IWCE: In-building coverage welcomes new tech

In-building-coverage technologies will be addressed during “In-building wireless best practices,” at IWCE on March 18. Among other topics, the session is expected to discuss systems emerging technologies used to improve in-building coverage.

The session is expected to address RF distribution practices, with special focus on fiber optic technology and applications. In addition, panelists will discuss the advanced Distributed Antenna System (DAS) technologies and practices, including how a shared DAS can provide ubiquitous wireless coverage for all wireless service providers—independent of the wireless protocols—using a single, fiber-based wireless network.

Our magazine continues to cover in-building wireless coverage topics, and I’m interested to learn about the newest DAS system. I believe enterprises and first-responders alike can benefit from the technology. At the session, Kang Yueh, DAS chief engineer for Crown Castle International, and George Lamb, operations and support vice president for Nextivity, will discuss cellular DAS systems primarily and new products for that market, said Jack Daniel, the session’s third panelist and president of The Jack Daniel Co. He said that, while some of their discussions may include reference to public safety, it will be minimal. Instead, the session will introduce most of the audience to system definitions and products they don’t normally deal with that is focused on private radio services, such as public safety and utilities.

Daniel said he intends to drive the discussion of the legality of installing cellular BDAs, how these products and system relate to public safety, how fiber use is the new technology and where it applies, and the potential of new business for the audience in cellular system design and installation. He also will discuss new national DAS codes for public safety.

“I suspect most will have never heard of the DAS manufacturers, as they use TX RX Systems type brand BDAs. This is logical, as they often need UHF, VHF, 700 bands in addition to 800 MHz, and the market is too small and unique for DAS manufacturers to give more than lip service to,” Daniel said. “I think it’s a great presentation and will be new material for the audience.”