Cobo Center Invests in Additional $2 Million Technology Upgrade 

June 16, 2017

Detroit’s Cobo Center is working to stay ahead of the event technology curve by investing an additional $2 million in a network upgrade to support its 10-gigabyte (Gb) broadband offering. 

The work includes the installation of 60 intermediate distribution frames (IDF) throughout the convention center that will reinforce and enhance the 10Gb broadband network now offered to Cobo Center customers. 

“We are creating a network that will accommodate the largest technology power-using events in the industry,” said Claude Molinari, general manager of the Cobo Center, the 17th largest convention center in the U.S.

He continued, “We are particularly going after e-sports events and trade shows with augmented reality or virtual reality exhibits, expecting them to be a wave of the future.” 

Cobo’s broadband supplier is Rocket Fiber, Detroit’s newest broadband company that boasts the fastest Internet in the world.

The company created a hub on Cobo Center’s property during the initial build-out of its fiber infrastructure, much of which is trenched along the new QLINE streetcar system that became operational in downtown Detroit on May 12.

The Cobo hub will create a fiber pipeline into the facility that will offer 10Gb broadband, enough for any high-tech event in operation currently.

The increased number of IDFs will allow for a more complex, flexible and robust system that is fully customizable to meet the needs of any event.

In addition, bandwidth usage up to 40GB is now built into the system for future adaptation. 

“Our Technology Services Department is an area that will always require ongoing upgrades,” said Larry Alexander, chairman of the Detroit Regional Convention Facility Authority, the governing body of Cobo Center.

He added, “We are constantly analyzing the industry for current trends and making every needed adjustment to stay ahead of the curve.” 

Recent technology upgrades at the center also created a captive Wi-Fi portal that provides the opportunity for events to have a custom splash page that can be sponsored, creating new revenue opportunities for show managers.

The entire Cobo Center network is supported with full redundancy to allow maintenance on the system without any interruption to service. 

“With the recent upgrades, our Technology Services Department can now customize a network for the most tech-hungry events on the planet,” Molinari said. “We are ready to welcome events and visitors to the future in Cobo Center.” 

For more information about Cobo Center’s technology services, go here

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.