wiredInUSA October 2016

INDEX

MAKING THENEWS Oilers ensure no wi-fi slip-ups!

Edmonton Oilers’ home arena, Rogers Place, is said to contain enough wiring to “wrap around the world” following the installation of 417 wi-fi antennas around the building. The communications technology in the arena is described as “state-of-the-art”, including what appear to be metal boxes built into handrails in the lower bowl that are actually wi-fi antennas. Rogers Communications Inc president Guy Laurence, said: “The one thingwireless networks don’t like is steel and, as you look around the stadium, you will see there’s 9,000 metric tonnes of steel. There was quite a design issue for us to provide excellent wireless coverage.” Rogers has invested $15 million in

the facility and the surrounding Ice District, Mr Laurence said. “Because it’s the newest stadium in North America, it’s naturally got the newest of everything,” he added. He estimates that the hardware will last five to ten years, while the software can be upgraded constantly. Rogers made changes even before the doors opened, switching all the TVs it has provided – including 48 in the SportsNet Club – to high-definition 4K as the company became one of the world’s largest producers of 4K content. “We can keep the stadium up to date for years and years and years,” Mr Laurence added.

wiredInUSA - October 2016

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