Solving Signal Challenges in Education

Fontana Unified School District (FUSD) serves a diverse student population across 46 schools in Southern California. Recognized nationwide for their rapid growth in student achievement, FUSD understands that reliable cellular connectivity is vital for staff, administrators, and leadership. However, poor cellular coverage in key buildings caused significant communication issues.

THE SOLUTION

Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000c Hybrid DAS

During the consultation, FUSD emphasized the need for a carrier-neutral solution to cover two buildings totaling 35,000 sq ft and noted their budget limitations. To recommend the best solution, our team visited the district to conduct a thorough site survey. We measured signal strength and identified potential installation challenges.

After close collaboration and several system design iterations, the Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000c by Nextivity met all of FUSD's requirements. Compatible with all US carriers and offering maximum gain of 100 dB, it significantly boosts signal strength in weak signal environments and delivers robust coverage. Its Hybrid Distributed Antenna System (DAS) architecture leverages the power of Ethernet and fiber optic cables vs traditional coax cables. This allows for superior signal transmission as well as greater scalability at a lower overhead cost.

Deployment Highlights:

Outdoor Antennas: Three outdoor antennas were installed to capture dedicated signals from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

Signal Booster System: The QUATRA 4000c system includes an amplifier to boost cellular signals, coverage units to extend signal reach, and indoor antennas to distribute the signal. The amplifier was placed in building one, with two coverage units and seven indoor dome antennas. Building two was equipped with one coverage unit and three indoor dome antennas.

Cabling: Fiber optic cabling extended the amplifier's reach to building two, eliminating the need for additional equipment.

Throughout the project, Bolton Install Pros maintained clear communication and addressed all questions promptly. The installation was completed on time and within budget, exceeding FUSD's expectations.

THE RESULTS

Dramatic Signal Boost Transforms Communication

With the Cel-Fi QUATRA 4000c system in place, FUSD experienced a dramatic improvement in cellular connectivity. Signal strength for all carriers in both buildings drastically improved, enabling seamless communication for staff, administrators, and the board.

Building 1 (Main Administration)

Building 2 (Meeting Rooms)

While the change in signal strength may appear incremental, every 3 dBm represents double the power. This means signal strength in both buildings increased by 9 times, resolving dropped calls, failed messages, and slow data.

Administration and the board were extremely pleased with the results. Staff can now operate efficiently, and leadership no longer struggles with connectivity issues during critical meetings.