Fiber Performance Without Cables: The airFiber 5 Backhaul
Imagine being able to connect two buildings, kilometers apart, with an invisible Ethernet Cable that has the speed of fiber optics. That's exactly what the Ubiquiti airFiber 5 does. This system is not an ordinary WiFi Access Point, but a highly specialized Point-to-Point (PtP) Backhaul Radio System. Its sole task: to establish an extremely powerful, wireless bridge. This makes the AF-5 the perfect solution to replace expensive leased lines or to connect locations where cable laying is economically or technically impossible. The Ubiquiti airFiber 5 building-to-building connection thus becomes a reality, creating robust WiFi Bridge Sets for your Network.
Revolutionary Wireless Technology for Maximum Stability
The key to the superior performance of the airFiber 5 lies in its unique technology. Unlike conventional systems, the AF-5 uses true Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD). This means sending and receiving occur simultaneously on two separate frequencies. The result is a latency of under one millisecond – a value otherwise only achieved by fiber optics. The powerful INVICTUS™ processor processes over one million packets per second to guarantee smooth and fast data flow. The high isolation of the split-Antenna also makes the link extremely robust against interference signals within the 5 GHz Components spectrum.
Built for Practical Use: Installation Made Easy
Precisely aligning a directional radio link over long distances is a challenge. However, Ubiquiti has significantly simplified this process. Directly on the device, there is a multi-stage LED display that shows the signal strength in real-time, visually supporting rough and fine alignment. Additionally, a switchable, audible tone via the Auxiliary Port helps find the perfect position. The well-designed mast mounting kit with its 'Drop-in Cradle' design often allows even a single person to safely mount and align the 16 kg system. This makes the airFiber AF-5 long-range backhaul kit quickly and efficiently ready for use, complementing your Antenna Mounting Accessories.
Strengths & Notes at a Glance
- Pro: Revolutionary range of up to 100+ km with simultaneous Gigabit throughput for your Network.
- Pro: Extremely low latency (< 1 ms), comparable to a fiber optic connection, ideal for time-critical applications.
- Pro: High interference immunity through FDD technology and innovative split-Antenna design.
- Pro: Well-designed installation aids such as visual signal strength display and audible alignment tone simplify installation and are part of effective Mounting & Accessories.
- Note: Requires an absolutely clear line of sight. Any obstacle can disrupt or prevent the connection.
- Note: The bandwidth is fixed to a symmetrical 50/50 ratio for uplink and downlink and is not flexibly adjustable.
Specifications & Features
| Manufacturer: | Ubiquiti |
| Model: | airFiber 5 (AF-5) |
| EAN: | 0810354022074 |
| Manufacturer Part Number: | AF-5 |
| Device Class: | Point-to-Point (PtP) Backhaul Radio System |
| Dimensions: | 938.4 x 468.4 x 281.4 mm |
| Weight: | 16 kg (incl. mounting) |
| Housing: | Weatherproof, for outdoor use |
| Mounting: | Mast Mounting Kit included |
| Wind Load: | 863 N @ 201 km/h (194 lbf @ 125 mph) |
| Wind Resistance: | Up to 201 km/h (125 mph) |
| Maximum Throughput: | 1.2+ Gbps |
| Packet Processing: | Over 1 Million Packets per Second |
| Maximum Range: | 100+ km |
| Minimum Link Distance: | 10 Meters |
| Latency: | < 1 ms (in Full-Duplex Mode) |
| Processor: | Ubiquiti INVICTUS™ Core |
| Encryption: | 128-Bit AES |
| Operating Frequency: | 5470 - 5950 MHz (5 GHz Components) |
| Channel Bandwidth: | 50 MHz |
| Modulation: | Up to 1024QAM |
| Duplex Method: | FDD (Full-Duplex), HDD (Half-Duplex) |
| Uplink/Downlink Ratio: | 50% Fixed (Symmetrical) |
| Synchronization: | GPS Radio Frame Synchronization |
| Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS): | Yes (CE, FCC/IC compliant) |
| Antenna Gain: | 23 dBi (Antennas, 5 GHz Antennas) |
| Beamwidth: | 6° |
| Polarization: | Dual-Slant Polarization |
| Front-to-Back Ratio: | 70 dB |
| Cross-Polarization Isolation: | >28 dB |
| Data Port: | 1x 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet (Ethernet Switch) |
| Management Port: | 1x 10/100 Ethernet |
| Auxiliary Port: | 1x RJ-12 (for Alignment Tone) |
| LED Indicators: | 12 Status LEDs (Link, Speed, GPS, Signal Strength etc.) |
| Power Supply: | Passive PoE (42-58VDC) (PoE Injectors / Power Supplies) |
| Power Adapter (included): | 50V, 1.2A PoE GigE Adapter |
| Maximum Power Consumption: | < 50 W |
| Operating Temperature: | -40°C to 55°C |
| Certifications: | CE, FCC, IC |
Scope of Delivery
| 1 x Ubiquiti airFiber 5 (AF-5) |
| 1 x Mast Mounting Kit |
| 1 x 50V, 1.2A Gigabit PoE Adapter |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between the Ubiquiti airFiber AF-5 and the AF-5U?
The main difference lies in the frequency band used. The AF-5 model is designed for the 'Mid-Band' (5470 - 5950 MHz), which can be used license-free in many regions. The AF-5U model uses the 'High-Band' (5725 - 6200 MHz) and features more robust filtering to enable coexistence with other devices in the lower 5 GHz Components band. The choice depends on local frequency regulations and interference situations for your Network.
Do I need a license to operate the airFiber AF-5?
In most countries, including Germany, the AF-5 operates in license-free frequency bands. However, it is mandatory to comply with local and national regulations regarding transmit power (EIRP) and the use of DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection). This ensures optimal performance within your Network.
What does Full-Duplex (FDD) mean compared to Half-Duplex (HDD)?
Full-Duplex (FDD) means that the device can transmit and receive simultaneously by using two separate frequencies. This leads to maximum throughput and minimal latency, crucial for a high-performance Network. Half-Duplex (HDD) means that the device transmits and receives alternately, which can occur on the same or different frequencies. HDD is more tolerant of slight alignment errors but has higher latency.
How difficult is the installation and alignment of an airFiber 5 Link?
Installation requires specialized knowledge, particularly regarding mast mounting and ensuring a perfect line of sight. However, Ubiquiti Networks has simplified the process with visual (LED display) and acoustic aids directly on the device, which facilitates precise alignment. Configuration is done via an intuitive web interface (airOS). Proper Mounting Systems are essential for this.
Can I connect an airFiber AF-5 with an airFiber AF-5XHD?
No, that is not possible. The airFiber AF-5 is an integrated system with a built-in Antenna. The AF-5XHD is a separate radio module that requires an external Antenna and is based on the newer LTU Components technology. These systems are not technologically compatible with each other. For optimal Network performance, ensure compatibility.
What real speed can I expect from an airFiber 5 Link?
While the theoretical throughput is over 1 Gbit/s, the real speed heavily depends on distance, perfect alignment, frequency cleanliness, and the chosen modulation rate. Under optimal conditions over short to medium distances, real data transfers of 700-950 Mbit/s are realistic for your Network connection.
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Postal code, City: 10017 , New York
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State: New York
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