Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) are critical for extending mobile network coverage in large buildings and public venues. However, monitoring and ensuring the functionality of these systems has historically been challenging, leaving network operators reliant on user complaints or delayed diagnostics to identify issues. AirScan by Errigal is addressing the core issues with DAS monitoring with advanced features like real-time RF data collection, predictive analytics, and automated ticketing.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the biggest issues with DAS monitoring and how AirScan’s innovative solutions solve them, ensuring seamless connectivity and optimal network performance.
Traditionally, DAS monitoring has been a reactive process. Often, network issues aren’t identified until users experience connectivity problems and report them. DAS systems track internal faults and RF power but can’t measure how effectively users can access the network. This delay in identifying problems means that by the time action is taken, users have already been affected.
Solution:
AirScan overcomes this issue by continuously emulating the mobile user experience across multiple carriers and Wi-Fi networks. It monitors real-time performance metrics, including signal strength (RSSI, RSRP), throughput, and network availability for LTE and Wi-Fi. By simulating actual user conditions, AirScan identifies potential issues before users are impacted.
To see how AirScan continuously pulls data and offers real-time monitoring, check out the AirScan Features page. For more information on solutions specifically designed for In-Building and Large Venue environments, you can also explore In-Building Solutions.
DAS systems typically cannot measure user experience in real time. While they may track whether RF power is being transmitted from carriers, they don’t provide insight into whether users can make calls, browse the internet, or use apps effectively. This gap leaves network managers in the dark about the true performance of the system from a user perspective.
Solution:
AirScan bridges this gap by testing both RF coverage and actual user experience metrics. AirScan captures data such as connection success rates, signal strength, and throughput for each carrier. It runs periodic speed tests and validates domain resolution, making it possible to identify whether users can effectively use the network. This holistic approach helps ensure that network performance is closely aligned with user needs.
Learn more about how AirScan improves end-user experience and provides these insights in Large Venue and Public Space Solutions.
Managing multiple carriers within a DAS environment can be a complex process. Monitoring whether each carrier’s network is functioning as expected requires extensive manual effort, and inconsistencies between carriers can go unnoticed. Additionally, it can be difficult to monitor both Wi-Fi and LTE performance within the same system.
Solution:
AirScan supports multi-carrier monitoring, providing comprehensive oversight of all major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. The system cycles through carriers every 15 minutes, performing a complete set of tests for each one. Whether it’s LTE or Wi-Fi, AirScan ensures that all networks are functioning correctly and can automatically raise alerts if any performance benchmarks are not met.
For more detailed information on how AirScan manages multi-carrier environments, visit the AirScan Features page. For larger spaces where this capability is crucial, explore the Large Venues and Public Spaces Solutions section to see how this feature can enhance management for stadiums, malls, and convention centers.
When DAS systems fail, network operators are often unaware until users start reporting issues. This can result in delays in identifying and addressing problems, leading to prolonged service disruptions and frustrated users.
Solution:
With AirScan’s automatic alarming and ticketing, network issues are detected immediately and flagged for resolution. The system integrates with Errigal’s EMS Nova platform, creating tickets as soon as any performance threshold is breached. This allows IT teams to respond quickly and efficiently, preventing extended outages.
If you’re looking for a way to streamline your monitoring processes and reduce response times, read more about AirScan’s real-time alarming in the blog post, Scheduling RF Testing with AirScan page.
Monitoring DAS across multiple sites can create inconsistencies in data, making it difficult to assess overall network health. Often, data is siloed by carrier or site, requiring network managers to manually compile reports and troubleshoot issues.
Solution:
AirScan provides a unified view of network health across all sites. The system’s dashboard consolidates data from all AirScan units, grouped by site and carrier. This enables network managers to monitor all metrics (RSSI, RSRP, throughput) from a single platform. The system also offers configurable dashboards and reports, allowing you to drill down into specific issues or view performance trends across multiple sites.
For businesses with multiple locations or extensive infrastructure, AirScan’s multi-site monitoring is a game-changer. Learn how it works on the AirScan Features page, or check out its applications in Remote and Rural Area Solutions for industries like agriculture and energy.
Traditional DAS monitoring often involves time-consuming manual analysis and reporting. Network operators need to manually compile data, identify trends, and troubleshoot issues, which can result in delays in addressing problems or optimizing performance.
Solution:
AirScan automates the data collection, analysis, and reporting process. The system continuously gathers performance metrics and provides automated, customizable reports. It also offers predictive analytics, helping network operators identify potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach reduces manual effort and enhances network optimization.
By addressing the biggest problems in DAS monitoring, AirScan ensures that network operators can maintain optimal performance, resolve issues proactively, and provide users with a seamless experience. Whether you’re managing connectivity in a high-rise, large venue, or remote area, AirScan offers the tools you need for comprehensive, real-time DAS monitoring.
For more detailed information, learn how AirScan’s cutting-edge solutions apply across industries in In-Building Solutions, Large Venues, and Remote and Rural Areas.
