DAS (Distributed Antenna System)

DAS (Distributed Antenna System) is a network used to distribute RF signals from a central hub to a specific area with poor coverage or inadequate capacity. A DAS network consists of (i) a number of remote communications nodes deployed throughout the desired coverage area, each including at least one antenna for the transmission and reception of a wireless service provider’s RF signals, (ii) a high capacity signal transport medium (typically fiber optic cable) connecting each node to a central communications hub site, and (iii) radio transceivers located at the hub site (rather than at each individual node as is the case for small cells) to process or control the communications signals transmitted and received through the antennas. DAS deployments may cover entire neighborhoods and involve hundreds of nodes connected to a single hub. Further, whereas small cells are usually operator-managed and support use by a single wireless service provider, DAS networks can often accommodate multiple wireless providers using different frequencies and/or wireless air interfaces. Economics as well as coverage and capacity needs may dictate different solutions in different scenarios, so use of DAS continues to evolve. In addition, other wireless technologies are also being developed and deployed that are similarly capable of being placed indoors or on top of short structures like utility poles.

NENA-INF-018, NENA Non-Mobile Wireless Service Interaction Information Document