Like most show-provided services, internet service varies greatly from show to show. Some shows are provided directly, and some are provided through an outside contractor. Regardless of who is providing, you can be assured that the forms will be confusing and that the service will be expensive.
That said, there are, of course, ways in which we can estimate your needs.
Some shows offer a dedicated wireless access, so that each device that requires it can connect to a separate wireless network dedicated for exhibitors. Typically speeds of up to 5mbps are available. If your team requires a decent internet connection for emails and browsing, this service is usually sufficient.
If you’re looking to stream video, need a 100% reliable quick connection for placing orders, or need to download large files, this service may not be for you. Costs for these access points typically range from $150 – $500 per device.
If you require internet speed and reliability that is similar to what you may have in your home or office, this is the level of service you’ll need.
This service tends to be on the more expensive side, with costs for your main line coming in anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000. From there, you’ll need to connect a rental hub, which most internet companies will provide, and which typically runs around $250. Then, for each access point/IP address, you’ll be charged about $150 plus the labor to run ethernet cables and the cost for the ethernet cables, which are typically around $50 per run.
Using the show manual, you should be able to see exactly what each level of service will cost you, or you can use our ballpark costs.
Determine the level that best suits your needs, along with the number of access points you’ll require, and multiply by the corresponding costs. Don’t forget to add your Producer’s fee on top of that, if required.
