Los Angeles Convention Center Claims Status as First U.S. Convention Center with Permanent 5G Network
September 26, 2018
The Los Angeles Convention Center has claimed bragging rights for being the first convention center in the U.S. to permanently install a 5G wireless network.
Improving on 4G LTE that currently accounts for approximately three-quarters of total mobile connections in the U.S. (excluding licensed cellular IoT), 5G is the fifth generation of wireless internet and voice services designed to move data faster and be more responsive, dramatically increasing wireless speeds and capacity to transform services such as AI, VR and video calling.
“The establishment of 5G at the Los Angeles Convention Center will serve as a catalyst across all of Los Angeles,” said Doane Liu, executive director of the City of Los Angeles Department of Convention and Tourism Development.
He continued, “This is a significant development that will drive technological advancements in our city, reinforcing Mayor Eric Garcetti’s goal that Los Angeles will continue to be the number one digital city in the United States.”
Fittingly, the LACC’s new cutting-edge technology was officially deployed Sept. 12-14 in conjunction with the Mobile World Congress Americas (recently re-named MWC Los Angeles), a three-day conference and expo that convenes the mobile ecosystem and related industries.
“5G will transform the way billions of people consume media and entertainment on their mobile devices and the LA entertainment and mobile tech communities will be key in shaping how it will all come together,” said Reed Peterson, head of MWC Americas and global strategy, operations and corporate development for GSMA, the global trade organization for the mobile industry.
He continued, “The LACC is taking a visionary approach in deploying its new 5G network, providing next-generation capabilities for exhibitors and attendees at Mobile World Congress Americas, and many other events, well into the future.”
According to LACC officials, the more powerful wireless network will not only enable the next level of technology at the venue, as showcased at MWCA, but is also the kind of technology that can facilitate additional uses including improved Internet of Things, autonomous vehicles and smart cities.
“The 5G installation will be the legacy of MWCA at the Los Angeles Convention Center,” said Ellen Schwartz, general manager of the LACC, which is owned by the City of Los Angeles and managed by AEG Facilities.
She continued, “In addition to 5G, approximately 100 new antennas have been connected in the facility. All 4G LTE networks have been upgraded, bringing the best in wireless to future events held at our convention center.”
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Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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