Bi-Directional Amplifiers

EXPLORING the Role of Bi-Directional Amplifiers in Two-Way Communication

Bi-Directional Amplification (BDA) also known as Emergency Responder Radio Communication System (ERRCS) is a radio signal booster specifically designed for first responders. The intensity of fires are becoming more extreme due to the materials being utilized in residential, commercial and industrial applications. BDA plays a vital role at a very critical time by ensuring Emergency Responders are able to effectively communicate among each other. Depending on your buildings construction type it might have a significant impact on Emergency Responders handheld radios preventing communication within the building as well as the Fire Command post outside.

Why is a BDA System Important?

Due to tragic events such as September 11^th, 2001 in New York City, emergency responders were not able to communicate with each other impacting rescue and recovery efforts at a very critical time. There were several factors that impeded their communication and a big culprit was poor signal strength within their radios and lost of all communication reaching the Fire Command post outside.  The communication failures of 9/11 increased awareness in BDA highlighting the need for enhance technology to support Emergency Responder Radios.

Radio signals are attenuated by Low-E Glass, Concrete, Metal, Below Ground Structures and other RF interference. As a result it can provide poor in-building radio signal and dead spots causing Emergency Responders to lose communication. One common misconception is that BDA systems are only required in High Rise Buildings which is false. Poor in-building signals strength can occur in every application due to the factors mentioned and distance from the city repeater antenna.

How Does it Work?

A BDA system will specifically boost the signal strength of public safety frequencies. An antenna will be located on the roof of the building pointed towards the city’s Repeater Antenna that is used to communicate with all fire stations and fire command post.  The antenna will then connect to the BDA booster which will expand throughout the building using a Distributed Antenna System (DAS). The DAS system will only be installed in areas that have been determined to have dead spots after an initial survey has been completed. This will insure two-way communication is always available maximizing response times and effectiveness on their plan of action.

How Do I Know if I Require a BDA System?

Many local codes have adopted a survey to be conducted to verify if the building has proper coverage. Midwest Alarm Services can assist in conducting a survey by utilizing the latest technology in RF Frequency verification. The survey will consist of verifying the signal strength in critical muster points of the building by plotting the readings on a floor plan. If the survey determines there are multiple points of failure we will then provide an IB Wave heat map analysis that will layout where the BDA system will be required. Many jurisdictions are making BDA systems a requirement for all new construction and, in some cases, are requiring retrofitting of older buildings that don’t meet the code requirements. When in doubt, we encourage you to always check with your local municipality or Fire Department for your local requirements.

Importance of Fire Alarm Systems

Fire alarm systems play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of commercial properties, such as schools and office buildings. Here are some key reasons why fire alarm systems are of utmost importance in these settings: