What is Off-Air vs. On-Air Signal Source?

Off-Air Signal Source: This method captures an existing wireless signal from a nearby cell tower using a donor antenna and then rebroadcasts it within a building or area. It is often used in repeater-based systems and is a cost-effective way to enhance coverage but depends on the strength of the external signal.

On-Air Signal Source: This refers to a direct network-fed connection, such as a fiber-based link from a mobile carrier’s core network or a dedicated on-site base station (BTS or small cell). It provides a stronger, more controlled, and interference-free signal, making it ideal for enterprise-level DAS deployments, large venues, and critical communication systems like ERRCS and ERCES.