A Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is a network of spatially separated antenna nodes that are connected to a common source via a transport relay that provides wireless service within a geographic area or structure. These systems have the ability to greatly enhance data connection signals, which are often used for communication channels within a building or designated area. Boosting signal networks improves connectivity, which leads to a more secure and safer environment.
For example, First Responders must be able to maintain communications throughout a property in an emergency situation. Whether they are responding to a fire, medical emergency or domestic threat, they cannot be in a situation where their radios stop working. It is essential that their communication devices continue to transmit a stable and reliable signal, especially in hard-to-reach areas, such as stairwells, elevators, basements and thick-walled or shielded areas. Newly-built LEED-certified buildings with low-E glass often suffer from poor public-safety signal coverage due to signal attenuation caused by low-E glass.
Having poor or no mobile communication signals inside a building can be more than just inconvenient for employees and visitors of a facility. It can potentially result in dangerous or life-threatening security and safety issues. Poor signal connectivity can disrupt the first responders and public safety officers’ efforts during an emergency.
Currently, many jurisdictions require commercial buildings and municipalities to comply with NFPA or IFC regulations in order to grant the building an occupancy permit. Poor mobile/Public Safety communications are more common in structures like:
- Hospitals
- Stairways
- Basements
- Midsize to Large buildings
- Stadiums
- Airports
- Shopping malls
- Hilly areas
- Tunnels
You may be wondering if your current building or facility meets these coverage requirements. Coverage generally must be tested according to a “20 grid” or “40 grid” process. In grid testing, each floor of a building is split into 20 or 40 sections, and each section is tested using a public safety radio to ensure that there is connectivity and that the signal meets minimum downlink and uplink requirements.
We Offer Free Public Safety Grid Tests*
At Teksys, Inc. in Houston, we value the safety and security of our clients and customers. Our goal is to ensure that your building meets the necessary compliance requirements for connectivity. This is why we offer Free Public Safety Grid Tests to determine what DAS solutions work best for you.
*Grid Test Reports that are to be submitted to your local Public Safety Authority will be charged depending of the complexity of the facility.
