UK telco Virgin Media O2 has deployed a pre-assembled mast in Sandwich, Kent.

The operator has paired with Vecta Labs to deploy the site, in what the carrier has claimed to be a European first.

The pre-assembled site has been carried out off-site ahead of the deployment of the mast.

Engineers traditionally install antennas, radios, and cabling on site, meaning they often have to work at height, while exposed to the elements.

However, Vecta Labs has supported Virgin Media O2 in this instance by providing components that are fully assembled and tested before they reach the tower. According to Virgin Media O2, this has simplified installation while improving quality control.

Vecta Labs specializes in testing cellular RF devices and antennas.

Each unit is pre-assembled and validated in a controlled testing environment using specialist equipment, including anechoic chambers that allow engineers to precisely measure radio performance, noted the carrier. Stress tests include simulating wind conditions.

Meanwhile, the passive radio frequency components, such as antennas, cables, and connectors, are also tested for Passive Intermodulation (PIM), a common source of interference that can degrade network performance.

“Moving one of the most complex parts of building a mobile mast into the factory is a real step forward for our network. It allows us to install sites faster, improve quality control, and ensure customers benefit from stronger, more reliable connectivity from the moment the site goes live," said Steven Verigotta, director of mobile delivery at O2.

Virgin Media O2 claims that the installation process has reduced the number of connections that engineers must complete on site from around 100 cables to just six. By doing so, the carrier is able to save time and also minimize errors.

The company's first deployment of this in Kent was completed in four hours, reducing time on site by up to 75 percent compared with traditional deployments.

O2 plans to deploy 100 of this pre-assembled mobile infrastructure across the UK as part of the company's £700 million ($933m) Mobile Transformation Plan announced earlier this month.

John Bonello, director and founding member at Vecta Labs, added: "This approach combines pre-assembly, precision RF testing, and simplified installation to help operators deploy infrastructure faster while maintaining the highest standards of performance.”