The airMAX AC 5 GHz, 30 dBi RocketDish, with the model manufacture part number RD-5G30, is a high-performance parabolic dish antenna designed by Ubiquiti Networks. This device is engineered to enhance the capabilities of Ubiquiti's Rocket series radios, particularly in point-to-point (PtP) applications, by providing a significant increase in signal strength and range. Operating within the 5 GHz frequency band, the RocketDish RD-5G30 leverages advanced airMAX AC technology to deliver superior throughput and reduced latency in wireless broadband networks.

RocketDish RD-5G30 is compatible with Rocket Prism 5AC and Rocket M5 radios

The RocketDish RD-5G30 is specifically designed to be paired with Ubiquiti's Rocket radios, creating a powerful PtP bridge that can transmit data over several kilometers with minimal signal loss. The compatibility with Rocket radios enables network operators to leverage Ubiquiti's airMAX AC ecosystem, facilitating the deployment of scalable, high-capacity wireless networks that meet the demands of modern connectivity requirements. It's also important to note that while the RD-5G30 is optimized for use with Rocket radios in the airMAX AC ecosystem, direct interoperability with other product lines such as UniFi, which focuses on managed Wi-Fi networking, might require separate planning and deployment considerations due to the different intended applications and management platforms of these series.

At the core of the RD-5G30's design is its precision-engineered parabolic dish, which boasts a diameter that allows for a 30 dBi gain. This high-gain antenna focuses the radio signal into a narrow beamwidth, directing the energy more efficiently towards the receiver and significantly enhancing the link's performance over long distances. The focused transmission minimizes interference from other signals, ensuring a clear and reliable connection that is essential for applications requiring high data rates, such as HD video streaming, VoIP communications, and large-scale data transfers.

The integration of airMAX AC technology within the RD-5G30 enhances its functionality by incorporating a more sophisticated modulation scheme. This scheme allows for greater data throughput compared to previous standards, optimizing the use of the available spectrum and increasing the efficiency of data transmission. The technology also supports Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) protocol, which improves network scalability and reduces latency by effectively organizing the data transmission times between network devices.

The RD-5G30 is designed with durability and ease of installation in mind. Its robust construction includes a weather-resistant protective radome that shields the antenna from the elements, ensuring its operation in a wide range of environmental conditions, from scorching heat to freezing temperatures. The antenna comes with a mounting kit designed for easy attachment to Ubiquiti's Rocket radios, facilitating a seamless and secure integration that enhances the overall performance of the wireless network.

Installation and alignment are streamlined with the inclusion of intuitive features that simplify the setup process. The RD-5G30's mounting bracket is adjustable, allowing for precise alignment to optimize signal strength and link stability. This ease of setup is crucial for quickly establishing high-performance wireless links without requiring extensive time or specialized tools.

The RocketDish RD-5G30 itself does not use any management software directly, as it is an antenna and not an active network component with software or firmware. However, when paired with a compatible Ubiquiti Rocket radio, such as those from the airMAX series, the management of the device setup, including the RocketDish antenna, is conducted through Ubiquiti's airOS. airOS is a comprehensive, intuitive web-based operating system and interface designed for configuring, managing, and monitoring Ubiquiti's airMAX devices. It provides tools for adjusting network settings, analyzing performance metrics, and optimizing the wireless link established by the Rocket radio and RocketDish antenna combination.

Choosing the right RocketDish

Selecting the right RocketDish antenna requires matching the antenna’s frequency band with your network's to ensure compatibility; higher gain antennas are preferred for long-distance links due to their focused signal direction, while the beamwidth should align with your link's distance and precision requirements. Dual-polarization models can enhance signal quality by mitigating interference. Verify that the chosen RocketDish model fits your Ubiquiti Rocket radio, both in terms of mounting and technology support. Environmental conditions at the installation site, such as weather and wind, should influence the selection to guarantee the antenna's durability and stability. Additionally, adherence to local regulatory guidelines on frequency and power use is crucial to remain compliant. Opting for an antenna that exceeds current needs may offer scalability for future network expansion, providing a balance between immediate requirements and long-term network growth. This approach ensures a high-performance, reliable wireless link tailored to your specific deployment scenario.