Boosting signal strength

Andrew Wireless has introduced a digital, multi-band selective repeater that enables indoor coverage.

The Node A RF enhancer supports a combination of narrowband channels and individual band segments in one unit — whether 2G, 2.5G, 3G or 4G mobile, iDEN, TETRA, VHF, the 700 MHz or other frequency bands.

Operators can use the device to bring all their outdoor frequency bands into small and midsize buildings or, if used in conjunction with the company’s Intelligent Optical Network (ION) products cover large venues. The repeater is an alternative to installing new base stations, performing the same function but at lower costs.

It is customisable to the frequencies most needed by the user and is ready to support future protocols as they emerge.

The device is suitable for other potential users such as building owners who need to support multiple forms of wireless communications.

Two major features are automatic gain control and interference cancellation technologies. AGC helps prevent high-power mobile devices, such as those transmitting further away from the booster, from degrading the service of low-power devices, such as those operating closer to it.

The AGC also automatically adjusts system gain on per channel or per time slot basis during major emergencies, helping to avoid diminished signals when many first responders are using the system.

Software-based digital filtering is used for interference cancellation, selectively rejecting unwanted signals such as harmonics and channel interfering frequencies on interleaved sub bands.