Case Study: Merton College, University of Oxford - Mobile Connectivity Solution

Summary

Merton College, University of Oxford, faced severe mobile signal issues in its ancient 700-year-old building due to thick walls. UCtel implemented a complex project installing CEL-FI G41 to enhance connectivity for all major providers within the college. The solution not only overcame the structural challenges but also significantly improved signal strength and coverage, ensuring seamless communication for the college community.

The Client

Merton College, located in Oxford, is a prestigious institution within the higher education industry known for its rich history and architectural significance. With a large campus and numerous historic buildings, reliable mobile connectivity is essential for enabling effective communication among students, faculty, and staff, as well as supporting various academic and administrative functions.

The Challenges

The primary challenge faced by Merton College was the inability of mobile signals to penetrate the thick walls of its centuries-old building, resulting in poor coverage and connectivity issues for occupants. This lack of reliable mobile communication not only hindered day-to-day operations but also posed safety concerns in emergency situations, highlighting the critical need for a robust signal enhancement solution tailored to the unique architectural constraints of the college.

The Solution

UCtel's solution for Merton College involved the installation of CEL-FI G41, a cutting-edge signal boosting technology designed to amplify signals from all major providers, including VMO2, EE, Vodafone, and Three. The project required a meticulous approach due to the complexity of working within the historic building's structure. The installation process was completed efficiently in just two days, ensuring minimal disruption to the college's activities while significantly improving signal strength and coverage in key areas.

The Results

Following the implementation of UCtel's solution, Merton College experienced a substantial improvement in mobile signal quality, with users reporting enhanced connectivity and reliability across the campus. The measured results indicated a significant increase in signal strength and coverage, leading to improved communication capabilities for students, faculty, and staff. The successful project execution and the resulting positive impact on connectivity levels garnered high satisfaction from the college community, setting the stage for continued seamless communication within the historic campus.