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Paycor Stadium Delivers Record-Breaking Wi-Fi for Fans

CHALLENGE

From watching instant replays on their phones, engaging in social media, checking the status of other games, or even ordering food from their seats, fans expect to stay connected while watching their favorite team. To provide this level of fan experience, the Bengals engaged altafiber and CBTS to engineer and build a fiber-enabled Wi-Fi network that supports the growing connectivity demand of fans. However, the unique architecture of the stadium presented challenges in handling massive amounts of bandwidth necessary for the high number of concurrent users.

ENTER M S BENBOW

Large public venues (LPV) provide unique challenges in engineering. CBTS engaged MSB, a long-time partner, to design and implement both the LAN and Wi-Fi networks within the venue. MSB also managed the construction and commissioning of the HPE Aruba  Networking Wi-Fi 6 MU-MIMO-enabled access points, which were chosen for their seamless connectivity in LPVs. The new design included more than 1,600 access points, including 1,100 deployed in the stadium seating bowl.

To support the new access points within Paycor Stadium, the Bengals deployed a 40GbE network core that delivers the fastest Internet speeds possible for fans. Post implementation, CBTS and MSB provided game-day support to ensure the system worked as designed, ensuring customer expectations were delivered.

In addition, Palo Alto Networks firewalls provided predictable throughput for the high volume of traffic while protecting the Wi-Fi infrastructure.

RESULTS

Paycor Stadium now delivers a world-class Wi-Fi network that allows fans to engage and connect in record-breaking numbers. Take a look:

  • A 76% increase in unique device connections per game.
  • A 436% increase in maximum data rate, with average peak data rates reaching 10.7Gbps.
  • A 230% increase in data volume per game averaging 8.5TB transferred per game, with 12.8TB transferred during Sunday’s playoff game.
  • Playoff game traffic soared to 22.3Gbps, breaking the NFL’s previous record of 20.7Gbps.

“Paycor Stadium delivers a world-class Wi-Fi network that fans are using to the fullest extent. [The] record numbers and the growth we’ve seen all season emphasize the Bengals’ commitment to ensure everyone in the stadium has access to high-quality, fast and reliable internet using the latest Wi-Fi technology.” Elizabeth Blackburn, Bengals Director of Strategy and Engagement, “Paycor Stadium Sets Wi-Fi Record During Bengals Playoff Game” Cincinnati Bengals News

 

Portions of this article were first published, March 24, 2023, on cbts.com. “Cincinnati Bengals contract with CBTS for stadium wireless implementation”

Chase Center

As a trusted partner, M S Benbow & Associates (MSB) was chosen to lead the design, execution, and startup of the installation, making MSB’s responsibility as vital as the technology itself. Leveraging technology from Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company, the network represents a new standard of excellence for both arena visitors and owners/operators. 

But MSB didn’t just build today’s state-of-the-art network: Chase Center is designed to anticipate and integrate new emerging technologies. Here are just a few innovations involved in creating this cutting-edge, high-performance, high-density wireless and converged network: 

  • Nation’s first arena under-seat antenna deployment, which enables the highest density of capacity in network architecture while greatly streamlining maintenance. 
  • Wayfinding technology that leverages Bluetooth architecture that engages visitors from the moment they arrive for an optimal experience. 
  • Kiosk ordering for concession areas to boost sales and reduce customer wait times. 
  • Top-of-the-line security allowing coaches and players to communicate without interference 
  • Support for sophisticated location-aware marketing strategies. 
  • Broad-based suite of network services to support building operations, from sound and lighting control to A/C and physical security. 

Technology experts would marvel at the complexity of this converged network solution and its elegant integration of core networks, switches and routers, firewalls, and extremely diverse hardware and appliances. The bigger story is how this synchronized network removes the distance between Chase Center’s owners and visitors – allowing for a seamless exchange of value in this extraordinary and beautiful new San Francisco landmark. 

CHALLENGES: VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE

The timeline on the implementation phase of the project – 6 months from start to completion – posed almost as big a challenge as the technology. However, that was just one that presented itself. 

More than 800 Aruba 6 access points had to be installed to provide connectivity to the entire campus, including the parking garage and Thrive City – the 3-acre plaza where people could gather 365 days a year. Concrete barriers and reconfiguration of the bowl to support a diverse set of events were also obstacles the network would need to get around.

M S Benbow and Associates Chase Center San Francisco

More importantly, how could the role of Wi-Fi not only enhance that fan experience, but underscore the seamless, reliable operations in a very dense environment with a large mass of digital activity? 

In addition, once the arena opened to the public, the technology had to be fully executed and tested also within a limited period, but with the addition of a now active venue. 

SOLUTIONS WEREN’T JUST INNOVATIVE – THEY WERE INSPIRING!

MSB provided engineering solutions and a design that was intentional, and that has positioned the arena as a model of possibilities. The opening weekend the San Francisco Symphony and Metallica were set to entertain 18,000 fans at the Chase Center’s inaugural event, and did they ever…

M S Benbow and Associates Chase Center San Francisco

MSB’s innovative design solution for the converged network system included using 1,728-strand fibers to maximize capability and support new technologies. In all, the network infrastructure boasts 600 miles of fiber optic cable for the network backbone, 300 miles of copper cable and 30 network closets to support all systems and applications requiring IP data connectivity, including Voice over IP (VoIP)-enabled wireless, cellular DAS, HD streaming and audio operations. 

The network hosts a 20-GB fiber-linked network providing enough bandwidth to support high-volume multi-media guest experiences and location services throughout the venue and surrounding 11-acre district.

The 800 Aruba 6 access points (APs) each accommodates Wi-Fi connectivity for approximately 75 devices. The key was placing the access points as close to the devices as possible, especially within the bowl of the arena. The solution: Place the APs in secure boxes under the seats so the fans are right on top of them. Literally! 

An added perk to the level of connectivity was the display capabilities of the largest scoreboard in the NBA (coming in at 82-ft-9in x 52ft-8in or 9,699 square feet). The first of its kind, the scoreboard can show data and stats normally only seen by those viewing a game from home.

M S Benbow and Associates Golden State Warriors Chase Center

CONCLUSION 

Our goal was the deployment of a best-in-class high density wireless network with a robust, converged wired network at the largest and most complex venue technology project of its kind in scope, size and network capability. MSB provided engineering, project management, construction and programming services for the fully integrated converged network system providing seamless connectivity to Golden State Warriors and Chase Center guests. In addition, MSB interfaced with more than 30 different stakeholders from the Architects to General Contractors. 

Connectivity for the Tribal Gaming Industry

When a large tribal nation looked to invest in upgrading their network, they deliberately searched for a telecommunications engineering innovator. And that is exactly what they found in M S Benbow. Applying vast experience connecting large public venues and deploying the latest digital technologies for tech-savvy consumers, MSB brought their A-game.

MSB designed and executed a massive wireless network expansion with a combined Wi-Fi capacity of more than 130,000 users at the three casinos. Building on its relationships from previous marque entertainment complex projects, MSB partnered with Tier 1 technology company Aruba, a partner that has deployed high-density wireless networks and wayfinding systems for leading-edge facilities such as Chase Center, Vivint Smart Home Arena, and Saratoga Racecourse. Better still, this new state-of-the-art infrastructure project delivered on all three of the Choctaw Nation’s desired outcomes: quality, cost, and performance.

At the gaming property, MSB designed and deployed a BLE beacon pathway incorporating some 350 beacons throughout the gaming floor, shops and restaurants, as well as adjacent hotel towers. The new wayfinding system now provides guests with seamless location services to navigate the entire resort property and frees up employees’ time by directing customers throughout the sprawling facility.

MSB’s high-performance, high-density wireless network and location services system delivers leading-edge solutions for this tribal nation’s gaming properties, including:

  • High-density Wi-Fi capacity to allow over 130,000 concurrent visitors across three separate properties
  • Wayfinding technology that integrates emerging technologies to leverage Bluetooth architecture and provide location services on the gaming floor and resort towers
  • 1,590 Wi-Fi access points across three facilities, including a 3,000-seat theater

This project provided a unique set of challenges. Namely, all three projects were to be completed in the fast-paced, 24/7 world of casino operations. There was also the not-so-small obstacle of COVID-19 and social-distancing requirements.

The meticulous delivery and utter success of this leading-edge wireless network and BLE system have helped establish an ongoing relationship between MSB and the tribal market. Along these lines, MSB has since been awarded a Wi-Fi network deployment project for the world-class, $500 million expansion of a leading tribal nation gaming facility that will add 1,000 guest rooms, more than doubling the number of rooms in the process. The project also expects to increase the gaming floor by 80%. Upon completion in 2021, this will be the largest casino in the world and its Wi-Fi network will be twice its current capacity with the ability to serve 128,000 guests simultaneously.

Services Provided:

  • RF & Network Design
  • Technology Consulting
  • Wi-Fi Network Design & Engineering
  • Hardware Procurement
  • Project Management
  • Construction Management
  • Beacon Network Integration
  • PCP Server, DNS, and Firewall Configuration
  • Testing, Optimization & Commissioning
  • System Maintenance

 

James Madison University Atlantic Union Bank Center

The Atlantic Union Bank Center, which opened in fall 2020, ushers in a new era of JMU basketball, women’s indoor sports and numerous other university and community events, such as commencement, concerts, trade shows and more. To meet the high-speed needs of students and fans, the university had planned for a commercial ISP to support the arena’s Wi-Fi network, but the price came in substantially over budget. That’s when MSB put the pedal to the metal and found a more economical way to serve the high-capacity needs of the venue.

MSB originally searched for a way to tie the arena to the wireless network on campus but found this solution would put a strain on the IT staff and could potentially create issues with campus network security. Instead, MSB reached out to Apogee, the managed services technology partner currently providing internet ISP and cable television to JMU’s dormitories. The MSB and Apogee teams discovered Apogee’s backhaul could connect its server across the campus via fiber cabling, enabling the university to deploy sophisticated infrastructure while minimizing costs and complexity.

MSB spent an extensive period of time engineering a network design to fit the university’s budget and achieve its objective of reliable, first-class wireless coverage for students and public guests of the new arena. In the process of identifying a solution, updating the contract and negotiating the network expansion with Apogee, MSB determined that JMU could upgrade their planned Wi-Fi 5 network to next-generation Wi-Fi 6 design, future-proofing the arena’s Wi-Fi network for the same cost called for in the contract. As a result, the Wi-Fi system is now able to achieve greater coverage and faster speed for streaming video, voice calls, internet, and wireless ticketing.

The process put their project two to three months behind schedule, but opening day didn’t change. MSB completed the entire network installation, from build out to commissioning, in just under two months to meet the contract deadline.

MSB provided drafting and design, technical consulting, vendor coordination, project controls and construction, and project management for the project. MSB will be on site supporting seamless Wi-Fi coverage when fans step into their brand-new arena at full capacity and will provide ongoing maintenance and technical support to continue to achieve seamless coverage to meet their wireless demands.

Engineering A Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) Offloading Terminal

While MSB’s initial task was the design of the instrumentation and control system, our expanded role entailed an assessment of all the vendors’ products and services involved to ensure performance, availability, and safety targets were met while controlling overall project cost.

As a vendor-neutral company, MSB’s scope expanded to help define and implement how some of the vendors’ products would work within the plant’s existing infrastructure. The integrated multi-discipline engineering team assessed the technologies, systems, vendors, process knowledge and greenfield location to deliver the best possible solution along with anticipating future needs. One of the primary challenges was integrating the new system into the existing plant infrastructure to assist plant operators in the offloading process.

MSB’s team of engineers and designers assisted in developing the feasibility study, FEED analysis and cost estimates to evaluate the practicality of the construction. MSB also delivered detailed design, equipment and materials specification, FAT execution, installation/construction support, and start-up and commissioning services.

Greenfield Assessment

M S Benbow carefully assessed the unique benefits of a Greenfield project – the ability to explore state-of-the-art assets, systems, and processes; connectivity and IIoT or smart solutions – all with an emphasis on improving safety and availability. The benefits of a well -defined design cycle helped not only to improve performance but also minimized operator error by automating some processes that typically required operator intervention.

Because the client had never completed a project of a similar nature, M S Benbow helped to evaluate from an operation and maintenance standpoint what the ideal approach would be for the project in its entirety. Within the entire design cycle, M S Benbow approached the project by assessing the ongoing and iterative improvements they could make in the design process to ensure the most successful solution.

Ensuring Safety and Reliability

Offloading, storing, and transporting LPG safely is critical at all stages of production, distribution and consumption. MSB has helped our client for the past 15 years to upgrade the plant’s storage tank instrumentation and controls infrastructure, providing overfill protection and enabling plant operators to assess tank capacity. Utilizing the existing network infrastructure and control parameters in place at the facility, MSB was able to plan effectively for the new demands of offloading vast amounts of product and integrate the newly created designed system seamlessly.

Delivery and Future Plans

To meet the ambitious construction timeline, MSB provided staged design package deliverables while construction was underway. MSB also tapped its team of seasoned engineers midway through the project to re-engineer the LPG railcar skid vendor’s automation controls from a multi-PLC simplex design to a single TMR Fault Tolerant alternative.

Completed in 11 months, the project was successfully delivered on time and within budget.
Whether a new control system installation, expansion or a need to explore technical obsolescence of your existing control system, our experts offer a vision of how your experts offer a vision of how your instrumentation and control systems could evolve and improve in years ahead.

Liberty University

Liberty is the largest university in Virginia and has a record of being tech-forward and implementing one of the most progressive on-campus Wi-Fi and mobile strategies in education today.  Already staffed with a sophisticated IT department, Liberty chose to hire the M S Benbow team for their deep and broad experience in implementing Aruba HD Wi-Fi networks in large public venues that must support massive event-day peaks in demand.

MSB was responsible for designing a cutting-edge converged wireless network that provided a rich and engaging fan experience for the larger crowds now expected at the Liberty Flames football games.  This massive design and build project was completed in less than a year and features:

  • High-definition streaming video and Wi-Fi calling for 25,000 spectators.
  • Future expansion and deployments such as location-based services to further enhance the fan experience.
  • Planned integration of all 11 of the university’s large public venues, including baseball and softball fields, an indoor track, and a natatorium.

The move to Division I football represented a heightened opportunity for Liberty University: high performance, high risk, high visibility and high payoff.  In developing this high-technology venue, Liberty ignited their sports fans, empowered their students, and positioned Williams Stadium as a sought-after venue for events of all kinds.  Using sophisticated technology as a brand differentiator in the 21st century is a winning strategy in Division 1 and beyond!

TechTalk: How WeConnect Fans, Teams, Owners and Venues.

MSB responded to Liberty’s need for blazing speed and network upgrades. MSB created a system that was efficient to construct and adaptive to future technologies.  A perfect and innovative example is the 624 under-seat wireless access points that deliver a distributed, strong Wi-Fi signal throughout Williams Stadium while remaining virtually invisible to fans and students.  MSB’s design also accounted for the University’s investment in existing infrastructure, seamlessly integrating and leveraging legacy systems and investments. Project management was a critical component to the project’s success in tandem with hardware integration testing, commissioning, and optimization.

Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) Rail Unloading Facility

On behalf of a longstanding client in the oil & gas downstream market, MSB’s Instrumentation & Controls division delivered process design, detailed engineering, project engineering and project management services for a Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) rail-unloading facility construction project at a New Orleans area refinery. The project expands the refinery’s product distribution by converting industrial greenfield land into a fully-commissioned LPG rail terminal with four railcar loading/unloading towers designed for future vapor recovery capability. MSB’s team of engineers and designers assisted in developing the feasibility study, FEED analysis and cost estimates to evaluate the practicality of the construction. MSB also delivered detailed design, equipment and materials specification, FAT execution, installation/construction support, and start-up and commissioning services. To meet the ambitious construction timeline, MSB provided staged design package deliverables while construction was underway. MSB also tapped its team of seasoned engineers midway through the project to re-engineer the LPG railcar skid vendor’s automation controls from a multi-PLC simplex design to a single TMR Fault Tolerant alternative. Completed in 11 months, the project was successfully delivered on time and within budget.