A new solution from Vodacom will enable rugby fans visiting Loftus Versveld stadium in Pretoria to connect to a new high-density Wi-Fi network, with faster data connectivity.<\/p>\n
The solution is the first step in making Loftus Versveld Africa\u2019s first truly \u2018smart\u2019 stadium, the operator said.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs the home of the Vodacom Blue Bulls and one of the most visited stadiums in South Africa, Loftus Versveld was the obvious stadium for us to launch this project.”<\/p>\n
“Our engineers have been hard at work, installing more than 40km of fibre and more than 400 Wi-Fi access points,”\u00a0said Andries Delport, Vodacom\u2019s chief technology officer.<\/p>\n
Vodacom tested the service for the first time at the Bulls-Lions match on 2 May, “and were incredibly pleased with the result,” Delport said.<\/p>\n
Vodacom said it has implemented EAP-SIM (Extensible Authentication Protocol) technology at the stadium, representing a first in South Africa.<\/p>\n
It enables a seamless switch between radio bearers (4G, 3G, 2G and Wi-Fi), meaning that a cellphone or tablet will connect to whichever bearer has the best connection, ensuring the fastest possible data access.<\/p>\n
EAP-SIM also means that during a Wi-Fi data session it will still be possible to receive voice calls.<\/p>\n
\u201cAn EAP-SIM network offers real benefits to our customers. On top of better speeds there\u2019s no need to buy additional Wi-Fi bundles to connect to the network.”<\/p>\n
“Instead, data will be drawn directly from a customer\u2019s existing data allocation, making the connection and usage process simple. Non-Vodacom customers will also be able to buy Wi-Fi bundles to gain access,\u201d said Delport.<\/p>\n
The network, which was built by Cisco Systems, is made up of hundreds of Cisco Wi-Fi access points. Vodacom said it has plans to increase the number of access points to 700 in the future.<\/p>\n
Vodacom said it is in talks with other stadiums and public spaces, like shopping malls, to roll out the solution.<\/p>\n
Vodacom coining it on mobile device insurance<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n