DNA introduces competition and HDTV to the terrestrial network

DNA's channel offering for the terrestrial network already includes 19 pay-TV channels, and nine HD channels. The YLE HD channel can be viewed free of charge without a TV card, and with the DNA Welho viewing card, MTV3 HD is delivered free-to-air as well.

"DNA's channel offering for both cable and terrestrial networks is the most extensive in Finland. We also offer the highest number of HD channels. It is very important for us to be able to provide versatile high-quality television services not only for the cable but the terrestrial network, too. This summer's programmes appeal to the tastes of sports lovers in particular, and the autumn will bring more exciting viewing for free-to-air and pay-TV channels alike. The YLE HD channel, available free-to-air on the DNA network, offers high definition broadcasts e.g. of Euro2012 football, the European Athletics Championships Helsinki, and as the climax for the summer, the London Olympics," comments Mikko Saarentaus, DNA's director of television services.

Introduction of new technology, and genuine competition should be promoted

DNA's innovative terrestrial network utilises the masts of DNA's mobile communications network. The solution, implemented using the single frequency network mode SFN, which utilises frequencies efficiently, transmits broadcasts in the VHF frequency band. DNA has completed plans on how to increase network coverage to 98 per cent and cover the remaining households with other technologies.

"Communications policy aims at providing high-quality, inexpensive television and radio services available for all, regardless of where one lives. The introduction of new technology is high on our agenda, but we strive to ensure sufficiently long periods of transition. Thus current devices need not be abandoned until they reach the end of their lifecycle," commented Krista Kiuru, Minister of Housing and Communications, at a DNA event in Helsinki today.

DNA is confident that by making bold progress, the Ministry will be able to ensure that no forced transitions occur due to changes of frequency or technology. Instead, viewers will adopt new services and technologies voluntarily, attracted by excellent contents and high-quality HD.

"The terrestrial network licenses for HD television granted to DNA three years ago were a groundbreaking decision even on the European scale. With this decision, our Ministry of Transport and Communication determinedly began to bring an end to the strong monopoly situation in the terrestrial TV networks. To ensure diverse services and positive consumer price development, a true competitive setting must be created in the terrestrial TV network even before granting of new network licenses in 2016. The Ministry of Transport and Communication can only secure the preconditions for healthy competition by linking strong, far-reaching regulation of programme licenses with sound regulation of network licenses', says Riitta Tiuraniemi, President and CEO of DNA.

VHF antennas from the analogue TV era can now be used for HDTV viewing

DNA terrestrial network channels can be viewed in households within the network's coverage with a functioning VHF antenna aimed at a DNA transmitter and a DVB-T2 Antenna Ready HD receiver. Local antenna contractors will help, if needed, in aiming and installing the antenna. In addition to channel packages, you can order HD receivers and if necessary, a DIY installation package for the antenna, or aiming and installation service, from DNA.

"Many houses still have a VHF antenna standing on the roof from the times of analogue television. Now it can be utilised for viewing the new digital HD channels on your TV - in many cases, all you need to do to ensure good reception is to aim the antenna towards a DNA transmitter. If you already have a TV set equipped with a terrestrial network HDTV tuner, you can watch YLE HD right away on channel 22," says Mikko Saarentaus .

The UHF and VHF signals used for terrestrial network television services are sent by different masts. An appropriate aerial system helps ensure the reception of both UHF and VHF network offering in the house, and prevents both from disturbing one another. DNA's technical customer service, tel. 0800 300 500 (free of charge from all domestic numbers) gives advice and guidance in matters related to terrestrial network reception.

Further information in Finnish:
- Information about DNA's terrestrial TV network and services  
- Coverage map of DNA's terrestrial network 
- HDTV Guide by operators 
- Antenna guide for detached houses by the Finnish satellite and antenna federation SANT
- SANT ry: Contact information of antenna installation businesses http://www.sant.fi/index.php?k=14193
- The Finnish Communications Regulatory Authority (FICORA): Reception of digital TV broadcasts
- Information on receiver sets approved for terrestrial network HDTV viewing: Antenna Ready HD (in English) 

Map: DNA terrestrial network coverage areas 20 June.

Further information:
Mikko Saarentaus, Director of Television Business Operations, DNA Services Ltd, tel. +358 (0)44 549 0374, mikko.saarentaus@dna.fi
Riitta Tiuraniemi, President & CEO, DNA Ltd, at tel. +358 (0)44 044 1000, riitta.tiuraniemi@dna.fi
DNA Corporate Communications, tel. +358 44 044 8000, viestinta@dna.fi

DNA Ltd is a Finnish telecommunications company providing high-quality voice, data and TV services to private customers and corporations. In 2011, DNA recorded a turnover of EUR 728 million and an operating profit of EUR 51 million. DNA has more than 3 million mobile and fixed-line network customers. For more information, please visit www.dna.fi.