Wilson Connectivity unveils hybrid DAS & opens Utah facility

Wilson Connectivity has announced a new Hybrid Distributed Antenna System (DAS) that seeks to accelerate deployment times and meet enterprise wireless needs by integrating Part 20 compliance and global certifications.

The new Hybrid DAS solution combines the functionality of WilsonPro's bidirectional amplifier technology with Zinwave's fibre-optic DAS architecture. According to the company, this combination eliminates the reliance on carrier-provided base stations, which often lead to significant project delays, particularly in commercial buildings spanning 100,000 to 500,000 square feet.

Deployment and efficiency

The company states that its hybrid approach removes the need for costly base stations without compromising on enterprise performance, utilising a fibre-optic distribution method. Wilson Connectivity reports that this system requires 80% less space compared to competing DAS setups and can improve energy efficiency by 17%, which the firm sees as a crucial factor for mid-sized buildings facing space and power limits.

Bruce Lancaster, Chief Executive Officer of Wilson Connectivity, commented on the impact of traditional DAS rollouts and the intended benefits of the new system:

"Traditional DAS deployments can take carriers months or even years to approve, creating significant delays for enterprises needing immediate wireless coverage solutions. Our customers report average deployment times of 6-8 weeks compared to 12-18 months for traditional carrier-depending DAS systems. Our Hybrid DAS leverages regional certifications to deploy immediately using existing macro signals, then provides the flexibility to add carrier base stations later without ripping and replacing installed infrastructure."

The Zinwave 8000 architecture - central to the new offering - supports wideband and channelised configurations, including SISO, 2x2, and 4x4 MIMO. Coverage from 150MHz to 5GHz provides adaptability for future requirements, enabling support for low and mid-band cellular, CBRS private networks, two-way radios, and public safety frequencies by adding new radios at the head-end.

Applications and compatibility

Wilson Connectivity positions the Hybrid DAS as suitable for sectors such as corporate, education, and healthcare, each requiring a robust communication infrastructure. The system is described as interoperable with leading operators and adaptable to existing building frameworks, reducing both cost and installation disruption. A modular design allows migration to a fully active DAS configuration if demands increase.

The system covers a range of frequency bands, including 600 MHz (Band 71), 700 MHz, 850 MHz, 1900 MHz, 2100 MHz, FirstNet (Band 14), and CBRS, with capabilities for C-Band and public safety. The architecture supports up to 64 remote units per bidirectional amplifier, employing RF-over-fibre for high-speed, low-latency data transfer and future scalability. Other features include dynamic signal strength scanning, multi-tower antenna targeting, and a modular design that allows for the addition of new bands or features without requiring major network overhauls.

New manufacturing facility

Alongside the technology announcement, Wilson Connectivity has also opened a new manufacturing centre in St. George, Utah, dedicated to the production of private 5G and DAS solutions. The facility, staffed by 150 employees, will boost domestic manufacturing capacity and aggregate previously dispersed teams and resources.

Bruce Lancaster commented on the opening:

"This new facility represents more than just expansion - it's about our commitment to American manufacturing and the incredible talent here in Utah. By establishing this cutting-edge operation, we're not only enhancing our production capabilities but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering innovative connectivity solutions that empower businesses to thrive in an increasingly connected world."

The move to St. George supports increasing onshoring of technical manufacturing roles such as Surface Mount Technology (SMT). The company suggests that the consolidation will streamline operations, improve collaboration among teams, and enhance efficiencies in wireless infrastructure manufacturing.

Chad Steglich, Chief Executive Officer at Powerful Signal, reflected on the significance of Wilson Connectivity's manufacturing expansion:

"We've been relying on Wilson Connectivity's solutions for over 18 years, and their consistent innovation keeps us ahead of our connectivity challenges. This expanded manufacturing capacity means even better support and faster deployment of the wireless infrastructure our operations depend on. When you're dealing with mission-critical communications, you need a partner who's constantly investing in their capabilities."

Chad Thomas, Economic Development Director for the City of St. George, also commented on the impact of the facility:

"Wilson Connectivity's decision to expand their manufacturing operations here reflects St. George's emergence as a premier destination for technology companies. As one of the fastest-growing cities in America, we're committed to diversifying our economy beyond tourism, and advanced manufacturing facilities like this are exactly what we need to create high-quality jobs and attract the next generation of innovators to southern Utah."

Wilson Connectivity states that its products, including those produced at the new facility, cover frequencies from 150 MHz to 5GHz, consolidating wireless infrastructure for applications ranging from two-way radio to mid-band 5G and private networks. The company points to its legacy in cell signal amplification and over 200 patents as part of its ongoing development in the sector.

Misty Lyons, Director of Operations at Wilson Connectivity, commented on the operational benefits realised by the new facility:

"Having our entire team under one roof has transformed how we operate. We can now streamline our processes from inventory management through final assembly, which wasn't possible when our operations were spread across multiple locations."

The company highlights that the expanded production capability should enable the delivery of reliable in-building cellular and private wireless connectivity for enterprise and mission-critical applications, supporting the demand for digital transformation across various industries.