Bi-directional Amplifiers, BDA Installation, and BDA Testing in Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach, Hollywood, FL, & throughout Broward, & Miami-Dade Counties

Fire Alarm Systems and Security is your local authority for supplying, installing, and testing Bi-Directional Amplifiers throughout Davie, Miami Beach, Sunny Isles, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, FL, plus Broward, Palm Beach & Miami Dade Counties.

What are BDA’s

BDA’s boost the radio communication signals for first responders through radio devices placed throughout a building. This ensures signals can be reached in places once categorized as experiencing dead spots.

What are dead spots?

Dead spots can be found in over 95% of buildings. These dead spots mean first responders are not able to receive signals with crucial emergency information. In fact, 56% of first responders have reported communication failures. BDA’s not only help buildings and companies stay compliant; they also ensure the safety of all occupants.

What creates dead spots?

Dead spots occur when normal building materials create barriers for communication signals. Building and structural barriers can include concrete, windows, metal, mesh and more. The deeper into the building with layers of building materials, the more likely dead spots will exist. Communication areas that have difficulties include stairwells, parking garages, pump rooms, elevator shafts, and more. Places with thick walls are particularly at risk for dead spots and can include sports complexes, low level parking garages, reinforced shelters, and nearly all multi-story buildings.

Local authorities have been requiring BDAs in new buildings since 2009 depending on the number of floors or regulations determined by local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Some older building may need to be retrofitted for BDAs especially when going to through renovations.

Bi-directional Amplifier Installation

BDA installation is often done during the construction phase of a building. Once the architectural plans are complete, FASS engineers start the plan for Bi-directional Amplifier installation which can be done in conjunction with commercial fire alarm systems. Many times, cables and electrical sources can be shared between different systems, streamlining the installation and planning.

Requirements for BDA can include back-up electrical sources, low-power warnings, and dedicated monitoring panels. When working throughout South Florida including Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade Counties, FASS ensures all back-up power systems meet local codes as related to hurricane precautions. Back-up power must be able to support regular function in local hurricane-prone areas.

BDA Testing

FASS is also a certified tester and certification provider for third-party verification and annual testing. Each local AHJ has its own requirements driven by either the local fire department or other code departments. Laws are strengthening all the time and being enforced as building grows and municipalities look to strengthen their safety ability.

Common Bi-directional Amplifier Locations