The Ubiquiti Rocket ac Gen2 (RP-5AC-Gen2) is a powerful 5-GHz base station designed for point-to-point (PtP) and point-to-multipoint (PtMP) connections. The device serves as an Access Point in wireless networks and enables data throughput of up to 500+ Mbit/s. It features active 5-GHz AirPrism RF filter technology, ensuring efficient use of the frequency spectrum and minimizing interference. Integrated GPS synchronization supports precise time alignment for networks with high synchronization requirements. The base station is designed for outdoor use and offers high capacity for more than 50 simultaneous users. A special spectrum analysis radio enables monitoring and optimization of the wireless environment.
Applications
The RP-5AC-Gen2 is suitable for professional wireless networks in industrial, municipal, or infrastructure environments where high data rates, reliability, and resistance to environmental influences are required. It is commonly used in PtMP networks to supply multiple end devices via a central base station, or in PtP connections to link two locations via a wireless bridge. Support for 30/50/60-MHz channels and airMAX ac mode enables flexible channel selection and optimized performance in various environments.
Features and Equipment in Detail
The device includes a Gigabit Ethernet connection (GbE RJ45 port) for linking to the local network. The RF connectors consist of two waterproof RP-SMA connectors and one waterproof GPS connector, facilitating outdoor installation. Power is supplied via passive PoE (Power over Ethernet) using pairs 4, 5 and 7, 8 (return), with a 24V, 1A Gigabit PoE adapter included in the delivery. The supported voltage range is between 18 and 26 V DC. Maximum power consumption is 9.5 W. The integrated LEDs are software-controlled and can be adjusted to user-defined RSSI levels for signal strength, GPS, LAN, and power.
Technology Explained Simply
The AirPrism RF filter technology filters out unwanted frequencies and improves signal quality, which is particularly beneficial in dense wireless environments. GPS synchronization ensures precise time alignment, important for certain network applications such as VoIP or video transmission. The software supports various operating modes (Access Point, Station) and supports channel widths from 10 to 80 MHz in PtP mode and 10 to 40 MHz in PtMP mode. QoS functions support WMM classification at packet and user level to prioritize different data streams. Statistical reporting includes uptime, packet errors, data rates, and distances.
Compatibility and Accessories
The RP-5AC-Gen2 is compatible with various symmetric horn antennas designed for different sector angles. These include the SH-TP-5-80 (80°), SH-TP-5-40 (40°), SH-TP-5-50 (50°), and SH-TP-5-70 (70°). These antennas can be used to optimize coverage and range. Mounting is done using a mast mounting kit included in the delivery.
Installation and Mounting
Installation is performed via mast mounting, with the mounting kit for securing to the mast included in the delivery. The housing is made of aluminium die-cast, ensuring high mechanical stability and heat dissipation. Wind load is 342.5 N at 200 km/h, ensuring suitability for use in windy environments. Operating temperature ranges from -40 to 80 °C, and operating humidity is 5 to 95 % non-condensing. Certifications CE, FCC, and IC confirm compliance with applicable standards.
Operational Advantages
The RP-5AC-Gen2 offers high performance density with low power consumption. Integrated management functions such as web server, SNMP, SSH server, Telnet, Ping watchdog, DHCP, NAT, bridging, and routing enable flexible network control. Software tools such as airMagic, airView, antenna alignment tool, detection utility, site survey, ping, traceroute, and speed test support network administration. Support for traffic shaping with burst support and the discovery protocol improves network efficiency. The frequency band offset function enables flexible channel selection to avoid interference. Security is based exclusively on WPA2 AES, providing a high level of encryption.
Operating Frequency and Management
The operating frequency is globally in the range of 5150–5875 MHz. In the USA, the frequency bands U-NII-1 (5150–5250 MHz), U-NII-2A (5250–5350 MHz), U-NII-2C (5470–5725 MHz), and U-NII-3 (5725–5850 MHz) are approved. Management functions operate in the range of 2412–2472 MHz globally, and 2412–2462 MHz in the USA. RoHS compliance is given, and shocks and vibrations comply with the standard ETSI300-019-1.4.