UPGRADING LEGACY DAS
Navigating the Transition
Why Modernizing Legacy DAS Is Essential
Legacy DAS solutions were typically designed for coverage and getting signal into the building. While coverage remains important, 5G adds a new layer of complexity focused on capacity, latency, and scalability.
Without proper upgrades, your building risks falling behind in delivering the connectivity experience today’s users expect.
The demand for seamless, high-capacity in-building coverage is rising rapidly.
However, many commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, campuses, and transportation hubs are still operating with legacy Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) that were designed for 3G environments.
These outdated systems often lack the capacity, flexibility, and efficiency to support the speed and density requirements of 5G.
Key reasons to upgrade:
Support for 5G NR (New Radio) frequency bands, including mid-band (C-band) ensuring compatibility with carrier-owned spectrum
Increased user density and bandwidth demands from IoT, mobile devices, and enterprise apps
Carrier neutrality and network sharing, which many legacy DAS systems cannot efficiently manage
Smart building integration, requiring more reliable and intelligent infrastructure
Upgrading DAS is not just a hardware swap. It requires a holistic approach
Technical Considerations When Upgrading
✔ InfrastructureCompatibility
Canyourexisting cabling,fiber backbone,andpowerdistribution supportthenewequipment? Areyourrisersandconduitspace adequatefornewremoteunitsor antennas?
✔ SpectrumandBandSupport
Many upgradesincludedsupportfor CBRS band.However,AT&Thas submittedaproposal toreallocate CBRS spectrum.If approved,this couldrenderinvestmentsinprivate networksoverCBRS effectively worthless.
Instead,therecommendedpath forwardistowork withAT&TorTMobileforprivatenetwork deploymentsovertheirowned spectrum,whichensureslong-term stability andsupport.
✔ Signal Source Integration
Will you be using off-air repeaters, baseband units, or carrier signal feeds? Is coordination with mobile network operators required?
✔ Scalability and Modularity
Can the upgraded system scale with future technologies such as private 5G or Wi-Fi 7?
Does the architecture allow for software-defined tuning and remote monitoring?
Modernizing DAS infrastructure can present several obstacles
Carrier coordination delays: Getting MNOs to approve and connect to upgraded DAS systems can be timeconsuming.
Budget limitations: 5G upgrades can be capital-intensive; phased implementation or shared-neutral-host models can help.
An emerging option is DAS-as-a-Service (DaaS), which shifts large capital outlays into predictable operating costs with the enterprise paying a monthly fee.
Downtime during transitions: Careful planning and working with experienced integrators minimizes business disruption. Navigating building codes and permitting: Especially in hospitals, airports, and government facilities, regulatory compliance is a must.
The Benefits of a 5G-Ready DAS
Enhanced user experience with ultra-fast speeds and low latency
New use cases like AR/VR, AI-driven applications, and smart devices
Attracting and retaining tenants in commercial real estate by offering highperformance connectivity
Increased building value and long-term ROI through improved operational efficiency and technological relevance
The road to 5G-readiness begins with acknowledging that yesterday’s DAS won’t meet tomorrow’s demands. Whether you’re in commercial real estate, healthcare, education, or enterprise IT, modernizing your in-building wireless system is a strategic move. Not just for better performance, but for business resilience and future growth.
If you're considering a DAS upgrade, partner with experts who understand the nuances of spectrum, signal distribution, and carrier engagement. A well-executed upgrade ensures that your infrastructure isn't just catching up, it's leading the way.
“Intenna Systems designs, builds and maintains some of the most complex indoor wireless networks available in the enterprise and service provider segments of the industry. Over two decades of experience provide our staff with unparalleled knowledge in designing, building, optimizing and maintaining customized distributed antenna systems (DAS) and small cell solutions to fit your specific needs. We are distinguished by our commitment to quality and delivering the right solution to meet our customers’ diverse communications needs.”
Founded in 1998, Intenna Systems, Inc. is a leading provider of customized, cost-effective, in-building wireless networks. With over two decades of design and deployment experience, Intenna continues to provide comprehensive cellular and public safety network DAS solutions to an impressive resume of healthcare, corporate, hospitality, public venue and government clients nationwide. We are distinguished by our unparalleled experience, ability to navigate challenging environments, commitment to quality and customer focus. Reach out to Intenna today to learn how we can help you create the wireless environment that your employees, customers and patients now require.