Wireless delays likely at inauguration

17.12.2008
Spectators attending the presidential inauguration of on Jan. 20 in Washington should expect some delays when making calls on their cell phones, according to the major industry group representing wireless network carriers.

The association, known simply as the CTIA, issued a statement Tuesday noting that despite millions of dollars in spending by major carriers to increase wireless network capacity along the parade route and the national mall, wireless voice calls and text messages might be blocked or dropped.

Despite the preparations, "there is only so much [carriers] can do with the [wireless] spectrum and sites available to prepare for what could be an unprecedented occasion," CTIA President Steve Largent warned in the statement. "There will likely be some delays."

Spokesmen for two of the major carriers gave a slightly more optimistic outlook, however, noting they have been making preparations to boost network capacity for many months.

"We're ready. We know how to do this. We know how to provide service for mega events," said Mark Siegel, a spokesman for AT&T Mobility, noting successfully handled both of this year's national political conventions as well as the funeral of former President Ronald Reagan in June.

, a spokesman for , said the crowd size will be a major factor in the number of disruptions to wireless networks. Various government agencies and media reports have put the expected crowd at 2 million to 4 million people, he noted, based largely on the record-breaking voter turnout and interest in the election.