Take a little tour with us, as we ask the question at each spot:
Is this small cell site really necessary?
In certain topographies, small cell solutions seem like the perfect fit, especially areas with low lying structures and open stretches of space.
But, in urban neighborhoods with canyon-style streets, is that small cell on the corner serving anyone other than those who happen to be right at that intersection, with no further propagation?
Let’s get started…
Location 1: Jersey City
Small Cell at Monmouth Street, Jersey City
Flanked by 2 large retaining walls, this site may hit the residences up the street. But it’s lucky if it reaches the intersection to cover cars and pedestrians there. Not hard to believe they just put it up there to unload it from their inventory as opposed to performing any useful coverage function.
Determination: Barely
Let’s move on…
Location 2: Lavallette
This was a trick question. No small cell at this location. But the low lying shore homes and flat terrain make this environment a solid choice for a handful of small cells atop utility poles over, say, a larger monopole site that would disrupt the scenic view and maritime feel.
Determination: Great location. But no small cell here at the moment
On to our next site…
Location 3: Jersey City
There is enough open space to make this site half way functional. The large indoor parking garage and public building prevent it from 360 degrees of signal propagation. Not a throwaway like the other Jersey City site. Jersey City is a tough town for cellular coverage in the downtown district.
Determination: Not bad. But not great!
Onward we tread…
Location 4: Cliffside Park
At least this small is a little ways up the upward gradient of Edgewater Road. This allows it to disperse a signal over an extent of Palisade Avenue. But, head further up the hill and it isn’t helping much.
Determination: OK, considering the topography
And further onward and downward…
Location 5: Edgewater
The large multifamily building to the south and the Palisades ridge to the west limits propagation here. But the open parking lot and everything eastward and northward being accessible makes this small cell functional.
Determination: 180 degrees of coverage. Not bad at all.
The next small cell in our little survey…
Location 6: Marlboro
This is an all around solid location for a small cell. Low lying retail shops, level terrain and a busy Route 9. The small cell is just tall enough to make use of the ideal location and broadcast signal as far as the frequencies and output level allows.
Determination: Best location thus far
Final site…
Location 7: Newark
This small cell is not utterly useless. Rutgers and Essex County have college campuses right there. But, the site is low lying. Personally, I would have placed atop University Avenue on the bridge further down Raymond Boulevard to give it some elevation.
Determination: Useful but location subpar
That concludes our little small cell sampler tour, with our informed assessment of each location.