4 Common DAS Design Challenges & Solutions

4 Common DAS Design Challenges & Solutions

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The job of a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is to improve wireless signals in an indoor or outdoor space, essentially anywhere with an obstructed signal. Some of the most common issues related to designing a DAS include budget and time restraints, the inability to remove certain interferences, and planning for future expansion—just to name a few.

Solutions to 4 Common DAS Design Challenges

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for DAS. Buildings and venues are unique in many ways, and therefore, the appropriate system must be custom made to fit the needs of each space. The following challenges are commonly faced during the design phase. Luckily, there are solutions to help work around each issue.

DAS Challenge #1: Budget & Time Restraints

There are a variety of factors that influence the cost and time frame it takes to develop a DAS. For instance, what frequency range does the system require—Very High Frequency (VHF), Ultra High Frequency (UHF), or 700 to 800 MHz public safety? The latter is the easiest and most cost effective to construct, while VHF and UHF are costlier and more complex. No matter what, it takes time and money to install custom cabling, fiber optics, and other equipment.

The best solution is to plan for costs ahead of time by getting a free upfront quote from Highland Wireless. We offer free pre-testing of signal strength levels and a site survey. Even if your building is in pre-construction, we still offer a quote based on floor plans. Contact us today to learn more.

DAS Challenge #2: Near-Far

The near-far issue relates to a device that is operating on the DAS coverage zone, while it is serviced by a microcell tower that is not nearby. As a result, the DAS is affected because it must work overtime to transport data as the mobile device communicates with the macro network. Therefore, this creates interferences and performance issues with the DAS.

The solution is to design the DAS with this in mind, taking into consideration how much macro signal bleeding occurs in a building or at a venue. Then, create a DAS signal that is powerful enough to keep the mobile device operating on the DAS as opposed to switching back and forth between the macro system and the DAS.

DAS Challenge #3: Inability to Remove Certain Interferences

During the DAS design phase, all potential interferences must be identified and addressed. These interferences may include surrounding buildings, noise, fortified construction, and so forth. When possible, some interferences can be removed, but most of the time, the goal is to work around interferences. After all, realistically, not all interferences can be removed.

The practical solution to the problem is to detect all causes of interference. If a certain source cannot be removed or identified, the use of automatic detection and mitigation helps ensure the effectiveness of the DAS.

DAS Challenge #4: Looking Towards the Future

As technology continues to evolve and the use of mobile data increases, it’s important to look towards the future when designing a DAS so that it remains efficient over the long haul. One way to ensure this happens is to share the roadmap for growth with the designer and engineer of the DAS. This may include plans to expand, obtain more traffic flow, or increase current subscriber data. It is crucial to take the right steps towards ensuring future traffic and wireless network demands can be met by the system.

Learn more about our advanced DAS Design and Engineering services

DAS Design Considerations: Designing Efficient Distributed Antenna Systems

DAS Design Considerations: Designing Efficient Distributed Antenna Systems

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Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) are specially designed to improve wireless coverage throughout a building or outdoor venue, basically just about anywhere where wireless signals are obstructed. Some important considerations to make during the DAS design phase include identifying interferences, assessing performance, and addressing potential issues like near-far disturbances.

5 Things to Consider When Designing DAS

The design phase is crucial to developing a successful DAS. Before any work begins, there is an RF analysis focused on performance outcome. The engineer and design team generally take the following things into consideration during this process. 

#1. Overall Efficiency of Signal Propagation

A large percentage of industry engineers will tell you that signal propagation is easily one of the more important elements of a well-designed DAS. Signal propagation relates to the transmission of the radio signal from the station’s antenna to the receiver’s antenna.  To install a successful system, it’s crucial to assess the ways in which signals are propagated. It’s important to consider this early on in the design process, deciding upon the addition of macrocells and microcells. Microcells institute larger volume areas when there are many wireless users in a given space. 

#2. Aim for Optimal Performance

To achieve optimal performance, it’s important to minimize undesired factors like interference and background noise. On the other hand, you want to maximize desired factors. One of the biggest factors that negatively impacts performance is interference, which can be caused by signals in other circuits, or even the same circuit, such as ID card readers, two-way wireless communications systems, and other types of electronics.

Large buildings, especially high-rise buildings with 15+ floors, can imitate an RF shield, promoting the likelihood of interference and poor coverage. There are some unpredictable types of co-channel interference with the potential to obstruct DAS, thus impacting overall performance.

It’s important to take into consideration all potential interferences during the design process, including below grade floors, surrounding buildings that may block out signals, and so forth.  Of course, you cannot remove all interferences—say for instance the large building to your left. So, instead, the goal is to work with the surrounding space to improve performance as best as possible.

#3. Designing DAS for the Future

There are many factors that might not matter today but they will matter in the near future. After all, technology and data usage continue to grow and advance at unprecedented rates. The DAS design phase entails addressing issues that’ll arise in the future, not just today.

#4. The Near-Far Issue

Engineers typically address the near-far issue during the DAS design phase. Near-far is the reduction in performance a device suffers when it is operating within the area of a DAS while being serviced by a distant macrocell tower. As a result, it must work double-time. Transmitting at a higher power to reach the macro network can cause the rest of the DAS to downgrade in performance. For the most part, DAS does not address the near-far issue. Although, it’s still important for designers and engineers to work out these issues in the design phase for the best possible results.

#5. Integrate Small Cells

While DAS does not require small cells, many see it as part of the future of DAS development. Research has shown the ability for small cells to assist the system in high volume areas or venues. While DAS is the better option for reliable high-density wireless capacity traffic venues, small cells complement these systems well. Plus, small cells are rather efficient. It is becoming more common to integrate small cells with DAS. Therefore, this is something else to consider during the design phase. 

Is There an Economical Option for Fleet Tracking Software?

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Fleet tracking software offers many benefits including a decrease in operating expenses, a reduction in downtime, and maximized vehicle utilization. To reap the most benefits, it’s important to find an economical option. That’s why we offer iDrive Fleet Surveillance Cameras, a high-tech and affordable option for tracking your entire fleet of vehicles. From taxicabs to delivery vans, we serve a variety of industries with the goal of improving efficiency, safety, and oversight.

 

What is Fleet Tracking Software?

Fleet management software is an application that helps industries manage and coordinate work vehicles for greater oversight, safety, and productivity. In addition, the goal of these systems is to improve performance, reduce costs, and, in many cases, comply with regulatory standards. By installing a system you can track the location and activity of an entire fleet of vehicles.

 

iDrive Fleet Surveillance Cameras—What Are They?

Our iDrive Fleet Surveillance Cameras are an affordable option to gain greater oversight and control of your fleet and employees, while increasing customer satisfaction. If you operate a large taskforce of vehicles, you need a system to oversee day-to-day activities. Thus, offering you constant surveillance that you can view in real-time when the camera is in range of Wi-Fi. Cameras are programed to record the 15 seconds before and after an accident. That way, you have the footage you need and you don’t have to deal with an overload of data. Plus, you can store recordings in a centralized location for easy access.  Learn more about iDrive Fleet Surveillance Cameras

 

The Benefits of an Affordable Fleet Tracking Software

As mentioned above, there are many benefits to installing an affordable fleet tracking system. The goal is for the system to pay for itself, hence why an affordable and efficient system is so important. Some benefits of fleet tracking systems include:

  • Lower operating expenses

Fleet tracking software helps expedite processes, choose the best routes for vehicles, and ultimately reduce fuel consumption and overtime expenses. Plus, adding fleet tracking software can even reduce costs related to insurance premiums. In some cases, customers can reduce their insurance premiums by as much as 35%.

  • Stay on top of matters as they happen

iDrive Fleet Surveillance stores data 15 seconds before and after an accident. Allowing you to go over event footage to see what really happened, as well as offering proof if there is a dispute over cause of accident. Plus, you’ll know right away if there is an accident. Thus, allowing you to make the best decisions as soon as possible to protect your interests.

  • Take a proactive approach

You’ll be in the know if a driver is operating under unsafe practices. That means you can take action before something bad has a chance to occur.

  • Reduce uncertainty

The ability to track your fleet in real-time gives you more control and predictability—which is better for just about every aspect of your business.

  • Easy to use

Fleet tracking software is surprisingly easy to use and manage. It collects critical information that can be accessed remotely by fleet managers using mobile devices, computers, or tablets.

  • Cut back on paper work

Paper work is so 2001. Instead of keeping written (or typed) record of best routes, driver practices, and so forth, you can create an optimized system that does most of the work for you.

 

Want to Install Fleet Tracking Software?

We are more than happy to help you outfit your fleet for success. Contact us today to learn more and gain the upper hand.

SOURCES: https://gpstrackit.com/14-benefits-of-gps-fleet-tracking-for-transportation-industries/

DAS for Hospitals: How to Improve Reception in Hospitals

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DAS for hospitals: could your institution benefit from installing an in-building wireless connectivity solution, such as a DAS (Distributed Antenna System)? More hospitals are investing in DAS because of the many benefits it can offer. We specialize in everything from radio enhancement systems to public safety DAS. In fact, we even offer DAS design and engineering. We see more hospitals upgrading to DAS, and for many good reasons. Such as uninterrupted cloud access, and greater workforce mobility—which could result in life over death when working in a hospital setting.

 

Common Signal Issues in Hospitals

It is common for hospitals to encounter issues with signal because an overload of medical devices can impact the system. Plus, hospital staff must have the support available for a variety of carriers on different frequency bands. For this type of scenario, a hospital could employ an active off-air DAS complete with remote units designated to each floor of the hospital. Thus, providing cellular, PCS, and LTE services.

Another issue for hospitals is accessing patient data in real time. Hospitals tasked with tending to hundreds of thousands of patients each year must obtain lab results and other patient information while the patient is right there in front of them. Any delays in receiving this information could result in an unproductive appointment, an unhappy patient, or worse.

On top of these concerns, patients want the ability to stay in contact with work, their family, and so forth. I have stepped into so many hospitals that offer virtually no cell service. This can relate to many different things, from the thickness of the building walls (which can prevent signals from penetrating), to an overload of signals moving through the building at once. A DAS can help improve cell connectivity, as well as radio and other forms of communication signals.

 

DAS for Hospitals: 4 Reasons it’s Beneficial

1. One Network Simplified

Hospital staff and patients rely on a variety of communication devices, all of which must work and offer seamless connectivity. As a result, they can offer a reliable and interconnected experience to patients. Since people use so much data, even just sitting in the lobby waiting for their appointment, it’s imperative that it doesn’t slow down the entire system and hog up all available data. The last thing you want is someone’s mobile game to interfere with critical care applications.

2. Emergency Communication for First Responders

On top of cellular data, a DAS facilitates radio communication signals as well. This greatly benefits first responders who rely on two-way radios to communicate. In any crisis, from a fire to a patient in distress, it’s imperative that communication lines remain open and available. DAS help first-responders communicate in real-time—which is imperative in a hospital setting.

3. Improve Healthcare Outcomes

More reliable communication results in a higher level of healthcare. The ability to access patient information in real-time and improve communication speeds can reduce costs and improve patient experience. These are the types of things hospitals are aiming to achieve moving forward. The innovation provided by DAS offers a plethora of benefits that hospitals recognize and are taking advantage of.

4. Potential for Third-Party Funding

In some cases, a cooperative funding arrangement may be made with a hospital, in particular medium-sized hospitals. The hospital may take on the entire cost of the DAS, but it is possible to involve a third-party host or get the carrier to help fund improvements.

 

Add DAS to Your Hospital

Hospitals were some of the first institutions to add Wi-Fi. They are also on top of adding DAS solutions. Although, an existing DAS may still present signal issues if it is not properly designed and installed.

Highland Wireless is happy to help you solve issues related to poor signals—regardless if it’s mobile or radios, or both. Plus, we offer free pre-testing of signal strength and a site survey.  Contact us today to learn more.

 

SOURCES:

https://www.rcrwireless.com/20150427/network-infrastructure/three-reasons-hospitals-are-investing-in-das-tag4

https://www.rcrwireless.com/20161107/carriers/das-hospitals-3-case-studies-tag17

A Look at the Best Marine VHF Two-way Radios for 2018

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The best marine VHF two-way radios for 2018 meet the latest SOLAS regulations for fire teams on ships. They are durable, reliable and offer extended battery life—because your radio shouldn’t go off the clock before you do.

Highland Wireless offers everything you need for superior ship communications thanks to our Marine Communication Consulting Division. It all starts with a consultation, in which we present you with all your options to meet your needs and budget. From there, we offer design, delivery, and installation for a seamless and stress-free process. Plus, we provide optimization, training, and ongoing maintenance.

As an authorized dealer for Motorola and Kenwood two-way radios, we have a wide variety of selection. We are more than happy to consult with you to help you find the best option for your next mission. Plus, we offer radio systems for rent and sale to accommodate a range of needs and applications.

 

What to Look for in a Reliable Marine VHF Radio

  • Meets the latest SOLAS regulations – These new regulations offer a much-needed safety upgrade, and include the need for two two-way radios on board at all times. Furthermore, both radios must be explosion proof and intrinsically safe.
  • Durable exterior—water and dustproof
  • Advanced capabilities like GPS and Bluetooth
  • Long lasting battery life
  • Lightweight and sleek model that doesn’t get in the way
  • Full color screen (personal preference)

 

Best Motorola Marine VHF Two-Way Radios

Motorola is leading the way with the industry’s largest third party application developer program, MOTOTRBO. This application is built to globally recognized ETSI DMR Tier 2 standard. It is offered in UHF and VHF frequency bands.

Motorola radios vary in features, from high-tech to simple. Not all Motorola radios are ideal for Marine environments. For instance, the Motorola SL-7550 UHF MOTOTRBO is designed for hospitality, service, and airport industries. It is sleek and modern in design and functionality. Without doubt, it’s a great radio, but there might be a better option for marine VHF applications.

Such as the Motorola XPR-7550, which has a full color LCD display and is compatible with the latest digital radio systems. This radio is Submersible (IP57), and intrinsically safe, thus making it ideal for marine applications and wherever the latest SOLAS regulations apply. In addition, it offers GPS, Bluetooth, and is engineered using a rigid design. The IMPRES battery technology offers unmatched performance and long lasting battery power.

Check out more Motorola Two-Way Radios

 

Best Kenwood Marine VHF Two-Way Radios

Kenwood is another leading producer of durable future-forward radios. Of their line of radios, the NX-5300 is one of the best options for Marine VHF applications. This radio is considered the brand’s new flagship radio. It offers the features of P25 public service radios, as well as an industry grade UHF radio. Thus, it provides the best of both worlds. Its durability is met with advanced features like Bluetooth, GPS, and SD card slot.

The Kenwood NX-320 UHF NexEdge Radio offers the same durability and specifications as the NX-5300, although it is more compact in size. There are two options: one comes with a screen and the other does not.

Check out more Kenwood Two-Way Radios