Public Safety DAS
The importance of public-safety communications is at an all-time high.
How many disasters, attacks and other critical situations do we hear about on the news every day? In every one of those situations, the outcome is often determined by how well first responders can communicate with one another and with people inside of the building. First responder communication occurs over the VHF/UHF/700/800 MHz frequency bands. The same factors that block cellular signal in a building can cause interference for the 2-way radios and other critical and other critical communication tools used during emergencies.
In response to communication issues following 9/11 and concern for public safety, Congress created FirstNet with a mission to develop, build and operate the nationwide, broadband network that equips first responders to save lives and protect U.S. communities.
Building and fire codes are being revised and updated to include DAS technology as a viable
extension of the public-safety communications network indoors. Many jurisdictions have already passed strict rules for new and existing construction.
The public-safety issue also circles back to cellular signal. First responders can only respond to an emergency if they know it is happening. An estimated 80% of 911 calls originate from inside of a building. If cell signal is blocked, it causes a safety hazard for everyone.
Our Process
At Advanced Telecom Systems, we follow a detailed and thorough process to ensure each public safety DAS solution is tailored specific to the building and authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements. Our process is all follows:
Site Survey: The first step in installing a DAS is performing a site survey. This involves assessing the structure and layout of the building, as well as evaluating the current cellular signal strength and quality. This helps to understand the coverage requirements and the challenges that need to be addressed.
System Design: Based on the information obtained from the site survey, a DAS design is created. This outlines where antennas, cabling, and other components will be placed to achieve optimal coverage. The design also includes the type of technology and frequencies the system will support.
Regulatory Approval: Before proceeding with the installation, it may be necessary to secure approval from relevant authorities or carriers, particularly if the DAS is intended to support multiple cellular service providers.
Installation: Once the design is finalized and approvals are secured, the installation process begins. This includes installing antennas at strategic locations, laying down the cabling, installing the central hub, and setting up any necessary signal boosters.
System Testing and Optimization: After the system is installed, it needs to be tested to ensure it's functioning properly. This might include checking signal strength in various parts of the building and making adjustments as necessary to optimize performance.
Maintenance and Monitoring: After the system is operational, ongoing maintenance and monitoring are essential to ensure the DAS continues to provide strong, reliable coverage. This might involve regular system checks, performance analysis, and timely upgrades or repairs as needed.
Enhanced Communication: Emergencies require reliable and effective communication among first responders. A Public Safety DAS ensures that firefighters, police officers, medical teams, and other emergency service workers can communicate seamlessly, even in buildings or areas with weak signal strength.
Code Compliance: Many jurisdictions have regulations that require buildings to have a Public Safety DAS in place to enhance emergency communications. Buildings that fail to meet these standards might face legal penalties or even be denied occupancy permits.
Coverage in All Areas: Some areas of a building, like basements, elevators, stairwells, or areas with thick concrete walls, can be notorious for poor signal strength. A Public Safety DAS is designed to provide reliable coverage in these difficult-to-reach areas, ensuring that first responders can maintain communication at all times.
Reliability in Power Outages: Public Safety DAS typically have backup power systems to maintain functionality during power outages, which is particularly critical during emergencies when power infrastructure might be compromised.
Interoperability: These systems can support the radio frequencies used by various public safety agencies and FirstNet, ensuring effective cross-agency communication during emergencies.
Why is a Public Safety DAS Important?
Why Choose ATS?
At Advanced Telecom Systems, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality Public Safety Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) services at a competitive price. As a family-owned enterprise with a legacy of service excellence, we cater to a wide spectrum of projects. From high-rises exceeding 300,000 square feet to compact offices less than 25,000 square feet, our customized solutions are meticulously crafted to fit your unique requirements.
With over two decades of industry-leading experience in the ever-evolving telecommunications landscape, our services are engineered to accommodate current and future technological innovations. Our solutions are inclusive of all public safety radio bands and we establish future-proof infrastructure that allows for efficient and cost-effective system upgrades as technology progresses.
To ensure the optimal operation of our installed systems, we offer comprehensive annual maintenance agreements, undertaking proactive measures that safeguard system integrity and performance. We are also pleased to provide complimentary quotations, and we stand ready to present a range of tailored options that align with your specific needs.
If public safety communication coverage is a challenge in your facility, please reach out to us at (866) 704-1197 or via email. Discover the difference that Advanced Telecom Systems can make to your public safety communications today.