Ubiquiti PowerBeam 5AC Gen2 (PBE-5AC-Gen2): The Ultimate Bridge Solution

Overview and Introduction

The Ubiquiti PowerBeam 5AC Gen2 (PBE-5AC-Gen2) is a high-performance, carrier-class wireless bridge designed for demanding Point-to-Point (PtP) and Point-to-MultiPoint (PtMP) connections. As a successor in the renowned PowerBeam line, this Generation 2 model leverages modern airMAX ac technology, packing significant power and gain into a refined, aerodynamic form factor. It’s the go-to solution for network engineers and WISPs who require reliable, high-throughput links over medium to long distances.

Its defining feature is the integrated 25 dBi dish antenna, strategically housed within a distinctive, streamlined radome. This design minimizes wind load, protects the internal components from harsh weather, and focuses radio frequency energy with exceptional efficiency for a clean, stable signal.

Key Features at a Glance

• High-Gain Focus: Integrated 25 dBi dish antenna for superior signal concentration and long-range performance.

• airMAX ac Efficiency: Features 2×2 MIMO and advanced TDMA protocol for reduced latency and increased capacity.

• Streamlined Radome Design: Aerodynamic housing reduces wind load and provides robust environmental protection (IP67).

• Exceptional Throughput: Capable of 200+ Mbps real TCP/IP throughput, ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks.

• Precise Alignment: Built-in alignment tool (AirPrism) for quick and accurate pointing.

• Professional Grade: Offers robust performance for both PtP backhauls and high-performance PtMP client links.

Full Technical Specifications

Performance and Real-World Use

What is the PowerBeam 5AC Gen2 Used For?

1. Point-to-Point Backhaul: Creating reliable, high-capacity wireless bridges between two locations (e.g., connecting two office buildings, a remote camera site, or linking WISP towers).

2. High-Performance PtMP Client: Serving as a premium Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) for WISP subscribers who need the best possible signal and throughput, especially in challenging or long-range scenarios.

3. Wireless Network Extension: Extending a network to a remote facility where fiber or copper is unavailable or cost-prohibitive.

4. Video Surveillance Uplinks: Transmitting multiple high-definition video streams from a remote site back to a central monitoring station.

Throughput and Range

• Throughput: In optimal conditions with clear line-of-sight, the PBE-5AC-Gen2 can achieve a real-world throughput of 200+ Mbps, making it suitable for business-grade internet, VoIP, and data transfer.

• Range: Engineered for long-distance links, it can reliably establish connections at 20km to 30km+. The combination of high gain (25 dBi) and good transmit power (25 dBm) allows it to maintain stable links even with weak signal levels.

Critical Factor: The narrow 9° beamwidth demands precise alignment but is the key to its long-range capability and high noise immunity. A clear Fresnel zone is mandatory for optimal performance.

Setup and Installation Guide

What’s in the Box?

• PowerBeam 5AC Gen2 Unit

• Piston GP Mount

• Gigabit PoE Injector

• Mounting Hardware

• Quick Start Guide

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Mounting: Secure the Piston GP Mount to a stable, vertical pole using the provided U-bolts. Ensure the pole is sturdy enough to handle wind loads.

2. Attach the Device: Slide the PowerBeam onto the mount’s arm and secure it. The mount allows for adjustment in both azimuth and elevation.

3. Connect Cables: Use the included 24V Gigabit PoE injector. Connect the POE port to the device and the LAN port to your switch or router. Always use a high-quality, outdoor-rated Ethernet cable.

4. Power On: Plug the PoE Injector into a power outlet. The device will boot up (approximately one minute).

5. Find and Configure:

   • By default, the device uses DHCP. Use the UISP Mobile app or the Discovery Tool to find its IP address.

   • Alternatively, set a static IP on your computer (e.g., 192.168.1.11) and browse to http://192.168.1.20.

   • Log in (default: ubnt/ubnt) and change the password immediately.

6. Align the Antenna (Precision Required):

   • Access the airOS interface and go to the Main tab.

   • Use the AirPrism spectral analyzer or the Signal Strength (RSSI) indicator in the alignment tool.

   • Have an assistant monitor the signal while you make very small, slow adjustments to the azimuth and elevation. The narrow beamwidth requires patience.

   • Lock the mount down tightly once you achieve the highest possible signal.

7. Configure Wireless Mode: Set to “Station” for client mode (to connect to an AP) or “Access Point” for base station mode. Select the appropriate SSID and security settings.

Conclusion:

The Ubiquiti PowerBeam 5AC Gen2 (PBE-5AC-Gen2) is a professional-grade wireless bridge that delivers exceptional range and reliability. Its high-gain, focused design is engineered for performance, making it the ideal choice for network builders who cannot compromise on link quality. Whether deployed as a critical PtP backhaul or a premium PtMP client, the PowerBeam Gen2 continues to be a benchmark for power and precision in the Ubiquiti airMAX ecosystem.