SuiteLinq and Ruckus Wireless have completed the first successful test of video content and internet connectivity service delivery

SuiteLinq and Ruckus Wireless have completed the first successful test of video content and internet connectivity service delivery in a hospitality environment using 802.11n Wi-Fi technology. SuiteLinq, Inc., a provider of multimedia interactive, broadband, and on-demand solutions for hospitality and extended-stay environments installed the solution in one of its Atlanta, GA, properties as a proof-of-concept for a current client, a major hotel and restaurant brand.

Working with solutions provider, Ruckus Wireless, the testing used the new Ruckus ZoneFlex(TM) 7962, a dual band 802.11n Wi-Fi access point with dynamic beamforming and four MediaFlex(TM) 71111 802.11n (5GHz) Wi-Fi receivers. This solution was used to transmit (unicast) three HD (MPEG-2) IP-based VOD (Video-On-Demand) streams, each at a data rate of 20 Mbps, and two standard definition IP-based VOD streams to five guest rooms. Testing was conducted using the SuiteVOD(TM) solution powered by InfoValue and Nighthawk Systems. In addition, high-speed Internet access was delivered to four different laptops simultaneously as part of the test.

For new hospitality properties, the benefits of this development include eliminating extensive cabling, providing greater flexibility to deliver services anywhere, anytime throughout the property, and minimizing disruptive retrofitting after the hotel is in operation. It also gives hotels the ability to deliver IP video, digital signage, and other value-added services in public areas on demand.

“Smart Wi-Fi can help eliminate many of the cabling infrastructure challenges that we face in delivering our IP based VOD solutions,” states SuiteLinq’s President, Craig Ziegler. “A Smart Wi-Fi implementation can also expand the base of services that can be delivered — allowing hotels to flow new services over a reliable wireless network. It’s a great way to efficiently position the property for the future of converged digital services delivery.”