Ubiquiti airMAX GigaBeam Long-Range

The airMAX GigaBeam Long-Range, bearing the manufacture part number GBE-LR, is a product of Ubiquiti Networks designed to redefine the capabilities of wireless broadband technology over extended distances. This device is a testament to Ubiquiti's commitment to innovation, offering a long-range, high-throughput solution capable of delivering gigabit-level performance in point-to-point (PtP) configurations. Crafted to operate in the 60 GHz frequency band with a failover to the 5 GHz band, the GigaBeam LR is tailored for scenarios where traditional cabling is impractical or economically unfeasible, without compromising on speed or reliability.

At the heart of the GigaBeam LR's design is its utilization of the 60 GHz frequency for main operations, which dramatically reduces interference from other wireless signals, ensuring a clear transmission path. This choice of frequency, coupled with advanced phased-array technology, enables the device to achieve impressive data throughput rates exceeding 1 Gbps. The inclusion of a 5 GHz radio as a backup automatically takes over in the event of inclement weather affecting the 60 GHz signal, ensuring uninterrupted service. This dual-band approach ensures that the device can maintain a stable and reliable connection over distances up to several kilometers, making it an invaluable asset for connecting remote locations.

The hardware of the GigaBeam LR is meticulously engineered for performance and durability. It features a high-gain dish antenna that focuses the radio's power for targeted, long-distance transmission. This precise directionality of the antenna not only enhances the device's reach but also significantly mitigates potential interference, a common challenge in densely populated areas. Encased in a robust, weather-resistant shell, the GigaBeam LR is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor installation, from scorching heat to freezing temperatures, ensuring consistent operation regardless of environmental conditions.

Installation and alignment are streamlined through an intuitive design and included mounting hardware, allowing for precise adjustment and optimal signal alignment. The device is powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE), reducing the complexity of installation by allowing both power and data to be transmitted over a single cable. This simplifies the deployment process, making it easier to install the device in high or hard-to-reach places without needing access to traditional power sources.

Ubiquiti's proprietary airOS software powers the GigaBeam LR, providing a comprehensive suite of tools for device configuration, signal optimization, and network management. airOS enables detailed adjustments to frequency, power levels, and channel bandwidth, offering network administrators granular control over their wireless links. Moreover, the software includes real-time diagnostic tools, such as signal strength indicators and network throughput statistics, assisting in the efficient management and troubleshooting of the network.

The airMAX GigaBeam Long-Range device excels in applications where traditional network infrastructure is either not feasible or too expensive to deploy, particularly in rugged or remote areas. An exemplary scenario is in national parks or wildlife reserves, where maintaining constant, high-speed connectivity is essential for monitoring wildlife, conducting research, and ensuring the safety of staff and visitors. The GigaBeam LR can be strategically positioned to connect research outposts and visitor centers spread across vast distances, providing a reliable backbone for transmitting high-definition video feeds from wildlife cameras, facilitating real-time data exchange between research stations, and ensuring efficient communication channels for emergency response. This setup not only enhances the operational capabilities of conservation efforts but also minimizes the environmental impact by reducing the need for physical cabling across protected lands.

Furthermore, the GigaBeam LR finds significant utility in temporary installations, such as outdoor festivals, sporting events, or construction sites, where permanent infrastructure is impractical. For large-scale outdoor events that span over extensive areas, deploying the GigaBeam LR can establish a high-capacity network backbone, supporting event management communications, ticketing and payment systems, and live-streaming of the event to audiences worldwide. In construction, particularly in remote locations, the GigaBeam LR can provide a critical link for site offices to central headquarters, enabling the swift transmission of architectural plans, video conferencing for project updates, and real-time monitoring of the site. This not only improves project efficiency and decision-making but also supports safety protocols by ensuring immediate access to emergency services if needed.