Every minute counts when it comes to helping save people and property during an emergency. First responders need to have clear and concise radio communication in all areas of a building — especially in spaces where signal can be lost. In many buildings, there are areas called “dead spots” that unintentionally minimize the radio signal strength, making it challenging for anyone to communicate effectively via radio. The signals may be obstructed by structures such as concrete, Low-E glass windows, metal, underground structures and additional materials that impact the propagation of radio signals. In these dead spots, the signal is not strong enough to allow emergency communication hardware, such as two-way radios, to communicate with each other, negatively impacting first responders’ ability to communicate about and address emergency situations.
The code-required level of radio coverage can be achieved by enhancing the in-building radio frequency signal coverage with an ERCES system, also commonly referred to as a Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) system. An ERCES/BDA system’s operation is straightforward: the radio signal from a responder’s two-way radio reaches an antenna inside a building and is amplified both by other interior antennae for in-building communication, as well as an antenna on the roof to facilitate external public safety radio system communications. The system is designed so that radio signals from the public safety antenna reach first responders inside the building through the same method in reverse. These mechanisms all work together to enable first responders to have a clear, concise conversation when it matters most.
ERCES systems are comprised of a BDA, Distributed Antenna System (DAS), donor antenna, dedicated annunciator panel and power components. The BDA serves as a signal boosting device that sustains two-way communications and amplifies a signal while the DAS and donor antenna receive and transmit signals. BDAs work to both transmit and receive signals throughout a facility — including stairwells, underground tunnels, parking garages and other challenging areas. The dedicated annunciator panel is required by code to display six potential trouble conditions. It will let the responder or facility manager know if there is an issue like a low battery or problems with the signal booster. The power supply includes a battery charging system to offer backup power if the building loses power during an emergency event.
