At the NCTA's INTX show in Boston, Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) is showcasing a mobile WiFi unit designed to provide outdoor wireless access. Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA), which is Ericsson's first customer for the mobile WiFi van, worked with Ericsson on the project and plans to use the vans to support community activities, sporting events and emergency response initiatives.
The customized Ford Transit 350 cargo van is outfitted with six WiFi access points - enough to serve an estimated 2,500 people attending an event. The van specifications include multiple network access connections, non-line-of-sight (NLOS) microwave backhaul, onboard backup power and modular deployment elements.
The WiFi on Wheels solution is intended to provide WiFi service without the constraint of site construction, as the van itself supports an optional wireless link for backhaul connectivity. The mobile nature of the solution allows it to bring rapid dispatch and deployment in disaster recovery situations, as well as support community events and special remote promotions, providing a coverage radius of up to 500 feet.