Resource Center

---

Dead zones, dropped calls, and buffering internet connections cause undue stress and inconvenience for businesses. Compensating for these frustrations can stifle productivity and tarnish a company’s image.

Many business owners believe that active distributed antenna systems (DAS) are the optimal cellular connectivity solution because these systems generate their own cellular signal. Active DAS solutions eliminate the risk of poor reception and enable users to access and maintain solid connections at any location within the premises where the DAS resides.

They also involve a major investment in money, time and infrastructure, so a passive DAS solution may be a more viable option.

If you think that a passive DAS can’t provide five-bar reception in your small or large commercial space, then let the following myth-busters encourage you to think again. This article dispels three of the top misunderstandings about passive DAS and covers several benefits you may not have considered before.

What’s the Difference Between Active and Passive DAS?

DAS solutions strengthen wireless signals using installed antennas, coaxial cables, and other equipment. They are classified as active, passive, or hybrid. Most commercial users choose between active and passive DAS.

Active DAS

An active DAS is an infrastructure-intensive connectivity solution for extremely large areas. It creates cellular signals and distributes them between its centralized source and remote DAS nodes positioned around a facility. An active DAS is designed for places where thousands of users will access the network in a confined area, such as a stadium or large airport. This type of system is set up by a single carrier network — multi-carrier solutions incur additional investment and recurring costs.

Passive DAS

A passive DAS, or a cell phone signal booster system, uses an antenna to capture cellular signals from nearby or far-away cell towers. It then enhances signals up to 32 times with an amplifier unit and redistributes them via inside antennas and coaxial cables. It does not create new signals. Most passive DAS systems support multiple carriers simultaneously, so everyone can get the same amplified signal regardless of their network.

Putting 3 Passive DAS Rumors to Rest

For most businesses, a passive DAS is an excellent solution to spotty cellular service. It requires significantly less equipment, set up, and maintenance, yet it can provide the robust, consistent connectivity users expect. Concerns about oscillation and overload issues, installation difficulties, and poor performance are completely unfounded. Here’s why:

Myth #1: Oscillation & Overload Make Passive DAS Systems Shut Down Often

One pervasive myth is that oscillation and overload can easily short-circuit a signal booster system — causing major connectivity disruptions. Though oscillation is disruptive to be sure, FCC regulations are designed to protect users from this kind of damage.

Oscillation occurs when the outside donor antenna and the inside broadcast antenna are too close to each other. This proximity triggers a feedback loop and can damage the system. However, the FCC mandates that all cell phone signal boosters be designed to auto-detect oscillation and power down or off when it occurs. This issue can also be averted or remedied by increasing the distance between the two antennas.

Overload occurs when the outside signal is too strong for the booster. Sometimes, competing cell towers close by can overpower your donor antenna and cause it to shut down. Should this happen, you can aim the outside antenna away from the tower or install a frequency filter. Frequency filters can lessen the strength of the overpowering signal and enable the amplifier to boost the desired cell signal.

Myth #2: Installing a Passive DAS Is Cumbersome

While active DAS solutions require a significant financial investment and can take months to install, implementing a passive DAS takes only weeks for most businesses. Although installing a passive DAS is relatively, it’s best to rely on a trained professional installer who can maximize system efficiency and help ensure the best reception possible. They understand the nuances of cell signal strength and can tweak system antennas and equipment to mitigate issues associated with oscillation and overload.

Myth #3: Passive DAS Systems Don’t Provide Reliable Coverage

Passive DAS solutions can increase cell signals by up to 32 times over the incoming signal for stronger data and voice service. This amplification is typically more than sufficient for average users in a building of less than 250,000 square feet. Your WilsonPro integrator can design a solution to help you achieve maximum internet service connection.

Should You Install a Second WiFi?

In-house WiFi systems in some facilities cannot meet the bandwidth needs of multiple users seeking a connection at the same time. However, installing another temporary or permanent DAS would incur more hefty outlays and maintenance costs. Your WilsonPro dealer can install a cost-effective, speedy passive DAS solution. They can customize your booster to work in conjunction with existing Wi-Fi networks to enhance connectivity for your business.

Would an Active DAS Meet Your Needs?

Immense spaces such as universities or airports can easily justify installing an active DAS. They typically own or hold long-term leases on their commercial property and can afford to invest the capital and time needed to deploy this solution. However, most businesses can find the connectivity solution they’re looking for without such a major commitment.

Here are some facts to consider:

• Over 90% of commercial buildings in the United States are smaller than 50,000 square feet.
• Installing a single-carrier active DAS can cost $2-$4 per square foot, and a multi-carrier install can cost up to $10 per square foot.
• An active DAS requires extensive integration and coordination with the carrier network or networks.

On the other hand, a passive DAS offers a more financially feasible solution:

• Installation and hardware usually run only $0.30 – $1 per square foot.
• A passive DAS already conforms to FCC regulations.
• A passive DAS can support all major carriers and many smaller regional carriers simultaneously.

For those companies whose buildings cover less than 500,000 square feet, a passive DAS will deliver strong and reliable connectivity. It provides solid reception for indoor and outdoor spaces in every type of industry. This solution also enhances online security with a stable, encrypted internet connection.

Installing a Passive DAS

Your WilsonPro representative can help you explore options to suit your unique connectivity needs when you call. They will refer you to a certified integrator in your area who will perform a site survey and devise a customized plan. After professional installation, your integrator will provide maintenance and support for any issues. However, the cloud-enabled booster systems will allow the integrator to make many adjustments remotely for optimal cellular service.

An authorized WilsonPro dealer can show you how our comprehensive passive DAS solutions can help you solve your connectivity issues easily and cost effectively. We tailor our innovative, flexible technology to fit your current needs and accommodate future challenges seamlessly.

If your business is ready to put an end to poor cellular reception, contact us today.