We’ve previously written about smart light poles and integrating 5G technology into street lighting systems. However, these new technological developments generally apply in urban (or more densely populated) areas.
Expanding connectivity solutions to more remote or rural areas presents a different challenge due to the lack of infrastructure compared to urban areas. This article will focus on using light poles to expand network coverage in these regions.
The Role of Light Poles in Modern Connectivity
Typically, mobile network operators choose to install cell towers in cities and suburban areas. These towers are very expensive to install and maintain. Additionally, many requested tower sites do not get the required approvals from their communities. The ones that do usually take an average of two years to get through the permitting process.
One of the solutions to this problem is street light poles. Pole-mounted technology can bring internet connectivity to communities across the country. Small, lightweight devices can be simply and cheaply mounted on street light poles to provide communities of all sizes with both high-speed WiFi and mobile broadband. This technology is already in use in many communities.
Light poles are being used beyond traditional lighting transforming them into hubs for Wi-Fi and cellular signals. For example, street lighting can help improve 5G coverage limitations in urban areas by utilizing 5G Small Cells. These cells can be mounted on street light poles to act as miniature base stations and, when spaced properly, can increase network capacity by using them as signal relays.
By equipping street lights with 5G capabilities, cities can enhance wireless communication, support a wide array of IoT (Internet of Things) applications, and improve public safety and services, all while maintaining their primary function of illumination.
This solution can also be applied to more remote and rural areas, but it’s a bit more challenging for 5G. 5G technology has one major limitation: range. This is due to its utilization of millimeter waves (mmWave). Millimeter waves are a high-frequency band of frequencies that provide high speed and increased bandwidth. But they travel by line of sight and are blocked or reduced by physical objects like walls, trees, and buildings. This limitation is particularly acute in densely populated urban areas with more network users and physical obstacles.
Obviously, in some remote areas, the line-of-sight issue is not as much of a problem but there is still a range issue. However, this is not an issue for the mid- and low-band frequencies utilized by 5G networks (2.5GHz – 4.2GHz and 600MHz – 900MHz). They can penetrate objects and can travel several miles.
Technological Enhancements in Light Poles
Integrating connectivity solutions with light pole infrastructure in rural areas is an innovative approach to bridging the digital divide. This approach enhances connectivity and leverages existing infrastructure, making it a practical and scalable solution for rural areas.
Some of these technological solutions include:
- Small Cells and Antennas: Small cell technology can be mounted on light poles to enhance mobile network coverage and capacity.
- Wi-Fi Access Points: Installing Wi-Fi access points on light poles can provide local internet access to nearby residents.
- Integrated Solar Solutions: Solar-powered light poles can be used in areas where grid power is non-existent or unreliable, ensuring continuous operation.
Additionally, the height of light poles provides a good vantage point for wireless signals, improving coverage and signal strength. Typical pole heights used for these types of applications are in the range of 25-35 feet.
Enhancing Remote Accessibility
Connected light poles improve network coverage in remote or less-developed areas (including parks and wilderness areas). They are ready-made for this purpose and have many benefits:
- Cost-Effective Deployment: Utilizing existing light poles for broadband infrastructure can significantly reduce the costs associated with installing new poles or towers.
- Enhanced Coverage: Light poles are already distributed throughout many rural areas, providing a ready-made network for extending broadband coverage. Additional poles can also be installed to add more coverage and to handle excess capacity.
- Power Supply: Light poles typically have a reliable power source, which can be leveraged to power connectivity devices. Solar-powered light poles can be used where there is no electrical grid.
Impact on Tourism and Local Economies
Improved connectivity in parks can boost tourism by supporting modern visitor needs like live location sharing, improved experiences, and more. These areas include public parks, sports stadiums, outdoor concert venues, and RV parks.
There are potential economic benefits for local communities through increased visitor numbers and enhanced tourist experiences. It enhances the appeal of the property, increases guest/resident satisfaction, and can realize up to 20% more income by encouraging longer stays and possibly offering premium internet services.
Challenges and Considerations
There are potential challenges in integrating technology into light poles. These include weather resistance, maintenance, and technology upgrades.
- Technical Limitations: You’ll want to ensure that your light poles can support the essential equipment without compromising their primary function: lighting. For example, if it adds more weight to the pole and/or adds to its EPA (Effective Projected Area), it may compromise its ability to withstand windy conditions and will create unsafe circumstances.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the reliability of both the lighting and connectivity equipment. An inspection of the pole and its components should be performed at least once a year. Some types of light pole materials require more maintenance than others. Unlike steel poles, aluminum and fiberglass poles are naturally resistant to corrosion which extends their lifespan. Additionally, fiberglass poles are non-conductive and fire-resistant, adding to their level of safety and longevity.
- Terrain: Some remote areas have terrain that is difficult to navigate. Mountainous terrain is a good example of this. In these cases, it is recommended that a direct burial installation is used rather than an anchor base installation. Anchor base poles require a concrete foundation and getting a cement truck to certain areas could prove challenging. Direct burial installation simply requires that you dig a hole to install the pole. More information about light pole installations can be found here.
There are also regulatory and logistical considerations when installing and operating connected light poles.
- Regulatory Approvals: Utilizing connectivity solutions on light poles may require assorted regulatory approvals, which can be time-consuming.
- Regulatory Support: Streamlining the approval process for installing connectivity equipment on light poles can accelerate deployment.
Stay Connected with LightMart
LightMart offers products and solutions that support the integration of 5G technology into street lighting. Utilizing 5G light poles and WiFi light poles can greatly enhance network connectivity for any area. Our experienced staff has the expertise to help you with your upcoming projects. Contact us today!