Ubiquiti airMAX PowerBeam is a wireless networking device designed for outdoor, long-range point-to-point (PtP) and point-to-multipoint (PtMP) communication. It is a product line under Ubiquiti’s airMAX series, tailored for high-performance wireless broadband applications. PowerBeam devices combine advanced RF technology with innovative design to deliver high throughput, low latency, and reliable connectivity.
It allows – Point-to-Point (PtP) Links to connects two locations over long distances, such as office branches or remote monitoring stations.
Point-to-Multipoint (PtMP) Networks which acts as a client device in networks connecting multiple endpoints to a central base station.
Backhaul Connectivity, used as a wireless backhaul to extend network connectivity in areas without wired infrastructure.
Rural Broadband, Delivers high-speed internet to remote or underserved areas.
Surveillance, Transmits data from IP cameras or other devices in remote locations.
airMAX Technology Included Unlike standard Wi-Fi protocol, Ubiquiti’s Time Division Multiple Access.
(TDMA) airMAX protocol allows each client to send and receive data using pre-designated time slots scheduled by an intelligent AP controller.
This time slot method eliminates hidden node collisions and maximizes airtime efficiency. It provides significant performance improvements in latency, throughput, and scalability compared to all other
outdoor systems in its class.
Intelligent QoS Priority is given to voice/video for seamless streaming.
Long Distance Capable of high-speed, carrier-class links.
Technical Specifications
Throughput:
Capable of achieving high throughput, often exceeding 150+ Mbps under ideal conditions.
Varies based on model and environmental factors.
Antenna Performance:
Parabolic dish antennas provide focused, high-gain coverage (e.g., 25-34 dBi gain depending on model).
Distance:
Supports links over 20 kilometers or more with a clear line of sight (LOS).
Power Options:
Powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE), simplifying cabling and installation.
Device Models:
Examples include PowerBeam 5AC Gen 2, PowerBeam M5, and PowerBeam ISO (Isolated Shield) for environments with high interference.
High-Gain Antenna Integration:
Features an integrated parabolic reflector and antenna.
Provides high-gain signals for extended range and improved performance in PtP links.
Advanced RF Design:
Uses beamforming technology to focus RF energy in a narrow direction.
Reduces interference and improves signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).
airMAX Technology:
Implements Ubiquiti’s proprietary TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access) protocol.
Enhances network scalability and throughput by reducing latency and optimizing airtime usage.
Frequency Bands:
Supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, depending on the model.
Select models also support licensed frequency bands for specialized use cases.
Robust Build:
Designed for outdoor deployment with weatherproof housing.
Resistant to harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures and moisture.
Ease of Installation:
Simple, tool-free assembly with adjustable mounting hardware.
Compact and lightweight design for easy deployment.
airOS Operating System:
Comes with Ubiquiti’s airOS firmware for device management and configuration.
Features include traffic shaping, QoS, real-time diagnostics, and advanced RF analytics.