Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS)
- [RWTH Aachen University, Germany]
A distributed antenna system (DAS) is a network of antennas that sends and receives cellular signals on a carrier’s licensed frequencies. It improves voice & data connectivity for end user. A DAS is a network of spatially separated antenna nodes connected to a common source via a transport medium that provides wireless service within a geographic area or structure.
DAS antenna elevations are generally at or below the clutter level, and node installations are compact. A DAS is a network of antennas, connected to a common source, distributed throughout a building or an area to improve network performance. The spacing between antennas is such that each antenna gives full coverage without overlapping with other antennas, hence reducing the number of antennas needed to cover the whole building.
A DAS is a powerful signal enhancing system using direct feed from respective service carrier(s) to boost wireless signals. It is ideal when signals are too weak outside to use exterior antenna to catch and amplify those signals inside. A DAS may be deployed indoors (an iDAS) or outdoors (an oDAS) and can be used to provide wireless coverage in hotels, subways, airports, hospitals, businesses, roadway tunnels etc. The wireless services typically provided by a DAS include PCS, cellular, Wi-Fi, police, fire, and emergency services.
[More to come ...]
