Barack Obama's inauguration was one for the TV ratings history books. Early numbers from Nielsen Media Research say 29.2% of households from the nation's top markets watched network coverage of the Obama inauguration - the most in recent decades. The preliminary household rating is bigger than any presidential inauguration audience in at least 28 years.

Obama was sworn into office on Tuesday, January 20, 2009, becoming the 44th President of the United States on the US Capitol steps ...and Bexel Broadcast Services was there 24/7 - weeks in advance of the ceremony.

History making television? Yes ...in more ways than one! Bexel made some real TV history of its own by providing another first - a unique communications package (for The US Armed forces Inaugural Committee) throughout the U.S. Capitol building. The Armed Forces group used the custom designed communications system to usher the President Elect, past former US Presidents, VIP's and guests from 1st floor Senate offices and 2nd floor House offices through the building, some very long hallways, and finally to the Inaugural Stage on the front steps of the Capitol.

Bexel ASG used three Telex BTR800 Wireless Intercom Systems with twelve belt packs and the one-of-a-kind Bexel ASG RF Over Fiber Antenna System.

The RF Over Fiber system is made of three hubs each with supplemental coax antennas placed to optimize coverage. The Capital building is constructed primarily of granite, marble and metal, the walls are 18 inches thick - not a very friendly place for wireless. Given the distances, conventional wireless solutions are not a viable option. Confidence was also very low that cell coverage would work due to the large volume of users on event day. Two-way radios were not an option for the production team because of the need for full duplex hands and free communication. Bexel ASG staff installed the communications system in two full days - working in close association with the Architect of the Capitol so as to not infringe on the aesthetics of the building. Bexel also worked to integrate communications channels with Maryland Sound who provided the sound system from the Capitol stage to the National Mall.

With the support of the entire Bexel Network, the Bexel ASG Herndon office processed and delivered dozens of orders over a five-week period leading up to the event.

Want to talk about it? Contact Jim Dugan - The RF Answerman HERE: jdugan@bexel.com

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