HD Ramp Up Accelerates for Hotel Operators

LodgeNet Entertainment, a major provider of interactive television and broadband to hotel properties worldwide, said this week that 2006 is shaping up to be the year that HD "accelerates toward critical mass in the lodging industry." The company said in a statement its current and pending customer agreements envision HD flatscreens being provided for more than 160,000 guest rooms globally.

LodgeNet notes a couple of factors for the accelerated drive to equip hotel rooms with HD sets, including the FCC requirement that DTV tuners be built into all sets (and other devices designed to pick up broadcast signals) manufactured after March 2007. Another factor it cites is the growing number of travelers who experience HD at home and are starting to bring those expectations into guest rooms.

LodgeNet recently signed long-term agreements to provide HD services for the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Co. and Starwood Hotels & Resorts, along with Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn and Hyatt Place properties.