MULTI-FUNCTIONAL UNITS INCORPORATING LIGHTING CAPABILITIES IN CONVERGED NETWORKS

Multi-functional units incorporating lighting capabilities in converged networks, and related networks and methods are disclosed. The multi-functional units are configured to be included at end points in a wireless communications network to serve as distribution points for distribution of communications services. Each multi-functional unit includes a plurality of wireless communications circuits in a single unit or housing to support multiple communications services. Thus, a single multi-functional unit can be installed in a location to support the multiple communications services to minimize installation footprint. To further conserve installation footprint, the wireless communications network can be provided as a converged network that includes a single communications backbone to converge multiple networks for the multiple communications services supported by the multi-functional units. Further, by the multi-functional units also supporting lighting capabilities, the multi-functional units may be installed in lighting fixture locations to minimize the footprint.