pertaining to Blockbuster Entertainment Limited and Blockbuster GB Limited, subsidiaries of the entity. Represents information pertaining to the Sprint Merger Proposal. Sprint Merger Proposal [Member] Sprint Merger Proposal Light Squared LP Entities [Member] Light Squared LP Entities Represents information pertaining to LightSquared LP Entities. Represents information pertaining to the Clearwire tender offer. Clearwire Tender Offer [Member] Clearwire tender offer Represents details pertaining to Clearwire Corporation. Clearwire Corporation [Member] Clearwire Commitment to Acquire Ownership Percentage Commitment to acquire percentage ownership interest Commitment to acquire ownership percentage. Payments to Acquire Wireless Spectrum Assets Payments to acquire wireless spectrum assets. Payments to acquire wireless spectrum assets Number of Subscribers for Pay TV Services Number of DISH branded pay TV services subscribers Represents the number of subscribers of DISH branded pay TV services. Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share amount. Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share Dilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount ASU 2010-11 Accounting Standards Update 2010-11 [Member] Available For sale Securities Gross Realized Gain (Loss), before Tax Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss), before tax amount Represents the gross unrealized gain or loss on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss). Marketable Investment Securities Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents and Other Investment Securities Total marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents and other investment securities Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalent and other investment securities. Rental library Inventory rental. Inventory Rental Settlement period of security. Settlement Period of Security Settlement period Available For Sale Securities Debt Securities Call Option Notice Period after Specified Date Available for sale securities debt securities call option notice period after specified date. Call options notice period of debt securities after the specified date Fair Value Option Changes in Fair Value Gain (Loss) Recorded in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss recorded in AOCI, net of tax Fair value option changes in fair value gain (loss) recorded in AOCI. Noncurrent Marketable Securities Debt securities Noncurrent marketable securities. Document Fiscal Year Focus Marketable Debt and Equity Securities Marketable debt and equity securities. Subtotal Document Fiscal Period Focus Marketable Debt and Equity Securities and Derivative Assets Total Represents the fair value of investments in marketable debt and equity securities. It also represents the fair values of all assets resulting from contracts that meet the criteria of being accounted for as derivative instruments, net of the effects of master netting arrangements. Gain (Loss) on Conversion of Marketable Securities Marketable investment securities - gains (losses) on conversion of DBSD North America Represents the gains (losses) realized during the period from conversion of marketable securities. Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other Other Other nonoperating income expense other. Other investment securities unrealized gain loss on fair value investments and other than temporary impairments. Other investment securities - unrealized gains (losses) on fair value investments and other-than-temporary impairments Other Investment Securities, Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fair Value Investments and Other than Temporary Impairments Property and equipment Depreciation and Amortization [Line Items] Number of Satellites in Geostationary Orbit Utilized by Reporting Entity Number of satellites utilized in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator Number of satellites in geostationary orbit utilized by reporting entity. 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. EchoStar VII Echo Star VII [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar VII. Echo Star X [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar X. EchoStar X Legal Entity [Axis] Echo Star XV [Member] Represents the information pertaining to satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XV. EchoStar XV Document Type 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 Other Satellites Relocated in Event of Failure or Loss of any Satellite Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Number of Satellites Added Number of satellites added Number of satellites added to S Band utilized by reporting entity. Number of Asset Groups Considered for Impairment of Satellite Fleet Number of asset groups considered for impairment of DISH branded pay-TV DBS satellite fleet Represents the number of asset groups considered for impairment of satellite fleet. Number of Satellites in Orbit Number of satellites in-orbit Represents the number of satellites in orbit. Number of Satellites under Construction Number of satellites under construction Represents the number of satellites under construction. Business acquisition purchase price allocation current assets excluding cash. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current Assets Excluding Cash Current assets Senior Notes 6.375 Percent Due 2011 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6 3/8% senior notes, which are due in 2011. 6 3/8% Senior Notes due 2011 6 3/8% Senior Notes Due 2011 Senior Notes 4.625 Percent Due 2017 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 4 5/8% senior notes, which are due in 2017. 4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017 Senior Notes 5.875 Percent Due 2022 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 5 7/8% senior notes, which are due in 2022. 5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2022 Stock Option Adjustment 2012 [Member] Represents details pertaining to 2012 stock option adjustment. Stock option adjustment 2012 2012 stock option adjustment Other Employee Performance Awards [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Employee Performance Stock Awards of the entity. Other Employee Performance Awards Share Based Compensation, Arrangement by Share Based Payment, Award Plan Modification Number of Options Affected 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) 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. 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) Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, right to receive award upon holding one unit of award. Multiplication Factor for Conversion of Original Stock Option to Adjusted Stock Option Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to adjusted stock option. Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to adjusted stock option Multiplication Factor for Conversion of Original Stock Option to New Stock Option Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to new stock option Multiplication factor for conversion of original stock option to new stock option. 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, 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) Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Disclosures Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award portion meeting vesting condition. Portion meeting vesting condition (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Portion Meeting Vesting Condition Future forfeiture rate (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Estimated Future Forfeiture Rate Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated future forfeiture rate. Share Based Compensation Award Terms [Abstract] 2005 LTIP Terms Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Percentage Awards Vested Per Year During First Four Years 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. 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] Share-based expenses Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion Unrecognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense on Vested Portion Unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense on vested portion. Total unrecognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense. Unrecognized compensation expense relating to long-term performance based incentive awards Total Unrecognized Non Cash, Stock Based Compensation Expense Estimated Remaining Non-Cash, Stock-Based Compensation Expense Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost [Abstract] Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost for Remainder of Fiscal Year Remaining expense estimated to be recognized during 2014 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost for remainder of fiscal year. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost Total estimated remaining expense over the term of plan Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Estimated Remaining Compensation Cost after Current Fiscal Year Estimated contingent expense subsequent to 2014 Share based compensation arrangement by share based payment award estimated remaining compensation cost after current fiscal year. Recognized non-cash stock-based compensation expense Recognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense [Abstract] Pertinent data describing and reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by an entity prior to the spinoff. Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Original Award Issuer [Axis] 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] Represents details pertaining to the entity's stock awards. DISH Network Awards Entity Stock Awards [Member] Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Trade accounts receivable - other, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $17,258 and $15,981, respectively Mexico MEXICO Represents details pertaining to the related party stock awards. EchoStar Awards Related Party Awards [Member] Represents details pertaining to the non-performance based awards of the entity. Non-Performance Based Stock Awards Non Performance Based Stock Awards [Member] Pertinent data describing and reflecting the required disclosures pertaining to an equity-based compensation award originally issued to employees by an entity prior to the spinoff. Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Holder [Axis] Details pertinent to an equity-based compensation award held by employees. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Holder [Domain] Held by DISH Network employees Held by Employees of Entity [Member] Represents the stock awards held by employees of the entity. Represents the stock awards held by employees of the related party. Held by EchoStar employees Held by Employees of Related Party [Member] Satellite lease guarantees Satellite Lease Guarantees [Member] Satellite lease guarantees. Satellite Transponder Guarantees [Member] Satellite transponder guarantees. Satellite transponder guarantees Affiliation Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Affiliation agreements. ESPN-Affiliation agreements Technology Development Licensing [Member] Represents details pertaining to Technology Development Licensing. Technology Development Licensing Tivo Inc [Member] Represents details pertaining to Tivo Inc. Tivo Inc Voom HD Holdings [Member] Represents details pertaining to Voom HD Holdings. Voom HD Holdings Trade accounts payable - EchoStar Amounts payable to NagraStar Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Patent Infringement [Member] Represents details pertaining to patent infringements. Katz Communications-Patent infringement Katz Communications [Member] Represents information pertaining to the patent infringement claim made by Katz Communications. Katz Communications-Patent infringement Norman IP Holdings [Member] Norman IP Holdings Represents information pertaining to the patent infringement claim made by Norman IP Holdings. Harbinger Capital Partners LLC and Other Affiliates [Member] Harbinger Represents information pertaining to Harbinger Capital Partners LLC and other affiliates of Harbinger. Hopper Litigation [Member] The Hopper Litigation Represents information pertaining to the patent infringement claim made by Hopper Litigation. AWS-4 Interim Build-out Requirement (as a percent) Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Interim Build Out Requirement Population Percentage 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. Loss Contingency Court Ruling Loss contingency court ruling. Court ruling Loss Contingency Terms [Abstract] Loss contingency terms 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. 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 Number of Patents Remain in Lawsuit AWS-4 Final Build-out Requirement (as a percent) Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Final Build Out Requirement Population Percentage 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. Loss contingency litigation settlement reversal of litigation accrual. Loss Contingency Litigation Settlement Reversal of Litigation Accrual 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. Trade accounts payable - other Accounts Payable, Current Litigation Settlement Remaining Payments Dish Network's share of remaining litigation payments Litigation settlement remaining payments. 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 Accelerated period to meet Final Build-Out Requirement on failure to meet Interim Build-Out Requirement 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 Inverness Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to Inverness Lease Agreement. Inverness Lease Agreement [Member] Trade accounts receivable - EchoStar, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of zero Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Remanufactured Receiver Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Remanufactured Receiver Agreement. Remanufactured Receiver Agreement Professional Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Professional Services Agreement. Professional Services Agreement Management Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Management Services Agreement. Management Services Agreement Broadcast Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement. 2012 Broadcast Agreement Certain Sports Related Programming Broadcast Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Broadcast Agreement for certain sports related programming. Certain Sports Related Programming Broadcast Agreement EchoStar XVI Represents information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star XVI, which are accounted for as operating leases. Echo Star XVI [Member] Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Nimiq 5 Agreement. Nimiq 5 Agreement DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement. DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement Quetz Sat 1 Lease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement. QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement Quetz Sat 1 Transponder Agreement [Member] Telemetry Tracking and Control Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to TT and C Agreement. 2012 TT&C Agreement Echo Star XVIII Launch Service [Member] EchoStar XVIII Launch Service Represents details pertaining to EchoStar XVIII Launch Service. DBSD North America Agreement [Member] DBSD North America Agreement Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America Agreement. Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement [Member] RUS Implementation Agreement Represents details pertaining to Rural Utilities Service Implementation Agreement. Application Development Agreement [Member] Application Development Agreement Represents details pertaining to the application development agreement. XIP Encryption Agreement [Member] XIP Encryption Agreement Represents details pertaining to the XIP encryption agreement. Radio Access Network Agreement [Member] Radio Access Network Agreement Represents details pertaining to the radio access network agreement. Receiver Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Receiver Agreement. 2012 Receiver Agreement Product Support Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Product Support Agreement. Product Support Agreement Santa Fe Lease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Santa Fe Lease Agreement. Santa Fe Lease Agreement Gilbert Lease Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Gilbert Lease Agreement. Gilbert Lease Agreement Tax Sharing Agreement [Member] Tax Sharing Agreement Represents information pertaining to tax sharing agreement. DISH on line. Com Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DISHOnline.com Services Agreement. DISH Online.com Services Agreement DISH Remote Access Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to DISH Remote Access Services Agreement. DISH Remote Access Services Agreement Sling Service Services Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Sling Service Services Agreement. Sling Service Services Agreement Echo Star XV Launch Service [Member] Represents details pertaining to EchoStar XV Launch Service. EchoStar XV Launch Service Weather Related Programming Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the Weather Related Programming Agreement. Weather Related Programming Agreement Acquisition of South.Com LLC Purchase Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the acquisition of South.com, L.L.C. Acquisition of South.com, L.L.C International Programming Rights Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to the International Programming Rights Agreement. International Programming Rights Agreement Patent Cross License Agreements [Member] Patent Cross-License Agreements Represents details pertaining to Patent Cross-License Agreements. It represents the entity in which the director owns majority voting interests. EchoStar Echo Star [Member] El Paso Fe Lease Agreement [Member] El Paso Lease Agreement Represents details pertaining to El Paso Lease Agreement. Varick Sublease Agreement [Member] Varick Sublease Agreement Represents details pertaining to Varick Sublease Agreement. Blockbuster Inc [Member] Represents details pertaining to Blockbuster, Inc. Blockbuster, Inc. DBSD North America and TerreStar Transactions DBSD North America Inc and Asset Purchase Agreement Terre Star [Member] Represents details pertaining to DBSD North America and TerreStar Transactions. Nagra Star LLC [Member] It represents the equity method investee of the entity. NagraStar Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement [Member] Represents details pertaining to Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement. Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement TiVovs Dish Network and Echostar Corporation [Member] TiVo vs Dish Network and EchoStar Corporation Represents information pertaining to legal proceedings of TiVo vs Dish Network and Echostar Corporation. Related Party Transactions Agreement Minimum Termination Notice Required from Related Party 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, Required Minimum Notice Period for Termination of Specific Service Minimum notice period for termination of a specific service Related party transactions required minimum notice period for termination of a specific service. Related Party Transactions Agreement Automatic Renewal Period Related party transactions agreement automatic renewal period. Automatic renewal period Related Party Transactions, Required Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Related party transactions required notice period for termination of agreement. Notice period for termination of agreement Related Party Transactions Agreement Termination Notice Required by Reporting Entity Related party transactions agreement termination notice required by reporting entity. Minimum required notice period for termination by the reporting entity Agreement term Related party transactions agreement term. Related Party Transactions Agreement Term 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. Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Available Related party transactions number of DBS transponders available. Number of DBS transponders available to receive services Related Party Transactions Number of DBS Transponders Expected 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 Used Number of DBS transponders currently used Related party transactions number of DBS transponders used. Related Party Transactions Agreement Renewal Option Term Related party transactions agreement renewal option term. Term of renewal option Related Party Transaction Agreement Renewal Option Term Exercised Related party transaction agreement renewal. Term of renewal option exercised United States UNITED STATES Related party transactions agreement additional renewal option term. Related Party Transactions Agreement Additional Renewal Option Term Additional term of renewal option 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. Transfer of Regulatory Authorization from Related Party Transfer of regulatory authorization from EchoStar Transfer of regulatory authorization from related party. 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. Contribution from Related Party for Initial Settlement Contribution from related party for initial settlement. Contribution from related party Litigation Settlement Number of Annual Installments Litigation settlement number of annual installments Litigation settlement number of annual installments. Loss Contingency Settlement Agreement Consideration Percentage to be Made by Related Party Represents the percentage of litigation settlement amount to be made by related party. Percentage of litigation settlement amount to be made by related party Related Party Ownership Interest in Subsidiary Related party ownership interest in subsidiary. Related party ownership interest in subsidiary (as a percentage) 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. Investment Securities Fair Value Election Investment securities - fair value election (Note 6) Investment securities fair value election. Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings - fair value election Issuance of Class Common Stock [Abstract] Issuance of Class A common stock: Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Strategic Investments Capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax of $2,895 (Note 20) Capital distribution to the related party in connection with purchases of strategic investments, net of tax. Capital distribution to EchoStar, net of deferred taxes of $31,274 Capital transaction recorded in additional paid-in capital Tax on Capital Distribution to Related Party in Connection Purchase of Strategic Investments Tax on capital transaction with EchoStar in connection with purchases of strategic investments Tax on capital distribution to the related party in connection with the purchases of strategic investments. Deferred tax on capital distribution to EchoStar Income Taxes and Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes Furniture Fixtures Equipment and Other [Member] Represents the information pertaining to furniture, fixtures, equipment and other. Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other Construction in Progress by Type [Axis] Construction in progress by type. Construction in Progress by Type [Domain] Construction in progress by type. Satellite Construction [Member] Satellite construction costs, including certain amounts prepaid under satellite service agreements and launch costs. Satellite Wireless ground equipment, including capitalized interest Represents information pertaining to Wireless ground equipment, including capitalized interest. Wireless Ground Equipment Including Capitalized Interest [Member] Business Acquisition Winning Bid in Bankruptcy Court Auction Value of winning bid in bankruptcy court auction Business acquisition winning bid in bankruptcy court auction. Business Acquisition Cost of Acquired Entity Purchase Price before Refund from Escrow Purchase price before refund from escrow Business acquisition cost of acquired entity purchase price before refund from escrow. Business Acquisition Escrow for Potential Contingencies Escrow for certain potential contingencies Business acquisition escrow for potential contingencies. Business Acquisition Cost of Acquired Entity Refund from Escrow Refund from escrow Business acquisition cost of acquired entity refund from escrow. Represents the revenue contributed by the acquiree entity from acquisition date. Business Acquisition, Post Acquisition Revenue Reported by Acquired Entity Revenue contributed by the acquiree entity from acquisition date Business Acquisition, Post Acquisition, Net Income Reported by Acquired Entity Net income contributed by the acquiree entity from acquisition date Represents the net income contributed by the acquiree entity from acquisition date. Business Acquisition, Number of Stores Operated by Acquiree Entity Number of retail stores operated by the acquiree entity Represents the number of retail stores operated by the acquiree entity. Business Acquisition, Number of Stores Operated by Acquiree Entity Expected to be Closed Number of retail stores operated by the acquiree entity, expected to be closed Represents the number of retail stores operated by the acquiree entity, expected to be closed. Business Acquisition, Minimum Number of Retail Store Leases with Early Termination Rights Minimum retail store leases with early termination rights Represents the minimum number of retail store leases, acquired in a business combination, with early termination rights. Note Payable 8.00 Percent for Echo Star VII Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 13 Years from Launch [Member] Represents details pertaining to 8% note payable for EchoStar VII satellite vendor financing, payable over 13 years from launch. 8% note payable for EchoStar VII satellite vendor financing, payable over 13 years from launch Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar X satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. 6% note payable for EchoStar X satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star X Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] Note Payable 6.00 Percent for Echo Star XI Satellite Vendor Financing Payable over 15 Years from Launch [Member] Represents details pertaining to 6% note payable for EchoStar XI satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. 6% note payable for EchoStar XI 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 XIV 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 XV satellite vendor financing, payable over 15 years from launch. 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] Mortgages and Other Unsecured Notes Payable [Member] Represents details pertaining to mortgages and other unsecured notes payable due in installments through 2017 with interest rates ranging from approximately 2% to 13%. 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 Other debt and capital lease obligations. Total Other Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current Less current portion Other long-term debt and capital lease obligations current. 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 Represents the fair value of direct or indirect retained investment in a former subsidiary that has been deconsolidated. Retained Investment in Subsidiary upon Deconsolidation Fair Value Retained investment in the subsidiary at fair value Number of domestic retail stores closed Represents the number of retail stores closed by the entity. Business Acquisition Number of Retail Stores Closed Number of domestic retail stores Business Acquisition Number of Retail Stores Represents the number of retail stores of the entity. Capital Leased Assets [Axis] Represents the information categorized by the capital leased assets. Represents the information related to the capital leased assets. Capital Leased Assets [Domain] Fss Satellite Ani kF 3 [Member] Represents Anki F3, an FSS satellite. FSS Satellite Anik F3 Canadian Dbs Satellite Ciel II [Member] Represents Ciel II, a Canadian DBS satellite. Canadian DBS Satellite Ciel II Ku-band capacity leased (as a percent) Percentage of Ku-band capacity leased. Percentage of Ku Band Capacity Leased Term of capital lease Capital lease term. Capital Lease Term Accrued programming Accrued Liabilities, Current Satellite capacity leased (as a percent) Percentage of satellite capacity leased. Percentage of Satellite Capacity Leased Initial Term of capital lease Capital lease initial term. Capital Lease Initial Term 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 Executory Costs and Orbital Location Lease DISH DBS Corporation [Member] Represents a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. DISH DBS Corporation ("DDBS") DISH DBS 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 event of change of control. Debt instrument issuance as a percentage of the face amount Long Term Debt Issue Price as Percentage of Principal Amount Long term debt issue price as percentage of principal amount. Long Term Debt Redemption Prior to 1 April 2016 with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable before April 1, 2016 with net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings or capital contributions Long term debt redemption prior to April 1, 2016 with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount. Long Term Debt Redemption Prior to 1 May 2016 with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable before May 1, 2016 with net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings or capital contributions Long term debt redemption prior to May 1, 2016 with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount. 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 percentage of principal amount. Redemption price as a percentage of principal amount with the net cash proceeds of equity offerings or capital contributions before June15, 2014 Long term debt redemption prior to June 15 2015 price with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount. Long Term Debt Redemption Prior to June 15 2015 Price with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Maximum percentage of the aggregate principal amount of notes redeemable before May 31, 2011 with net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings or capital contributions Long term debt redemption prior to May 31, 2011 with net proceeds from equity offerings as percentage of principal amount. Long Term Debt Redemption Prior to 31 May 2011 with Net Proceeds from Equity Offerings as Percentage of Principal Amount Tax benefits related to foreign tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards Foreign tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards. Foreign Tax Credits and Net Operating Loss Carry Forwards 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 Deferred tax assets unrealized losses on investments. Unrealized losses on investments Deferred tax asset after valuation allowance Deferred tax assets net of valuation allowance. Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Other long-term liabilities Deferred Tax 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. Common stock convertible into number of shares of Class A common stock. Common Stock Convertible into Number of Shares of Class A Common Stock Number of shares of Class A common stock into which each share of common stock is convertible Common Stock Voting Rights in Event of Change of Control Votes per share in the event of change of control Common stock voting rights in event of change of control. 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. Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment 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. Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Maximum Fair Value of Common Stock, Permitted to be Purchased Per Annum 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. Increased employer maximum contribution as of January 1, 2013 Defined contribution plan increased employer maximum annual contribution per employee. Defined Contribution Plan Employer Increased Maximum Annual Contribution Per Employee Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized [Abstract] Expense recognized related to 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, Matching Contribution, Net of Forfeiture Total matching contributions under 401(k) plan Defined contribution plan matching contribution net of forfeitures. 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. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 00.00 to 10.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 0.00 dollars to10.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $00.00 - $10.00 Unrealized/Recognized Gains (Losses) Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member] Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 10.01 to 15.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 10.01 dollars to15.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $10.01 - $15.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 15.01 to 20.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 15.01 dollars to 20.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $15.01 - $20.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 20.01 to 25.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 20.01 dollars to 25.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $20.01 - $25.00 Accumulated net unrealized gains, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Unrealized / Recognized Gains (Losses), balance at beginning of period, net Unrealized / Recognized Gains (Losses), balance at end of period, net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 25.01 to 30.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 25.01 dollars to 30.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $25.01 - $30.00 Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at beginning of period, net Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at end of period, net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 30.01 to 35.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 30.01 dollars to 35.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $30.01 - $35.00 Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 35.01 to 40.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from 35.01 dollars to 40.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices $35.01 - $40.00 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Table Text Block] Summary of activity in the allowance for doubtful accounts Schedule of valuation and qualifying accounts. 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] Represents the information relating to satellite-related obligations of the entity. Satellite-related obligations Represents the information pertaining to purchases obligations of the entity. Purchase obligations Long Term Purchase Commitment [Member] Operating Lease Obligations [Member] Operating lease obligations Represents information pertaining to operating lease 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 [Line Items] Commitment and Contingencies 700 MHz Wireless Licenses 700 MHz Wireless Licenses Seven Hundred MHz Wireless, Licenses [Text Block] The entire disclosure for all or part of the information related to intangible assets. Summarization of the disclosures for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Accounting Policies [Table] Accumulated net unrealized gains (losses) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accounting Policies [Line Items] Accounting policy disclosures Deferred Cost of Sales Deferred Cost of Sales [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Customer contract commitment period associated with deferred cost of sales promotional items Deferred Cost Of Sales Customer Contract Commitment Term. Deferred Cost of Sales Customer Contract Commitment Term Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Useful life of rental library product Useful Life of Rental Library Product The useful life of the rental library product. Business Combination [Abstract] Business Combinations Long Term Deferred Revenue Distribution and Carriage Payments [Abstract] Long-Term Deferred Revenue, Distribution and Carriage Payments Deferred Upfront Payments Amortization Period Deferred upfront payments amortization period. Deferred upfront payment, amortization period Deferred subscriber fees deferral period. Period of deferral for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred Deferred Subscriber Fees Deferral Period 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 considered temporary. Length of Time Investment, Been in Continuous Loss Position Evaluated on Case by Case Basis 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. Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member] 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. Schedule of Accounting for Decline in Fair Value of Debt and Equity Investments Below Cost Basis [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the accounting treatment for declines in the fair value of debt and equity investments below cost basis. Schedule of accounting for declines in fair value of debt and equity investments below cost basis Represents the number of days to store HD primetime programs recordings. Number of Days to Store HD Prime Time Programs Recordings Number of days to store HD primetime programs recordings The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to current and non current assets. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Current and Noncurrent Assets Current and non current assets Carrying value of debt securities. Carrying Value of Debt Securities Carrying value of debt securities of a single issuer Acquired intangible assets, average finite useful life Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life 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. Capital Leases Future Minimum Payments Including Interest Net minimum lease payments Related Party Transactions, Number of DBS Transponders Subleased Number of transponders subleased Related party transactions number of DBS transponders subleased. Adjustment to Recognized Non Cash Stock Based Compensation Expense to be Expensed over Remaining Vesting Period Represent the amount of non-cash, stock-based compensation expense adjustment that will be recognized as expenses over the remaining vesting period. Adjustment to recognized non-cash, stock-based compensation expense to be expensed over the remaining vesting period Wireless spectrum licenses minimum interim build-out requirement geographic area percentage. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum Interim Build Out Requirement Geographic Area Percentage 700 MHz Interim Build-out Requirement (as a percent) Wireless Spectrum Licenses Minimum 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. Represents details pertaining to Pragmatus Telecom. Pragmatus Telecom [Member] Pragmatus Interest rate (as a percent) Investment in Debt Security Stated Interest Rate Interest rate on convertible senior secured notes Represents the stated interest rate on a specific investment in debt securities. Share Based Compensation by Share Based Payment Award Annual Vesting, Percentage Percentage of stock awards vesting per year Typical annual vesting percentage for stock awards. DBSD North America Transaction, cash acquired Represents the cash inflow associated with a second acquisition of business during the period (for example, cash that was held by the acquired business). Cash Acquired from Acquisition Two Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition Noncontrolling Interest Acquired Assets contributed from EchoStar to DISH Digital Holding LLC Represents the amount of noncontrolling ownership or equity interest acquired in a noncash (or part noncash) transaction. Impairment of Intercompany Receivables Impairment of receivable from Blockbuster UK Represents the charge against earnings in the period resulting from the write down of carrying amount of intercompany receivables to net realizable value. Impairment charge related to intercompany receivables Represents the cumulative amount of charges recorded on a pre-tax basis on Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). Cumulative Amount of Charges Recorded on Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) before Tax Cumulative amount of charges recorded on a pre-tax basis in net income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax Goodwill [Abstract] Goodwill Deferred Tax Liabilities Unrealized Gains on Investments Unrealized gains on investments Deferred tax liabilities unrealized gains on investments. AWS-4 Satellites Represents details pertaining to the AWS-4 satellites asset owned by the entity. AWS 4 Satellites [Member] Echo Star XII [Member] EchoStar XII Represents information pertaining to the satellites assets owned by the entity, EchoStar XII. T2 satellite Represents information pertaining to the T2 satellite. T2 [Member] T2 Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Restricted cash and marketable securities For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), carrying amount of restricted cash and marketable securities. Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Restricted Cash and Marketable Securities Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Intercompany Payable Intercompany payable For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), carrying value of obligations incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to related entity, termed as intercompany transaction, for goods and services received that are used in the entity's business. For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), carrying value of deferred revenue and other obligations not otherwise itemized. Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Deferred Revenue and Other Deferred revenue and other Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets Assets contributed by EchoStar to DISH Digital Holding L.L.C Assets Contributed, by Related Party Represents the assets contributed by the related party. Property, Equipment and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets The entire disclosure for all or part of the information related to property, equipment and intangible assets. Proceeds from Merger Proceeds received from merger with SoftBank Corp Represents the amount of cash received by the entity as a result of the merger. Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Represents the amount of prepayments of derivative financial instruments prior to the balance sheet date. Derivative Financial Instruments Prepayments Prepayments of derivative financial instruments Blockbuster Blockbuster The entire disclosure of acquisition and disposals of Blockbuster Administration. Blockbuster Administration [Text Block] Deconsolidation [Member] Deconsolidation Represents information pertaining to deconsolidation of a former subsidiary. All assets and liabilities of the previous subsidiary have been combined into a single asset recorded in Other noncurrent assets, net. Impairment Liability Intercompany Receivable Represents information pertaining to the impairment of an intercompany receivable. Impairment liability related to intercompany receivables Loss Contingency Payments of Accrued Interest Represents the amount of accrued interest paid during the period relating to loss contingency. Payment of accrued interest Broadband Equipment Purchased from Related Party Broadband equipment purchased from EchoStar Represents the broadband equipment purchased from related party. Represents the minimum number of autonomous streamlined signal processors. Minimum Number of Autonomous Streamlined Signal Processors Minimum number of autonomous streamlined signal processors Number of customers Number of customers. Number of Customers Proceeds from Issuance of Restricted Debt Proceeds from issuance of restricted debt Proceeds from issuance of restricted debt. Equity Contract Sprint Corporation [Member] Common equity securities of Sprint Corporation Represents the derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to share prices of common equity securities of Sprint Corporation. Dish Digital Holding LLC [Member] Represents information pertaining to DISH Digital Holding LLC. DISH Digital Holding LLC Noncurrent Assets before Impairment Net book value of long-lived assets before impairment Represents the long-lived assets before impairment, other than financial instruments, long-term customer relationships of a financial institution, mortgage and other servicing rights, deferred policy acquisition costs, and deferred tax assets. Hughes Network Systems LLC [Member] HNS Represents information pertaining to Hughes Network Systems, LLC. Equity Contract Sprint Corporation New Shares [Member] New equity securities of Sprint Corporation Represents the derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to share prices of new common equity securities of Sprint Corporation. Represents the amount of additional depreciation expense related to the accelerated depreciable lives of certain assets of disposal group. Additional Depreciation Expense Related to Accelerated Depreciable Lives of Certain Assets Additional depreciation expense related to accelerated depreciable lives of certain assets The amount of expense provided in the period for legal and financial advisory fees. Legal and Financial Advisory Fees Legal and financial advisory fees One Hundred Three Degree Orbital Location [Member] 103 degree orbital location member Represents information pertaining to the 103 orbital location agreement. Performance Based Options [Member] Shares or units awarded to employees or non-employees for meeting certain performance-based targets. Performance based options Unrealized Gains Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Gain Accumulated in Investments Amount of accumulated unrealized gain before deducting unrealized loss on investments in available-for-sale securities impacting investments. Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Loss Accumulated in Investments Amount of accumulated unrealized loss before deducting unrealized gain on investments in available-for-sale securities impacting investments. Unrealized Losses Net amount of accumulated unrealized gains (losses) on investments in available-for-sale securities impacting investments. Represents the difference between the fair value and cost of investments in available-for-sale securities. Unrealized Gains Losses, Net Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) Accumulated in Investments Total Available For Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Losses, Accumulated in Investments Amount of accumulated unrealized loss on securities classified as available-for-sale securities, impacting investments. Available For Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss, Accumulated in Investments Amount of accumulated unrealized loss on securities classified as available-for-sale securities that have been in a loss position for twelve months or longer impacting investments. 12 Months or More Available For Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position,12 Months or Longer, Aggregate Loss, Accumulated in Investments Amount of accumulated unrealized loss on securities classified as available-for-sale securities that have been in a loss position for less than twelve months impacting investments. Less than 12 Months Aggregate bid price Aggregate bid price. Aggregate Bid Price Maximum bid price per MHz/POP (in dollars per unit) Maximum bid price per unit. Maximum Bid Price Per Unit Represents the derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to share prices of common equity securities of single issuer. Equity Contract Single Issuer [Member] Common equity securities of a single issuer Payments to Third Party Payments to third party. Payments to third party Amount payable for launch contract. Amount payable for launch contract Amount Payable for Launch Contract Amount to be Reimbursed if Subsidiary is Not Successful Bidder at Auction Amount to be reimbursed on confirmation of the order issued by Bankruptcy Court as a qualified bidder, if the subsidiary is not successful bidder at auction Represents the amount to be reimbursed on confirmation of the order issued by Bankruptcy Court as a qualified bidder, if the subsidiary is not the successful bidder at the auction. Derivative financial instruments - net unrealized gains (losses) Represents both gains (losses) realized on the sale of derivatives and unrealized gains (losses) that were included in earnings during the period. Realized and Unrealized Gains and Losses on Derivatives Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] LightSquared transaction shareholder derivative actions Represents information pertaining to the LightSquared transaction shareholder derivative actions. Light Squared Transaction Shareholder Derivative Actions [Member] Blockbuster Domestic [Member] Blockbuster - Domestic Represents information pertaining to Blockbuster - Domestic. Represents information pertaining to Blockbuster - Mexico. Blockbuster Mexico [Member] Blockbuster - Mexico Other Income (Expense) Other Net [Member] Other, net within Other Income (Expense) Represents the primary financial statement caption encompassing the other portion of other income (expense). Number of Retail Stores Number of retail stores Represents the number of retail stores owned and operated by the entity. Inventory written down Represents the amount of inventory written down to the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), during the reporting period.. Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Inventory Write Down Equipment sales and other revenue Represents the income generated from equipment sales and other revenue. Equipment Sales and Other Revenue Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations, net of tax amount Represents the amount after tax and reclassification adjustments of other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations. Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations, net of tax amount Represents the amount after tax and reclassification adjustments of gain (loss) on foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations. Foreign currency translation Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] All Other and Eliminations [Member] Represents all other and elimination entries used in operating segment consolidation. All Other & Eliminations Discontinued Operation Current Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Discontinued operations Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to taxable income (loss) from discontinued operations. Non-cash, stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Discontinued operations Amount of deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to taxable income (loss) from discontinued operations. Discontinued Operation Deferred Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, before Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations, before tax amount Represents the amount before tax and reclassification adjustments of other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations. Other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations, Current period activity Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations, tax (expense) benefit Represents the amount of tax expense (benefit) allocated to other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations. Other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations, tax (expense) benefit Foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations, before tax amount Represents the amount before tax and reclassification adjustments of gain (loss) on foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations. Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment from Discontinued Operations, before tax Other comprehensive income (loss) from discontinued operations, Current period activity Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment from Discontinued Operations, Tax Foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations, tax (expense) benefit Represents the amount of tax expense (benefit) related to gain (loss) on foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations. Other comprehensive income (loss) from discontinued operations, tax (expense) benefit Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end from continuing operations. Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations, balance at end of the period, net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations, balance at beginning of period, net Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end from discontinued operations. Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) from discontinued operations, balance at end of period, net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) from discontinued operations, balance at beginning of period, net DBS Licenses [Member] DBS Licenses Represents information pertaining to DBS Licenses. Income tax (expense) benefit related to stock awards and other Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation AWS Licenses Represents information pertaining to AWS Licenses. AWS Licenses [Member] Represents details pertaining to Prior TT and C Agreement. Prior Telemetry Tracking and Control Agreement [Member] Prior TT&C Agreement Prior Receiver Agreement Represents details pertaining to the Prior Receiver Agreement. Prior Receiver Agreement [Member] T 2 Development Agreement [Member] T2 Development Agreement Represents details pertaining to the T2 Development Agreement. Related Party Transactions, Option to Acquire Property Plant and Equipment Option given to the related party for acquisition of property, plant and equipment Represents the option given to the related party for acquisition of property, plant and equipment. Increase or decrease in advances to and from affiliates. Increase (Decrease) in Advances to and from Affiliates Advances to (from) affiliates Payments for Acquisition Settlement Agreement Sprint Settlement Agreement (Note 9) This element represents cash outflow relating to the acquisition relating settlement agreement. Net payment for agreement settlement Capital distribution to EchoStar Amount of decrease in additional paid in capital (APIC) resulting from capital distribution to the related party. Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital Distribution to Related Party Notes Payable Related to Satellite Vendor Financing and Other Debt Payable [Member] Notes payable related to satellite vendor financing and other debt payable in installments through 2025 with interest rates ranging from approximately 6% to 13% Represents information pertaining to notes payable related to satellite vendor financing and other debt payable in installments through 2025 with interest rates ranging from approximately 6% to 13%. Operating Lease Obligations from Continuing Operations [Member] Operating lease obligations - continuing operations Represents information pertaining to operating lease obligations from continuing operations. Operating Lease Obligations from Discontinued Operations [Member] Operating lease obligations - discontinued operations Represents information pertaining to operating lease obligations from discontinued operations. Payments under the multi-year affiliation agreement to the fair value of the Settlement Agreement Represents the payments under the multi-year affiliation agreement to the fair value of the Settlement Agreement. Litigation Settlement Gross Allocated to Fair Value of Settlement Agreement Schedule of Commitments [Table] Represents the details of commitments of the entity as at the reporting date. Represents the term of programming contracts. Programming Contracts Term Term of programming contracts Schedule of Commitments [Line Items] Commitments Stock Option Adjustment 2011 [Member] Stock Option Adjustment 2011 Represents details pertaining to the 2011 Stock Option Adjustment. 2011 stock option adjustment Echo Star XVIII [Member] EchoStar XVIII Represents information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star XVIII, which are accounted for as operating leases. Licenses 700 MHz [Member] 700 MHz Licenses Represents information pertaining to 700 MHz Licenses. Schedule of DBS Satellites [Table Text Block] Schedule of DBS Satellites Schedule of DBS satellites. Schedule of AWS4 Satellites [Table Text Block] Schedule of AWS-4 Satellites Schedule of AWS-4 satellites. Increase (Decrease) in Carrying Value of Debt Securities Increase (decrease) in carrying value of debt securities of a single issuer Represents the increase (decrease) in carrying value of debt securities. Represents the aggregate value (measured at the lower of net carrying value or fair value less cost of disposal) for assets, net of liabilities of a disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation) to be sold or that has been disposed of through sale, as of the financial statement date. Net Assets of Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Net assets from discontinued operations Transferred Satellites-related obligations Represents information relating to satellite-related obligations that are transferred under the Transaction Agreement entered into by the entity. Transferred Satellites Related Obligation [Member] Sale Leaseback Transaction Number of Satellites Transferred and Leased Back Number of satellites transferred and leased back Represents the number of satellites that are transferred and leased back by the entity during the period. Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Reduction in Contractual Obligation due in Next Twelve Months 2014 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Reduction in Contractual Obligation Due in Second Year 2015 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Reduction in Contractual Obligation due in Third Year 2016 Reduction in Contractual Obligation due in Fourth Year 2017 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the fourth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Reduction in Contractual Obligation due in Fifth Year 2018 Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing in the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Wireless Spectrum Aggregate Reserve Price for Spectrum Aggregate reserve price of H Block wireless spectrum Represents the aggregate reserve price for H Block of wireless spectrum. Represents information pertaining to the Do Not Call litigation which relates to violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act and Telephone Sales Rules, and analogous state statutes and state consumer protection laws. Do Not Call Litigation [Member] Do Not Call Litigation Michael Padberg [Member] Padberg Represents information pertaining to Michael Padberg who had filed a litigation in his individual capacity. Represents the period alleged by plaintiff, for which right to retransmit certain networks are violated by the entity. Loss Contingency Period of Violation Alleged by Plaintiff Period of violation alleged by plaintiff for rights to retransmit the certain networks Reduction in Contractual Obligation Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Reduction in contractual obligation Reduction in Contractual Obligation due after Fifth Year Thereafter Represents the amount of reduction in contractual obligation maturing after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 40.01 to 45.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $40.01 - $45.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 40.01 dollars to 45.00 dollars. Range of Exercise Prices from Dollars 45.01 to 50.00 [Member] Range of Exercise Prices $45.01 - $50.00 Represents the range of exercise prices from 45.01 dollars to 50.00 dollars. Transaction Agreement [Member] Transaction Agreement Represents information pertaining to the Transaction Agreement. Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction Dish Investors [Member] DISH Investors Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Echo Star and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation [Member] EchoStar and HSSC Represents information pertaining to the EchoStar and Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation [Member] HSSC Represents information pertaining to the Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation. Related Party Transactions, Number of Owned Satellites Transferred and Leased Back Number of owned satellites transferred and leased back Represents the number of owned satellites transferred and leased back in connection with the transaction involving the sale of property to another party and the lease of the property back to the seller. Related Party Transactions Preferred Tracking Stock Issued by Related Party Preferred tracking stock issued by related party Represents the preferred tracking stock issued during the period by related party. Related Party Transactions Percentage of Economic Interest Held Percentage of economic interest in the Hughes Retail Group Represents the percentage of economic interest held. Payments to Acquire Property, Plant and Equipment Included in Discontinued Operations Purchases of property and equipment, discontinued operations The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of property, plant, and equipment from discontinued operations. Light Squared Harbinger Capital Partners LLC [Member] Lightsquared Harbinger Capital Partners LLC Represents information pertaining to Lightsquared Harbinger Capital Partners LLC. Business Days Allowed to Terminate Existing Agreements Business days allowed to terminate existing agreements Represents the business days allowed to terminate existing agreements. Impairment of Long Lived Assets [Abstract] Impairment of Long-Lived Assets DBSD and Terre Star Ground Equipment [Member] DBSD and TerreStar ground equipment Represents details pertaining to DBSD and TerreStar ground equipment. Advertising costs Advertising Expense Multichannel Video Distribution and Data Service Licenses [Member] MVDDS Licenses Represents information pertaining to multichannel video distribution and data service licenses. Advertising Costs Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Increase (Decrease) in Advances to from Discontinued Operations Advances (to) from discontinued operations Represents the amount of increase (decrease) in advances (to) from discontinued operations. Period of Injunctive Relief Sought from Placing Any Telemarketing Calls to Market or Promote Goods and Services Period of injunctive relief sought from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services Represents the period of injunctive relief from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services sought by plaintiff. Cash in Exchange of Shares Issued Cash in exchange for tracking stock Represents the amount of cash transferred in exchange for shares of a series of preferred tracking stock issued under the agreement. Cash in exchange for shares of series of preferred tracking stock issued Investor Rights Agreement [Member] Investor Rights Agreement Represents information pertaining to the Investor Rights Agreement. Affiliated Entity [Member] Affiliated entity Related Party Transactions Preferred Tracking Stock Prohibited Transfer Period Tracking stock prohibited transfer period Represents the prohibited transfer period of preferred tracking stock issued during the period by related party. Defined Contribution Plan, Matching Contributions, Net of Forfeitures from Continuing Operations Represents the defined contribution plan matching contributions, net of forfeitures from continuing operations. Matching contributions, net of forfeitures from continuing operations Represents the defined contribution plan matching contributions, net of forfeitures from discontinuing operations. Defined Contribution Plan, Matching Contributions Net of Forfeitures from Discontinued Operations Matching contributions, net of forfeitures from discontinued operations UTAM Inc [Member] UTAM Inc. Represents information pertaining to UTAM Inc. Sprint Corporation [Member] Sprint Represents information pertaining to Sprint Corporation. Wireless Spectrum Clearance Costs Clearance costs associated with H Block spectrum Represents the amount of clearance costs for H Block of wireless spectrum. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Term of Payment of Clearance Costs from Issuance of Licenses Term of payment of clearance costs from issuance of the H Block licenses Represents the term of payment of clearance costs from issuance of the licenses. Echo Star VIII [Member] EchoStar VIII Represents information pertaining to satellites assets leased from EchoStar, Echo Star VIII, which are accounted for as operating leases. Number of Rural Residents that are Targeted under Broadband Services Number of rural residents that are targeted under broadband services Represents the number of rural residents that are targeted under broadband services. Number of States in which Wireline Voice and Broadband Services are Offered Number of state region in which wireline voice and broadband services are offered Represents the number of states region in which wireline voice and broadband services are offered. Pay TV Satellites [Member] Pay-TV Satellites Represents details pertaining to Pay-TV satellites assets owned by the entity. Notice period for extension of agreement Related Party Transactions Required Notice Period for Extension of Agreement Related party transactions required notice period for extension of agreement. Subscriber Acquisition Advertising Cost Subscriber acquisition advertising Represents the amount of costs incurred on advertising for the period, which are expenses incurred with the objective of increasing revenue for subscriber acquisition. Payments for H Block FCC License Deposit Purchases of FCC authorizations - H Block wireless spectrum licenses (Note 10) Represents the amount of cash outflow for deposits on H Block FCC license during the period. H Block FCC license deposit Liabilities Transferred Transfer of liabilities The fair value of liabilities transferred in noncash investing or financing activities. Mortgages and other obligations transferred Transfer of liabilities and other Transfer of property and equipment, net Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Fixed Assets Transferred The amount of fixed assets that an Entity transfers in a noncash (or part noncash) acquisition. Noncash is defined as information about all investing and financing activities of an enterprise during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. Wireless Spectrum Licenses Number of wireless spectrum licenses The number of wireless spectrum licenses acquired by the winning bidder. AWS4 Licenses [Member] AWS-4 Licenses Represents information pertaining to AWS-4 Licenses. H Block Licenses [Member] H Block Licenses Represents information pertaining to H Block Licenses. Represents the expected period within which complaint would be filed by plaintiff. Expected Period within which Complaint would be Filed by Plaintiff Period within which second amended complaint is expected to be filed by Jacksonville PFPF Number of Judges in Panel Number of judges in panel Represents the number of judges in the panel. Ho Keung Tse [Member] Tse Represents information pertaining to Ho Keung Tse. Unsettled Trades Related to Repurchase of Long Term Debt Unsettled trades related to repurchase of long-term debt Represents the amount of unsettled trades related to repurchase of long-term debt. Pay TV Satellite Including Capitalized Interests [Member] Pay-TV Satellites, including capitalized interest Represents details pertaining to Pay-TV satellites, including capitalized interest. Capitalized interest related to AWS-4 and H Block wireless spectrum Represents the amount of capitalized interest related to wireless spectrum. Capitalized Interest Related to Wireless Spectrum [Member] Voting Interest in Subsidiary Voting interest (as a percent) Represents the voting interest in subsidiary, expressed as a percentage. Commitments to Related Parties Commitments to NagraStar Represents the amount for commitments to related parties. Wireless Ground Equipment and Build Out including Capitalized Interest [Member] Wireless ground equipment and build-out, including capitalized interest Represents information pertaining to wireless ground equipment and build-out, including capitalized interest. Jacksonville PFPF Second Amended Complaint [Member] Jacksonville PFPF second amended complaint Represents information pertaining to second amended complaint field by Jacksonville PFPF. Technology Development and Licensing LLC [Member] Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C Represents information pertaining to complaint field by Jacksonville PFPF. Mr Ergen [Member] Mr. Ergen Represents information pertaining to Mr.Charles Ergen. Director Defendants other than Mr Ergen [Member] Director Defendants other than Mr. Ergen Represents information pertaining to all the Director Defendants other than Mr. Ergen. Loss Contingency Number of Pending Reexamination Petitions Number of pending reexamination petitions Represents the number of pending reexamination petitions. Non-cash stock-based compensation expense recognized Non-cash, stock-based compensation Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable - other Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Anti-dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Impairment of long-lived assets (Note 11) Impairment of long-lived assets Asset Impairment Charges Pre-tax impairment charges Total assets Assets Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Assets Assets [Abstract] Assets of discontinued operations Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Total current assets Assets, Current Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Noncurrent assets - discontinued operations (Note 2) Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Noncurrent Noncurrent assets from discontinued operations Noncurrent Assets: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Current assets - discontinued operations (Note 2) Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Current Current assets from discontinued operations Less than 12 Months Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value Fair value of marketable investment securities in a loss position Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value [Abstract] Contractual maturities of restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities [Abstract] Debt securities with contractual maturities extending longer than five year through and including ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value 12 Months or More Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Twelve Months or Longer, Fair Value Debt securities Available-for-sale Securities Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain (Loss) [Abstract] Total Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value Debt securities with contractual maturities after one year through five years Debt securities with contractual maturities within one year Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Current Unrealized loss on marketable investment securities in a loss position Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss [Abstract] Marketable investment securities Current marketable investment securities Debt securities Available-for-sale Securities, Current Debt securities with contractual maturities longer than ten years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, after Ten Years, Fair Value Debt securities with contractual maturities extending longer than one year through and including five years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value Components of our available-for-sale investments Available-for-sale Securities [Abstract] Equity securities Equity security Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Buildings and improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities Business Acquisition [Axis] Share price (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Share Price Cash Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business exit charges Business Exit Costs Noncurrent liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities Business acquisition Business Acquisition [Line Items] Other noncurrent assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Acquisitions Consideration in cash Purchase price Total consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Purchase price allocation of assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Property and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Intangibles Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Net purchase price Total purchase price Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Acquisition related transaction costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs 2015 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years Total minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due 2018 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years Depreciation expense - capital leases Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense Less: Amount representing interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Less: Current portion Capital Lease Obligations, Current Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Estimated fair value of satellites acquired under capital leases Capital Leased Assets, Gross Long-term portion of capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Satellite and other capital lease obligations 2016 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2017 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years Future minimum lease payments under the capital lease obligations, together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Net Present Value [Abstract] Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Accumulated depreciation on satellites acquired under capital leases Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Present value of net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Thereafter Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Capital Leased Assets [Line Items] Capital leased assets disclosures Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2014 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value, Including Discontinued Operations Cash and cash equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period from continuing operations Cash and cash equivalents, end of period from continuing operations Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Acquisition of Blockbuster, cash acquired Cash Acquired from Acquisition Cash Equivalents (including restricted) Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash flows from investing activities from discontinued operations, net, including $0 and $1,188 of purchases of property and equipment, respectively Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Net cash flows from operating activities from discontinued operations, net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash flows from financing activities from discontinued operations, net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Stockholders Equity (Deficit) Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Domain] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies (Note 10) Commitments and Contingencies. Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Class A common stock Common Class A [Member] Class A and B Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Votes per share Common Stock, Voting Rights Cash dividend per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Class B common stock Common Class B [Member] Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Class C common stock Common Class C [Member] Dividend in cash per share (in dollars per share) Cash dividend paid per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Temporary differences, which give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to DISH Network Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss): Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Consolidation Items [Domain] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Consolidation Items [Axis] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] 2015 Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year 2018 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year Schedule of future maturities of long-term debt, capital lease and contractual obligations Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] 2017 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year 2014 Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months Contract-based Contractual Rights [Member] 2014 Contractual Obligation, Future Minimum Payments Due, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2016 Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year Thereafter Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year Commitment and Contingencies Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Operating lease obligations Total Contractual Obligation Total subscriber acquisition costs Cost of Goods and Services Sold Satellite and transmission expenses Cost of Transmission Other investment securities - cost method Cost Method Investments Subscriber-related expenses Cost of Goods Sold, Subscription Subscriber-related Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of sales - equipment, merchandise, services, rental and other Satellite and transmission expenses: Cost of Transmission [Abstract] Costs and Expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown separately below - Note 8): Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Total costs and expenses Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Current (provision) benefit: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Total from continuing operations Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Debt repurchased Debt Instrument, Repurchase Amount Long-term debt Debt Instrument Debt Instrument [Line Items] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Aggregate principal amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Redemption Prior to April 1, 2016 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member] Redemption Prior to July 15, 2015 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] Redemption Prior to May 1, 2016 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member] Redemption Prior to March 15, 2016 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Five [Member] Redemption Prior to June 1, 2014 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Four [Member] Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion) Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Fair value of debt securities of a single issuer Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Carrying Value Long-term Debt, Gross Term of debt instrument Debt Instrument, Term Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt instrument redemption period end date Debt Instrument, Redemption Period, End Date Redemption price as a percentage of principal amount Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt securities Debt Securities [Member] Deferred Debt Issuance Costs Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Annual Debt Service Requirements Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Interest Senior Notes, interest rate (as a percent) Interest rate (as a percent) Repurchases and redemption of Senior Notes (as a percent) Senior Notes due 2011, interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Unamortized discounts, net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Interest rate, high end of range (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum Interest rate, low end of range (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum Deferred Cost of Sales Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block] Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred (provision) benefit: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred tax expense (benefit) Total from continuing operations Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Long-term deferred revenue, distribution and carriage payments and other long-term liabilities Deferred Long-term Liability Charges State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net deferred tax asset (liability) Deferred Tax Assets, Net Noncurrent portion of net deferred tax asset (liability) Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Deferred tax assets Current portion of net deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred revenue and other Deferred Revenue and Credits, Current Deferred revenue Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost NOL for federal income tax purposes Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic State taxes net of federal effect Deferred Tax Assets, Other Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Current portion of net deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Tax benefit related to credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards NOL benefit for state income tax purposes Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Other liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Depreciation and amortization Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Current portion of net deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Employer matching contribution as a percentage of voluntary employee contributions under 401(k) plan Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match 401(k) Employee Savings Plan Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] H Block FCC license deposit (Note 10) Deposits Assets, Current Depreciation and amortization (Note 8) Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Accelerated depreciation expense Aggregate notional amount Derivative Asset, Notional Amount Derivative Instrument [Axis] Number of derivative financial instruments held in equity securities Derivative Asset, Number of Instruments Held Derivative financial instruments Derivative Asset, Current Derivative financial instruments Derivative financial instruments Purchases and prepaid funding of derivative financial instruments Fair value Derivative Asset Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Derivative financial instruments - realized and unrealized gains (losses) Realized and/or unrealized gains on derivative financial instruments Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Technology-based Developed Technology Rights [Member] Stock-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Income (loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Discontinued Operations Other accrued expenses Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accrued Liabilities Property and equipment Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net Cash Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period from discontinued operations Cash and cash equivalents, end of period from discontinued operations Revenue and Operating loss of Blockbuster UK Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract] Inventory Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Inventory Operating loss Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Trade accounts payable Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Total assets and liabilities of Blockbuster UK Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Classified Balance Sheet Disclosures [Abstract] Other current assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Current Assets Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Trade accounts receivable Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts, Notes and Loans Receivable, Net Revenue from discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Cash Dividend Dividends, Cash [Abstract] Cash dividend on Class A and Class B common stock ($1.00 and $2.00 per share) for the year ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively Cash dividend paid Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Net amount of the allocated tax attributes payable Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent Due to related parties Intercompany receivables due from related parties Due from Related Parties Advances to (from) affiliates Due from Affiliate, Current Early Repayment of Senior Debt Repurchases of long-term debt Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network (in dollars per share) Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network (in dollars per share) Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock: Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents from discontinued operations Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Discontinued Operations Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Total benefit (provision) for income taxes (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Reconciliation of amounts computed by applying the statutory Federal tax rate to income before taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] State income taxes, net of Federal benefit (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent Other (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent Statutory rate (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Stock option compensation (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost, Percent Reversal of uncertain tax position (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Percent Stock-Based Compensation Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] Stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan Employee Stock [Member] Tax benefit from stock awards exercised Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation Unrecognized compensation expense Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based 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and Transactions Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments Gain (Loss) on Investments Derivative financial instruments - net realized gains (losses) Gain (Loss) on Sale of Derivatives Schedule of gains and losses on sales and changes in carrying values of investments Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Litigation expense (Note 16) Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement Litigation Expense Other investment securities - gains (losses) on sales/exchanges Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments General and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense General and administrative General and Administrative Expense [Member] Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill (Note 8) Goodwill Goodwill Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Indefinite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text 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Investments [Member] Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities Investments in Debt and Equity Instruments, Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) [Text Block] ARS and other investments, portion for which the fair value election was made ARS fair value election Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract] Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Other Investment Securities Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities Land Land [Member] Equipment Lease Programs Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) Liabilities and Equity Liabilities Assumed Noncurrent liabilities Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including 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From Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from discontinued operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations Cash Flows From Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Cash Flows From Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net cash flows from operating activities from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash flows from financing activities from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used 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amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, before tax amount Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax Current marketable investment securities - other Other Debt Obligations [Member] Total other investment securities Investment in DBSD North America (Note 10) Investment in DBSD North America Other Long-term Investments Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other, net Total Other Income (Expense) Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Other Income (Expense) Other Income [Member] Other accrued expenses Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total other investment securities Other Investments Class A common stock repurchases (Note 13) Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock DBSD North America Transaction, less cash acquired of $5,230 (Note 9) Payments to Acquire Business Two, Net of Cash Acquired TerreStar Transaction (Note 9) Payments to Acquire Business Three, Net of Cash Acquired Settlement payment Payments for Legal Settlements Purchases of derivative financial instruments Payments for Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities Other, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Purchases of marketable investment securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Purchase of other strategic investments Purchase of strategic investments included in noncurrent marketable and other investment securities Payments to Acquire Investments Purchase of Blockbuster assets, excludes cash acquired of $107,061 Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Cash dividend on Class A and Class B common stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Purchases of property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchases of property and equipment, discontinued operations Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payment to acquire certain 700 MHz wireless licenses Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Payment to acquire wireless licenses Employee Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Employee Benefit Plans Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Axis] Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, $.01 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Preferred Stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Prepaid income taxes Prepaid Taxes Settlement of derivative financial instruments (Note 2) Proceeds from Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities Proceeds from sale of discontinued operations Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Cash received for interest Proceeds from Interest Received Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Marketable Securities Proceeds from sale of strategic investments Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments Net proceeds from Class A common stock options exercised and stock issued under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Net income (loss) Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Property and equipment capitalization Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Depreciable Life Estimated Useful Life Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Total property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Remaining net book value fully depreciated Property and equipment, net (Note 8) Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property and equipment, net Property and equipment capitalization Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Property and Equipment Schedule of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] 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] Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Reclassification from 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Scenario, Forecast [Member] Proposed asset purchase agreement Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Schedule of preliminary allocation of assets acquired Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of tax effect allocated to component of other comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of stock option activity 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 Schedule of supplemental cash flow and other non-cash data Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Schedule of 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Schedule of transactions with NagraStar Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of quarterly results of operations Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of revenue attributed to the United States and foreign locations Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the effect of income (loss) on the entity's basic and diluted earnings per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of available-for-sale securities in continuous unrealized loss position by length of time and their fair value Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block] Spectrum Investments Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of identifiable intangibles subject to amortization Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Other investment securities: Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line 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Activities [Domain] Continuing operations Continuing Operations [Member] Discontinued operations Discontinued Operations [Member] Geographical [Domain] 7.5% Convertible Senior Secured Notes due 2009 Share-based compensation additional disclosures Outstanding awards pursuant to performance-based stock incentive plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Additional General Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted - Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Restricted stock unit activity Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Total restricted stock units outstanding, beginning of period (in shares) Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period (in shares) Stock Awards Outstanding (in shares) Restricted Performance Units (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Volatility factor, high end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Maximum Volatility factor, low end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested (in shares) Non-cash, stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Risk free interest rate, high end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum Awards vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Share-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 dollars per share) Total restricted stock units outstanding, end of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Stock-Based Compensation Forfeited and cancelled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Forfeited and cancelled (in shares) Risk free interest rate, low end of range (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (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 Dividend yield (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate 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, Exercisable, Number Exercisable at the end of the period (in shares) Number of stock options exercisable Additional disclosures Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Shares of common stock available for future grant under stock incentive plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Volatility factor (as a percent) Number of shares authorized to be issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Risk free interest rate (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Black-Scholes option valuation model, assumptions Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Weighted-average fair value of options granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited and cancelled (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 shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Total options outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share) Options Outstanding, Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Weighted-Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Total options outstanding, beginning of the period (in dollars per share) Performance Based Stock Options (in shares) Stock Awards Outstanding (in shares) 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) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Exercise prices for stock options outstanding and exercisable Number of employees affected by stock option adjustment Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Plan Modification, Number of Employees Affected Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options outstanding Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Stock option activity Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Equity Award [Domain] 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 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 Acquisitions and Disposals by Transaction [Axis] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals, Transaction [Domain] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Software related projects Software and Software Development Costs [Member] Operating Activities [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Statement [Table] Statement Statement [Line Items] CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT) Geographical [Axis] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Equity Components [Axis] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Segments [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Maximum amount authorized for common stock repurchase under common stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Exercise of stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Employee benefits Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan Stock awards Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Number of shares of common stock purchased under ESPP Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Amount authorized for common stock repurchase under common stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Stockholders' Equity (Deficit): Common stock Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Total DISH Network stockholders' equity (deficit) Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total stockholders' equity (deficit) Balance Balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other Comprehensive Income Related Tax Effects Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Subscriber-related revenue Subscription and Circulation Revenue Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Events Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent event Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] DISH Network L.L.C. Subsidiaries [Member] Ownership percentage Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Derivative Financial Instruments Summary of Derivative Instruments [Abstract] Schedule of reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Title of Individual [Axis] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Trademarks Trademarks [Member] Class A common stock repurchases, at cost Dollar value of shares repurchased Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Total number of shares repurchased Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Information regarding repurchase of Class A common stock Treasury Stock Transactions, Excluding Value of Shares Reissued [Abstract] Treasury stock, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Type of Arrangement [Member] Type of Adoption [Domain] Schedule of unrealized gain (loss) on marketable investment securities Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments [Table Text Block] Derivative financial instruments - net unrealized gains (losses) Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Interest and penalty (benefit) expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Acquisition Uncertain tax position Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Reductions based on tax positions related to settlements with taxing authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Decrease in income tax (provision) benefit, net Reductions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Unrecognized tax benefits if recognized, could favorably affect our effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Reductions based on tax positions related to the lapse of the statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Balance as of beginning of period Balance as of end of period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized tax benefits Additions based on tax positions related to prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Accrued interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Principal balance reclassified to Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations Unsecured Debt, Current Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Charged to Cost and Expenses Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Balance at Beginning of Year Balance at End of Year Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Deductions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Decrease (increase) in valuation allowance Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Change in Amount Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] VRDNs Variable Rate Demand Obligation [Member] Current marketable investment securities - VRDNs Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted (in shares) Diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted