What is a DAS system?
A distributed antenna system (DAS) is a network of antennas connected to a common signal source to optimize cellular signals for in-building wireless connectivity. A DAS enhances cellular connectivity in areas with poor signal strength in buildings.
What’s the difference between a Passive, Active and Hybrid system?
The difference between a passive BDA is in the collection and distribution of cell signals.
In a passive DAS solution, the signal is collected from outside signals and distributed by coax cable.
In an active DAS solution, a signal is generated through a direct connection to a signal source, (i.e. base station, small cell, femtocell, or private network) and fibre optics are leveraged for greater coverage and signal quality.
A Hybrid DAS solution collects signal from an outside signal source and uses fibre optics for coverage and quality.
Can I use active DAS in an outdoor stadium?
An active DAS network is ideal for large venues like stadiums. Active DAS can handle large areas and high user density – especially when many users need support simultaneously, which happens during events. Using fibre optics, active DAS provides much greater capacity for managing the high voice and data traffic during events and can also support multiple carriers and frequencies. An active DAS solution is also valued for its ability to provide extensive coverage throughout the stadium, seating areas, concourses and other areas.
What are the use cases for Active DAS?
Active DAS is a better choice for extended coverage needs, like in facilities over 500K sq. ft. with a high density of devices, such as stadiums or arenas, convention centres, airports, malls, or large hospitals. Because an active DAS solution draws from a direct radio frequency source and transmits over fibre there is lower attenuation over distance and better signal quality.
How do organisations justify the cost of Active DAS?
A DAS solution can provide a significant upgrade to the connectivity experience, allowing seamless productivity for employees and a high-quality experience for customers. An Active DAS solution is easier to upgrade and scale up or down as needs demand. Maintenance costs can be lower due to advanced monitoring and management, and the need for fewer components. Active DAS can better support public safety communication requirements, ensuring reliable connectivity for emergency responders, which is critical for compliance with safety regulations in large buildings.
