Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement Systems (ERCES) & Bi-Direction Amplifiers (BDA)

What is an ERCES (Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement System)?

An Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement System (ERCES) ensures reliable, building-wide radio coverage for first responders during emergencies. These systems are critical for maintaining uninterrupted communication in areas that often lack signal coverage, such as basements, stairwells, mechanical rooms, and elevator shafts.

ERCES systems are often required by local building codes and are especially important for structures with complex layouts or heavy construction materials that can interfere with radio signals.

To determine if an ERCES is needed, a Radio Frequency (RF) signal survey must be conducted by a FCC GROL-certified technician. This professional will test signal strengths throughout the building—measuring both uplink and downlink performance—and document the results by zone and floor. These findings are submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to determine compliance with code requirements, such as those outlined by the International Building Code (IBC) and NFPA standards.

If the building does not meet minimum signal thresholds, an ERCES—typically consisting of Bi-Directional Amplifiers (BDAs) and a Distributed Antenna System (DAS)—must be designed and installed in coordination with the AHJ.

What is a BDA (Bi-Directional Amplifier)?

A Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) is a core component of an ERCES. It enhances two-way radio signal strength throughout a building by amplifying both incoming (downlink) and outgoing (uplink) radio signals. This allows for clear communication between first responders inside the building and dispatch or external personnel during emergencies.

BDAs are configured to support multiple frequencies and radio systems, including those used by fire departments, police, EMS, and FirstNet’s dedicated public safety spectrum. Because each municipality may use different frequencies and coverage standards, system design must be approved and verified by the AHJ.

Once installed, BDA systems are tested and certified to ensure they deliver reliable, code-compliant performance—especially in mission-critical areas.

 

Maytech Systems partners with certified engineers and FCC-licensed professionals to design, test, and implement ERCES/BDA systems that meet all local codes and ensure first responders can stay connected when every second counts.

Need help navigating ERCES compliance? Contact us today for expert guidance and a customized plan.

Do I Need an ERCES/BDA System?

If you’re planning new construction, it’s critical that your building design takes ERCES code requirements into account from the start. For existing buildings, especially older structures or those with complex layouts, verifying that emergency radio signals can be reliably received throughout the entire property is just as important.

Failing to meet signal strength requirements can delay occupancy permits and, more importantly, compromise first responder communication during emergencies.

What the Codes Require

National and state building and fire codes now mandate emergency responder radio coverage in most commercial buildings.

These include:

 

 

 

 

Our ERCES Site Survey & Compliance Process

Radio Strength Survey

At Maytech Systems, we follow a thorough and code-compliant process to assess your building’s Emergency Responder Radio Coverage and determine whether a Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) system is required.

Step 1: Site Assessment & Requirements Gathering

Our FCC-licensed and factory-certified technician will collect all necessary information about your site, including:

  • Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements
  • Local public safety radio system details and frequencies
  • Building blueprints and layout

Step 2: Proposal & Approval

Based on the gathered information, we’ll provide a detailed quote for the radio frequency (RF) signal survey and required reporting. Once approved, we’ll move forward with the testing phase.

Step 3: Signal Strength Survey

Our designer will create a plan with the required grid configuration per code standards. The certified technician will then conduct an on-site survey, taking precise uplink and downlink signal strength readings across all required zones.

Step 4: Reporting & Results

Following review, a comprehensive Signal Strength Report will be submitted to the AHJ, and you’ll receive a copy along with a pass/fail notification based on applicable code requirements (e.g., IBC, IFC, NFPA).

Step 5: BDA System Design (If Required)

If the building does not meet the required coverage thresholds, we’ll provide a quote for a fully compliant BDA system, designed and installed to meet AHJ approval and ensure full emergency responder communication coverage.

Ready to ensure compliance and safety?
Contact Maytech Systems to schedule your site assessment and signal survey today.

 

BDA System Installation & Approval Process

Once you accept the quote for your Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) system, Maytech Systems begins a detailed, code-compliant process to ensure a smooth installation and final approval by your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

Step 1: System Design & Engineering Review
Your site information is reviewed by a radio systems engineer, who will develop detailed installation plans and RF heat maps that show coverage expectations throughout the building.

Step 2: Coordination with Your Project Team
We’ll schedule a meeting with your General Contractor, Architect, and Engineer to discuss system pathways, infrastructure requirements, and any building-specific considerations. Our goal is to work collaboratively with your team to develop a cost-effective and code-compliant solution.

Key Installation Considerations:

  • Donor Antenna Placement
  • Antenna Grounding and Lightning Protection
  • 2-Hour Fire-Rated Pathways and Cabling (when required or cost-effective)
  • Conduit and Power Requirements
  • Conditioned Space for BDA Equipment
  • Distributed Antenna System (DAS) Installation Methods
  • Integration with Fire Alarm System

Step 3: Permit Submission
After resolving any design conflicts or construction challenges, we’ll submit a complete permit package to the AHJ for review and approval.

Step 4: System Installation
Once the permit is issued, our certified technicians will proceed with the professional installation of the BDA system, following all applicable codes and standards.

Step 5: Final Inspection & Documentation
The BDA system will be the final component inspected by the Fire Marshal, following the approval of the building’s fire alarm system.

We will provide full documentation, including:

  • System plans and certifications
  • Final signal strength test results
  • Maintenance and inspection schedule
  • Copies for the construction team, building owner, and AHJ

A maintenance quote will also be provided to ensure ongoing compliance and performance of your BDA system in the years ahead.

Code References for ERCES Compliance:

  • IFC 510
  • NFPA 1, Chapter 11
  • NFPA 1225, Chapter 18 (formerly NFPA 1221)
  • NFPA 72, Chapter 24

Need help navigating your building’s ERCES requirements?
Contact Maytech Systems today for expert guidance and certified installation services.

BDA Inside

The BDA panel is the heart of your system. It is what receives, amplifies, and broadcasts radio signals – both incoming and outgoing!

Annunciator

The annunciator tells you what is happening with the BDA system. It monitors key parameters to keep your system in operational condition.

Interior Antenna

Interior Antenna

Antennas distributed throughout your building receive and broadcast signals from emergency responder radio systems.

Yagi Antenna

Yagi Antenna

The Yagi Antenna is placed above the roofline and is specially tuned to send and receive the appropriate signals. Its location and direction are determined by the closest radio tower to your site.