There are three main components to most distributed antenna systems. These components include the Donor Antenna System, the Bi-Directional Amplifier, and the Distributed Antenna System. All three components work together to produce clear in-building communication signals. In addition, they improve the signal coming out of the building, ultimately improving the quality and clarity of incoming and outgoing calls.

Benefits of a Radio Enhancement System:

• Stronger signal throughout the entire building for seamless communication
• Maintains signal strength in an emergency. Allows Fire Departments and other First Responders to communicate without limitations, potentially saving lives.
• It’s not just convenient, according to the latest regulations it’s the law.
• Compliant with the International Fire Code and National Fire Protection Association
• DAS can simultaneously operate various bands for multiple operators
• Scalable for large and complex locations with unique demands
• Can increase range for mobile devices on a variety of cellular plans

A Closer Look at The Interworking Parts of a Radio Enhancement System

To better understand how the components of a radio enhancement system work together, you must first understand how they work individually. Continue reading for a breakdown of each of the three components.

What is the Donor Antenna System?

The Donor Antenna System is typically placed on top of a building where it has the greatest height and proximity to the nearest communication tower. The donor antenna is positioned in the direction of the closest tower for the best results. The donor antenna is the part of the system responsible for bringing signal into and out of the building.

As the most fundamental antenna in a radio enhancement system, it is placed on top of the roof. Yet, this puts the donor antenna at risk of high winds, rain, and other forces. In aims to preserve the donor antenna, at Highland Wireless, we utilize Category 5 Hurricane-Rated bracketing and R-56 Lightning Protection standards. This keeps the donor antenna protected and going strong, even in harsh conditions.

What is the Bi-Directional Amplifier?

The Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) works with the Donor Antenna to receive and amplify signals inside of your building. This important component can process transmitting signals from handheld devises being used inside of the building. It transports these signals out to the communications tower via the donor antenna.

While in some cases a bi-directional amplifier may be installed without a distributed antenna system, it works best when paired with a DAS.

What is the Distributed Antenna System?

The Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is a network of in-building antennas specially designed for each building. In fact, the design of the system plays an integral role in how the system functions and how much it improves signal strength. A well-designed DAS generally includes a coaxial cable, unequal power dividers and splitters, as well as ceiling mounted antennas. Larger buildings benefit from the use of fiber as well.

Improve Communication & Get More Done with Highland Wireless

We design and install superior wireless radio enhancement systems in compliance with the National Fire Protection Association and the International Fire Code. Thanks to our vast experience and industry connections, we have what it takes to find solutions to address a wide variety of systems across various platforms. Contact us today to learn more and set up your free pre-testing of signal strength levels and site survey.

Installing a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) in your building strengthens mobile phone and wireless signals, while simultaneously strengthening your business. Not only is reliable coverage necessary during an emergency, it’s important for day-to-day tasks. After all, dropped calls and dead zones slow down productivity. Not only is it convenient to have good coverage, it’s also the law.

A DAS is a configuration of spatially separated antenna nodes installed with expert configuration regarding the cause of interference. The system picks up wireless signals and transports them through a fiber to an antenna where it disperses throughout the building. One Distributed Antenna System can offer support to several cellular and public safety technologies.

3 Signs Your Building Has Poor Wireless Coverage

Dropped calls are a common complaint

The people in your office regularly complain about dropped calls or poor signal strength.

Phones or hand-held devices show low signal

Handsets show fewer than three bars on a regular basis.

Certain parts of the building offer better coverage than others

You must stand near a window or door to make a call because the coverage improves in certain areas of the building. You may also find that coverage varies based on what floor of the building you are on.

What Causes Communication Interference Problems?

There are several common reasons for poor wireless coverage, including the thickness of walls. New building code regulations enforce the use of stronger and heavier materials to construct buildings. This helps protect construction against high-force winds, hurricanes, etc., but these thick materials are difficult for wireless signals to penetrate. Hence why dead zones are so common inside of large modern buildings.

Stairwells, elevators, energy-efficiency additions and certain fortifications in hospitals and government buildings can lead to interference as well. Additionally, the top floors of high-rise buildings are prone to RF interference from cellular towers, while lower floors are often shadowed from towers by buildings in the surrounding area. 

Cellular Enhancement Systems

Enhancing cellular coverage provided by the major carriers can be a challenge for both building owners and developers. It requires experience and specific knowledge to find the right solution to improve in-building cellular coverage. Several factors influence the best option including the size of your building, coverage requirements, and budget.

We offer free pre-testing of signal strength levels along with site surveys. Is your facility in pre-construction phase? We can offer a quote based on the floor plan of the building.

Learn more about cellular enhancement systems

In-Building Radio Enhancement Systems

An in-building radio enhancement system is designed to amplify signals for first responder and Fire Department radio networks, as well as cellular carriers. Each system is specifically designed to meet a facilities’ needs. For the most part, a Radio Enhancement System includes three main components:

1. The Donor Antenna System
2. The Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA)
3. The Distributed Antenna System (DAS)

Learn more about in-building radio enhancement systems

Highland Wireless offers FREE pre-testing of signal strength levels and site surveys. From design through installation, we are here to meet all your communication goals in the state of Florida.

At Highland Wireless, we take care of all your communication needs. We even have a Marine Communication Consulting Division made up of experts who handle all aspects of ship communications. We make it possible for you to rely on affordable, flexible communication systems that meet all current regulations.

We can accommodate just about any budget, and thanks to the wide variety of options we have access to, there’s something for every situation. From consulting through design, delivery, and even installation—you can rely on us every step of the way. Not to mention, our competitive pricing makes better communication within reach.

As full-service Marine Communication Consultants, we offer:

• Consulting services
• Design
• Delivery
• Installation
• Optimization
• Implementation
• Training
• Ongoing maintenance

Here are 5 Benefits of Working with our Marine Communication Consultants

We help find the best solutions for your team

Our goal throughout the consulting and assessment process is to determine the most cost effective and efficient solution to meet your needs. If privacy is of greatest concern, we have you covered! If you’re more concerned with communication reliability… no need to worry!

Our team has vast experience with design, installation, and follow-up service—allowing you to provide greater attention and oversight to safety. In fact, we have delivered countless custom radio systems and solutions.

Depending on your budget, overall needs, vessel size and functionality requirements, there are three different tiers of communication platforms. Starting with the Mission Critical Tier System, the Professional Tier System, and finally, the Commercial Tier System. Allow us to help you decide on the best option for your vessel.

Rely on radios that meet all regulations & requirements

As of 2016, SOLAS mandated new regulations relating to radio communications for fire teams on ships. To meet requirements, all vessels must carry at least 2 two-way Marine Fire Team Radios that are intrinsically safe. This means radios are designed to withstand high heat and emergency situations.

We know the ins and outs of radio regulations and requirements. You can rely on our extensive experience to ensure your communication systems meet the latest standards for safety and reliability.

Our vast experience includes outfitting new vessels, as well as updating older vessels to meet all regulations and requirements. Keep in mind, ships built before June 2014 must meet new compliance standards by June of 2018. We can help, contact us today to learn more.

SOLAS Fire Team Radios

Speaking of SOLAS fire team radio requirements, we have all the equipment you need to outfit your vessel for utmost safety. SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios are specially designed to fulfill all marine safety needs.

Radio repairs on-demand

Enjoy easy access to reliable two-way radio repairs and optional 24/7 support for system issues. We can remotely access your system to troubleshoot and solve problems on-demand, even in the middle of the night.

Competitive pricing at your fingertips

Why pay more for radio communication when you don’t have to? We offer competitive pricing that won’t break the budget, including affordable two-way radio rentals. By operating with flexibility, we offer customized communication solutions for a wide variety of budgets, industries, and scenarios.

At any time, a fire emergency could break out on a ship. Is your fire team prepared to battle the flames and protect the safety of all crew members?  The right communications equipment helps ensure your team is prepared for anything. Intrinsically safe fire team radios are required onboard ALL vessels as of July 2018 according to the latest regulations put into place. 

Why Fire Team Radios are More Important Than Ever

Not only do fire team radios protect your team, they are now required. In 2016, SOLAS updated regulations regarding radio communication for fire teams onboard ships. It was realized that current systems lacked important safety features. That’s why they implemented several new rules, including: all ships must carry at least two 2-way radios rated as intrinsically safe and explosion proof. All ships built on July 1^st, 2014, or thereafter, must comply with this new regulation. Ships built prior to this date have until July 1^st of this year (2018) to comply.

Intrinsically Safe Radios

One of the first requirements radios must meet to be considered appropriate for fire teams is that equipment is intrinsically safe. By its official definition, intrinsically safe is defined as equipment that “is incapable of releasing sufficient electrical or thermal energy under normal or abnormal conditions to cause ignition of a specific hazardous atmospheric mixture in its most easily ignited concentration.” In other words, radios, wiring, and other equipment must be capable of withstanding high-heat environments and other emergency situations.

SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios

SOLAS stands for the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, this organization sets safety standards for vessels, including the types of two-way radio communication systems employed. SOLAS has an entire Chapter dedicated to Radiocommunications and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

Chapter IV outlines the importance of all cargo and passenger ships with 300 + gross tonnage. While navigating international waters, these large ships must carry the proper equipment to increase the chance of a rescue following an unexpected accident or emergency. This includes satellite emergency position to indicate radio beacons, as well as search and rescue transponders. First Responders must be able to identify the geographical location of the ship and its survival craft.

Other chapters outlined by SOLAS include:

The subdivision and stability of machinery and electrical installations (construction)

Fire protection, detection and extinction measures and practices

Lifesaving appliances and arrangements available onboard

Safety of navigation

Carriage of cargos

Carriage of dangerous goods

Nuclear ships

+so much more

What is a Good Fire Team Radio for Vessels?

Motorola makes a variety of top-notch two-way radios that meet Marine Fire Team radio requirements. The Motorola XPR-7550 is a fine example of incredible engineering, reliability, and durability. All packed into an easy-to-use radio with a color screen and optional keyboard.

Our SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios Package comes with the MOTORBO XPR7000e Series, a family of DMR standard digital radios and communication systems. Flexibility is key and this radio offers your crew the option to operate on UHF or VHF communication systems, or marine VHF channels.

The fire team radio package includes the following accessories: a firefighter chest pack, and a submersible IS Remote Speaker/Mic. Learn more

Update Your Vessel Before July 1^st—we can help!

We want to help you meet the latest Marine Fire Team radio standards set forth by SOLAS. We have everything you need to get up to speed, including TETRA radio systems specifically designed for Mission Critical Communication. Contact us today to learn more!

Public safety departments and other mission critical agencies rely on the highest-level communication system design for consistent contact that doesn’t cut out when it’s needed most. When it comes to ships and vessels, TETRA is the most reliable and proven all-digital radio communications platform. In proof, it is used by many Police Departments, Fire Departments, and other First Responders around the world—there are over 2-million TETRA radios currently in use.

What Sets TETRA Apart from Other Mission Critical Communication Solutions?

Mission-critical communications demand a stable, flexible, and reliable system. Hence, why Motorola Solutions created innovative TETRA infrastructure and radios. The TETRA Standard is trusted around the world, here’s why:

• Option for private calls

TETRA allows users to make a private phone call to other on-board radios. With larger vessels, it’s common to carry around two devices—a two-way radio and a Wi-Fi phone. In most cases, a TETRA network eliminates the burden of carrying around two different devices. That’s because the vessel’s PBX can be integrated so that radios perform ship-to-shore calls, as well as receive shore-to-ship calls.

• Integrate ship alarms

TETRA systems allow the intelligent integration of ship alarms with radio networks. This produces a hierarchy of alarms that can alert the on-call engineer all the way up to the Chief Engineer and Ship Captain. Authorities are reached on a per-shift basis until a response has been input to the alarm system.

• TETRA radios are SOLAS Compliant

Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) enforces an international maritime treaty that requires minimum safety standards regarding construction, equipment, and operation of merchant ships. SOLAS compliant radios must meet all radio communication requirements set forth, including fire and water proof radio qualities. A

• Durable & waterproof

TETRA radios are ergonomically designed to increase performance and ease-of-use with a color screen and manageable interface. Rated IP67, these radios are incredibly durable and can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for as long as thirty minutes. Radios are outfitted with several emergency features, such as Emergency Call and Man Down. Additionally, architecture incorporates no-single-point-of-failure redundancy configuration.

• 24/7 monitoring & technical support

TETRA radio systems come with 24/7 monitoring of network and remote analysis of network, as well as additional options for technical support. The optional support is available 24-horus a day and grants an experienced technician the ability to remotely access your TETRA network to conduct diagnostics and problem solve any issues. Even if you are hundreds of miles off shore and it’s 1 am. System failure is not an option with TETRA radio systems.

What Does Vessel Size Have to do with It?

Vessel size helps determine if one or several repeaters are necessary for full coverage on the TETRA network. Larger vessels require more repeaters to secure consistent coverage.  All repeaters are linked together via a Cat4 network cable. We are more than happy to discuss vessel size and specific requirements to help you determine the right TETRA network setup for yachts of all sizes and specifications.

TETRA radio solutions offer reliable, secure, and efficient communications that can be tailored to meet a wide variety of needs for different industries. In proof, there are more than two-million TETRA radios being used right now around the world. Learn more about the highest level of communication available, contact us today.