Active DAS Explained: Benefits, Installation, and Use Cases
Active DAS
Signal solutions for large venues
Whether it's a stadium, airport, hospital or other large venue, we can design an active DAS system to suit your needs.
What is an Active DAS?
Active Distributed Antenna Systems use fiber optic cable to distribute signal between a centralized signal source and “remote nodes” placed around a building. The signal source is typically a “head-end” that combines signals from multiple carriers, which each need to provide their own signal source to the system, typically via their own fiber backhaul.
When additional capacity is needed, like in a football stadium or airport, an active DAS system is typically used. A state of the art active system can cover virtually any size of building and up to any capacity. Some of the most ambitious active DAS systems have been designed to cope with the load of over 70,000 Superbowl attendees, or the 2.47 million sq. ft. of coverage for 170,000 CES 2016 attendees.
Benefits of Active DAS
Active DAS (Distributed Antenna System) is a game-changing solution for venues requiring robust, high-capacity wireless coverage. Its advanced infrastructure ensures that high-density environments benefit from seamless connectivity and unparalleled performance. Whether you’re managing a stadium, hospital, or commercial property, Active DAS offers a scalable, reliable solution that meets today’s connectivity demands.
Enhanced Signal Strength: Active DAS utilizes fiber optic cables to distribute signals, ensuring seamless connectivity across expansive areas. This technology minimizes signal loss and delivers consistent, high-quality coverage even in challenging environments.
Scalability: Active DAS is adaptable to venues of any size, allowing for easier expansion of coverage or addition of new frequency bands as needed, providing flexibility in system design and future upgrades, making it ideal for facilities that anticipate growth or changing needs.
Reliability: Active DAS maintains consistent performance even under heavy usage, such as during major events, due to its use of powered components that amplify signals. This ensures uninterrupted connectivity, critical for mission-essential operations and high-traffic areas.
Support for Multiple Carriers: Active DAS systems can integrate signals from multiple carriers, ensuring that users across different networks enjoy seamless service. This feature is particularly valuable in public spaces like airports and stadiums where diverse user needs must be met.
The adaptability and scalability of Active DAS make it a cornerstone in addressing connectivity challenges in diverse industries. These benefits ensure that organizations can meet present needs while planning for future advancements. For more details on how Active DAS compares with other in-building solutions, visit our Guide to Distributed Antenna Systems.
Applications of Active DAS
Active DAS systems are versatile and can be tailored for various environments:
Stadiums: Ensure uninterrupted coverage for tens of thousands of fans, enhancing the spectator experience. Strong connectivity supports mobile ticketing, live streaming, and social media sharing, creating a more engaging environment. Venues hosting large-scale sports or entertainment events rely on Active DAS to ensure every attendee remains connected without service disruptions.
Hospitals: Support critical communication for medical staff and IoT devices, ensuring reliable connectivity for patient care. Active DAS enables seamless operation of medical equipment, secure communication between teams, and access to electronic health records. In healthcare, reliable wireless coverage can make a significant difference in patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
Airports: Maintain reliable connectivity for passengers and operations, facilitating efficient communication and services. From ticketing kiosks to baggage tracking systems, Active DAS ensures smooth airport operations and enhances the traveler experience. Airports depend on Active DAS to manage large volumes of travelers and operational systems simultaneously.
Commercial Buildings: Boost productivity and customer satisfaction with strong indoor signals, supporting business operations and tenant needs. In office spaces, uninterrupted service fosters productivity and ensures tenant satisfaction.
Universities: Provide strong wireless coverage for classrooms, libraries, and dormitories, supporting digital learning tools and student connectivity. Modern educational institutions rely on Active DAS to support hybrid learning models and high-bandwidth applications.
Choosing the right DAS (Distributed Antenna System) for your project requires understanding the unique benefits and limitations of each type: Active DAS, Passive DAS, and Hybrid DAS. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision.
Active DAS is the top choice for large, high-traffic environments requiring exceptional capacity and performance.
Understanding these differences allows organizations to choose the solution that best aligns with their operational goals and budgetary considerations. For a detailed consultation on which DAS system fits your needs, explore our DAS Solutions Guide or contact our team for tailored recommendations.
Installation Considerations
Installing an Active DAS system involves detailed planning and collaboration with carriers. Key steps include:
Site Survey: Assess signal requirements and coverage areas. This initial phase involves a comprehensive evaluation of the venue’s layout, identifying areas that require coverage and potential challenges like structural barriers. Accurate data collection during this stage is essential to designing an effective system. A detailed site survey allows for the identification of weak signal zones and ensures a tailored solution that meets the specific requirements of the facility.
Design: Develop a tailored plan using fiber optic technology. This plan specifies the placement of components such as antennas, repeaters, and fiber connections to optimize coverage and efficiency.
Carrier Approvals: Secure permissions from network providers. Engaging with cellular network providers is critical to securing the necessary permissions and ensuring multi-carrier compatibility. Working with carriers ensures seamless integration and compliance with technical standards.
Deployment: Execute installation with minimal disruption. Skilled professionals handle the installation of hardware and configuration of software to ensure a smooth launch.
Post-Installation Support: Ongoing maintenance and support are vital to maintaining the system’s performance. Regular updates and troubleshooting services ensure the system adapts to new technologies and evolving user needs.
By following these steps, venues can achieve seamless wireless connectivity that meets the demands of their users. Proper planning and execution during installation not only ensure immediate results but also future-proof the system for years to come. Proper planning and execution during these stages are crucial for maximizing the benefits of an Active DAS system.
Future of Active DAS
With the rise of 5G and IoT, Active DAS systems are evolving to support new technologies and higher data demands. For example, advanced Active DAS can integrate with IoT sensors and Industry 4.0 devices, ensuring seamless connectivity for smart buildings. Discover the latest innovations.
Resources and Support
For more information about selecting and installing an Active DAS, check out these resources:
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Author:
Sina Khanifar
CEO
BA, Physics from University of Oxford. With almost two decades of experience in in-building wireless connectivity, Sina sets RSRF’s overall strategy. He is also a Technology Fellow at the Electronic Frontier Foundation.