Dallas, TX, 24 September 2013 - Axell Wireless, the worldwide provider of wireless coverage solutions, today announced the launch of the 2nd generation of its fully LTE-ready, very low noise figure, low-power fiber optic Distributed Antenna System (DAS). The system supports all technologies and bands used by U.S. carriers including 700 LTE (Upper and Lower bands), 800 SMR, 850 Cellular, PCS (including the G Block for Sprint) and AWS.  Twenty-four (24) of the system’s six band remotes can be supported by one Optical Master Unit (OMU) at a very competitive price point.

The MBF-20 low-power fiber optic remote provides approximately 23dBm composite output power per band. Each MBF-20 can be connected to a hub unit, such as the Axell Optical Master Unit Mark II (OMU II), via a single fiber optic cable. Available in a compact form factor, weighing only 18 pounds, the unit houses a six band configuration and can be installed simply on a wall, or in a rack.

The MBF-40 is the high-power remote and can provide either 37dBm or 43dBm per band. Recently upgraded as well, it can also support up to six bands in a single chassis helping to reduce equipment and installation costs. Using a mix and match approach, the MBF-20 low-power remote can be combined with the MBF-40 high-power remote on the same DAS system allowing flexibility in design.

The remote units minimize the signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in one of the lowest noise figures on the market today. Achieving an extremely low noise figure has become a key priority in relation to LTE because of the higher data rates now being transmitted over-the-air. Just 6dB of increased noise can decrease data rates by half. Carriers want to ensure optimal data throughput for their subscribers, particularly indoors where data usage is so intense. To reduce signal degradation Axell Wireless is aiming to ensure the best signal-to-noise ratio possible in order to achieve the highest data rates, depending on the link.

Matt Thompson, VP Americas, Axell Wireless explained: “Modern construction materials, such as reinforced glass and steel make it difficult for outdoor radio signals of any kind to penetrate a building. In addition to these changing building dynamics, carriers nationwide are faced with the dual challenge of gearing up for the ‘anytime, anywhere’ high data speeds of LTE networks while encountering a decline in ARPU. Axell offers low-cost, high-quality solutions with a low noise figure that ensures high data throughput without intruding on the design and function of the space itself.”

He added: “Our 2nd generation Fiber DAS system has an easy plug-and-play configuration and a web-based GUI making it easy to deploy and manage. In addition to setting new performance and flexibility standards within the industry, Axell’s next generation DAS sets the standard for low power consumption using typically 30 percent less power than the other lead manufacturers.  With more and more neutral host systems being deployed, operational costs (OPEX) become a major concern and a system like this can pay for itself, in terms of electricity cost savings, within two to three years.” 

The 2nd generation Fiber DAS system is available now.