What is HetNet and How Can it be Used?

As the demands on wireless networks, mobile networks, and other technologies increase due to a growing user base, it is important to find ways to match these rising needs.

Many mobile users are accustomed to logging onto a wifi network alone, or relying on cellular data. Luckily, wifi networks are not the only option.

A heterogeneous network (HetNet) merges wifi networks with distributed antenna systems (DAS) to provide the best coverage, capacity, and criticality for data traffic and cellular usage.

Simply put, HetNet involves one major base station, along with signals sent using wireless networks and DAS. Voice and data cabling are used to further extend the network. This allows for numerous devices to operate on HetNet without experiencing delays or connectivity problems.

Instead of wireless networks and DAS running as two separate systems, they are able to work together — where the wifi network may have issues, the DAS takes over. If the DAS has problems, the wifi network is used. This keeps wireless networks and other technologies in balance, getting the benefits from each while minimizing disadvantages.

HetNet has applications in many industries and settings. Anywhere a wifi network and/or voice and data cabling provides connectivity can be a good candidate. HetNet, using wireless networks and DAS, can power indoor and outdoor hotspots.

Where HetNet is being installed in a location that previously used only the wifi network or a different network technology, HetNet can be retrofitted with the installation of DAS antennas and voice and data cabling running into those antennas.

If a new property is being constructed, site owners may want to consider how their wireless networks can be set up in advance to accommodate HetNet. Voice and data cabling can be arranged in building conduit in advance, and extra voice and data cabling should be stashed in risers between floors of the building as well. Setting up voice and data cabling in this way keeps it unobtrusive.

Bringing in a cabling contractor is a good choice when it comes to installing HetNet. Between wireless networks, DAS components, and voice and data cabling, there are many considerations involved. Whether an existing wireless network and voice and data cabling are in place, or the network is starting from scratch, an experienced design and installation business can be a huge help in getting your wifi network/DAS HetNet set up properly.