Bi-Directional Amplifiers

Is your building prepared to protect the people who protect you during an emergency event?

IES is now offering the Honeywell’s Farenhyt Series Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) emergency communication system designed to enhance in-building radio frequency (RF) signal coverage for public safety use.

Codes, Approvals, and Requirements

Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) were first introduced in the 2009 International Building Code. The ERCES requirement was established to address the performance of emergency responders’ portable radios inside buildings because building construction, building size, construction features, and other elements can absorb or block radio communications.

If a building does not meet the required signal strength (-95dBm), the only effective solution is the installation of a signal booster (BDA).

Today’s codes and standards, like the IBC 2015 Section 916, IFC 2018 Section 510, NFPA 72 2010, NFPA 1221 2016, and UL2524, require all buildings to have approved radio coverage for emergency responders within the building based on the existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems of the jurisdiction at the exterior of the building.

Solving the Coverage Problem

Concrete or metal construction, larger buildings, and underground structures have a negative impact on the in-building signal strength required for reliable communications. Buildings that use low-E glass windows will attenuate the signal from public safety radio systems. Many design professionals are not aware of the ERCES requirements. If ERCES is not referenced on a building submittal, the fire official should immediately notify the building official and design professional,in writing, that the ERCES must be evaluated. If the existing radio coverage has not been maintained, then ERCES must be provided.

How to determine if a BDA System is beneficial to your building?

Typically performed by specialized FCC GROL certified technician and some fire department radio personnel, a RF Survey  is accomplished by measuring the Downlink/Uplink signal strengths in decibels-milliwatts (dBm) using special measuring devices. Results are submitted to AHJ to determine if a BDA is required or if a waiver is appropriate.

Why is Honeywell’s Farenhyt Series BDA unique?

The Farenhyt Series Class B Bi-Directional Amplifier is a high-gain, high-power, band-selective signal booster that has been specifically designed from the ground up for UL2524 In-building 2-Way Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems, NFPA and IBC/IFC standards compliance, to be the best choice for public safety and other mission-critical applications.

• Single portfolio suits any application across the U.S. with all Public Safety frequency bands supported; various models available for UHF, VHF, 700 MHz, 800 MHz, and multi-band
• All-inclusive and fully-integrated BDA with UL2524 In-building 2-Way Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems listing, CSFM listing, NFPA 72 2010 Edition, NFPA 1221 2016 Edition, and IFC 2018 compliance
• Integrated dual power supply and battery charger with intelligent battery monitoring to cut costs and space
• Wider bandpass allows the use of a single BDA to cover multiple sub-bands
• Built-in Farenhyt Addressable Monitor Modules save wiring and installation costs
• RF resiliency, oscillation prevention and automatic uplink squelch support for safe operation and non-interference with public safety radio system
• Modular design for easier troubleshooting and field component replacement