Stadiums and sporting events

Wireless Network Design for a Basketball Arena

Context

WiFi design project for a basketball arena with a high concentration of users during sporting events and related activities. The connectivity had to simultaneously support spectators, press, technical staff, broadcasts, and internal venue services.

The Problem

The environment presented challenges inherent to high density and intensive use over short periods:

• Thousands of devices connected simultaneously

• Saturation in the stands during peak activity

• Interference due to proximity between access points

• Need for seamless roaming in VIP areas, press areas, and technical areas

• Stability requirements for ticketing systems and internal operations

• Photographers and reporters were unable to upload their content from the court to their FTP servers

Without a capacity-oriented design, the network could degrade during peak demand.

The Solution

A wireless design was developed based on high-density planning and predictive RF modeling, including:

• Detailed study of the venue's structure and materials

• Capacity simulation by sector and seating area

• Optimization of access point location, orientation, and power

• Specific channel planning to minimize interference

• Sizing focused on actual event attendance

The design prioritized stability during peak usage and a consistent experience for attendees and internal operations.

Results

• Stable connectivity in situations of maximum occupancy

• Significant improvement in the digital spectator experience

• Reduction in incidents during events

• Reliable support for press, broadcasts, and internal services

• Infrastructure prepared for future expansion or increased density

The project ensured that connectivity was aligned with the event experience, transforming it into a strategic element rather than an operational risk.