The installation of an outdoor network can be complicated. There are a number of components that need to be installed and then there is the challenge of obtaining the right coverage. This has now changed. Nology, a supplier of broadband and networking solutions has introduced AirLive's AirMax5, the company's latest generation wireless 5GHz CPE (customer premises equipment) designed to simplify the set-up of a wireless outdoor network.
Essentially, the AirMax5 is an all-in-one solution, which incorporates all the necessary components, materials and technology needed to quickly build a 5GHz wireless outdoor connection.
For example, the AirMax5 includes an integrated 14dBi 5GHz antenna with horizontal, vertical or diversity polarisation (the direction in which waves travel). Generally, all antennas are set to transmit a signal at a certain polarisation of which vertical is most common. However, if two units feature different polarisations, such as horizontal and vertical, they will not connect.
In the case of the CPE it overcomes these issues, allowing for connection between devices regardless of the polarisation. Furthermore, the diversity polarisation option enables the CPE to automatically detect the polarisation and switch automatically.
Additionally, to speed up the installation process, the CPE incorporates a 4-level LED, which assists with antenna alignment. Here, the two-antenna alignment LEDs will show whether the signal is strong or weak, which will give a good indication the alignment of the antennas.
To improve usability, the AirLive's AirMax5 PCBA circuit board (and its components) slides out of the weatherproof casing for easy maintenance. One of the main benefits is that it enables users to directly access the Ethernet point (RJ-45) and the antenna connector.
The built-in advanced passive power over Ethernet (POE) feature also enables the AirMax5 to operate up to 100 metres from a power source, eliminating the requirements for additional power. This ensures that the CPE can be powered over the Ethernet cable rather than a separate power source. Also, the CPE can be mounted in a more remote location that is up to 100m from the power source. The CPE enclosure is built with high-grade anti-UV materials for protection from prolonged sunshine and rain.
"Users will find the AirMax5 is really quite simple to set up. However, it is not only about the installation; the CPE also incorporates advanced features which improves wireless network coverage and ensures that service providers have more control over the management of their bandwidth," comments Riaan Leuschner, MD of Nology.
One of the main features of the CPE is its ability to provide control over the connection of individual bandwidth allocation. This in turn enables a wireless ISP to offer different speeds per subscription packages, which is similar to an ADSL offering. Bandwidth Control can limit the maximum speed of an entire wireless interface or the individual device. It is also known as 'traffic shaping' as it can control the speed of both the wireless and wired interface.
The multiple SSID (service set identifier) function for example creates different wireless networks using one single AP (access point). The AirMax will broadcast with more than one wireless network name. Two users will therefore be able to utilise two networks, but still be connecting to the same AP.
The VLAN (virtual LAN) tagging feature allows service providers to control service content of each SSID network back to the core router. The QOS (quality of service) feature allows package prioritisation for 802.11e WMM (WiFi Multimedia) protocol and triple play (voice, video and data).
Therefore, priority will be given to packets marked for triple play, mitigating possible packet loss and resultant blips and glitches in the voice, video and data.
With the integrated directional antenna and high performance 108Mbps Atheros 802.11a radio, the AirMax5 allows for wireless connectivity of up to 20km.
Further distance can be added by connecting a hi-gain external antenna to the R-SMA port.
This functionality is ideal for businesses with two branches - within 20km of each other - connecting them wirelessly. Residential estates can also utilise the AirMax5, providing wireless connectivity to all the homes within the estate.
Despite its compact size, the AirMax5 is packed with high performance hardware and software. The Atheros Super-A and Turbo-A enables it to double the throughput of standard 802.11a mode. 802.11a is today used as backbone architecture. The 5GHz frequency is not as congested as the 2.4GHz, and therefore offers a more stable and viable option.
Other important AirMax5 features include:
* Multiple operation mode - it can function as an AP, client, bridge,WISP router or AP router;
* New AirLogic interface - Web configuration is more user friendly;
* Secure management interface - in addition to standard Web and Telnet management it includes HTTPS and SSH2, which enhances the security of remove management. In addition, the AirMax5 provides full SNMP v1/v2 support; and
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