Roig Arena has picked Extreme Networks to provide end-to-end connectivity and network analytics for the new venue which is under construction in Valencia.
Computer Weekly said that in a multi-purpose arena, a robust and resilient network is seen as critical both for seamless operations.
This includes point-of-sale (POS) systems, mobile and self-service concessions ordering, staff communications and audiovisual systems, as well as fan experiences, such as social media, high-definition video streaming and mobile stadium apps.
Extreme Networks has the capacity of delivering blazing-fast, secure Wi-Fi to thousands of users and using powerful analytics to create personalized fan experiences.
Morrisville (US)-based Extreme Networks, Inc. is a leader in AI-driven cloud networking focused on delivering simple and secure solutions that help businesses address challenges and enable connections among the devices, the applications and the users.
The 18,600-capacity Roig Arena, previously proposed as the Casal España Arena, is expected to open in September. It will serve as the home base for both the men’s and women’s Valencia Basket Club teams.
The large multipurpose covered arena will be used for sporting events, as well as entertainment and corporate events. The Roig Arena project has a budget of more than €280 million.
Roig Arena is marketing itself with the tag “get ready for the extraordinary” and is intended to be in constant activity 365 days a year, transforming Valencia into “an epicentre of energy, excitement and limitless opportunities”.
It will be a space for music, sports, culture and entertainment, hosting up to 20,000 people for concerts and shows, and over 15,000 fans for the Valencia Basket Club basketball team. It will also come with large retail, hospitality and entertainment zones.
Roig Arena chief technology officer Paül Mollà said, “The partnership with Extreme Networks allows us to implement a top-tier connectivity infrastructure, in line with the cutting-edge nature of Roig Arena. The technology solution they provide will help us ensure a secure, innovative and high-quality digital experience for all users.
“We appreciate the interest shown by a company with the track record and prestige of Extreme Networks in our project, and we are confident that this collaboration will be strong and long-lasting.”
The fan experience in the stands and across the stadium is as important as the product on the field or stage, according to Extreme Networks chief commercial officer Norman Rice.
He said, “With each new innovative digital service offered in a stadium or large venue comes the need for fast, reliable and secure connectivity … blazing-fast Wi-Fi for fans to capture and share their experiences, security cameras to ensure safety, digital signage and scoreboards for replays and highlights, and the POS retail systems at concessions, among others,” said Rice.
“Roig will be one of Europe’s most technologically advanced venues and we’re excited to be a core piece of the experience they’ll provide for thousands of fans each day.”
Extreme is a proven leader in designing and deploying network infrastructure built for such high-density environments worldwide.
To meet customer needs, the venue will use Extreme’s wired and wireless solutions to deliver “frictionless” connectivity and powerful analytics to optimise performance and create personalised fan experiences.
The 6GHz network from Extreme will aim to support fan connectivity for mobile applications, digital tickets and payments, and video streaming, as well as arena operations such as mobile ordering in restaurants and entertainment venues, and security systems including metal detectors and cameras.
Built-in analytics will support data-driven decisions, allowing the Roig Arena operations teams to monitor real-time fan activity and network performance analytics to continuously improve fan experiences.
The network will support audiovisual systems to offer continuous entertainment arena-wide, delivering live broadcasts of events to screens in restaurants and retail spaces.
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