CASE STUDY

The facilities team relied heavily on communication systems to coordinate their activities. The system deployed was a multi-layered system incorporating Wi-Fi, Cellular and Professional Mobile Radio. The multi-layered system ensured the facilities team would communicate well throughout the building, even if one or more of the systems had failed.

However, due to the building’s size and architectural design, the communication infrastructure needed to be reliable and robust, avoiding communication gaps and inefficiencies. Recognising the importance of seamless and robust communication, the management of 22 Bishopsgate sought a solution to enhance the facilities team’s communication capabilities.

The Challenge 

The facilities team faced significant challenges maintaining efficient communication within the expansive and vertically structured 22 Bishopsgate building. The building’s height, concrete structure, and multiple floors created a barrier for traditional radio signals used by the facilities team’s communication devices, such as portable radios or walkie-talkies.

As a result, the facilities team needed a robust coverage solution with no weak signals or communication blackspots, hindering their ability to collaborate effectively and respond swiftly to maintenance issues, emergencies, or service requests. The lack of reliable communication would impact their efficiency and pose potential risks to the safety and security of the building and its occupants.

The Solution

To address the communication challenges faced by the facilities team at 22 Bishopsgate, a Private Mobile Radio (PMR) Distributed Antenna System (DAS) was modelled, designed, built and integrated by Pan RF and CSE Crosscom. A PMR DAS is a specialised system that distributes radio signals throughout a building or complex, ensuring reliable coverage and seamless communication for specific user groups.

The deployment process began with a Requirements Capture exercise with the buildings engineering team. Pan RF then thoroughly assessed the building’s layout, and 3D modelling was used to optimise the antennas’ placement and assess the radio propagation throughout the building. Based on the findings, Pan RF designed and engineered a customised PMR DAS solution to meet the specific needs of 22 Bishopsgate.

The PMR DAS included strategically placed antennas connected to a central base station.  The PMR signal was then distributed the PMR signals across the building via passive infrastructure, extending coverage to all floors and areas. The system was designed to support the frequencies and protocols used by the facilities team’s communication devices, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.

The installation of the PMR DAS required careful planning and coordination to minimise disruptions to building operations. The antennas, including stairwells, service areas, and other critical zones, were strategically located throughout the building to ensure comprehensive coverage. The system was designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing infrastructure, with antennas mounted inside risers so that the antennas were out of view.

The Outcome

The deployment of the PMR DAS in 22 Bishopsgate proved to be a resounding success, significantly improving the facilities team’s communication capabilities. The enhanced coverage and signal strength ensured reliable and uninterrupted communication throughout the building, eliminating communication gaps and blackspots.

With the PMR DAS in place, the facilities team could efficiently coordinate their activities, respond promptly to maintenance issues, and address emergencies effectively. Communication between team members improved, enabling seamless collaboration and faster resolution of service requests. The system also enhanced the overall safety and security of the building, as the facilities team could quickly communicate and coordinate in case of emergencies or evacuations.

The deployment of the PMR DAS positively impacted operational efficiency and customer satisfaction within 22 Bishopsgate. The facilities team delivered their services more effectively, minimising downtime and providing a better overall experience for building occupants and tenants. The system proved to be a reliable and robust solution, meeting the unique communication needs of the facilities team.

In conclusion, the deployment of the PMR DAS in 22 Bishopsgate addressed the challenge of poor communication for the facilities team. The enhanced coverage, reliability, and seamless communication capabilities provided by the system resulted in improved operational efficiency, enhanced safety, and increased tenant satisfaction within the building.

Let Pan RF know if you need help with blackspots in your coverage, and we can help solve your radio and cellular coverage problems.

.

For a no obligation discussion on planning for communication coverage get in touch.