Chicomm Blog

Emergency responder radio coverage in buildings is guaranteed by WiFi and cell coverage, right?

Wrong.

Our new video explores the importance of a dedicated distributed antenna system solution for first responders and why it’s so important for developers, architects and construction crews to work with public safety in mind from the very beginning.

If you’re generally aware that a distributed antenna system can fix poor connectivity in your building but you aren’t quite clear about how the solution works, we’ve got a great whiteboard video that walks you through the process.

A distributed antenna system, also known as a DAS, is a highly effective way to instantly improve cell phone coverage and two-way radio range.

In just two minutes, the whiteboard video explains:

• What Distributed Antenna Systems Are
• Parts Contained in a Distributed Antenna System
• How DAS Solutions are Custom Built and Installed

Complying with requirements for public safety DAS, or distributed antenna systems, can be daunting for everyone involved, including the municipal officials in charge of enforcement.

Developers, contractors and building owners are looking to municipalities to offer guidance, oversee testing and ultimately give the blessing for building occupancy permits. It can be a lot of information to keep track of, especially when the stakes are so high.

For building owners and municipal officials asking and fielding questions about public safety DAS, here’s a quick reference guide to keep handy.

In April 2017, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) began a process aimed at removing barriers to wireless infrastructure deployment across the country, including improving distributed antenna system regulations.

That’s great news for everyone from municipalities to small businesses as they look at meeting the ever-growing demands of today’s connected consumers, who have little patience for poor connectivity, as well as public safety users.

Let’s take a closer look at the FCC’s efforts to improve distributed antenna system regulations. 

Connectivity problems, from cell phone dead zones, unreliable two-way radio coverage, spotty WiFi coverage – or a combination of all three – aren’t just bad for business and productivity, for public safety users, they can be downright dangerous.

If you’re facing communications challenges, it can feel as if you’re fighting a losing battle, but there are some secret – and not-so-secret – weapons you can use to improve performance, even in the most stubborn spots.

Here’s an overview of why poor in-building connectivity happens and how to fix it.

Spotty cell phone coverage and unreliable radio connectivity have never been good things, but there was a time when people used their devices for less and were more tolerant of gaps in performance. 

But as cell phones have replaced landlines and radios continue to replace cell phones, the bar has been raised on the expectation for connecting quickly and seamlessly. Add to that the explosive growth in data services such as text messaging and streaming, and it’s enough to put a strain on even the most sophisticated system.

The good news is that you don’t have to just live with poor in-building connectivity, and here we’ll take a look at some of the most effective options for how to improve cell phone coverage and radio range.