Challenge
A prominent Southern California hospital faced significant connectivity problems due to the simultaneous operation of an outdated 10-year-old legacy Aruba wireless system and a new system, causing severe interference and unreliable coverage. Medical staff struggled with connectivity, and the guest network was inadequate. Additionally, the hospital environment required strict adherence to infection control protocols and minimal disruption to daily operations.
Solution
The project centered on upgrading the hospital's wireless network infrastructure, delivering seamless performance, uninterrupted connectivity, and enhanced network capabilities, all while adhering to rigorous technical and infection control standards.
Implementation Details:
- Updated Wireless Controllers for Compatibility and Performance: We began by upgrading the wireless controllers to ensure they were fully compatible with the new system, optimizing performance and providing a seamless foundation for the subsequent phases of the project.
- Replaced 643 Access Points (APs) with New Cat6 Cabling: In Phase 1, we systematically replaced all 643 Access Points (APs) within the hospital. Each AP was connected with two new Cat6 cables, which were selected to provide robust, high-speed connectivity and to future-proof the network infrastructure against upcoming technological advancements.
- Achieved Zero Downtime During AP Replacements: By carefully scheduling AP replacements and utilizing temporary wireless solutions, we ensured continuous network availability throughout the project, with no recorded instances of downtime or loss of connectivity during the transition.
- Improved Network Throughput and Latency Post-Installation: Post-installation testing demonstrated a significant increase in network throughput and a reduction in latency across the hospital's network, directly enhancing the performance of critical medical applications and systems.
- Met and Exceeded Infection Control Compliance Metrics: We implemented advanced containment procedures, including HEPA-filtered negative air pressure units and real-time air quality monitoring, ensuring that all work areas consistently met and exceeded hospital infection control compliance metrics.
- Real-Time Issue Resolution via Technical Liaison Team: A dedicated technical liaison team was established to provide immediate on-site troubleshooting and adjustments. This approach enabled us to resolve any technical issues in real-time, minimizing the need for follow-up visits and ensuring the project stayed on schedule.
OUTCOME
The seamless migration to the new wireless system eliminated interference issues and provided extensive, reliable coverage. Medical staff experienced significantly improved connectivity, which enhanced their operational efficiency, while the guest network saw marked improvements in reliability and performance. Our meticulous approach to infection control and effective communication with hospital staff ensured the project was executed smoothly and successfully.
Key Success Factors:
Our proficiency in operating within stringent hospital protocols and maintaining high standards of infection control was crucial. Ongoing engagement with hospital staff minimized disruptions, ensuring patient care was prioritized. Technical expertise in updating wireless controllers, replacing APs, and installing dual Cat6 cabling was fundamental to the project's success.
Through strategic planning, technical excellence, and strict adherence to healthcare protocols, we successfully upgraded the hospital's wireless infrastructure. This resolved existing connectivity issues and reinforced our commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable solutions in complex and sensitive environments.
