Sabre Industries, a long-standing provider of wireless and utility infrastructure, has been at the forefront of delivering customized solutions to mobile network operators (MNOs) and utility companies, according to Bryan Kearse, Director of Sales and Product Management at Sabre.
Founded on a foundation of innovation and adaptability, Sabre Industries has evolved over the years to include a diverse range of products, from power transmission towers to self-support towers, monopoles, shelters, and enclosures. Kearse highlighted that his team primarily focuses on small cell infrastructure, which typically involves light poles and other small structures deployed in public areas or private property to densify wireless networks.
A Customized Approach to Small Cell Design
Kearse emphasized Sabre’s distinct approach to small cell deployments and explained that the company’s philosophy is rooted in customization rather than relying solely on standardized, off-the-shelf products. “We take a different approach at Sabre, where we’re more of a build-to-suit type of infrastructure vendor,” he said. While many competitors offer catalog-based solutions, Kearse noted that Sabre thrives at catering to the unique needs of each project, which often involves addressing intricate aesthetic challenges in urban and suburban environments.
According to Kearse, small cell projects are constantly evolving, with each one presenting its own distinct requirements. He acknowledged that while reusing existing designs can expedite the process, Sabre’s competitive edge lies in focusing on the final 20% of customization that truly makes a difference for its customers. “Small cells are constantly changing, and each project has its own unique needs,” Kearse explained. “That final 20% is the difference-maker for our customer, and that’s where we cater to those challenging requirements.”
In many cases, local jurisdictions and communities demand that small cell infrastructure blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment, which often requires decorative light arms, poles, or bases. Kearse explained that this is where Sabre’s design approach sets it apart from others. “The word ‘decorative’ is used a lot in that last 20% to close out the design,” he said. “These are the unique projects that come up—the ones that got pushed back further in the project queue because they were too difficult or didn’t fit the standard catalog options.”
Case Study: A Creative Solution for a Florida Resort Community
Sabre’s SmartShroud™ is a pole attachment or ground-mount enclosure and a prime example of the company’s flexible design philosophy. The SmartShroud™ can be scaled from a 21-cubic-foot model down to a five-cubic-foot model or any size in between, depending on the volumetric limits imposed by the local zoning authorities. The enclosure is designed to be large enough to accommodate necessary equipment but also small enough to comply with local regulations. “What separates the SmartShroud™ is the functionality that’s inside of it,” Kearse said. “The SmartShroud™ allows the MNO to upgrade the technology inside without replacing the external enclosure, which might trigger another zoning process. It just requires some internal bracket changes and a different equipment layout.”
One of the standout examples of Sabre’s ability to cater to specialized needs was a project in a resort and retirement community in central Florida. The community, known for its relaxing ambiance and aesthetically pleasing environment, presented a unique challenge for wireless coverage improvement. The existing light poles and park benches in the area didn’t allow for typical small cell installations without compromising the visual appeal of the community. In response, Sabre engineered a custom enclosure that discreetly hid the small cell equipment under park benches, ensuring that the infrastructure remained functional without being visually intrusive.
“They were very excited about adding small cells because this community has been challenging for carriers trying to provide coverage and capacity,” Kearse shared. “But they didn’t want to see a 21-cubic-foot enclosure attached to their 15-foot-tall light poles. Our approach is unique because we cater specifically to aesthetically challenging requirements.” The solution involved installing the equipment in a vented compartment beneath a hunter green park bench with a composite board on top, allowing the infrastructure to blend seamlessly into the environment.
This project underscores Sabre’s commitment to innovation and customer-focused solutions, especially in areas where traditional methods fall short. Kearse noted that while Sabre also offers competitive products for large-scale deployments, it thrives in the niche market of addressing difficult and unconventional challenges. “We support that niche where others say ‘no.’ We say ‘yes’ more often than not, and that’s what sets us apart,” Kearse emphasized.
Looking ahead, Kearse hinted at more products in development that will continue to push the boundaries of small cell infrastructure. “We’re constantly challenged, and we’re doing things that others don’t want to do, which creates a culture of innovation,” he concluded. Sabre’s willingness to tackle the hard projects not only sets it apart in the market but also aligns with its core brand message of “innovation delivered.”
For more information, contact Bryan Kearse: by phone (984) 297-7551, via email [email protected], or visit https://www.sabreindustries.com/.
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