Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs) | Cell Phone Signal Booster

Questions Our Customers Often Ask

Why would I need a two-way radio signal booster?

These are designed for buildings that have failed mandatory inspection to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. The inspection requirements vary by jurisdiction, but according to international law, certain levels of radio communication are expected for use by first responders. These BDA signal boosters increase the propagation of necessary radio signals within your building.

Do I need a two-way radio amplification system in my building in order to get a Certificate of Occupancy?

A two-way radio signal booster is not necessarily needed. The only way to know the answer is to have your building tested. Codes merely require adequate two-way radio clarity and coverage. If your building has sufficient clarity and coverage to meet your local code, you do not need a system.

We have a cellular signal booster in our building supporting the 700MHz and 800MHz bands. Will it provide coverage for two-way radio or FirstNet frequencies?

Unfortunately, no. Cellular boosters are only FCC approved to rebroadcast the cellular carriers’ frequencies. Two-way radio or FirstNet are not supported. However, depending on your local codes, you may be able to add two-way or FirstNet coverage to your existing cable and antenna infrastructure.

Are there any device number restrictions on your systems?

The number of devices that can make use of the better cell signal provided by our public safety cell phone signal boosters depends on the power of the booster. As a general rule, if you buy a commercial system, you should not have to worry much about capacity.

A major cause of poor signal is building material. We strongly recommend a system design before making any major equipment purchases, as our expert team of designers are well-versed in signal loss from internal obstructions.

Are there any specific codes or requirements unique to my area?

Each Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) has their own codes and requirements. Each city does have requirements for in-building emergency radio coverage. In fact, most cities and counties have codes regarding expected coverage indoors for first responder two-way radios.

Can I buy the necessary equipment to install a system in my building myself?

No. There are strict requirements for the training and expertise necessary to correctly install ERRC (Emergency Responder Radio Coverage) systems. This project is best left to the experts.

My building is X amount of stories, but less than 50,000 sq ft. I read that only buildings larger than 50,000 sqft need to be tested.

That is not entirely correct, there are exceptions. Most codes require testing and coverage if your building has one (or more) of these three characteristics:

Is more than 3 stories
Has any subterranean space
Has an aggregate of 50,000 sqft or more

What sorts of warranties or guarantees do you offer?

We offer 2-3 year warranties on all our systems, a year on all labor, and lifetime technical support. Should your system require maintenance, we also are able to come back to your site and make any necessary adjustments or changes to make sure it’s working as optimally as possible.

Signal Boosters also guarantees the professionalism of our employees and will schedule their visits based on what works for you. The installation of your radio signal booster will be conducted in such a manner as not to inconvenience your normal operation.

Bi-Directional Amplifier FAQs

What is a BDA in communication?

A BDA, or Bi-Directional Amplifier, is a device used in communication systems to enhance signal strength and improve radio communication coverage within buildings or large facilities. These amplifiers are essential components of Distributed Antenna System (DAS) and Public Safety Distributed Antenna System networks, ensuring reliable connectivity for emergency responders and meeting code compliance requirements set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and local authorities. A properly installed BDA system, like the Surecall Guardian4 Public Safety Bi-Directional Amplifier and similar cell phone signal boosters, ensures uninterrupted communication during emergencies, helping meet Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (ERRC) standards and obtain a Certificate of Occupancy.

How do BDA systems work?

BDA systems work by capturing weak radio signals from a donor antenna placed outside the building, amplifying these signals using bi-directional amplifiers, and then redistributing the boosted signals throughout the facility using a network of antennas connected to the Distributed Antenna System (DAS) or BDA/DAS setup. This process is also reversed for outgoing signals, ensuring seamless two-way communication.

These enhancement systems, like the Cel-Fi by Nextivity GO RED FirstNet and other cell boosters, are specifically designed to maintain strong signal strength and reliable connections, even in challenging environments such as large buildings or areas with poor signal coverage. To comply with local regulations and codes require, BDA systems must be FCC certified and meet specific criteria set by the Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to ensure public safety and effective communication for emergency responders.

Is BDA and DAS the same?

While BDA and DAS cell phone boosters share similarities, they are not the same. A Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) is a specific component within a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) that helps amplify and improve signal strength for radio communication. A DAS, on the other hand, is a complete network of antennas, including BDAs, that work together to distribute and ensure reliable signal coverage throughout a building or facility — similar to the Uniden Hero First Net and other cell phone signal boosters.

What does a DAS system do?

A Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is a network of strategically placed antennas connected to a central source that works together to enhance radio frequency (RF) signal coverage within buildings or large facilities. DAS systems are designed to improve signal strength, ensure seamless communication for emergency responders, and meet code compliance requirements set by authorities like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). DAS systems often include Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDA), like the Comba CriticalPoint Public Safety 700/800 MHz and other cell boosters, to improve signal strength and maintain a reliable connection.

What is the difference between DAS and BDA systems?

The primary difference between a DAS and a BDA system lies in their function and composition. A Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is a comprehensive network of antennas and components designed to distribute and enhance radio frequency (RF) signals within a building or facility, much like the Westell Public Safety 700 MHz Digital Repeater and similar cell phone boosters. In contrast, a Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) is a specific component within a DAS that focuses on amplifying and improving signal strength for two-way radio communication. While both systems contribute to ensuring reliable connectivity and meeting code compliance requirements, BDAs are a part of the larger DAS network.

Nextivity SHIELD EXTEND ERRCS Public Safety System
Class A with 56 Channels

Class B with 28 Channels (100 kHz & 150 kHz)

700/800 MHz for Public Safety with dedicated FirstNet

Brings buildings into compliance with local NFPA/IFC codes
View Details
Nextivity SHIELD FirstNet MegaFi Fixed HPUE
Highest-Powered Mobile Router for Fixed Applications

Up to 6x Greater Uplink Power on Band 14

WiFi Hotspot Supports Voice and Data

5 Ethernet Ports, 1 WAN & 4 LAN

FirstNet Trusted™ Device
View Details
Solid Responder 700/800 MHz Public Safety Digital Repeater
NFPA/IFC Compliant

FirstNet Supported

Channel & Band Selective
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SureCall Guardian3 Quick Response Public Safety Bi-Directional Amplifier
Amplifies full Public Safety 700MHz, 800 MHZ, and 900MHz SMR

For first responder building (up to 80,000 sq ft)

Built-in safeguards eliminate interference

Quality metal construction, durable and resilient

Meets NFPA requirements
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Westell Public Safety 700 MHz Digital Repeater | DSP85-PS7
Remote monitoring and control

Single, dual, tri and quad-band configurations

Modular units are flexible and lightweight
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Westell Public Safety 800 MHz Digital Repeater | DSP85N-PSS8
Remote monitoring and control

Single, dual, tri and quad-band configurations

Modular units are flexible and lightweight
View Details

The Importance of Having and Using Public Safety Signal Boosters

Multi-channel signal boosters can play an important role in enhancing public safety during emergencies by amplifying weak signals and ensuring seamless communication. In times of crisis, it is essential for first responders, law enforcement agencies, healthcare professionals, and other personnel to have access to reliable and clear communication channels. Weak or disrupted signals can significantly hinder their efforts, resulting in delayed response times, miscommunication, and putting lives at risk. By utilizing public safety signal boosters, these professionals can maintain constant communication, coordinate their efforts efficiently, and make timely decisions that are needed to save and protect the lives of others.

It's also worth noting that multi-channel signal boosters enhance connectivity in remote or densely populated areas where geographical constraints or infrastructural limitations limit or impede signal strength. For example, emergency services may struggle to reach those in need in rural areas because of poor signal quality. Likewise, tall buildings and other structures in urban areas can obstruct signals, causing dead zones and dropped calls. By installing public safety signal boosters in strategic locations, it becomes possible to eliminate these issues and ensure that all individuals — regardless of their location — have access to strong and consistent cellular coverage. This not only improves the overall safety of the community but also gives residents peace of mind knowing that help is only a phone call away.

Find the Right Signal Booster for You

Public Safety Two-Way Radio ERRC Signal Booster BDAs and DAS

Questions Our Customers Often Ask

Bi-Directional Amplifier FAQs

Nextivity SHIELD EXTEND ERRCS Public Safety System

Nextivity SHIELD FirstNet MegaFi Fixed HPUE

Solid Responder 700/800 MHz Public Safety Digital Repeater

SureCall Guardian3 Quick Response Public Safety Bi-Directional Amplifier

Westell Public Safety 700 MHz Digital Repeater | DSP85-PS7

Westell Public Safety 800 MHz Digital Repeater | DSP85N-PSS8

The Importance of Having and Using Public Safety Signal Boosters

For Additional Information on WiFi Solutions and Our Public Safety Signal Boosters

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