Beijing to go Wireless for Olympic Games

Expecting a deluge of visitors during the Olympic Games in August, the host Chinese city Beijing is preparing to streamline the communications rush. 'Wireless Beijing' is an ambitious initiative to provide wireless broadband access covering 100 square kilometers in Beijing's central business district, financial areas, and Olympic venues. Azalea Networks and China’s wireless broadband operator CECT-Chinacomm Communications are supporting the effort.

Azalea Networks, a wireless network equipment and technology company, has launched Beijing's "wireless city" initiative that will support wireless services including Internet access, streaming media, intelligence services, and mobile data services during and after the Olympic Games to be held in August.

The project, consisting of approximately 1,000 Azalea broadband wireless routers and a number of video surveillance cameras supported by Azalea's network management system, will provide wireless broadband access for the gaming event. It aims to optimize the delivery of voice, video, and data for consumers over the Beijing wireless network.

The company says that the "Wireless Beijing" project will enhance the communication service level in and around Olympic venues and tourist areas alike. With the benefit of wireless broadband technology, for instance, reporters will have instant, reliable access to the network to send stories to their home offices. Visitors will have Internet access to share their experiences as they happen. Community service communications will benefit as well, including business relations and emergency services such as the police department, fire fighters, medical personnel, and other public servants.

The "Wireless Beijing" project is being carried out in collaboration with CECT-Chinacomm Communications. It’s also supported by the Beijing municipal government.

The Olympic Games will happen during August 8-24.

Photo courtesy: The Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad

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