ICT Today Special Premises Issue Oct/Nov/Dec 2025

ICT Today Volume 46, Issue 4 | Oct/Nov/Dec 2025

THE OFFICIAL TRADE JOURNAL OF BICSI ICT TODAY

Volume 46, Number 4 October/November/December 2025

WILL SPECIAL PREMISES SEE THE 46 GBPS SPEEDS WI-FI 7 PROMISES?

PLUS: + Reimagining Building Design with FMP in the Next 20 Years + Unlocking Connectivity at Sea: How Passive Optical LANs Revolutionize Cruise Ship Technology Deployments

contents 28 Troubleshooting Wired & Wireless Networks Within Higher Education and Healthcare Environments Modern network infrastructure installations in higher education and healthcare environments can face unique challenges that demand specialized troubleshooting approaches. By Steve Cowles 38 Securing ICT in Special Premises: Lessons from Underground Mines, Rail Systems, Airports, and Campuses Cyber threats to every interconnected environment are increasing rapidly. The average time for an adversary to move across a network has dropped to a record low of 48 minutes, with the fastest breakout happening in just 51 seconds. By Javier Macias 46 Unlocking Connectivity at Sea: How Passive Optical LANs Revolutionize Cruise Ship Technology Deployments Cruise ships are true feats of modern engineering, with some megaships as long as the Empire State Building is tall and carrying more than 3,000 passengers. These massive floating cities are undergoing digital transformation to meet passenger expectations for the same fast, secure, and reliable wireless connectivity and digital services they enjoy at land-based hotels and resorts. By Karen Leos

October/November/December 2025 Volume 46, Issue 4

FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT 05 Final Letter from the Board President By David M. Richards COVER ARTICLE 06 Will Special Premises See the 46 Gbps Speeds Wi-Fi 7 Promises? Today’s multi-gigabit internet plans are quickly outpacing the current speeds of Wi-Fi technology. To help resolve this problem, Wi-Fi 7, also known as 802.11be, promises data rates that are four times higher than Wi-Fi 6/6E. By Julio Petrovich 14 Building a Technology-Rich Sports Complex at Mt. San Antonio College The transformation of California’s Mt. San Antonio College’s (Mt. SAC) historic Hilmer Lodge Stadium into a modern, technology-rich sports complex stands as a benchmark for integrating advanced data, audiovisual (AV), and telecommunications infrastructure into collegiate athletics. By Joe da Silva 22 Reimagining Building Design with FMP in the Next 20 Years A quiet revolution is underway in how commercial buildings are powered, signaling it could be time to evolve from traditional power distribution. By Stephen Eaves

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SUBMISSION POLICY ICT TODAY is published quarterly by BICSI, Inc. and is sent in digital format to BICSI members and credential holders. ICT TODAY welcomes and encourages submissions and suggestions from its readers. Articles of a technical, vendor-neutral nature are gladly accepted for publication with approval from the Editorial Review Board. However, BICSI, Inc., reserves the right to edit and alter such material for space or other considerations and to publish or otherwise use such material. The articles, opinions, and ideas expressed herein are the sole responsibility of the contributing authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of BICSI, its members, or its staff. BICSI is not liable in any way, manner, or form for the articles’ opinions and ideas. Readers are urged to exercise professional caution in undertaking any of the recommendations or suggestions made by authors. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without permission from BICSI, Inc. ADVERTISING: Advertising rates and information are provided upon request. Contact BICSI for information at +1 813.769.1842 or cnalls@bicsi.org. Publication of advertising should not be deemed as endorsement by BICSI, Inc. BICSI reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to reject any advertisement at any time by any party. © Copyright BICSI, 2025. All rights reserved. BICSI and all other registered trademarks within are property of BICSI, Inc.

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THE OFFICIAL TRADE JOURNAL OF BICSI ICT TODAY

From BICSI’s Board President David M. Richards, RCDD, NTS, OSP, TECH, CT

FINAL LETTER FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

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BICSI BOARD OF DIRECTORS Board President David M. Richards, RCDD, NTS, OSP, TECH, CT Board President-Elect William "Bill" Foy, RCDD, DCDC, ESS, NTS, OSP, WD Board Secretary Luke Clawson, RCDD, RTPM, GROL, MBA Board Treasurer Peter P. Charland III, RCDD, RTPM, DCDC, SMIEEE, CET, NTS, ESS, WD Board Director Ninad Desai, RCDD, NTS, OSP, TECH, CT Board Director William “Joe” Fallon, RCDD, ESS Board Director Daniel Hunter, RCDD Board Director Gilbert Romo Board Director Mark Tarrance, RCDD, RTPM Board Director Jay Thompson, RCDD Board Director James "Jim" Walters, RCDD, DCDC, OSP, RTPM, PMP, CISSP, GICSP Chief Executive Officer John H. Daniels, CNM, LFACHE, FHIMSS, CPHIMS

As my time as BICSI Board President draws to a close, I am writing to reflect on the incredible journey we have shared over the past two years. It has been a tremendous honor and privilege to serve you, and I am filled with gratitude for your trust and support. Together, we faced challenges and achieved significant milestones. I am particularly proud of the collaboration between our volunteer members, BICSI staff and board members. This role has repeatedly reaffirmed my belief that your active engagement and commitment have kept our great association essential and relevant to the information and communications technology (ICT) industry. As we transition to new leadership, I am confident that the association is in a strong position to continue its growth. I look forward to seeing what the future holds and will remain an advocate of our mission to advance the ICT profession. There are many ways for our volunteer members to contribute to the continued success of BICSI, ranging from the numerous volunteer committees to participation as a subject matter expert content provider. Sharing your

knowledge helps educate other members and enhances BICSI's reputation as the premier global ICT industry association. The most impactful contributions often involve sharing their skills, time, and insights to build a stronger, more engaged association. As you explore this Special Premises issue, we encourage you to apply these best practices in your venues and share the outcomes with your peers. If you’d like to contribute more directly, BICSI’s volunteer committees and workgroups offer meaningful ways to influence standards, education, and guidance for complex environments like airports and stadiums. Thank you again for this rewarding experience. I wish you all the best. As always, Go BICSI!

BICSI INFORMATION Applied Intelligent Building Design.........36 OSP Micro-Certificates.............................53 BICSI Winter 2026......................Back Cover

EDITORIAL REVIEW BOARD Beatriz Bezos, RCDD, DCDC, ESS, NTS, OSP, PE, PMP Jonathan L. Jew F. Patrick Mahoney, RCDD, CDT PUBLISHER BICSI, Inc., 8610 Hidden River Pkwy., Tampa, FL 33637-1000 Phone: +1 813.979.1991 Web: bicsi.org EDITOR Dan Brown, icttodayeditor@bicsi.org

ICT TODAY NEEDS WRITERS ICT Today is BICSI’s premier publication for authoritative, vendor-neutral coverage and insight on next generation and emerging technologies, standards, trends, and applications in the global ICT community. Consider sharing your industry knowledge and expertise by becoming a contributing writer to this informative publication. Contact icttodayeditor@bicsi.org if you are interested in submitting an article.

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David M. Richards, RCDD, NTS, OSP, TECH, CT

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Will Special Premises See the 46 Gbps Speeds Wi-Fi 7 Promises? By Julio Petrovich Will we see those speeds in the real world? If so, where?

in the real world, or will they be merely marketing hype? How will Wi-Fi 7 achieve these higher speeds? Which premises will see the most benefit? After all, locations like industrial plants, healthcare facilities, schools, and public spaces are quite different from home or office environments, and the new features of Wi-Fi 7 will not apply to all of them equally. The first thing to understand is how Wi-Fi 7 expects to achieve these higher data rates. KEY FEATURES OF WI-FI 7 Many of the new features included with Wi-Fi 7 are designed to build upon those introduced by earlier Wi-Fi generations, with the primary purpose of not only increasing Wi-Fi network speeds, but also dramatically decreasing latency and enhancing reliability. Here are some of the most important enhancements being introduced with Wi-Fi 7 and how they can help achieve higher speeds:

Today’s multi-gigabit internet plans are quickly outpacing the current speeds of Wi-Fi technology. To help resolve this problem, Wi-Fi 7, also known as 802.11be, promises data rates that are four times higher than Wi-Fi 6/6E (Figure 1). The new standard, Extremely High Throughput (EHT), promises to deliver true multi-gigabit Wi-Fi throughput to both home and enterprise networks with faster speeds, better interference avoidance, and thus better performance for high-bandwidth activities like 8K video streaming, multi-gig file downloads, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and cloud gaming. Wi-Fi 7 is expected to increase maximum data rates from 9.6 Gbps to an incredible 46.4 Gbps. The promise of these new data rates raises several questions. Most importantly, will those speeds be seen

FIGURE 2: Channel allocation and widths within the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi, highlighting the UNII-5, UNII-6, UNII-7, and UNII-8 sub-bands and various channel widths. Source: NetAlly

320 MHz Channels Like a truck can carry more boxes than a sedan, bigger Wi-Fi channels transmit more data than smaller ones, increasing throughput. Thus, Wi-Fi 7 introduces 320 MHz channel widths (a total of three in the countries that allow the use of the entire 6 GHz band), which technically doubles the amount of data that can be transmitted when compared to networks using 160 MHz channel widths (Figure 2). 1.2 GHz worth of spectrum in the 6 GHz band makes 320 MHz channels possible and allows for more access points (AP) to operate in congested sites.

4K QAM With Wi-Fi 7, there is a new 4096-QAM modulation option, which enables Wi-Fi signals to embed greater amounts of data more densely when compared to the 1024-QAM supported by Wi-Fi 6/6E (Figure 3). This would be analogous to being able to pack more items into a box that was already full by reorganizing what was inside it more efficiently. This improvement allows Wi-Fi 7 devices to transmit 20 percent more data, which helps to increase throughput.

FIGURE 1: A comparison table highlighting the significant speed and performance advancements across Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6/6E, and the upcoming Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) standards, showcasing the evolution of wireless technology and its increased data rates. Source: NetAlly

FIGURE 3: Quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) and its evolution across different Wi-Fi standards, specifically showing how higher orders of QAM allow for more data to be transmitted per symbol, leading to increased data rates. Source: NetAlly

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FIGURE 4: Visualization of multi-link single-radio (MLSR) technology, showing an AP with concurrent dual radio communicating with a single 1x1 radio device across two distinct channels (Channel 1 and Channel 2). Source: NetAlly

FIGURE 6: Simultaneous transmit & receive (STR) demonstrating multi-link multi-radio (MLMR) functionality, where an AP and a device, both equipped with concurrent dual radios, communicate simultaneously across multiple channels (Channel 1 and Channel 2), improving throughput. Source: NetAlly

Multi-Link Operations (MLO) While legacy Wi-Fi provides access to multiple wireless bands, devices typically only transmit on one band. With MLO, Wi-Fi 7 devices can simultaneously connect on two bands, which allows them to make the most out of all the available frequencies (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz) by using one of three methods: • Multi-Link Single Radio (MLSR) – When using MLSR, a device with a single 1x1 radio can transmit or receive on one band at any given time (Figure 4). The device switches dynamically between bands based on congestion or interference, improving reliability without needing multiple radios. This would be similar

to changing lanes while driving along a busy highway if one lane were congested with traffic.

Multi Resource Units (RU) and Puncturing With legacy Wi-Fi, when any part of a channel (20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, 160 MHz, or 320 MHz channel widths) is being used by another device, the entire channel is unavailable. Because of this, any additional data transmissions must wait, or a different channel must be used to prevent interference. With multi RU and puncturing (blocking), Wi-Fi 7 devices will be able to make use of the parts of the channel that are not in use. This is done by segmenting a wide channel into smaller resource units, plus puncturing resource units that are not available. The goal is to improve data transmission efficiency, which helps increase speeds (Figure 7).

• Enhanced Multi-Link Single-Radio (EMLSR) – This is an improved version of MLSR. When using EMLSR, a device with a single 2x2 radio can listen in two bands simultaneously while transmitting or receiving on just one, which boosts responsiveness as the device can quickly react to traffic or interference across bands (Figure 5). This is achieved by monitoring real-time conditions on each band and automatically changing between them to avoid congestion. Similar to changing lanes while driving along a busy highway, this example would equate to selecting the lane with the least traffic.

• Simultaneous Transmit and Receive (STR) – When using STR, both bands can be used to transmit and receive data at the same time (Figure 6). This allows Wi-Fi 7 to reduce latency and achieve higher throughput by not having to switch between transmitting and receiving. In terms of a shipping analogy, this is like making package deliveries more efficient by using two trucks instead of one (one for receiving and one for delivery). In simple terms, MLO is designed to ensure data is delivered at maximum speed by aggregating data, reducing latency, and improving reliability.

FIGURE 7: Channel allocation and aggregation within an 80 MHz channel showcasing how different 20 MHz sub-channels are assigned to multiple clients using varying resource unit (RU) sizes (e.g., 26, 52, 106, 242) to optimize spectrum utilization and support multi-link operation. Source: NetAlly

FIGURE 5: The image illustrates EMLSR by showing an AP (concurrent dual radio) and a device (single 2x2 radio) communicating across two channels. Source: NetAlly

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REAL OR MARKETING HYPE? The question becomes, which of these features actually work (outside of a lab) and which of them will help improve wireless network performance in specialized premises like industrial plants, healthcare facilities, educational campuses, and high-density public spaces? Here is the reality: • 320 MHz Channels – 320 MHz channel widths can substantially increase Wi-Fi network throughput, but there are a few challenges: º Depending on the region of the world, it may only have enough space in the 6 GHz band for one 320 MHz channel. Because of the limited number of channels available, 320 MHz channels should not be used in specialized environments or premises. º APs using smaller channel widths could interfere with networks using 320 MHz channels, which will lower network throughput. Access point manufacturers could work around this issue by using multi RU and puncturing, making 320 MHz channels usable in more specialized environments (Figure 9).

• 4K QAM – This feature likely will not work in most specialized premises. The problem is that a Wi-Fi 7 device will need an SNR of 41 dBm or higher to be able to use 4K QAM, which means the client device will need to be in very close proximity to the AP. Because of this, 4K QAM modulation is expected to work well in home environments if Wi-Fi 7 devices are close enough to the home router. • Multi-Link Operations – Multi-link operations is one of the most promising enhancements introduced by Wi-Fi 7, as it has the potential to increase network speeds in specialized environments by not only aggregating data, but also by lowering network latency and increasing reliability. However, even though support for MLSR, EMLSR, and STR is mandatory for all Wi-Fi 7 APs, STR and EMLSR are optional for client devices. Because of this, Wi-Fi 7 network performance will depend on the versions of MLO supported by the devices. Additional MLO capabilities for devices could be unlocked via firmware updates. It will take time for the full benefits of MLO to reach most premises.

Using the highway analogy, multi resource units are like taking a wide highway that only allows one vehicle to drive through it at a time and then dividing that highway into multiple lanes so more vehicles can drive through it simultaneously. Puncturing (blocking) would be if an accident happened in one of the highway lanes, rather than stopping traffic on the entire highway, only the lane in which the accident happened would be blocked, while traffic continued moving in other lanes. 16×16 MU-MIMO Wi-Fi 6 introduced support for 8×8 MU-MIMO to increase the number of devices that can connect at the same time and help improve communications efficiency, and now Wi-Fi 7 is promising to add support for up to 16×16 spatial streams (Figure 8). This means that APs could use up to 16 antennas to communicate with multiple client devices at the same time or to aggregate data and increase throughput. This is potentially very helpful for environments with many connected devices. Imagine taking a 16-lane highway (8 lanes each way) and adding 16 more lanes (16 lanes each way), allowing many more cars to drive through the highway at the same time.

FIGURE 8: A 16x16 MU-MIMO router efficiently connects to and simultaneously serves 16 devices, showcasing its capacity for multi-user, high-throughput wireless communication. Source: NetAlly

FIGURE 9: Spectrum analysis illustrating primary and secondary channel overlap within the UNII-5 band, showing a 40 MHz channel using channel 45 as primary and a 160 MHz channel using PSC channel 37 as primary. Source: NetAlly

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• Multi RU and Puncturing – Multi RU and puncturing is another very promising

Wi-Fi 8 is being designed around ultra high reliability (UHR), and its main purpose will be to deliver consistent, low latency, and near-zero loss performance by achieving wired-grade reliability for mission-critical applications like AR/VR, industrial automation, and AI-driven systems—even in congested, mobile, or high interference environments. A first draft of the Wi-Fi 8 standard is currently scheduled to be ready in late 2025, with final IEEE approval expected in the second quarter of 2028. Wi-Fi Alliance certification should follow soon thereafter, and the first enterprise-grade Wi-Fi 8 APs could be available by late 2028 (with broader market adoption in 2029). All that being said, if history has taught us anything, it is that Wi-Fi standard releases often get delayed. So, it should not be surprising if 802.11bn does not get ratified by the IEEE until late 2028 or early 2029. So, what does all of this mean for Wi-Fi networks in specialized environments? Wi-Fi 8 is less about achieving higher speeds and more about increasing network reliability, especially in deployments where signal drops, latency spikes, and roaming failures are

more likely to occur. It is being designed to better support high-density environments, mobile users, and high-interference areas more efficiently. If one is planning long-term infrastructure upgrades or evaluating future-proof APs for enterprise or specialized premises use, Wi-Fi 8 will be the standard to keep an eye on. AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY: Julio Petrovitch is a product manager at NetAlly, and a certified CWNA/CWAP/CWDP/CWSP. He has worked with network design, testing and validation for more than 15 years. Throughout his career he has worked with many networking technologies including POTS, DSL, copper/fiber Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and BLE. SOURCES: 1. Intel and Broadcom Achieve First Cross-Vendor Wi-Fi 7 Demo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qh5Wl-0rsrE

LOOKING AHEAD: AN ULTRA-RELIABLE FUTURE WITH WI-FI 8 What about Wi-Fi 8 and what the future looks like? Wi-Fi 8, officially named 802.11bn by the IEEE, is the next generation in wireless networking, and it marks a big shift in priorities. Where Wi-Fi 7 focuses on increasing throughput and lowering latency, Pro Tip: Wi-Fi 7 mesh deployments will benefit the most by using STR to increase backhaul communications performance. Pro Tip: Multi RU and Puncturing could potentially help with Automated Frequency Coordination ( AFC ) as it could allow the use of wider channels in outdoor deployments by blocking the frequencies being used by other technologies (incumbents) using the 6 GHz band, thus helping to prevent interference with them.

improvement to the Wi-Fi technology that helps to greatly improve Wi-Fi network performance in high-density environments. The reason is that using RUs allows wider channels to be used by multiple client devices at the same time (lowering latency). Plus, by using puncturing techniques, Wi-Fi 7 APs have the ability to block

sections of a channel being impacted by interference while allowing the rest of it to be used by client devices.

• 16×16 MU-MIMO – Having an AP with 16 antennas may sound promising as it would help increase Wi-Fi network throughput; however, we likely will not be seeing many of them in the real world. The main reason is the form factor. One can imagine how big an AP will need to be to fit 16 antennas (or more if they are external antennas). As it is, APs with 8 antennas could be considered huge already—and what about client devices? Most client devices are expected to continue to include only 1 or 2 antennas because of form factor (e.g., limited space inside phones or tablets) and power requirements (e.g., limited battery life). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, Wi-Fi 7 is a promising new version of the 802.11 technology, and it certainly has the potential to help increase wireless network throughput in specialized environments like industrial plants, healthcare facilities, educational campuses, and high-density public spaces. But perhaps not as quickly as the marketing hype might have you think. Even though it promises data rates of up to 46.4 Gbps, lab tests show that the highest throughput for a common mobile device will be 5 Gbps. 1 Most importantly, the higher throughput speeds promised by Wi-Fi 7 are most likely to be best suited for home networks, as many of the new features introduced will not work as well in complex enterprise or specialized environments. Wi-Fi 7 will only deliver modest improvements for hospitals, universities, or factories.

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Building a Technology-Rich Sports Complex at Mt. San Antonio College

By Joe da Silva

CHALLENGES The goal was to move toward a fully integrated AV and data infrastructure that could support the immediate needs of the stadium, as well as future upgrades. While the broader campus network follows a converged architecture, the stadium’s high-resolution AV content is handled through a dedicated switching and distribution system to ensure latency-sensitive signals are transmitted without interference from general The transformation of California’s Mt. San Antonio College’s (Mt. SAC) historic Hilmer Lodge Stadium into a modern, technology-rich sports complex stands as a benchmark for integrating advanced data, audiovisual (AV), and telecommunications infrastructure into collegiate athletics. A recent $100 million renovation transformed the college's 75-year-old stadium into a state-of-the-art Olympic-class facility that seats 11,000 spectators for track, field, football, and special events. Included in the renovation was an expansive 85’ x 37’ direct view light emitting diode (DVLED) display that serves as the scoreboard and presentation videowall, a new adjoining sports complex containing coaching offices, meeting facilities, active learning classrooms, locker

rooms, weight rooms, and athletic training facilities. The 60,000-square-foot stadium complex was reimagined not only as a world-class venue for track and field, but also as a digitally enabled environment capable of supporting high-performance networking, immersive media experiences, and professional-grade broadcast capabilities. This vision required architectural and structural upgrades, as well as a complete overhaul of the stadium’s data, AV, and ICT infrastructure. This case study explores the strategic planning, design, and implementation of integrated ICT systems that power the stadium’s operations, enhance the fan experience, and support academic and athletic excellence at the largest community college on the U.S. West Coast.

FIGURE 1 : A converged network architecture can reliably carry data traffic, building automation traffic, and AV system control traffic, like the one deployed at Mt. SAC. Source: Extron

mobile broadcast production to instructional AV and remote system management. In addition, the infrastructure needed to accommodate traditional enterprise data traffic, such as email, scheduling, and file sharing. The use of a converged network allowed system control and traffic management to coexist with standard IT services on the same backbone. AV integration and commissioning were executed in seven distinct phases, organized by space classification and building level, to align with the construction schedule and ensure system readiness at each milestone. The project was a collaborative effort between Mt. SAC’s IT and AV departments, facilities management, and external consultants. This multidisciplinary team worked as a cohesive unit throughout the design, construction, testing, and commissioning phases. Together, they ensured that all components, including data services, AV systems, and control interfaces, were seamlessly integrated across the stadium and adjoining sports complex. While media signals such as video and audio are distributed via dedicated copper and optical fiber cabling at the stadium, AV system control traffic

operates over the same IP backbone as other campus services. This approach aligns with Mt. SAC’s broader strategy to unify AV and IT systems across facilities. The campus’s converged network also provides a scalable foundation for future AV over Internet Protocol (IP) deployments, an approach later adopted in the college’s aquatics and gym complex, where video and audio traffic are routed over the network. CONVERGED NETWORKING A converged network is a unified digital infrastructure where video, audio, control, and data signals are transmitted over a single, scalable network. Converged networking eliminates the need for separate cable and network systems for each signal type, significantly reducing physical infrastructure complexity and operational overhead. Modern networking protocols, multicast routing, and virtual local area network (VLAN) segmentation are used to ensure multiple traffic types can run without interference. Several features should be considered when selecting network switches for environments that support high-bandwidth media and data traffic. Non-blocking

data traffic. Figure 1 illustrates the converged network structure.

DESIGN SOLUTION The design phase of the Hilmer Lodge Stadium renovation was driven by the need to implement a unified, scalable, and high-performance ICT infrastructure capable of supporting a wide range of operational scenarios, from live athletic events and

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throughput is essential to prevent bottlenecks when multiple ports are transmitting simultaneously. Support for Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) snooping and querier functionality helps manage multicast traffic efficiently, reducing unnecessary network congestion. Deep packet buffers can mitigate packet loss during traffic bursts, while low latency switching ensures timely delivery of real-time signals. Port-level configurations also play a critical role in improving efficiency for compressed or encoded video formats, while dedicated ports to specific VLANs helps isolate traffic types and streamline management. Disabling energy-efficient Ethernet (EEE) may be advisable in latency-sensitive applications, as power-saving transitions can introduce delays. While energy efficiency is an important consideration, these options help ensure the network can support diverse applications reliably and responsively. INFRASTRUCTURE IMPLEMENTATION The team selected shielded twisted pair (STP) copper cabling for shorter runs and single-mode optical fiber cabling for longer distances. STP was used for AV signal transmission over relatively short cable runs. At the same time, single-mode optical fiber was selected for its ability to support high bandwidth over extended distances with minimal signal degradation. Optical fiber infrastructure is particularly effective in avoiding degradation caused by attenuation, crosstalk, and electromagnetic interference—issues that are more common in copper-based systems. Optical fiber was essential for long-distance connections between intermediate distribution frames (IDF) and the main distribution frame (MDF). Together, these cabling systems formed the backbone of the AV infrastructure, supporting the distribution of high-resolution signals including video, audio, and control data (Figures 2 and 3). Plenum-rated Category 6 shielded twisted pair (STP) copper cabling was implemented for shorter runs within equipment rooms, classrooms, and control spaces. To simplify installation and reduce the need for additional power supplies, the transmitters and receivers are remotely powered by the connected matrix switchers over the shielded twisted pair cable.

Copper cabling is routed through a combination of open ladder cable trays and metal conduits, depending on location and code requirements. Ladder trays provide accessible pathways for cable management in overhead spaces, while metal conduits are used in areas requiring enhanced fire protection and seismic resilience. The structured cabling design aligned with ISO/IEC 007 and ANSI/TIA-862 standards, ensuring compatibility with building infrastructure and future AV over IP deployments. The use of ANSI/NECA/BICSI 568 guidelines for telecommunications pathways between IDF and the main distribution frame (MDF) further supports the system’s long-distance signal integrity and scalability. AV SIGNAL ROUTING AND DISTRIBUTION The AV infrastructure at the stadium was designed around a modular signal routing system built on four high-capacity digital matrix switchers, two located on the first floor, one on the second, and one on the fourth. These matrix switchers are interconnected to form a unified AV backbone that spans all four levels of the facility. The first and second floor send two video feeds to the fourth-floor switcher, which also manages distribution for the third floor. In turn, the fourth floor sends two output feeds back down to the first and second floors, enabling coordinated content routing across the entire complex. The central matrix switcher, housed in the equipment room on the fourth floor, supports the stadium’s videowall, digital signage, and AV-enabled rooms on that level. The system manages a variety of video formats and enables both local and remote signal extension. AV signals are distributed over STP copper and single-mode optical fiber cabling, with optical fiber used for longer runs and STP for shorter distances. AV transmitters and receivers are compact hardware devices that encode and decode video, audio, and control signals for transport over network cabling. Typically, they are located near source devices and convert AV signals for transmission over STP or optical fiber. Receivers are typically placed near display devices or audio systems and decode the signals for playback. Many models also support control signals

FIGURE 2 : The stadium’s AV infrastructure utilizes hybrid signal distribution for reliable signal integrity and high-resolution video and audio. Source: Extron

FIGURE 3: Single-mode optical fiber cable is used for the long cable run from the control room on the complex’s 4 th floor to the scoreboard. Source: Extron

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and USB extension, making them versatile for integrated AV environments.

ensures that AV content can be distributed across indoor and outdoor spaces, including the VIP suite, terrace, and training rooms, with real-time control and monitoring available through touch panels (Figure 5). Intuitive touch panels help manage control of each operator's workstation, enabling real-time switching and monitoring of complex signal flow with ease. Each touch panel interface is integrated with a centralized control processor, allowing for synchronized management of AV sources and destinations. Broadcast feeds are carried in serial digital interface (SDI) formats, including 12G-SDI, a SMPTE standard widely adopted in professional video production environments. This ensures compatibility with high-resolution camera systems and mobile production units. AV POWER MANAGEMENT To ensure long-term reliability and uninterrupted performance, the AV infrastructure integrates redundant signal paths, standardized rack configurations, and comprehensive thermal and power management strategies. Thermal control

is achieved through active ventilation systems, including rack-mounted fans and vented enclosures, with airflow modeling used during design to prevent equipment hotspots and maintain optimal operating conditions. Power integrity is maintained via rack-mounted uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and power distribution units (PDU) equipped with surge suppression. Critical components within the signal routing backbone feature redundant, hot-swappable power modules, allowing for maintenance or failure recovery without system downtime or service calls. Surge protection is deployed across both indoor and outdoor zones to guard against voltage spikes caused by environmental factors such as heat, humidity, and lightning. While high foot traffic does not directly contribute to electrical surges, it does increase the risk of physical strain on exposed cabling and connectors, which is mitigated through secure cable management and ruggedized infrastructure design. ADVANCED VIDEOWALL AND SIGNAL MANAGEMENT An expansive DVLED display was installed to function as both the stadium’s scoreboard and its primary event presentation screen. The AV system leverages the stadium’s distributed matrix switching architecture to deliver real-time content to the videowall and other

endpoints. This setup enables operators to dynamically route live camera feeds, replays, and sponsor media with minimal latency and consistent image quality. Incoming video signals are resized to match the videowall’s native resolution, ensuring clear, high- resolution delivery regardless of source format. Signals from multiple sources are time-aligned to prevent tearing or jitter, which is critical during live broadcasts and multi-camera productions. In addition, the system automatically adapts incoming signals to the required output format, supporting a wide range of resolutions and frame rates. The scoreboard is connected via high-bandwidth optical fiber and copper tie lines that carry video, audio, control, and data signals throughout the stadium. Tie lines are permanent cabling pathways installed during construction to enable fast, reliable signal transport between key AV zones, such as the field, press box, and equipment rooms. At each tie line endpoint, broadcast panels are installed. Broadcast panels are wall or rack-mounted interface boxes that consolidate multiple AV connections. These allow external production crews to quickly connect their equipment to the stadium’s AV infrastructure. The panels were pre- terminated, meaning both the cabling and connector terminations were completed and tested prior

SEAMLESS INTEGRATION To support live event production, the AV system was designed with dedicated infrastructure for seamless integration with broadcast trucks. A set of transmitters located in a broadcast bunker feeds the fourth-floor matrix switcher, which then distributes content to lower floors via the interconnected switchers (Figure 4). This setup enables broadcast teams to inject live video feeds into the stadium’s AV system and route them to any display or digital signage endpoint. Operators can select between broadcast and videowall feeds using touch panel interfaces located throughout the facility, including classrooms, the box office, and the press box. Optical fiber tie lines and auxiliary input/output connections provide flexible, high-bandwidth connectivity for mobile production units, ensuring smooth integration with the stadium’s AV backbone. Digital signage and classroom displays are also connected to the matrix switchers, allowing videowall feeds, broadcast streams, and instructional media to be routed dynamically. The system’s flexibility

FIGURE 4: Central matrix switcher works with other matrix switchers distributed over the stadium’s four levels, including one on the second floor shown here, to select and distribute AV program content from many sources to many destinations. Source: Extron

FIGURE 5: Staff manages the AV system from control stations strategically located throughout the stadium, including this one in the press box. Source: Extron

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to installation. This ensured consistent performance, reduced the risk of field errors, and minimized the onsite labor during deployment. Now, third-party crews may send live video feeds to the scoreboard, receive audio feeds, and control cameras without rewiring or complex routing. In the press box, broadcast panels are typically used by portable production kits or smaller field units, such as camera operators and announcers. Larger mobile production trailers connect at field-level panels, where vehicle access and infrastructure are designed to support full-scale broadcast operations. AV SYSTEM CONTROL AND AUTOMATION AV system control centralizes the monitoring and streamlined operation of AV functions throughout the stadium. The system includes control processors carefully stationed throughout each equipment room, press box, classroom, and training facility. These processors communicate over IP networks and are programmed to respond to user inputs, scheduled triggers, and conditional system states. They are used for routing signals, adjusting audio levels, and switching between displays, ensuring all AV systems are synchronized and adaptable to a variety of different event types. Thoughtful consideration went into planning control logic distribution among several control

processors situated in different areas of the stadium complex to ensure there were no single points of failure that would adversely affect smooth and reliable operation. The design team also implemented network segmentation and traffic prioritization to prevent congestion and ensure reliable performance. This implementation isolates control signals using VLANs and quality of service (QoS) policies to avoid packet loss and latency issues that could disrupt AV operations (Figures 6 and 7). AV resource management software provides IT and AV administrators with a consolidated control

dashboard. Accessible via web browser on designated workstations, this interface allows staff to monitor the status of matrix switchers, amplifiers, displays, and control processors in real time. It also supports device alerts, log aggregation, and performance analytics, enabling proactive maintenance and rapid fault resolution. Remote access capabilities allow technicians to perform system resets, firmware updates, and configuration changes without needing to be physically present, streamlining operations and reducing downtime. RESULTS The renovation of Mt. SAC’s Hilmer Lodge Stadium delivered a fully integrated AV and data infrastructure built on the college’s unified network backbone. The system supports live broadcast production, instructional AV, and immersive fan experiences. The system enables seamless content routing and real-time signal processing across the stadium, ensuring synchronized delivery to the videowall and other displays. The stadium now operates as a fully digital environment, supporting simultaneous AV over IP and baseband signal workflows across interconnected spaces. The integration of AV over IP is aligned with the ANSI/BICSI 007-2024 standard for Intelligent Buildings, which provides guidelines for AV and IT system implementation over a unified infrastructure. AV system monitoring and control are centralized

through a network-based dashboard interface, allowing authorized staff to manage AV operations, monitor device status, and trigger automation routines. BROADER IMPACT The operational model established at Hilmer Lodge Stadium has inspired the design and implementation of AV systems across other major facilities on campus, including the 145,000-square-foot aquatics and gym complex. The new facility integrates 90 AV over IP endpoints across multiple venues, including the main gym, multipurpose gym, diving pool, and meeting spaces. The complex mirrors Hilmer Lodge’s stadium in its design approach. Content is routed to any combination of displays, videowalls, and digital signage systems, with resolution scaling and audio synchronization handled automatically at each endpoint. AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY: Joe da Silva is the Vice President of Marketing for Extron. He is responsible for setting and executing the company’s global marketing strategies. During his more than 30 years at Extron, Joe has headed manufacturing engineering, quality assurance, and product marketing, enabling him to apply a unique blend of engineering expertise, operational insight, and marketing leadership to his current role. His industry experience and commitment to innovation give him a unique perspective on the evolving needs of the AV industry. He can be reached at pr@extron.com.

FIGURE 6: Example of a touch panel with customized graphical interfaces in the VIP suite enables intuitive operation. Source: Extron

FIGURE 7: Multiple AV system control processors are located on all floors of the stadium complex. Source: Extron

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• More manufacturing activity : Manufacturing is ramping up worldwide according to S&P Global, and it is the most energy-intensive sector. Every uptick in production means a surge in energy consumption. 2 • An increasing fleet of EVs : As electric vehicles become more prevalent, they could drive U.S. electricity demand up by as much as 38 percent. 3 • A data center power burst : As the use of artificial intelligence increases, Goldman Sachs says data center electricity use is set to skyrocket by 160 percent over the next six years. 4 To meet these needs, the energy industry is working toward a Modern Energy Minimum, which calls for 1,000 kWh per person to be generated per year to ensure modern energy access is available for everyone. 5 How can owners meet sustainability expectations when facilities require more energy? As an industry, it continues to drive toward sustainable, net-zero facilities. Sustainability priorities are escalating as owners are pressed to lower energy consumption, reduce waste, and work toward net-zero targets.

This is not necessarily a result of regulatory pressure or corporate responsibility, but of necessity. Energy efficiency and sustainability are taking center stage as energy costs and concerns about grid reliability become more prevalent, causing owners to scrutinize every aspect of building performance. In addition, investors are increasingly demanding climate accountability, and tenants expect their working and living spaces to align with their sustainability values. When there is a growing gap between requirements on the jobsite and the workforce available to deliver it, how can projects move forward? Labor gaps threaten timelines and progress. Workforce shortages are making qualified electricians hard to find, which slows project progress. This gap has been a persistent challenge driven by an aging workforce, fewer young people choosing the trades, and more demand for new construction and renovation work. 6 As experienced electricians retire, there is not enough new talent to fill their positions. In some cases, this scarcity means available electricians are stretched too thin and working longer hours. This increases the risk of burnout and mistakes, making project delays even more common. The impact is being felt across the industry,

Reimagining Building Design with FMP in the Next 20 Years By Stephen Eaves

A quiet revolution is under way in how commercial buildings are powered, signaling it could be time to evolve from traditional power distribution. Two decades from now it is highly likely that fault

managed power (FMP) distribution will no longer be considered an upgrade or optional feature. Instead, there will be a strong demand for it in new building designs.

THE TIPPING POINT FOR POWER DISTRIBUTION: OLD APPROACHES ARE FALLING SHORT Why is this shift happening now, and why is it happening so quickly? After all, the traditional infrastructure that powers our world today has been in use for more than 130 years. In short, pressures are mounting, serving as a wake-up call for building owners: the time is now to rethink the approach to powering tomorrow’s facilities.

ELECTRICITY DEMAND IS OUTPACING INFRASTRUCTURE Electricity demands are increasing across all sectors, making it challenging for conventional electrical infrastructure to keep pace with our high-energy world. Energy use is rising for many reasons: • A growing population : By 2050, the world’s population is expected to grow to nearly 10 billion people (an increase of 2 billion in only a few decades). 1

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TIME FOR A POWER RESET Electricity evolution is long overdue. Buildings and the connected devices that control them are progressing rapidly. They are becoming more powerful and smarter as they optimize operations and efficiency. There is just one problem with this transformation, however: The AC power distribution method the world relies on is not keeping up. In fact, it has not evolved much at all since 1893. While the systems connected to them look different than those from over a century ago, the infrastructure and distribution methods behind technology are pretty much the same as they have always been, namely expensive, slow and dangerous to install, and inflexible. They are also incompatible with data. The professionals trained to work on data lines are not always qualified to work with conventional electricity systems. In 2023, the NEC adopted a new section to address FMP. This is a major indicator that FMP is becoming a more widely industry-accepted technology. Now that the NEC recognized and standardized FMP, the technology could take on power distribution for whole building design as modern facilities increasingly prioritize capabilities that conventional distribution systems are not as well-positioned to support: • Sustainability

as critical work is delayed, costs rise and building owners face uncertainty about project completion. In some areas, owners are waiting months for electrical work to be done, which creates bottlenecks that ripple through the entire industry. When electricians cannot get the components they need, what alternatives exist? Critical electrical components are being delayed. Supply chain disruptions surrounding electrical components are not going away, which further impacts project timelines. Material shortages and unpredictable lead times continue to challenge construction and manufacturing projects. This includes the equipment that electricians need to complete installations, such as transformers. In some cases, depending on the size and type of transformer needed, it can take years to receive everything required to complete a project. As many transformers reach the end of their lifespan, the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) predicts that the U.S. will need to replace up to 1.5 million of them in 2025 alone, not to mention what will be required to support new construction and expansion efforts. 7

spaces to help designers and owners optimize spaces and use their buildings in more intentional and impactful ways. By freeing up valuable real estate that would otherwise be dedicated to bulky electrical infrastructure, owners can maximize building layouts, potentially creating more usable (or leasable) area. FLEXIBLE POWER FOR EVOLVING SPACES Adaptability and flexibility are key features of modern buildings, which need to accommodate whatever occupants need and owners envision in the moment. A building designed with FMP is future-ready because an FMP system does not depend on traditional infrastructure. If the needs of occupants or the purpose of a building change, costly retrofits and infrastructure upgrades can often be avoided because with FMP, power distribution can be reconfigured with minimal disruption. This level of flexibility empowers building owners to experiment with new layouts, amenities, and technologies without the fear of being locked into legacy infrastructure. As tenant needs shift, FMP enables rapid reconfiguration of power delivery to support those evolving business models and preferences. If they change again—or if a new tenant takes over—reconfigurations can again be made more cost-effectively. FMP is also better suited to support newer technologies that are not widely deployed yet, such as virtual reality, AI-driven predictive maintenance, or quantum computing. As smart buildings continue to become more connected, FMP systems help them position for what comes next.

mechanisms. Conversely, FMP is designed to limit electrical faults to make it safer to install and operate. For example, if someone touches a live wire or a water leak is present, the system can sense the fault disruption and stop power transmission immediately, preventing injury or worse. As smart buildings move toward autonomous and adaptive operations, FMP enables proactive fault prevention to reduce the risk of dangerous situations. By continuously managing and limiting fault currents, FMP minimizes the likelihood that minor issues will ever escalate into serious hazards. This is especially critical in modern environments, where more connected devices and systems could amplify the consequences of even a small electrical fault. As intelligent buildings become more complex, the ability to maintain a consistently safe environment will remain essential, especially when maintenance is being performed. FMP enables safer access for personnel who need to complete routine work or upgrades. As the building evolves, safety can remain a constant foundation. SMALLER FOOTPRINTS FOR BIGGER POSSIBILITIES The built-in safety capabilities of FMP not only protect people, but also redefine the requirements for installing and integrating electricity into buildings. Components like circuit breakers, panels, transformers, and conduits are not necessary with FMP. Instead, receiver and transmitter units enable packet energy transfer to safely deliver significant power over significant distances. These power systems can be deployed in compact

• Efficiency • Resilience • Flexibility • Automation • Safety • Intelligence

With fewer deployment barriers, greater flexibility, and higher reliability, there are six reasons why FMP is set to redefine the future of electrical distribution in intelligent buildings. SMART POWER FOR SAFER BUILDINGS There is nothing traditional about intelligent buildings—except for their electrical distribution systems. To mitigate arc faults, electrical fires, and hazards to people and property, traditional power distribution requires complex and expensive protection

UNINTERRUPTED POWER MEANS UNSTOPPABLE OPERATIONS

With connected systems and devices acting as the command center for modern buildings, constant connections to power and data are more essential than ever. Any interruption in flow could disrupt the operation of critical systems. Consider a data center housing financial transactions or an emergency room that suddenly experiences a fault—in these environments, uninterrupted power and data are top priorities.

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