Wireless Communication Problems in Energy-Efficient Building Construction

Modern building construction often focuses on energy efficiency and architectural aesthetics, ignoring wireless system performance until the building is occupied and problems are found. This paper presents a case-study of one such building, showing how the radio environment is compromised by up to 50 dB or more, due to a combination of attenuation through energy efficient exterior glass and RF interference generated by energy-efficient lighting inside. This dramatic hit to the radio link budget has important potential impacts not only on cellular phone operation, but also on broadcast and public safety services. The data reported also suggests that current regulations are insufficient to avoid the problem and that a more holistic approach to EMC is needed.