AT&T Inc. today announced it has expanded its mobile Internet coverage at Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport by completing the installation of a new Distributed Antenna System (DAS) to serve customers throughout the facility.
A DAS installation consists of several strategically-placed antennas that distribute AT&T’s wireless network coverage throughout the airport terminal, providing for more efficient management of wireless capacity in heavily-trafficked areas.
DAS has the ability to provide enhanced wireless coverage to customers in indoor or outdoor spaces where geographical limitations – terrain, building construction, etc. – or crowd density might otherwise prevent an optimal wireless experience. The additional capacity is expected to help improve call reliability.
“We want our customers to have a great network experience whatever they’re doing – whether that’s making a call, checking e-mail, downloading apps or surfing the Internet,” said Dave Fine, AT&T’s vice president and general manager for Wisconsin and Illinois. “We’re committed to our investment in the local wireless network, and providing enhanced wireless coverage at Mitchell International is just one way that we’re investing in Milwaukee.”
AT&T invested nearly $450 million in its Milwaukee area wireless and wireline networks from 2008 through 2011.
“AT&T has made it a priority to invest in places like Milwaukee because it is important for our customers to have access to the wireless technology they need to run their business or stay in touch with friends and family,” said Scott VanderSanden, AT&T Wisconsin president. “These network improvements at Mitchell Field are an example of our continued investment in Wisconsin’s economy.”
“Mitchell International is a major economic driver for Milwaukee County, bringing both business and tourism to the area,” said Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele. “We’re proud to offer lower airfares, affordable parking and overall convenience. Now thanks to these network enhancements, that experience also includes greater wireless connectivity for the nearly 10 million passengers who travel through the airport each year.”
