From Enterprise to Public Safety: Types of DAS Systems

You may have noticed that distributed antenna systems are now being used to power connectivity in some pretty high-profile places, including major airports, stadiums, transit hubs, and global HQs. Here’s a look at the different types of DAS systems used to create these networks, and how to choose the one that’s right for your business or space.

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Types of DAS Systems & Where They're Used

The term DAS is short for distributed antenna system, a network of antennas configured to provide a more seamless type of cellular connectivity that can carry throughout a building and across a campus or grounds, no matter the size or physical layout.

Comprehensive in their coverage, these wireless DAS systems offer a more reliable way to provide high-quality cellular connectivity across a variety of spaces while eliminating the dead spots and capacity issues associated with external cell towers, among other benefits.

And that's because installing a DAS system with dedicated base station equipment is like having a collection of cell towers located within your building or on premises — that’s the kind of power it delivers. It’s also scalable, and can be readily extended to cover new areas or integrate new technology or use cases as needed.

Where are distributed antenna systems used?

As more and more airports and other high-profile entities announce their use of DAS systems, you may be wondering: Would DAS work for my organization? The short answer is probably! The use cases of DAS are vast.

For instance, cellular DAS systems are often used to ensure seamless and consistent in-building wireless connectivity, where they can help ensure reliable access even in structures built predominantly with concrete, steel, or other hard-to-penetrate materials.

But that’s just the beginning: DAS can also be designed to maintain coverage across large outdoor spaces, underground tunnels, parking garages, and other notoriously spotty areas and dead zones. And that makes it ideal for:

• Corporate headquarters and office complexes

• Conference centers, museums, theaters, and libraries

• Stadiums, arenas, event centers, and entertainment venues

• Amusement and theme parks

• Airports, rail and subway stations, and other transportation hubs

• Hospitals, medical centers, nursing homes, and other care facilities

• Schools, colleges, and university campuses and student dorms

• Military facilities and compounds and government offices

• Apartment complexes and high-rise buildings

• Indoor and outdoor shopping malls and retail centers

• National, state, regional, and local parks

What are the Different Types of DAS Systems?

As you can see, the list of use cases for DAS systems is big and varied — and an almost infinite number of different configurations are required to meet the unique demands of each. Yet they all begin with the four main types of DAS systems:

• Active DAS systems (also called fiber DAS) actively convert and enhance signals for distribution via fiberoptic and ethernet cables for scalable, high-quality transmission. Active DAS is deal for use across large spaces, and those that need to ensure the best coverage capacity.

• Passive DAS systems (also called coax DAS) passively transmits signals using coaxial cables and components like splitters, couplers, and taps to create relatively simple wireless networks. Passive DAS is often used in more compact spaces, like small and moderate-sized office spaces, large homes and estates, or self-contained areas within larger facilities or complexes.

• Hybrid DAS systems use aspects of both systems as needed, usually combining active conversion capabilities with simpler passive transmission systems to achieve unique coverage needs — for instance, a campus with a variety of different facility types.

• Digital DAS systems digitize signals before transmission over fiberoptic or ethernet cables to deliver transmissions that are more dynamic, adaptable, and targeted. These systems are based on premium technology, often used by organizations that need to ensure quality and reliability in their internal networks.

In addition, a DAS system is sometimes categorized not by the level of tech and equipment it uses, but by the entity managing it or the purpose it serves. For instance:

• Public safety DAS systems are engineered to support services like emergency response and incident command systems, fire and police department communications, and other public-facing needs.

• Enterprise DAS systems are proprietary networks that are specially built and managed by private organizations, usually with the help of a third-party vendor.

• Carrier-DAS (or C-DAS) systems are commercial systems offered by wireless carriers, either as publicly available services or white-label offerings to subscribers.

• Outdoor DAS (or O-DAS) systems are designed specifically for outdoor use, often using weather-resistant components and additional construction features like utility poles.

• Indoor DAS systems are designed to deliver premium connectivity within a single building or facility. Read more about indoor DAS here.

Ultimately, the question of which type of DAS system is right for your organization is an open one, depending on your specific needs and the environment where you operate. And the most effective way to find the answer is with a dedicated, proven DAS partner who can carefully and accurately evaluate your space, needs, and budget, and then leverage real expertise to recommend, design, and implement the DAS system that works best for you.

Designing DAS Systems that Meet Your Unique Needs

Seamless, secure, and reliable connectivity is no longer an option — it’s an operational necessity. Whether you need to improve your network or build a better one, you can trust IES Communications to design, develop, and deliver a wireless DAS system that not only meets but exceeds today’s standards. Contact us today for a free quote or consultation.

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