2-Day Hands-On Training on ERCES Installation

In-Building Public Safety Communications (IB-PSC) NICET Level 1 & 2 Prep Training

Training Content

The NICET Certification - In-Building Public Safety Communications (IB-PSC) training prepares candidates to master essential skills across both Level 1 and Level 2 certifications.

Level 1 Training Focus:

Level 1 candidates apply fundamental radio frequency (RF) knowledge to install passive and active equipment according to system design and manufacturer specifications, including:

Performing Rough Installation Activities:

• Reading and following RF system installation documentation.
• Installing cable (e.g., support, fire stopping, grounding).
• Terminating cables and installing passive equipment.

Performing Finish and Trim-Out Installation Activities:

• Installing donor antennas, active equipment, dedicated annunciators, and battery backup units (BBU).

Level 2 Training Focus:

Level 2 candidates build on foundational RF principles to conduct initial surveys, install, commission, and maintain in-building public safety communications systems, including:

Project Management:

• Defining project scope and understanding project specifications and schedules.
• Reviewing and interpreting project documents.

Evaluating RF Signal Strength and Quality:

• Measuring RF signal strength and troubleshooting issues that impact performance.

Performing Rough Installation Activities:

• Testing cable and validating passive equipment installations.
• Verifying electrical and grounding requirements.

Performing Finish and Trim-Out Installation Activities:

• Validating electrical and grounding installations.

Commissioning, Acceptance Testing, and Maintenance:

• Adjusting headend and remote amplification equipment.

Training Overview for PCTEL: Optimizing In-Building Wireless Communication and Compliance

Join us for an in-depth training session designed to equip professionals with the essential knowledge and practical tools for conducting compliant and effective in-building wireless testing. Leveraging PCTEL’s industry-leading solutions, this training will cover key concepts and hands-on approaches critical for successful project execution.”

Training Topics:

1. The Importance of Measuring Signal Quality

Understand why accurate signal quality measurements are fundamental to ensuring reliable in-building wireless communication. We will explore how poor signal quality impacts system performance, safety communications (such as public safety DAS), and overall user experience. Learn about key metrics such as RSRP, SINR, and RSSI, and how they guide design and troubleshooting decisions.

2. The Role and Importance of Uplink Measurements

While downlink performance often gets the spotlight, uplink measurements are just as critical. This section will delve into how uplink signal strength and quality affect communication reliability, especially for first responder radio systems and public safety communications. Learn how to assess uplink performance and why neglecting this aspect can lead to system failures when it matters most.

3. Identifying and Managing Sources of Interference and Noise

Explore the common sources of RF interference and noise that degrade in-building communication systems. We will discuss external and internal sources, how to detect them using PCTEL's tools, and methods for mitigating their impact on system performance. Real-world examples will illustrate how interference affects signal integrity and coverage.

4. Performing Code-Compliant In-Building Coverage Tests Using the Grid Test Approach

Learn how to execute in-building coverage tests that meet the latest code and regulatory standards (such as IFC, NFPA, and local AHJ requirements). We’ll demonstrate the Grid Test methodology — a systematic and repeatable way to verify signal coverage throughout a building — using PCTEL's advanced testing tools. Gain insights on how to collect, analyze, and present test data to meet compliance and ensure optimal coverage.

5. Interacting with Agencies and AHJs During BDA/ERRCS Projects

A crucial part of any Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) or Emergency Responder Radio Communication System (ERRCS) project is effectively collaborating with regulatory agencies and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs). This section will cover best practices for communication, documentation, and demonstration of compliance — all illustrated with PCTEL’s test solutions that simplify the approval process. Learn how to navigate inspections and ensure your project passes on the first attempt.

Westell BDA Level 2 Hands-on
Certification (day 1)

Introduction

“Connecting a Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) to AC power and antennas does not guarantee a successful Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement System (ERCES) installation. This class will cover the following topics: International Fire Code (IFC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes that jurisdictions may require, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules governing BDAs, antenna verification, uplink optimization for signals and noise, the importance of a test transmitter and a spectrum analyzer, alarming, BDA programming, grid testing, and more. The certificate issued will hold more value than just a piece of paper; a hands-on exercise and a written test must be passed to earn this certificate.”

Training Content

Westell BDA Level 2 Hands-on
Certification (day 2)

Details:

The second day will involve learning how to install and commission Westell’s other BDAs, CS14 and CS45. The instructor will demonstrate this by logging into remotely located units.

The exam will take place after lunch on the second day. Each student must demonstrate connecting to a BDA and configuring it as instructed. The written exam will test the student on essential code and FCC requirements and the operation of Westell BDAs.

What to Bring to Class:

All students must have a Windows computer to connect to the CS40 BDA via a CAT 5 Ethernet cable. The connection requires a Static IP address, which IT departments often disable. Be sure to have the ability to set a Static IP address before attending!

The instructor cannot spend valuable class time troubleshooting computer issues. While not required, a spectrum analyzer would be very beneficial to bring to the class.

Hours:

8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on both days. Students may leave after completion of the exam on day two.

Meals:

A light breakfast and lunch will be provided on both days.

Certificate:

This certificate will be granted after successfully passing the hands-on exam and achieving a minimum score of 75% on the written exam. Enrolling in the class does not guarantee receiving a certificate; you must earn it.