Patent Publication Number: US-9837698-B2

Title: Small cell communications pole, system, and method

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/004,991, filed on May 30, 2014, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to outdoor communications infrastructure, and more particularly to communications infrastructure such as small cells that facilitate deployment of mobile communication equipment and systems, and business methods that relate to such equipment and systems. 
     BACKGROUND 
     As the global popularity of smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices with larger screens and sharper images that support video and multi-user applications increase, the demand for mobile data grows exponentially. Accordingly, significant resources are being invested in mobile communication networks to accommodate the growing demand for mobile data. Traditional macro cells use high power radios (typically in the range of 30 W) to provide wide-area coverage, but have difficulty providing sufficient capacity to satisfy demand on a long-term basis, economically or operationally. In particular, though macro networks can provide wide-area coverage, many pockets of relatively poor coverage exist. To address the demand for mobile data and extend coverage, mobile infrastructure must be rapidly deployed. One of the most efficient ways to increase capacity is to reduce the macro cell&#39;s radius, creating a more densely packed network of smaller cells. To this end, small cells serve an important role in ensuring coverage to areas not properly serviced by macro cells, thereby helping to provide sufficient mobile Internet bandwidth to satisfy growing demand. In fact, the majority of expenditures for mobile network expansion in the near future are projected to be in small cells. 
     Small cells are fully integrated base stations with radio modules that vary in output power. Small cells typically operate at reduced power compared to macro cells, and are usually classified as microcells (typically having a power range of 5 W-30 W), picocells (typically having a power range of 1 W-5 W), or femtocells (typically having a power range of less than 1 W). Small cells are typically deployed at relatively low heights compared to macro cells (in some cases, between about 35 to about 50 feet above ground level and occasionally as high as about 70 feet). Despite the differences in architecture, power and form factor, the data rate for a small cell is typically the same as that for a macro cell. Microcells and picocells can operate independently or be coupled by fiber or microwave to one or more macro cells to transmit signals therebetween for integration into the mobile communications network. 
     Certain obstacles may impede the expanded use of small cells, such challenges include site acquisition, attachment rights to deploy necessary equipment, lack of deployment standards, public safety and aesthetic concerns, plus securing access to power and backhaul facilities. In addition, zoning, regulatory issues and often adversarial relationships between municipalities, utilities and mobile network operators (“MNO”s) may extend the time to market and increase total cost of ownership of small cells. 
     For example, in the context of pole attachment, MNOs face substantial challenges negotiating attachment rights, establishing power supplies to support the devices, and complying with federal, electric utility, and municipal regulations. Additionally, given the relatively small radius of coverage (about one mile, in some cases, or as small as about 500′ in other cases), small cells must be located near the high-traffic areas which they serve, which places them within plain view of the public. As such, small cell deployment systems should be aesthetically pleasing and meet environmental and safety standards. 
     Small cells are currently and commonly deployed as external attachments to pre-existing wooden, steel and concrete poles, streetlights, and buildings. As such, unattractive, but functionally necessary, aspects of the small cells such as radios, power cords, antennae, and the like are haphazardly affixed to the pole or building in an aesthetically unappealing manner, with cordage and equipment exposed to the elements. As more functionality is added, more wires and bulky equipment are also needed, further detracting from the appearance of the pole or building and making maintenance and repair difficult. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, a communications system is disclosed. The communications system includes a pole with an inner channel extending substantially an entire vertical height thereof, the pole being anchorable in a support surface. An antenna luminary assembly is received in the inner channel of the pole at an end thereof, the antenna luminary assembly including an antenna and a light source. The antenna luminary assembly is transitionable from an unlocked position where the antenna luminary assembly is rotatable about a central axis of the pole and a locked position where the antenna luminary assembly is non-rotatable about the central axis of the pole. A rotational position of the antenna luminary assembly relative to central axis of the pole defines a horizontal azimuth of the antenna. 
     In another aspect, a communications system is disclosed. The communication system includes a small cell communications pole, the communications pole including a non-conductive, composite utility pole with an inner channel extending substantially an entire vertical height thereof. The utility pole is anchored in a support surface, and the utility pole is smoothly tapered along the entire vertical height thereof. The pole has a plurality of modular segments attached at generally smooth joints. The inner channel is adapted to receive at least one of Ethernet cables, power cables, ground cables, or wires. An antenna is mounted to an upper portion of the utility pole. A light source is mounted to the upper portion of the utility pole, the light source being dynamically controllable, and the antenna is integrated with the light source as a unitary assembly. The unitary assembly is generally weatherproof and bullet resistant to protect the interior thereof. An enclosure cabinet is mounted to a lower portion of said utility pole, the enclosure cabinet being entirely positioned above the support surface and providing access to the inner channel. A small cell backhaul system is mounted to the upper portion of the utility pole, the small cell backhaul system providing microwave backhaul. The utility pole is adapted to receive a photovoltaic coating, a camouflage wrapping, or advertising. At least one accessory component is mounted to the small cell communications pole, the accessory component being a cross arm, a transformer, an electrical insulator, an electrical outlet, a banner pole, or a light fixture. The system is NESC, ANSI, and at least EIA/TIA-222-Rev G compliant. 
     In yet another aspect, a method for replacing a utility pole with a small cell communications pole is disclosed. The method includes identifying an existing utility pole to be replaced, the existing utility pole being in compliance with a zoning requirement for a location at which the utility pole is situated, and removing the existing utility pole from the location. The method includes providing a small cell communications pole including an antenna mountable at or adjacent to an upper portion thereof, the small cell communications pole formed of a non-conductive, composite material. The small cell communications pole is NESC, ANSI, and at least EIA/TIA-222-Rev G compliant. The method involves installing the small cell communications pole at the location. 
     In yet another aspect, a pole system is disclosed. The pole system includes a plurality of poles anchored into the ground defining a line of poles, each pole supporting a utility line thereon. The utility line extends between each of the plurality of poles and is elevated above a ground surface by the plurality of poles, and at least one of the poles is a small cell communications pole. The plurality of poles provide remote communications to the plurality of poles for at least one of monitoring, controlling, or reporting a flow of electricity through the utility line. 
     The above and other features of the invention, its nature and various advantages will be more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front elevation view of one embodiment of a communications system; 
         FIG. 2  is a front elevation view of another embodiment of a communications system; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view of one embodiment of an antenna-luminary assembly (“ALA”) for use with a communications system, such as the system of  FIG. 1  or  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a detailed view of a portion of the ALA of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of another embodiment of an ALA for use with a communications system; 
         FIG. 6  is a partial cross-sectional view of the ALA of  FIG. 5  mounted on a pole; 
         FIGS. 7-9  are front elevation views of three embodiments of a Picocell radome for deployment on a pole in accordance with the disclosed communications system; 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic view of a direct burial assembly installation of a communications system; and 
         FIGS. 11A and 11B  are views of an anchor-based assembly installation of a communications system. 
         FIG. 12  is a disassembled view of the ALA and pole of  FIG. 5  showing the setscrew. 
         FIGS. 13A and 13B  are partial cutaway views of an embodiment of a communications system incorporating tubing to accommodate power lines within the inner channel of the pole. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following detailed description illustrates the certain principles of the invention and embodiments thereof, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or functionally similar elements. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , the present system includes or takes the form of a small cell, communications system or system  100  including a pole  102 , an antenna  104  located at or near a distal, top or upper end  122  of the pole  102 /system  100 , and an enclosure cabinet  106  located at or near a base  108  of the pole  102 /system  100 . The base  108  of the pole  102  is embedded in, coupled to or interfaces with a supporting surface  110 , such as a ground surface, taking the form of a sidewalk beside a street  112  in the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . In this manner the pole  102  is supported in a configuration substantially perpendicular to the supporting surface  110 . The pole  102  may be directly buried in the supporting surface  110 , without the need for external support structures or guys, as shown in  FIG. 10 . Alternately, the pole  102  may be positioned generally entirely above the supporting surface  110 , and a plurality of anchors  111  may be used to secure the pole  102  to the supporting surface  110 , for example with bolts. 
     The pole  102  may extend to nearly any design vertical height, but in certain embodiments the system  100 /pole  102  may be about 45, 50, or 70 feet tall, or less than about 100 feet tall. The pole  102  may in some cases have a diameter at its base  108  commensurate with the diameter of standard wooden utility poles, steel and concrete utility poles, and/or streetlights (e.g. about 18 inches in one case, or about 24 inches in another case), or less, although the base diameter can be selected to best match the desired height or configuration. The system  100 /pole  102  may meet the standards set by the Electronics Industries Alliance (“EIA”) and Telecommunications Industry Association (“TIA”) for wind loading (EIA/TIA-222-Rev G), such as in one case be capable of withstanding a three second wind gust at 150 mph, or 60 mph with ¾ inch of ice. The communications system  100 /pole  102  may also meet ANSI standards for utility poles. 
     The pole  102  may be hollow and include an inner channel  114  that extends substantially the entire height of the pole  102  or a portion thereof. The inner channel  114  may be configured to receive wires and/or cordage, such as coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, power cords, networking cable, speaker wire, and the like, in connection with the operation of the antenna  104  and/or other components of or accessories to the communications system  100 . The inner channel  114  may be accessible from the enclosure cabinet  106 , and the inner channel  114  may extend to and through the bottom of the pole  102 /base  108  to facilitate interfacing with components, fiber optic and coaxial cable facilities, and electric power located within or below the supporting surface  110  through a defined ingress. 
     The pole  102 , lightweight and modular in design, weighs significantly less than comparable wood, steel and concrete poles, and it may be constructed of non-electrically conductive materials to lessen the risk of damage from lightning strikes and to reduce short-circuits in the system. In one embodiment, the pole  102  is made of a fiber-reinforced synthetic resin material, available in multiple colors, and includes a smooth, graffiti-resistant finish. The pole  102  or portions thereof may be bullet resistant. A suitable pole  102  is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0047900, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. The pole  102  may be formed of a plurality of releasably attachable pole segments  116 , which can be repeatedly assembled and disassembled without the use of specialized tools. Thus, if a particular pole segment  116  is damaged, a replacement pole segment  116  may be readily substituted without the need to replace the entire pole  102 . The illustrated embodiments of the pole  102  include four pole segments  116 , but any number of pole segments  116  may be used depending upon the total height of the pole  102  and the length of the individual pole segments  116  (which need not be uniform in length). 
     In one embodiment, the pole segments  116  that form the pole  102  have non-uniform outer diameters such that the each segment  116 , and the assembled pole  102  as a whole tapers in diameter (continuously or step-wise) from one end to the other. The taper of the pole  102  is smooth and continuous even across the joints  117  between individual segments  116 , which may strengthen the pole  102  and facilitate attachment of the cabinet  106 , components, and accessory equipment. In addition, if desired an inner diameter of the larger (bottom) pole segments  116  that defines the inner channel  114  can be larger than the outer diameter of the smaller (top) pole segments  116 . Such construction facilitates nesting of the pole segments  116  for efficient shipping, handling, and transport. Because the pole  102  is smooth and continuous across the joints  117  between individual segments  116 , the pole  102  can be wrapped with camouflage, advertising, and/or photovoltaic (PV) materials to provide concealment, to increase revenue, to charge batteries, and/or to generate power for other components of the communications system  100 . In other words, the absence of jagged or stepped edges between individual segments  116  simplifies attachment of the cabinet  106  and other features and accessories such as those described above because such items may be positioned flush against the pole  102  notwithstanding placement that may span more than one segment  116  across one or more joints  117 . 
     The pole-mounted enclosure cabinet  106  is mounted to the pole  102  near the base  108 , elevated off of/away from the support surface  110  in one case. The enclosure cabinet  106  can take the form of an enclosed case or the like with a removable or pivotable door to provide access to the internal contents of the enclosure cabinet  106  and/or inner channel  114 . The enclosure cabinet  106  may house any of a variety of components, including electronics (for example, a load center with distribution and a generator plug), a circuit breaker panel, radio equipment, batteries, controllers, processors, sensors, controllers or the like, which can be used in connection with the antenna  104 , LED luminary and light source  124 , digital signage  132 , and/or other components of the communications system  100 . The enclosure cabinet  106  may include or be coupled to a service entry meter box  118 . The enclosure cabinet  106  can be designed to meet the GR-487 Generic Requirements for Electronic Equipment Cabinets standard, to withstand winds at a speed of up to 150 mph, and/or to be National Electrical Safety Code (“NESC”) compliant. 
     The enclosure cabinet  106  may be positioned to be partly or entirely accessible by a person standing on the support surface  110 , in which case at least the lower portion thereof is no more than about 2 feet high in one case, or about 4 feet high in another case. The enclosure cabinet  106  thereby provides a readily accessible, above-ground access point for communications workers, in contrast with below-ground vaults and ground level pedestal cabinets, that may require environmental permits, or multiple boxes mounted on conventional utility poles, streetlights and buildings in some cases between 8 feet and 16 feet above the ground. In some embodiments, the enclosure cabinet  106  may be mounted higher on the pole  102 , for example up to about 12 or 15 feet from the support surface  110 . 
     The enclosure cabinet  106  may further include an internally-mounted light that is automatically turned on when the door to the cabinet  106  is opened, and/or opening the door may activate the LED luminary and light source  124 . This feature ensures that light is provided for technicians performing maintenance on the communications system  100 , and also serves as a deterrent/warning to persons who attempt to access the enclosure cabinet  106  without authorization. 
     The communications system  100  can include a Wi-Fi access point and/or backhaul system  120 , which in one embodiment incorporates microwave backhaul functionality to provide data connectivity to macro cells, other small cells, and local data networks. The microwave backhaul system  120  provides point-to-point, point-to-multi-point, and non-line-of-sight wireless backhaul across both licensed and unlicensed spectra. The microwave backhaul system  120  is lightweight, weighing ten pounds or less in one case. Because it is microwave-based, the backhaul system  120  is not dependent on fiber availability. The backhaul system  120  may be positioned at any height on the pole  102 , for example between about 35 and 50 feet above ground level, and in some embodiments may be at or proximate to the top portion  122  of the pole  102 . Alternately or in addition to the backhaul system  120 , the communications system  100  may include a fiber, coaxial cable, or other wired backhaul system, which may be positioned anywhere within or along the outside of the system  100 , including within the cabinet  106 . 
     The ALA, an integral component of the communications system  100 , includes the antenna  104 , an array antennae encased in a fiberglass dome or radome  105 , which is located at the top  122  of pole  102  and mechanically attached to an LED luminary and light source  124 , an assembly including an antenna adapter plate, mounting supports, and a cylindrical or a conical shaped aluminum casting  121  with LED strips or flexible circuit board(s) affixed to the surface of the casting or mounting supports for heat dissipation and structural support. One or more conically-shaped PC boards may alternatively be used. The light source  124  is protected from the environment by a surround  125 , which may in one embodiment be formed of an acrylic hardened plastic. The aluminum casting blends the shape of the antenna to the shape (size) of the pole  102 . The antenna  104 , which in one embodiment is aesthetically indiscernible from the LED luminary and light source  124  as the ALA  136 , may be configured to transmit radio or other signals as appropriate for the radios, components and accessories located in the enclosure cabinet  106  mounted to the pole  102 , and can be EIA/TIA-222-Rev G compliant. The antenna  104  may be, in one case, a multi-band tri-sector antenna or alternately an omni or quasi-omni directional antenna, and in one embodiment, is capable of transmitting and/or receiving signals in the frequency range of about 698-960 MHz and/or 1710-2700 GHz. The antenna  104  may be operatively connected to multiple radios, accessories or components of the communications system  100  that may be required or interact with an antenna  104  and/or which are stand-alone accessories. Any wiring, such as for communications, power, remote electronic antenna tilt, etc., for such accessories or components can be positioned in the inner channel  114  of the utility pole  102 . Thus, the communications system  100  provides ease of connection and mounting of antenna(e), while minimizing unappealing visual clutter in the form of multiple antennae and external wiring. Furthermore, the ALA  136  design, which seamlessly and aesthetically combines the antenna  104  with the LED luminary and light source  124 , should expedite federal regulatory approval for communication system  100  because the antenna  104  is not visible to the average observer, and because the communication system  100  does not have a negative direct or visual effect when used to replace a pre-existing electric distribution pole or streetlight. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the communications system  100  may include any of a variety of devices, accessories, and components, some of which are shown in the drawings, to separately or simultaneously deliver applications that benefit multiple constituents including a) mobile communications; b) electricity distribution; c) IP-controlled LED lighting and digital signage; d) banner pole and wrapped print advertising; e) video surveillance; f) persistence surveillance; g) public safety, early warning and alarm and audible alert systems; h) seismic readings, weather alerts, vehicle traffic monitoring; i) mobile device monitoring and data analysis for location based advertising; j) crowd sensing collection and data management; k) smart grid Internet gateway functionality (for example, to accommodate Internet-based monitoring and control of advanced metering infrastructure and household appliances; 1) terrestrial GPS systems; and m) electric vehicle, mobile device, and appliance charging. 
     For example, in one case the communications system  100  may include an LED luminary or other light source  124  mounted at or adjacent to the upper end  122 . The intensity of the output of light source  124  may be controllable such that the light source  124  is dimmable, and can provide displays of light across the entire visible (or, in some cases, invisible) spectrum, with changing colors and intensities. The light source  124  may be dynamically and remotely monitored and controlled from an IP-based management system that enables authorized personnel, organizations and government entities to remotely control the light source  124  (as well as other features of the system  100 ). The LED lighting  124  may be controlled manually or automatically from the enclosure cabinet  106 , or by other suitable mechanisms, and it may be dynamically controllable or be programmed to run a pre-determined lighting programs. As compared to existing light sources, which may only include or be coupled to a light sensor or photovoltaic cell, the light source  124  can be dynamically controlled based on the GPS coordinates of the communication system  100 , time zones (based on GMT), and local weather (for example, in response to weather alerts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). 
     The light source  124  may be used in connection with a variety of public safety and/or municipal applications. For example, the light source  124  may provide an output in a particular light, pattern, intensity etc. to illuminate the pole  102  itself, to indicate that the communications system  100  requires maintenance or to signal tampering with the cabinet  106 , to signal a warning to the public regarding weather conditions, such tornadoes, floods or the like, to signal other emergency situations (Amber Alerts, etc.), to signal functionality of the system  100  (for example, if the pole  102  includes an electric car recharge/fueling station, and the like. The light source  124  may be used to provide dynamic traffic updates such as by informing drivers of accidents or congestion on a road, giving them an opportunity to seek alternative routes. The light source  124  may be integrated into a public transportation system as a signal for the impending arrival of a bus or train, for example by accessing information from a GPS device on the public transportation vehicle within a set distance from the pole  102  to trigger a series of flashing lights of varying speed, intensity, and/or color which can be interpreted by passersby as indicating when the vehicle will arrive at a stop proximate to the pole  102 . Further, the light source  124  may have ornamental use, for example to display red, white, and blue lights to enhance celebrations for the Fourth of July, to display colors of a local sports team, etc. 
     The remote, IP-based management system provides enhanced functionality to the communications system  100 , in addition to control and implementation of the LED lighting functionality discussed above. LED lighting, audible alarm systems, video surveillance cameras and sensor technology attached to the pole  102 , located in the ALA  136  and/or cabinet  106 , may be remotely monitored and controlled from a web-based platform. The LED lighting, audible alarms, and video surveillance systems may be signaled and controlled automatically, scheduled in advance, or operated on-demand to operate based on the conditions detected by sensors (i.e. gunshot sound, severe weather, seismic tremor, power outage, public safety alert, cabinet door opened or tampering). The IP management system also permits dynamic control of digital advertising displayed on or wrapped around the pole  102 , plus LED signage affixed to the pole  102 , as well as marketing applications derived from mobile device data collected within the proximity of the pole  102  to facilitate cost-benefit analyses of purchasing advertising at a particular location. 
     The communications system  100  may also include electric utility components and accessory equipment attached to the pole  102  such as transformers and one or more cross arms  126  mounted at or adjacent to the upper end  122  ( FIG. 1 ). The cross arm  126  may extend generally perpendicular to the pole  102  and be formed of a variety of materials, including a fiberglass composite which weighs significantly less than a wood beam while providing increased strength. Each cross arm  126 , may be between about 5 and 12 feet long, and provide the same benefits as conventional utility pole cross arms to support utility lines, including but not limited to power distribution lines, communication lines, etc. along with insulators and the like. Further, because the utility&#39;s electric distribution system (outside the pole  102 ) is electrically isolated from the wires running through channel  114  of the non-conductive pole  102  to the cabinet  106  (e.g. antenna cables, Ethernet, electric power for LEDs) the communications system  100  allows safe access to each of these systems by appropriate service personnel. This reduces installation and maintenance costs by permitting the use of less-skilled labor to safely service the communications aspects of the communication system  100  (i.e. through the cabinet  106 ) without coming into contact with the higher voltage distribution system carried by transformers and cross arms  126 . In addition to strengthening the electric utility&#39;s distribution infrastructure, the communications system  100  provides enhanced functionality as compared to conventional utility poles, at reduced or similar costs, taking into consideration both material and labor costs. With reference to  FIGS. 13A and 13B , in a case where power lines are transmitted through the channel  114  (for example to supply power to the cabinet  106  from the power lines  109  carried by the cross arms  126  via a branched power line  113  therefrom), the power lines may run through a dedicated series of conduits  107  to isolate the power lines from the communications-related cabling  148 . The opening to facilitate passage of conduits  107  through the outer wall of pole  102  must be carefully sealed and weatherproofed. A similar arrangement to conduit  107  may be used to isolate ground wires running through the channel  114 . Electric utility power and grounding may also be installed within the pole  102  using conduits to further isolate the two systems and to prevent copper theft. 
     The communications system  100  may also include one or more generally perpendicularly extending banner poles  130 , as shown in  FIG. 2 . The banner poles  130  may be used to support banners  132  or advertising material, digital LED signage, or alternately to support other decorative objects such as lighted ornaments, wreaths, and hanging plant baskets. The illustrated communications system  100  includes a light fixture  128  configured to overhang and illuminate the associated ground surface such as roads, sidewalks, and the like near the communications system  100 . The banner poles  130  and or light fixture  128  may be mounted using mounting blocks and banding, or various other structures. 
     The communications system  100  may also include one or more electrical outlets  134  which provide access to electric power, such as 110V and/or 220V or other power sources. The outlet  134  may include a waterproof cover to protect the outlet  134  from the elements. The electrical outlet  134  may be used to provide accessible AC power for seasonal decorative attachments, digital LED signage, and for use by maintenance workers, and the like. 
     The communications system  100  may include any of a variety of other accessories to provide enhanced capabilities. For example, a locally controlled or remotely controlled camera (not shown) can be mounted to the communications system  100  with its output streamed and/or stored for security, research or other purposes. In another embodiment, a sensor or sensors  135  ( FIG. 6 ) may be mounted to the communications system  100 , such as mobile device monitoring and motion sensors, which can determine the number and density of people, vehicles, etc. in the vicinity of the communications system  100 , and/or detect when an individual is approaching. The ALA  136  may house technology that monitors the IP addresses of mobile devices within the radio frequency coverage area, or within a dynamic or fixed range of the GPS coordinates of the pole  102  (i.e. a geo-fence monitoring), and information gleaned in this way may be recorded and processed continuously or on a scheduled basis to define the total available market opportunity for mobile advertising applications based on location, time of day, and etc. 
     The system  100  can also include or utilize speakers to provide audible information, or music or the like to enhance community events and provide other functionalities. Many other accessories are possible, including attachments and features that serve as analogs to functionality typical of conventional utility distribution poles and street lights, and the communications system  100  may thus include any number of built-in mounting capabilities, in one embodiment without incorporating steel brackets, to attach radios, microwave radios, antennae, uninterruptable power supply (“UPS”) systems, media converters, routers, and the like. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , one embodiment of the ALA  136  is described in more detail. The ALA  136  is positioned at or adjacent to the top  122  of the pole  102 , where in one case the male end  138  of the ALA  136  is received in the female inner channel  114  of the pole  102 . The ALA  136  is rotationally oriented about a central vertical axis A of the pole  102  and ALA  136  to the desired horizontal azimuth of the antenna  104  and secured in place on the pole  102  via a plurality of setscrews  127  (best seen in  FIG. 12  with respect to an alternate embodiment, ALA  136 ′) inserted through pole  102  and into channel  123  of the ALA  136 . The setscrew/channel  123  system facilitates easy adjustment of the horizontal azimuth at any angle by loosening the setscrews  127 , rotating the ALA to the new desired position, and retightening the setscrews. This procedure can be accomplished quickly by a single person in a bucket truck, as compared to current antenna mounting systems, which often require climbing a tower or the use of a crane to separately adjust the azimuth of each antenna in a process that takes many hours. 
     The ALA  136  includes the antenna  104 , the fiberglass dome or radome  105 , the light source  124 , a surge suppressor tube  139 , a plurality of surge suppressors  140  to provide protection from lightning strikes or other surges, an LED terminal barrier strip or flexible printed circuit board  142 , and cable pull hangers  144  to facilitate installation and integration of the ALA onto the pole  102  and the connection of coaxial cables, Ethernet cables, and etc., thereto. Some embodiments may lack particular features, such as the surge suppressor tube  139 , the surge suppressors  140 , and/or may include alternative arrangements to power/control the LED light source  124 . The cables run on the outside of tube  139 , but on the inside of the pole  102 , when the system  100  is fully assembled. Electric power may by supplied via power cordage supplied through the inner channel  114  of the pole  102 , and/or via PV film on the outside of the pole  102 . 
     To install the ALA  136 , the pole  102  is placed in its intended location, and the ALA  136  is lifted into place, for example with a three legged webbed lifting sling. Terminal lugs may be crimped to the ends of the cables, which may then be attached to the LED terminal barrier strip or flexible printed circuit board  142 , which in turn is operatively connected to the light source  124 . The ALA  136  further includes a cable tie block  146  to facilitate attachment of dressed cables below the barrier strip or flexible printed circuit board  142 . A ground wire  148  may be attached to the bottom of the luminary surge suppressor tube  139 , for example with hex bolts and split washers, and the DIN connectors of the coaxial cable may be connected to the surge suppressors  140  or the antenna and weatherproofed. Ground wire  148  may alternately run along the inside of the inner channel  114  or on the outside of the pole  102 , but if run within inner channel  114 , accommodations such as an insulated tube or housing may be included to isolate the ground wire  148  from the other contents of the inner channel  114 , for example with a tube analogous to conduit  107  as earlier described and shown in  FIGS. 13A, 13B . To relieve coaxial cable weight on the surge suppressors  140 , the coax cables are first held by butterfly clamps  144 , then sufficient coaxial cable may be pulled to provide some slack, which may be hung via the cable pull hangers. Once the cables are connected and additional weatherproofing and sealing performed, the ALA  136  may be inserted into the inner channel  114 , with the antenna  104  rotationally oriented as necessary to the MNO&#39;s desired horizontal azimuth position, as earlier described via setscrews in the channel  123 . Once positioned, the antenna  104  is secured by tightening the setscrews  127  located around the circumference of the upper end  122  of the utility pole  100  into the channel  123  in the ALA  136 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5, 6, and 12 , an alternate embodiment of the ALA  136 ′ is disclosed. Like ALA  136 , ALA  136 ′ includes the antenna  104 , the fiberglass dome or radome  105  (not shown in full in  FIG. 6 ), the light source  124 , a cable pull  144 , and other analogous components. However, instead of a surge suppressor tube, ALA  136 ′ incorporates surge suppressors  140  mounted inside the housing of the ALA  136 ′ (based on customer specifications some embodiments may not contain any surge suppressors at all). ALA  136 ′ is a shorter version which is more compact and may be easier to install. Like ALA  136 , a plurality of setscrews  127  inserted through pole  102  and into channel  123  are used to secure the ALA  136 ′ to the pole  102  at the proper horizontal azimuth for the antenna  104 .  FIG. 6  also shows a variety of coaxial cables  148 , Ethernet cables  150 , and a power cable  152  representative of the contents of inner channel  114  where the pole  102  interfaces with the ALA  136 ′. 
     One benefit of the communications system  100  as disclosed herein is that the communications system  100  facilitates the economical and operationally efficient replacement of conventional distribution utility poles (i.e. wood, steel, concrete, etc.) and some streetlights with a more robust and useful structure. Because the communications system  100  is in some cases comparable in size and overall shape with conventional distribution utility poles and some streetlights and because the pole  102  and communications system  100  meets ANSI, NESC, and TIA 222 Rev G standards (and may be adapted to meet updated standards, as set forth from time to time by the pertinent authorities), site acquisition challenges inherent to many existing small cell systems can be avoided, such as the need to find a suitable new location and then secure agreements/approvals from a number of entities, including property owners, utilities, municipalities and various government jurisdictions. 
     The communications system  100  enables MNOs and electric utilities to comply with Federal Communication Commission regulatory rulings, which may significantly reduce the time required to complete zoning, permitting, and installation of mobile communications infrastructure from what currently may take over a year to less than a month. Because the communications system  100  complies with both NESC and ANSI standards, the pole  102  may be used to replace a utility pole, including any fiber optic, coaxial cable, and/or telephone attachments, while simultaneously supporting components and accessory equipment including transformers, cross arms, insulators, and/or power lines, and the like, from a typical electric utility pole. When the electric utility pole is removed, the pole  102  of the communications system  100  is simply installed directly into the same hole from which the electric utility pole was removed. Thereafter, the pre-existing attachments, components, accessory equipment, cross arms, and power lines, plus ALA  136  or  136 ″, enclosure cabinet  106 , cabling, etc., are attached to the pole  102  to complete the communications system  100 . 
     Thus, rather than seeking new locations, existing conventional utility distribution poles and streetlights can be removed and replaced with the disclosed communications system  100  at the same, pre-approved location. By concealing unsightly wires within the channel  114  and by providing readily accessible, pre-planned attachment mechanisms for receiving additional accessories, as opposed to patchwork attachments to a wooden, steel or concrete pole, the communications system  100  will maintain its streamlined appearance despite changes to the attached accessories or components that may occur from time to time in accordance with changed functionality of the communications system  100 . Thus, the system  100  can in fact provide a safer, more attractive appearance than the conventional utility distribution pole and/or streetlight being replaced. 
     Because the antenna  104  is mounted at the top of the pole  102 , radio signals can propagate much further than the current and commonly deployed small cells today where antennae are mounted at lower heights on poles and buildings. By situating the antenna  104  at the top of the pole  102 , the MNO achieves maximum coverage and capacity, thus requiring fewer small cells to provide service, which reduces the MNO&#39;s total cost of ownership (“TCO”). 
     Similarly, because the system  100  meets the utility industry&#39;s ANSI and NESC safety, structural and attachment requirements for distribution poles and streetlights, the system  100  can operate as a utility distribution pole supporting high voltage transformers and electrical lines on cross arms  126 , with cable television, fiber optic lines, street lighting fixtures and other devices attached to the pole  102 . 
     Further, the inclusion of the pole  102  as a component in an electric distribution line of a series of electric utility poles effectively hardens the line of poles against wind or traffic damage due to the increased structural strength of the pole  102  as compared to, for example, a wooden utility pole. Each pole in a line of utility poles is meant to have a balanced load. Equal spans of cable are usually put on both sides of the poles so that their respective loads cancel and become strictly a downward load on the pole. The wires from the neighboring poles help to keep each pole standing straight up, so the individual poles in the line provide mutual support for each other. This means that the poles can be lighter and have shallower foundations than, for example, if each pole were required to carry a one sided load. (A guy wire can provide the load canceling function if the pole is a dead end for the wires.) 
     However, when a strong wind blows in a direction perpendicular to the distribution line, the neighboring poles in the line do not provide significant support to a given pole that is not strong enough to withstand the wind, and the pole can be blown over. In this situation, the mutual support system across the line of poles becomes a detriment because when one pole falls, the adjacent wires will pull down the next pole which in turn pulls down the next pole, causing a chain reaction of downed poles. 
     However, the disclosed pole  102  is significantly stronger than standard utility poles. Accordingly, by replacing the utility poles in the line of poles with the much stronger pole  102 , the risk of wind damage is greatly reduced. Further, even replacement of periodic poles (for example, by replacing only every second, third, fourth, fifth, tenth, etc., pole, as opposed to each and every pole) functions to harden the entire line of poles against strong damaging winds because the superior strength of the pole  102  over standard wooden or fiberglass utility poles permits the pole  102  to shoulder the increased load of neighboring poles that would otherwise lead to a chain reaction of pole failures. 
     The communications system  100  structural design results in significant strength increase over wood and fiberglass utility poles. This allows the pole  102  to carry over 8,000 pounds of distribution transformers, while at the same time meeting both the power industry standards for utility poles as well as the communications industry standards for cell towers. Wood poles may meet ANSI 05.1 “Specifications and Dimensions for Wood Poles” and ASTM D1036 “Standard Test Methods of Static Test of Wood Poles, but wood poles do meet the standards set by the Electronics Industries Alliance (“EIA”) and Telecommunications Industry Association (“TIA”) for wind and ice loading (EIA/TIA-222-Rev G) of communications towers, which the pole  102  does meet. The pole  102  also meets the appropriate National Electric Code and National Electric Safety Code for safe electrical wiring practices. 
     Another benefit of the pole  102  is that through its back haul communications to the main cell tower, the pole  102  provides “last mile communications” to a system of poles for line segmentation, SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition), metering, pole top substations, voltage regulation, frequency regulation, and other grid operation functions. SCADA is a process control system that enables a utility to monitor and control the flow of electricity from their generators to their customers via smart devices that are distributed among various remote sites. Expensive dedicated fiber or microwave can be justified at large substations or power plants, but small switching sites or metering points require inexpensive communications solutions. A properly designed SCADA system saves time and money by eliminating the need for service personnel to visit each site for inspection, data collection/logging or making adjustments. Just a few of the benefits that come with SCADA systems are real-time monitoring and control, system modifications, troubleshooting, increased equipment life, and automatic outage report generating. The way the data network is set up can vary, but it must have uninterrupted, bi-directional, secure, and inexpensive communication for the system to function properly. 
     The communication system  100  structural design, features and functionality enables multiple constituents to use the same system  100  and pole  102 , which lowers the TCO, improves time-to market and provides revenue generating opportunities for the system  100  owner and interested parties including the electric utility, MNO, municipality, government and backhaul companies, plus business intelligence, marketing, advertising and other organizations. 
     Further, the nested, modular structure of the pole  102  allows the pole  102 /communications system  100  to be shipped in standard shipping containers (for example 20 or 40 feet long), and the individual pole segments  116  can be sufficiently light to be sling carried by two workers, which enables relatively easy installation even in generally hard-to-reach locations, while simultaneously providing a stronger and lighter pole due to the composite construction. The internal access for communication cables eliminates excess cabling, steel brackets and other conventional features that increase costs for conventional utility distribution poles. Referring now to  FIGS. 7-9 , ALAs  154 ,  154 ′, and  154 ″ are disclosed with respect to an alternative embodiment of the communication system  100  designed to serve as a picocell as opposed to a microcell. The components and functionality of the pole  102  and related features perform in the same way as earlier described, and the general ALA structure and connective features are analogous to the embodiments discussed above with respect to ALA  136 ,  136 ′. However, unlike the microcell embodiment of the communications system  100 , the picocell ALA  154 ,  154 ′,  154 ″ incorporates one or more radios with a built-in antenna  156  mounted to a mast or cylindrical structure  157  within a radome  105 , which in one embodiment is formed of opaque fiberglass, as opposed to the placement of the radios in the cabinet  106  connected by coaxial cables  148  to the antenna  104  of the ALAs  136  and  136 ′ in the microcell embodiment. In one embodiment, the picocell ALA  154 ,  154 ′,  154 ″ includes three radios  156  and may further include microwave, Wi-Fi, and sensors  135  as earlier described in  FIG. 6 . In addition to providing horizontal azimuth control via rotational positioning about pole  102 , the picocell ALA  154 ,  154 ′,  154 ″ may provide vertical azimuth control by repositioning the radios  156  therein on the mast  157 . Network equipment, batteries, controllers, and etc. are located in the cabinet  106 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the microwave backhaul  120  may also be positioned within the radome  105 . 
     Although the invention is shown and described with respect to certain embodiments, it should be clear that modifications will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the specification, and the present invention includes all such modifications.