Aging Technology Can Affect Performance and Increase Long-term Costs
Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) have become integral components of modern communication infrastructure, providing reliable wireless connectivity in various environments such as office buildings, stadiums, airports, and campuses. Like any technology, DAS age over time and eventually require replacement to maintain optimal performance and meet evolving connectivity demands.
By understanding these critical indicators of when you should replace your aging DAS, you can proactively plan for system upgrades and ensure uninterrupted wireless coverage for your organization.
Inadequate Coverage and Capacity
One of the most apparent indicators that your DAS requires replacement is when it can no longer provide sufficient coverage or handle the capacity demands of users. If you notice dead zones, dropped calls, or slow data speeds in certain areas of your facility, your DAS may struggle to keep up with the increasing number of connected devices and user expectations.
Outdated Technology
Technology advances rapidly, and what was once cutting-edge may become obsolete. DAS that relies on outdated technology can’t support the latest wireless standards and may lack compatibility with newer cellular frequencies. Newer DAS offers support for advanced technologies like 5G and can provide faster speeds, lower latency, and improved network efficiency.
End of Manufacturer Support
In nearly all instances, manufacturers provide support and maintenance services for their DAS, including software updates, bug fixes, and technical assistance. However, manufacturers may discontinue support for older models as systems age, focusing their resources on newer products. When your DAS reaches the end of manufacturer support, it becomes vulnerable to security risks and compatibility issues with new devices, and you’ll begin to receive only limited access to essential maintenance and upgrades.
Increased Maintenance and Repair Costs
As DAS age, the frequency and cost of maintenance and repairs tend to increase. Aging components may become more prone to failures, requiring frequent troubleshooting and replacement, and finding replacement parts for outdated equipment can become challenging and expensive. If you find yourself investing significant resources into maintaining and repairing your aging DAS, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace it with a newer, more reliable system.
Changing Connectivity Needs
As organizations and facilities evolve, so do their wireless connectivity requirements. The specific needs that your DAS was designed around initially may have changed, and it may no longer align with your current requirements. For example, you may need to support additional frequency bands, expand coverage to newly constructed areas, or accommodate higher data volumes. Assessing your changing connectivity needs and comparing them to the capabilities of your existing DAS will help determine if an upgrade or replacement is necessary.
Lack of Scalability
Scalability is crucial for future-proofing your wireless infrastructure. An aging DAS likely lacks the ability to accommodate future growth and technological advancements. If your organization plans to expand its facilities, add new users, or adopt emerging technologies, your existing system may not be able to scale accordingly.
Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards
As regulatory requirements and safety standards for wireless communication systems evolve, your aging DAS may not comply with the latest regulations. Upgrading your DAS may be necessary to ensure that your system remains in compliance – and that you’re able to provide the essential public safety capabilities to keep individuals within your facility safe.
Upgrading Your In-Building Wireless Systems
Investing in a new DAS is a strategic decision that can significantly impact your organization’s connectivity and productivity. By recognizing the signs that indicate the need for replacement, such as inadequate coverage, outdated technology, end-of-manufacturer support, increased maintenance costs, changing connectivity needs, lack of scalability, and compliance issues, you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure seamless wireless communication for your facility.
Experienced professionals in the field of wireless infrastructure can assess your specific requirements, conduct site surveys, and propose tailored solutions that align with your organization’s goals. Upgrading to a modern DAS not only enhances connectivity performance but also future-proofs your infrastructure, enabling you to adapt to emerging technologies and increasing connectivity demands.
Remember, a well-designed and up-to-date DAS can significantly improve employee productivity, customer satisfaction, and overall operational efficiency. So, stay proactive, monitor the performance of your existing DAS, and make informed decisions to ensure that your wireless infrastructure remains robust and reliable in the face of ever-evolving communication needs.
Wondering if your system needs to be replaced or upgraded? Contact our team.
About MCA
MCA is one of the largest and most trusted DAS 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 deliver 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.