When thousands of fans fill the seats, stadiums and arenas become more like mini-cities. Sporting events require staff to cook the hotdogs, fix the plumbing, assist guests and keep the peace. Facility and event managers behind the scenes need to keep everything running smoothly so fans can enjoy the game without distractions.
Historically, analog two-way radios (walkie-talkies) have been the technology of choice for sports venues, but lately more stadiums and arenas are upgrading to digital radio networks.
Key reasons that digital technology improves operations:
- With Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA)protocols, digital radios can deliver twice the efficiency of traditional analog units, because two conversations can occur simultaneously on a single channel without the two groups interfering with each other.
- Digital radios use technology that clarifies the human voice and helps tune out the roar of the crowd.
- Clearer communications save time during medical emergencies, security incidents and other critical situations when precious seconds count.
- Digital radios offer greater security with built-in encryption.
- Digital devices generally offer longer battery life because digital voice transmission requires less power than analog.
- Digital radios can streamline operations, increase staff productivity and reduce operating costs with GPS tracking and automated alerts that optimize resources.