DAS and LoRaWAN

redwirelessus
Fri, 31 Aug 2018 19:47:12 +0000

@kersing Kersing, thank you. I will definitely let you guys know. Typical DAS systems’ prices vary depending, of course, on SQ FT/M, whether is repeated, autonomous signal sourced, neutral hosted (meaning it can serve multiple wireless service operators in one same system), fiber (active) or passive… but usually will be spending between $20k to $100k or more, again, dependent on the size and scope.

Why DAS? As @pe1mew explained, there are many instances where there are already DAS systems established within a building, such as a Stadium, Hospital etc. Let’s assume you have a 40 story building that already has a fiber DAS system for cellular and public safety through a central fiber backhaul - now you come in and explain that although the building is within coverage of the LoRaWAN network from the outside ,survey/tests shows it can’t get to the center elevator shafts, basements and/or other parts of the interior of the building due to the nature of the building construction materials, signal loss, etc. Now you propose you’ll install various gateways (since I don’t think one will cover the whole building) for LoRa, you’ll have to install new cables, new internet backhaul points, etc. This is a very fancy building and they already went through the ‘tear of celing/walls’ for this with the DAS. Guess what the answer to such demand will be?

This is all too common, so I’m already in discussion with some DAS folks (especially ADRF who I’ll be meeting in MWCA in Los Angeles in a couple of weeks) to see if, instead, we can plug a high capacity gateway to the DAS ‘headend’ (the part of the DAS where it accepts all RF/wireless technology inputs) and also ‘distribute’ that signal ‘actively’ all throughout the building. This not only cuts costs, but also time, opex, capex, etc. It is in these particular circumstances where this application would seem logical. But I’ve never tried it so, as long as the DAS equipment, antennas, cables, connectors, etc is capable of ‘handling’ the ISM/LoRa frequencies and technology, I don’t see why not. I’ll keep you all in the loop as I find out more! Thanks! j