Verizon/SpiderCloud DAS Service

ComTech has partnered with Verizon to deploy an innovative approach in solving the problem of poor in-building cellular service in some buildings. This approach utilizes a product called SpiderCloud.

Traditionally, large enterprises like universities have deployed Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) to enhance cellular signals. These systems tend to take a long time to deploy, are expensive, and require a significant amount of infrastructure (equipment rooms, conduits, and cabling) to be installed throughout each building.

The SpiderCloud system is a radical departure from traditional DAS in that it uses the existing NC State data network in lieu of all of the above infrastructure. Small devices called radio nodes are installed on the walls and plugged into nearby campus data outlets. These radio nodes act as mini cell towers, allowing nearby users to connect. Voice and data traffic is routed through the campus data network and eventually to the cell carrier.

Installation for a pilot project in three buildings was completed in Nov 2016.

Do you need to do anything? No. If you are in one of the buildings listed below and have a Verizon smartphone, you should be ready to go.

Current Buildings Covered

• Williams Hall
• Scott Hall
• Riddick Hall
• Talley Student Union
• Hillsborough Bldg
• Brooks Hall
• Nelson Hall
• Reynolds Coliseum
• Schaub Food Science Building

If you have any questions about this initiative or to suggest areas with poor coverage as candidates for future deployments, please contact Ed Rogers at ComTech (5-4073, erroger2@ncsu.edu).

Any questions regarding your phone or your Verizon service should be directed to Verizon Wireless and not to ComTech.

Cell Phone Plan Discounts

ComTech does not offer cell phones or cell phone service plans, but NC State University employees are eligible for a discount on their cell phone plans from select providers.  See Cellular Discounts to learn more.