Reliable cellular connectivity is essential for effective communication during emergencies on K-12 and college campuses. In critical situations, immediate and dependable communication between first responders and internal staff is vital. Whether facing a medical emergency, a security threat, or a natural disaster, staff and emergency personnel must be able to use mobile applications without signal degradation.
Schools often rely on applications that require strong cellular connections to send distress signals, provide real-time location updates, and coordinate responses. Weak signals inside school buildings can delay or prevent critical alerts from being sent or received—putting students and staff at risk.
Many schools struggle with inadequate cellular coverage, particularly in:
Poor signal strength can hinder the performance of emergency response applications, such as:
To enhance cellular coverage, schools can implement Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) or Citizen’s Band Radio Systems (CBRS)—each with unique benefits and considerations.
DAS solutions amplify cellular signals within buildings, ensuring better coverage and connectivity. There are two main types of DAS:
An Active DAS improves cellular signals by using a centralized Baseband Unit (BBU) that connects to multiple Radio Units (RUs) within a building via fiber-optic cables. This system allows precise signal distribution to mobile devices throughout the campus.
Pros:
✔️ Scalable for large buildings
✔️ Delivers high-quality, carrier-specific service
✔️ Supports multiple mobile carriers (at a higher cost)
Cons:
❌ Requires carrier involvement and engineering design
❌ More expensive due to fiber infrastructure requirements
A Passive DAS is a simpler and more cost-effective solution for smaller areas. It works by capturing signals from one or multiple carriers and distributing them throughout the building using coaxial cables and splitters—similar to how cable TV is transmitted.
Pros:
✔️ Lower cost than Active DAS
✔️ Easier to deploy and maintain
✔️ Some manufacturers offer no-cost on-site demos
Cons:
❌ Limited in scale and performance
❌ Relies on an existing signal—won’t work in dead zones
Recommendation: If a school is considering DAS, testing a Passive DAS on-site before investing in a full Active DAS system can help determine feasibility.
CBRS-based cellular access points (CAPs) provide another effective way to enhance mobile connectivity. These radios operate on the carrier-neutral CBRS spectrum, supported by all mobile phones manufactured since 2019.
CBRS radios connect to a school’s Local Area Network (LAN) using Cat6 cables and Power over Ethernet (PoE), similar to Wi-Fi access points. Instead of requiring dedicated infrastructure, voice and SMS traffic are tunneled over the Internet, eliminating the need for bulky head-end equipment.
Pros:
✔️ Cost-effective compared to Active DAS
✔️ Works with all modern mobile devices
✔️ No dedicated fiber infrastructure required
Cons:
❌ Dependent on school’s internet quality
❌ Spectrum is shared with neighboring buildings, which may cause interference
At NIC Partners, we specialize in technology solutions that enhance safety and communication in schools. We recommend:
✔️ WilsonPro for Passive DAS solutions
✔️ Meter for CBRS-based cellular access points
Need a cellular connectivity solution for your campus? Contact us today for a consultation or on-site demo.