Distributed Antenna System
May 5, 2014
The Lane Stadium Distributed Antenna System (DAS) achieved a milestone on April 26 by being fully operational in time for the Virginia Tech spring football game. The DAS improves the cellular coverage and capacity within Lane Stadium, including the stadium bowl, all interior and exterior levels, and the parking lots on the northeast, south and west sides. On game days, cellular coverage and capacity in particular is a problem. The DAS enhances cellular service as a convenience to students, faculty, staff and visitors to the stadium while also enhancing public safety and security.
The DAS was operational during the 2013 football season at reduced capacity utilizing a temporary head-end to support it. The new facility is located behind the east side of the stadium. Longent is the integrator for the DAS, and the initial carrier is Verizon Wireless. The DAS is designed for multiple carriers and work is underway to add other service providers to the platform.