Smart City Networks Improves Cellular Coverage at San Diego Convention Center
July 20, 2017
Smart City Networks has completed a new distributed antenna system (DAS) designed to exponentially expand the cellular service coverage and capacity at the San Diego Convention Center.
“This new system is going to make a noticeable difference for everyone who attends an event or convention at the San Diego Convention Center,” said Julia Slocombe, vice president of western region operations for Smart City Networks, a telecommunications provider for the convention industry.
She continued, “This was a massive upgrade, but it reiterates our commitment to deliver exceptional experiences through technology and San Diego’s commitment to be one of the leading meeting and convention destinations in the world.”
Completed this month, the two-year DAS system installation project involved plotting and installing hundreds of miniature antennas at secure points throughout the convention center that connect to the networks of different cellular carriers, including AT&T and T-Mobile.
The new system reduces gaps in coverage created by steel or concrete pillars, isolated niches and other architectural features that disrupt the signal between the phone and the devices receiving the messages, resulting in the elimination of dead spots and improved reliability of the network.
“We are excited to offer our guests and customers yet another amenity to continue to make our facility the region’s premier gathering place,” said Clifford “Rip” Rippetoe, president and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation.
He added, “The DAS will amplify mobile broadband coverage throughout the facility, eliminate dead spots, improve reliability in areas with heavy demand and increase network capacity.”
As part of the DAS improvements, Smart City also installed a two-way radio system throughout the convention center that allows communication anywhere in the facility.
“Not only does this improve the convention experience for the people who attend events at our facility, but we’ve been able to improve our own internal communications to provide a higher level of support to our clients,” explained Karen Totaro, SDCC executive vice president and general manager.
San Diego City Councilmember Chris Ward applauded the enhancement to the center, citing it as one more amenity that makes San Diego even more attractive as a conventions and meetings destination.
“This convention center is able to bring about 900,000 visitors to San Diego every year to experience the wonders we have here as a city and as a region,” Ward said.
He continued, “We certainly hope the upgrades we are celebrating here today will make it even more inviting to have people come and use this facility.”
The installation of the new DAS system at the SDCC is just one of several technology upgrades Smart City Networks has recently completed as part of its continued mission to deliver a better digital experience to convention centers across the country.
“This project wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration of everyone involved,” said David Langford, vice president of technology for Smart City Networks.
He added, “We had to work hand-in-hand for two years to complete this – but everyone made it happen.”
Watch a video of the special ribbon cutting event marking the completion of the SDCC technology project here.
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.
Add new comment