By Juan Pedro Tomás

Advanced RF Technologies (ADRF), which specializes in in-building Distributed Antenna System (DAS) and repeaters for public safety and commercial radio frequencies, announced a strategic agreement with fire detection and alarm company Edwards to provide the latter’s customers with mission-critical, emergency radio communication enhancement systems (ERCES) for first responders.

ADRF said that the deal expands Edwards’ fire and life safety products to include ADRF’s suite of in-building public safety communication solutions to help keep buildings and their occupants safe.

Authorities Having Jurisdictions (AHJs) in the US require buildings to install ERCES systems that adhere to local public safety mandates and codes. This ensures firefighters, EMTs, and police officers can communicate during emergency situations using land mobile radios (LMR) in every building area, including critical coverage zones like fire command rooms, exit stairwells, elevator lobbies, basements and exit passageways. Without these systems, natural and manmade obstacles such as low-emission glass, foliage, building materials, and more, can disrupt RF signals from entering a building and thus inhibit ubiquitous wireless connectivity, the company said.

“ADRF is a well-known leader for in-building public safety communication and we are confident there is no better equipment to help our customers properly protect their buildings and inhabitants,” said  general manager of Edwards, Angie Gomez.

ADRF’s suite of public safety DAS, repeaters, battery backups, and passive components meet the latest National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and International Fire Code (IFC) codes, UL standards, and FCC rules. ADRF’s solutions also cover all public safety frequency bands including 700/800 MHz, UHF/VHF, FirstNet (Band 14) to provide ubiquitous connectivity in all areas of buildings.

Director of public safety at ADRF, Dennis Burns said: “Through our collaboration with Edwards, we are broadening our reach in the fire and life safety sector and are now able to more directly provide our solutions to building owners when they need it most.”