Wireless: The fourth utility?
The simplest in-building wireless solution that can be installed post-construction is a passive DAS that includes antennas, coaxial cable, a repeater and a signal source. This type of wireless system is ideal for buildings that are smaller end but have high-performance mobility needs.
Due to the fact that RF signal fades when it travels over long cable distances, larger buildings utilize antenna repetition to prevent coverage dead zones. The main concern a post-construction in-building wireless system has to remedy is the interference of outdoor signals after the system is installed.
In-building wireless solutions providers can rectify this by conducting RF site surveys for existing structures and designing a completely customised wireless system tailored specifically to that building’s physical properties and mobility requirements.
Install early and save
While installing in-building wireless solutions post-construction is a welcome reality for existing building owners, architects and building developers are paying attention to a new, compelling argument for implementing an in-building wireless system during the initial construction phase of new structures – something that has never been done before.
Adding new infrastructure post-construction increases costs and the risk of disrupting the building’s occupants. In contrast, installing utilities when a building is under initial construction is cost-effective and non-disruptive. It is estimated that the post-construction installation cost of a system is more than four times that of pre-construction work.
Structured cable is installed with a higher density than its use demands by design. An office might have triple the amount of electrical outlets in use or have two to four structured cabling jacks, though many are idle most of the time. To design this way might initially seem inefficient, yet it has been determined to be the most cost-effective solution that allows for the inevitable changing environment. By approaching the wireless needs of a new building with a similar strategy, developers can guard against future demand.
It will not take long for such pre-installation to become common in construction projects. Once it does, walking into a building without wireless connectivity may seem as alien to us as living in a house without electricity and running-water. Vendors, channel partners and even architects need to arm themselves with knowledge about this issue now to avoid generating greater costs for businesses down the line.
