In-Building Emergency Responder Radio COMMUNICATION Enhancement Systems (ERCES)

First Responders depend on reliable two-way communications when lives and property are at risk. Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems provide complete in-building radio coverage by eliminating communication deadzones.

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Keeping Emergency Responders Connected


LS Systems tests, designs, installs, and monitors In-Building Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) and performs annual system checks as required by code.

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Enhanced Safety

Don’t let weak radio signals put your people and property in danger. Ensure uninterrupted in-building radio coverage for first responders during an emergency by providing this critical life safety service.

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Meeting Extensive Code Requirements

Extensive new fire codes may have you risking liability, increased insurance rates, or your ability to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. Meets codes IBC 2015 Section 916, IFC 2018 Section 510, NFPA 72 2010, NFPA 1221 2016, and UL2524. Achieve full code compliance with our ERCES solutions.

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Powerful Solutions

With the best choice for public safety and mission-critical applications in the industry, LS Systems’ high-gain, high-power, band-selective signal booster and bi-directional amplifier provides both confidence and compliance.

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UL 2524 Listed 

An all-inclusive and fully-integrated BDA with UL2524 1st Edition for In-building 2-Way Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems listing.

Dedicated Annunicator Panel

Supervised, dedicated annunciator panel with 6 status lights – Normal AC Power, Loss of AC power, Signal Booster Trouble, Antenna Failure, Battery Charger Trouble, and Low Battery. The panel mounts on the standard electrical 4” box and it does not require external power supply.

Full Range of Frequencies

Single portfolio to meet any application across US with all Public Safety frequency bands supported, various models available for UHF, VHF, 700MHz, FirstNet, 800 MHz and multi-band.


Oscillation Prevention Circuit

Oscillation Detection Circuit prevents amplifier feedback and oscillations.


Battery Backup & Monitoring

Integrated dual power supply and battery charger with intelligent battery monitoring saves cost.


Complete Fire Alarm Control Panel Integration

Built-In Fire Alarm Addressable Monitor Modules save on equipment and installation cost.

ERCES FAQs

Have questions about in-building emergency radio communications enhancement systems?

What is an ERCES SYSTEM?

An Emergency Radio Communications Enhancement System (ERCES) or commonly referred to as a Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) system is a Life Safety System similar to a fire alarm system. Emergency Responders - Firefighters, Police and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) rely on two-way radios operating on public safety frequencies for communications in every day operations. When radio signals going into and out of buildings are weakened by structures such as concrete, Low-E glass windows, metal, underground, and additional materials impacting radio signals, emergency radio communications can become unreliable with lack of in-building public safety radio coverage. Codes require an approved level of radio coverage which can be achieved by enhancing the in-building radio frequency signal coverage with an ERCES.


HoW DO ERCES SYSTEMS WORK?

In-building emergency responder radio communication enhancement systems are an essential life safety system that enables reliable communication between first responders, whether they are inside or outside the building during an emergency situation. ERCES comprises of a BDA / Signal Booster, Distributed Antenna System (DAS), Donor Antenna, Dedicated Annunciator Panel and power components.


WHY ARE ERCES SYSTEMS NECESSARY?

Emergency Responders - Firefighters, Police and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) - rely on two-way radios operating on public safety frequencies for communications in every day operations.  National and international fire codes now mandate that all new and existing buildings have full wireless coverage indoors within 99% of all critical areas


What is an authority having jurisdiction (AHJ)?

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is an organization, office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure. Typically, this is a local government agency. A quick search to determine your local county based on zip code, then searching for "local county code enforcement" will provide you with a good starting point. 


Are ERCES Considered life safety systems?

Most jurisdictions consider the ERCES to be a Life Safety System. The ERCES is not only utilized to enhance signal coverage for emergency responders two-way radios, but also interfaces with the fire alarm system.


AM I REQUIRED TO TEST MY BUILDING FOR COMPLIANCE?

National and International Codes require that an ERCES be tested annually by a person approved by the AHJ.  If your system isn't currently being tested annually,  you may be at risk for a penalty or violation notice. National and international fire codes now mandate that all new and existing buildings have full wireless coverage indoors within 99% of all critical areas

Testing is a relatively simple process and can be completed by an LS Systems specialist. If any issues are found, a plan can be put in place to address them, thereby minimizing the risk of potential fines and penalties.


Must I have professional monitoring for an ERCES System?

Depending on the AHJ, a dedicated monitoring system may be required for an ERCES System. National and International fire codes mandate that all new systems be monitored by the Fire Alarm System.