Test and measurement leader Anritsu debuts certification programs for active, passive DAS
In-building wireless connectivity—be it from a small cell or distributed antenna systems (DASs)—is an essential mentioned by many consumers in the same breath as water and electricity.
In addition to the current red hot market demand for in-building wireless solutions, projections suggest a long growth runway. Consider: IHS Infonetics reported in May that the DAS market alone grew 11% from 2013 to 2014 to $2.2 billion. Similarly, research firm Markets and Markets estimates the global small cell market to be worth $3.92 billion by 2020.
As service providers and venue owners race to deploy solutions in a way that provides added value to the end user and a return on the often costly investment, operational expense is a major concern.
Small cell and DAS installations need to happen quickly and correctly–the first time–to avoid expensive reworking; the availability of well-trained and certified technicians can’t slow down the provisioning of services that can make or break customer retention.
To support this important industry movement, Anritsu has expanded its training offerings from cell tower-specific to include both active and passive DAS.
Training Program Manager Shawn Kelly told RCR Wireless News the new instructor-led training programs will offer technicians the opportunity to stay on the cutting-edge of telecom workforce needs.
“DAS installers work in a very convoluted industry with very few authorities that agree on best practices, so it must be very frustrating to try and get the job done right. That’s where Anritsu training comes in.”
Both training programs last three days and cost $2,195.
The active DAS certification program takes a technician through assembly, install and testing. Participants will work on a Corning 1 DAS using Anritsu’s Access Master MT9083x2 OTDR in the 60% hands-on course.
According to the company, “The purpose and true value of this course is that it will teach students to do the job correctly the first time avoiding costly rework.”
The passive DAS certification program involves use of a Site Master S331L and PIM Master MW82119B and includes reviews of line sweep and PIM theory, component testing and troubleshooting, including return and insertion loss, as well as construction and testing of simulated DAS branches.
What makes these training courses unique is that the emphasis is on DAS theory, whereas many existing training programs are sponsored by DAS manufacturers, meaning participants learn to work on specific hardware. Both programs culminate in comprehensive examinations.
The telecommunications landscape is changing rapidly in terms of both technology and the services needed to support that technology. As growth in the in-building wireless market continues, don’t let your workforce hold you back.
