CHICAGO, Oct. 8, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — ExteNet Systems today announced live wireless service via a national wireless carrier on its distributed network at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) to enhance the museum's guest experience. MSI is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere and a Chicago landmark.
"The Museum of Science and Industry's building was first designed and built as the Palace of Fine Arts building for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition," said Austin Pope, Director of Information Technology at the Museum of Science and Industry. "More than a century later, our guests have increasingly more sophisticated ways to stay connected and digitally share their visit with their friends and family. We selected ExteNet based on its experience building and managing distributed networks, and ability to implement a flexible system without impacting the aesthetics of our historic building."
Since the initial deployment of 3G networks, and subsequently 4G LTE networks, high-traffic buildings and venues are increasingly faced with challenges in mobile connectivity. To enhance the guest experience, MSI worked with ExteNet to deploy multiple, discreetly mounted antennas throughout the historic building, helping lead to better mobile communication functionality for both the museum and its guests.
"Because smartphones account for 70 percent of mobile phones today, elevating the need for network connectivity, the Museum of Science and Industry wants to deliver a superior mobile experience to its guests," noted Ross Manire, President and CEO of ExteNet. "ExteNet is pleased to have enabled advanced and highly reliable mobile connectivity to the guests that are on a national wireless carrier's network. We have designed our distributed network to support additional wireless carriers in the future to ensure superior cell reception and uninterrupted access to the mobile web to supplement exhibits."
The 610,000 square-foot MSI typically hosts 1.4 million guests per year, and with the dramatically improved access to its new wireless distributed network, guests will have even more opportunities to enjoy and share their experiences.
About ExteNet Systems, Inc.
Lisle, Illinois-based ExteNet Systems, Inc. designs, builds, owns and operates distributed networks for use by wireless carriers and venue owners in key strategic markets. Using distributed antenna systems (DAS), small cells, Wi-Fi and other technologies, ExteNet deploys networks to enhance coverage and capacity and enable superior wireless service in both outdoor and indoor environments. Primary markets addressed by ExteNet include outdoor distributed networks in a variety of densely occupied or heavily traveled settings, and a host of indoor verticals, including sports and entertainment venues, the hospitality industry, commercial buildings, and healthcare facilities. For more information, please visit www.extenetsystems.com.
"ExteNet®" is a registered trademark of ExteNet Systems, Inc.
About Chicago Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI), one of the largest science museums in the world, offers world-class and uniquely interactive science experiences that inspire inventive genius and foster curiosity. Through groundbreaking and award-winning exhibits that can't be found anywhere else, to Live Science Experiences that make you the scientist—a visit to MSI is where fun and learning mix. Through its Center for the Advancement of Science Education (CASE), MSI offers a variety of student, teacher and family programs that make a difference in communities and contribute to the Museum's larger vision: to inspire and motivate children to achieve their full potential in science, technology, medicine and engineering. Come visit and find your inspiration! MSI is open 9:30–4 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Extended hours, until 5:30 p.m., are offered during peak periods. The Museum is supported in part through the generosity of the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, find MSI online at msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414 or (800) GO-TO-MSI outside of the Chicago area.
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