Introduction to PtP Link and AirMax CPE
Crafting a Point-to-Point (PtP) link with AirMax CPE radios is an efficient method to wirelessly connect buildings in proximity. Ubiquiti’s Consumer Premises Equipment (CPE) line provides a spectrum of user-friendly radios apt for a wide array of scenarios. Our step-by-step guide will navigate you through the entire process, from site assessment to selecting the correct AirMax CPE radio, understanding power and cabling, and ultimately, establishing your PtP network.
What does CPE stand for? CPE stands for Customer Premises Equipment. It refers to the communications equipment, like radios, routers, or network bridges, that are located on the customer’s premises and connect to a service provider’s network. Essentially, it is the customer’s gateway to the wider network beyond.
AirMax CPE radios are ideal for shorter-range point-to-point (PtP) links due to their combination of high performance, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. These radios have been designed with non-technical users in mind, meaning you don’t need a deep understanding of radio technology to deploy a PtP link effectively.
Ubiquiti’s AirMax CPE radios, for instance, offer several significant benefits. These include high data transmission rates, robust signal strength, and sophisticated interference-reducing technology. They also offer substantial flexibility in terms of frequency bands, with options for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, catering to different use scenarios.
Moreover, these radios come with user-friendly interfaces and detailed setup guides, simplifying the process of creating a PtP link. This makes them a compelling choice for small businesses, remote workers, and households wishing to extend their networks without investing in expensive infrastructure or professional installation.
Understanding Line-of-Sight (LoS)
An obstruction-free Line-of-Sight (LoS) between the points you intend to connect is paramount for a PtP link. It assures that radio waves have an unhindered path, reducing interference and leading to stronger signal strength and enhanced performance.
Choosing the Right AirMax CPE Radio
Selection of the most fitting AirMax CPE radio depends on a few key factors: the necessary speed, the chosen frequency band (2.4GHz or 5GHz), and the transmission power of the radios. Although we typically recommend the 5GHz band for superior performance, it’s essential to understand that this frequency requires a clearer LoS compared to the 2.4GHz band.
Popular AirMax CPE Radios: Overview and Applications
The following section provides a brief overview of popular AirMax CPE radios, including LocoM2-AU, LocoM5-AU, Loco5AC, NSM5-AU, and NS-5AC-AU, along with their typical use-cases.
LocoM2-AU
This 2.4GHz band radio is optimal when the 5GHz band can’t be used due to LoS obstructions. With a maximum range of approximately 5 kilometers, it’s ideal for shorter connections such as linking a home to a garden shed (up to 40 meters) or two adjacent buildings (100 meters).
LocoM5-AU
Operating on a 5GHz band, this radio offers superior speed and performance, making it excellent for clear LoS connections. It can cover distances up to and over 15 kilometers, making it suitable for connecting two buildings within a few hundred meters to a kilometer.
Loco5AC
Working within the 5GHz band, this radio offers high speed and performance. It’s ideal for creating solid, unobstructed PtP links up to 10 kilometers, covering medium to large distances, anywhere from a few tens of meters to a couple of kilometers.
NSM5-AU
A reliable 5GHz band radio designed for challenging environments requiring high-speed data transmission. This model can cover up to 15 kilometers, suitable for connecting two distant buildings or structures, such as a house to a remote solar tower.
NS-5AC-AU
This top-tier 5GHz radio provides exceptional speed and performance for demanding PtP links where high bandwidth is paramount. It has a reach of up to 15 kilometers and is perfect for connecting distant points, ideally over a kilometer apart.
Power and Cabling for AirMax Radios
Understanding PoE Switches
AirMax radios are typically powered by PoE (Power over Ethernet) switches. These switches streamline the setup by directly supplying power to the connected devices, eliminating the need for additional cables and power outlets.
Importance of Shielded Grounded Cables and Surge Protectors
Shielded Grounded Cables are crucial in reducing electrical interference in your network, ensuring optimal performance. In the case of outdoor installations, surge protectors provide an added layer of protection against electrical surge damage, enhancing the lifespan and reliability of your PtP link.
Establishing Your PtP Network
Setting up your PtP link involves several key steps:
1. Positioning Your Radios:
Ensure your radios have a clear Line-of-Sight (LoS) to each other. Optimal placement can vary based on your scenario, but typically, higher placement, such as on rooftops or towers, results in better signal reception and transmission.
2. Configuring Your Radios:
Each pair of radios needs to be correctly configured to communicate with each other. You’ll need to assign one radio as the “Station” (receiver) and the other as the “Access Point” (transmitter). Remember, radios should operate on the same frequency band and have matching SSIDs and passwords.
3. Fine-Tuning Your Network:
After the radios are configured and positioned correctly, fine-tuning the network for optimal performance is critical. Check signal strength and quality, adjust the transmission power of your radios, and modify other settings as necessary.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Once your PtP link is established, ongoing maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal performance. Regularly update the firmware of your radios, check the status of your connections, and monitor for any potential issues.
For troubleshooting, refer to the comprehensive guides and resources provided by Ubiquiti. For immediate technical assistance, Ubiquiti’s community forums and support team are always available.
Conclusion
Establishing a Point-to-Point link with AirMax CPE radios is a straightforward and efficient way to wirelessly connect buildings within a range of distances, from a few meters up to 15 kilometers. By understanding the key concepts of PtP links and correctly selecting and configuring your radios, you can establish a robust and high-performing wireless network that meets your specific needs. Remember, careful planning, correct installation, and ongoing maintenance are critical to the success of your PtP link.