Code-Compliant ERCES Solutions from Nextivity and MCA
In life-safety emergencies, reliable communication is non-negotiable. First responders depend on clear, uninterrupted radio contact to coordinate their efforts and ensure the safety of building occupants. The Nextivity SHIELD SOLO, delivered through MCA’s expert teams, provides a robust in-building Land Mobile Radio (LMR) coverage solution for the 700/800 MHz public safety bands. This system is engineered to meet stringent fire codes, simplify Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) approval, and guarantee first responder radio coverage when it matters most.
What is the Nextivity SHIELD SOLO?
The Nextivity SHIELD SOLO is a 0.5 Watt Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement System (ERCES). It is a highly intelligent Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) that can be configured as either a Class A or Class B device directly in the field using software. This adaptability makes it a versatile solution for meeting the specific public safety requirements of any jurisdiction.
At its core, the SHIELD SOLO is designed to eliminate the complexities that often delay ERCES deployments. It integrates advanced automation, powered by Nextivity’s proprietary IntelliBoost® chip, to handle critical tasks like isolation measurement, gain setting, and path-loss calculation. This technology ensures optimal talk-in and talk-out performance while protecting the integrity of the broader public safety radio network with a “No Noise” guarantee. Monitored through the cloud-based WAVE Portal, the SHIELD SOLO offers a complete, code-compliant solution that accelerates project timelines and enhances building safety.
Key Features of the SHIELD SOLO Solution
The SHIELD SOLO platform integrates several advanced technologies designed to deliver reliable performance and simplify deployment for our partners and clients.
- Software-Selectable Class A or Class B Operation: A single SHIELD SOLO unit can be switched between Class A (channelized, narrowband) and Class B (wideband) modes. This feature provides unparalleled flexibility, allowing installers to adapt the system to local code requirements without needing different hardware models or expensive license keys.
- Dedicated 700/800 MHz LMR Amplification: The system is purpose-built to amplify the 700 MHz and 800 MHz LMR frequency bands, which are critical for fire, EMS, and police communications. It delivers a 0.5 Watt output power per band, ensuring strong and clear signal distribution throughout a facility.
- IntelliBoost® Automation for Guaranteed Performance: Nextivity’s IntelliBoost technology provides a “No Noise” and “Talk-Out” guarantee. It automates complex commissioning tasks, including setting uplink and downlink gain, calculating path loss, and measuring isolation to ensure clean, interference-free performance that protects the macro network.
- End-to-End System Supervision via WAVE Portal: The SHIELD SOLO includes built-in, secure remote monitoring capabilities through the Nextivity WAVE Portal. This cloud-based platform provides real-time performance analytics, alarm notifications, and system status, enabling proactive maintenance and simplifying AHJ reporting.
- Streamlined Installation for Faster Occupancy: The single-box BDA design and a straightforward commissioning workflow significantly reduce deployment time. This efficiency helps avoid project delays, minimizes rework, and accelerates the process of obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy (CoO).
- Code-Compliant Hardware and Accessories: The SHIELD SOLO ecosystem is designed to meet the rigorous standards of public safety. This includes NEMA 4 rated enclosures for harsh environments, a dedicated 12-hour Battery Backup Unit (BBU), remote annunciator panels, and active server antenna monitoring to satisfy AHJ requirements.
Core Benefits for Owners, Contractors, and Safety Teams
Implementing a SHIELD SOLO system provides tangible advantages for all stakeholders involved in a building’s construction and operation.
Accelerate Certificate of Occupancy and Reduce Rework
The system’s advanced automation removes the guesswork from the tuning and commissioning process. By automatically calculating optimal gain and isolation settings, the SHIELD SOLO dramatically reduces the risk of failed AHJ inspections, which helps keep construction schedules on track and minimizes costly rework.
Preserve the Integrity of the Macro Network
A primary concern for any AHJ is the potential for an ERCES to introduce noise and interference into the public safety radio network. The SHIELD SOLO’s intelligent uplink controls and automatic gain adjustments prevent this, ensuring the system operates cleanly and reliably without disrupting external communications.
Lower the Total Cost of Ownership
With the WAVE Portal’s cloud-based monitoring, building managers and service teams can supervise system performance remotely. This capability reduces the need for on-site diagnostic visits, simplifies annual compliance testing, and allows for proactive maintenance, lowering the overall lifecycle burden of the system.
Enhance Protection for Occupants and Responders
Ultimately, the goal of an ERCES is to save lives. By delivering dependable talk-in and talk-out coverage, the SHIELD SOLO ensures that first responders can communicate effectively during an emergency. This capability supports a faster, more coordinated response, directly enhancing the duty of care for everyone inside the building.
Versatile Applications Across Industries
The SHIELD SOLO’s flexible design makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of facilities that must comply with ERCES mandates.
- Education (K-12 and Higher Ed): Ensures reliable campus-wide communications for responders while simplifying the long-term monitoring and maintenance required by school districts and universities.
- Commercial and Multi-Tenant Buildings: Provides a standardized ERCES platform that can be adapted to the specific Class A or Class B requirements of different jurisdictions.
- Healthcare Facilities: Delivers robust coverage in challenging RF environments, such as basements, radiology departments, and mechanical plant spaces, where communication is critical.
- Industrial and Warehouse Facilities: Overcomes the signal attenuation challenges posed by metal construction, large open spaces, and high-density storage to provide seamless coverage.
- Hospitality and Entertainment Venues: Guarantees responder radio coverage in complex layouts, including back-of-house areas, large event spaces, and underground parking structures.
- Government and Municipal Buildings: Enables public sector facilities, both old and new, to meet current public safety communication codes efficiently and cost-effectively.
Technical Specifications and System Components
A complete SHIELD SOLO solution is composed of meticulously engineered components, each designed to deliver reliable, code-compliant coverage under the most demanding conditions.
- SHIELD SOLO BDA (Model L41-7EB): Central to the system, this 0.5W Class A/B amplifier delivers mission-critical amplification for 700/800 MHz LMR signals. The unit is housed in a rugged, NEMA 4-rated enclosure, measures 18.11 x 11.42 x 4.84 inches, and weighs 12 lbs for straightforward wall-mount installation.
- Battery Backup Unit (BBU, Model L44-00): Purpose-built to meet UL 2524 requirements, this power solution maintains SHIELD SOLO operation for up to 12 hours during power outages. It supports a 12V/80Ah lead-acid battery (user supplied) and offers two dry contact alarm ports for continuous system monitoring.
- Donor and Server Antennas: Compatible with CEL-FI LPDA-R Donor Antenna (12–14 dBi gain, 617–4000 MHz) for highly directional off-air signal sourcing, as well as wideband directional antennas and active server antennas for performance and compliance. The system supports antenna line monitoring via integrated 10 kΩ resistors.
- Remote Annunciator Panel and Emergency Power-Off (EPO) Switch: Provides essential alarm, control, and emergency interface connections to meet local code and AHJ expectations.
SHIELD SOLO Technical Specifications
System Performance
- Frequency Bands Supported: 700 MHz LMR (768–775 MHz DL / 798–805 MHz UL), 800 MHz LMR (851–861 MHz DL / 806–816 MHz UL)
- Output Power: 0.5 W per band (27 dBm DL, 26 dBm UL)
- Selectable Operation: Class A (up to 64 channels @ 12.5 kHz) or Class B (up to 56 channels @ 100/150 kHz), software selectable in the field
- System Gain: Up to 90 dB
- Noise Figure: 5 dB at max gain
- Return Loss: -8 dB
- No Noise Guarantee: Automatic, real-time optimization of isolation, uplink muting, and path loss to prevent inadvertent noise on the macro network
- End-to-End Supervision: Continuous, cloud-based monitoring and reporting through the Nextivity WAVE Portal
- Power Consumption: 62 W max @ 12 VDC (BDA)
Environmental and Physical
- Enclosure: NEMA 4 rated; suitable for harsh installation environments
- Operating Temperature: -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C)
- Relative Humidity: 0% to 95% (non-condensing)
- Maximum Surface Temperature: 111°F (44°C) at 86°F ambient
Compliance and Certifications
- UL 2524 Listed: Meets all requirements for in-building two-way emergency radio communication enhancement systems
- NFPA 1221 and IFC 510: Designed to align with leading fire code and public safety standards
- FCC Part 15, 22, 24, 27, 20, 90: Certified for operation on designated LMR and public safety bands
- ISED (Canada): Compliant for Canadian deployments
- NEMA 4: Ensures environmental durability for demanding operating conditions
Model Numbers and Ordering Details
- SHIELD SOLO BDA: Model L41-7EB
0.5W Class A/B public safety BDA for 700/800 MHz LMR, UL 2524 listed - SHIELD SOLO Battery Backup Unit (BBU): Model L44-00
12-hour runtime with two alarm ports, shipped without batteries - CEL-FI LPDA-R Donor Antenna: Model A62-V44-201
12–14 dBi gain across 617–4000 MHz, with integrated monitoring resistor - CEL-FI Wideband Directional Antenna: Models A32-V32-200 / A32-V32-201
10–11 dBi gain, available with SMA-M or N-Female connectors; includes monitoring resistor - Active Server Antennas: Multiple models available for monitoring and enhanced visibility
- Remote Annunciator Panel: Model F42-10R-100
- Emergency Power-Off Switch (EPO): Model F42-10E-100
All components are designed for straightforward compliance with code requirements and simplified acceptance testing by AHJs.
Why Partner with MCA for SHIELD SOLO Solutions
As a leading nationwide integrator of public safety and in-building wireless technologies, MCA provides comprehensive, turnkey ERCES projects. Our collaborative approach ensures your SHIELD SOLO solution is designed, installed, and maintained to the highest standards. Our services include:
- RF design and signal propagation studies
- Professional installation and commissioning
- Direct coordination with the local AHJ
- System acceptance testing and documentation
- Ongoing monitoring and maintenance services
While the SHIELD SOLO is an exceptional ERCES solution, it is part of a larger portfolio of in-building wireless systems available from MCA. Our expert teams can help you determine if the SHIELD SOLO or another solution is the best fit for your organization’s unique requirements. We collaborate with you to deliver a solution that is code-ready on day one and supported for its entire lifecycle.
Contact MCA today to begin designing a SHIELD SOLO solution tailored to your building, your jurisdiction, and your budget.
About MCA
MCA is one of the largest and most trusted technology integrators in the United States, offering world-class voice, data, and security solutions that enhance the quality, safety, and productivity of customers, operations, and lives.
More than 65,000 customers trust MCA to provide carefully researched solutions for a safe, secure, and more efficient workplace. As your trusted advisor, we reduce the time and effort needed to research, install, and maintain the right solutions to make your workplace better.
Our team of certified professionals across the United States delivers a full suite of reliable technologies with a service-first approach. The MCA advantage is our extensive service portfolio to support the solution lifecycle from start to finish.
