Why You Need DAS
In 2019, mobile communication devices are essential for both our personal and professional lives. Cell phones, pagers, two-way radio/ push-to-talk devices, smartphones, tablets, and PDA’s are now completely ingrained in the way we do business and live life. We also are reliant on these forms of communication devices for our personal and public safety in many ways as well. These devices no longer just offer a way to speak with others, either. With the advent of 4G and LTE networks, mobile devices are now connected to the internet, making them even more critical for doing business in the 21st century.
As mobile devices become more and more essential to our day-to-day lives, so does the need for a strong wireless signal. The problem is, the buildings we live and work in are not always conducive to letting in this all-important signal. This leads to poor cellular connectivity, becoming a very common problem indoors.
This can mainly be attributed to the construction material used in a building. Materials such as concrete, metal, and low-E glass materials (especially in LEED-certified buildings) can repel cellular and radio frequency signals. Also, the more devices we connect, the more voice and data multiple users use, and this can slow down or interrupt cellular performance.
All this leads to a seemingly constant state of having a low signal on your device or frequently dropped calls. And we all know how frustrating that can be!
Beyond the personal and professional frustrations, there are practical safety concerns that come with poor wireless service as well. In the event of an emergency, receiving notifications and connecting with emergency personnel is critical. As is the first responder’s ability to communicate with each other no matter where they are in a building, be it in the stairwells, elevators, underground garage, or basement.
Depending on where you are located, installing a DAS may be more than just a good idea. It may be the law. The NFPA & IFC have set regulations and work with local municipalities to certify that requirements are in place that will result in reliable and life-saving communications for emergency responders using UHF, VHF, 700 Mhz/800Mhz frequencies.
