Ubiquiti airFiber AF5 5GHz PtP Wireless Backhaul

Ubiquiti airFiber AF5 5GHz PtP Wireless Backhaul – Long-Range Gigabit Backhaul with HDD Technology

Built for Performance, Designed for Freedom

The Ubiquiti airFiber AF5 is a next-generation 5GHz Point-to-Point (PtP) wireless backhaul solution engineered to deliver ultra-high-speed, low-latency, and long-range connectivity for ISPs, enterprises, and public infrastructure. With a proprietary modem, Hybrid Division Duplexing (HDD), and eXtended Range Technology (xRT), the AF5 offers up to 1+ Gbps throughput and 100+ km of range, setting a new standard in wireless backhaul performance.

Key Features & Technical Highlights

1. Advanced Antenna System with Monocoque Design

The AF5 features dual-independent 2×2 MIMO high-gain reflectors, each with separate transmit (TX) and receive (RX) antennas to eliminate RF losses associated with duplexers. Its monocoque enclosure a single molded structure reduces weight, improves durability, and simplifies mounting.

2. Extreme Range and Speed with xRT

Powered by xRT (eXtended Range Technology), the AF5 can achieve distances over 100 km with 1+ Gbps throughput, ideal for rural and remote site links across NZ. It’s built for extreme environments without compromising speed.

3. Revolutionary Modem and Radio Architecture

Unlike standard radios, the AF5 uses Ubiquiti’s proprietary modem technology built specifically for outdoor PtP links. This enables superior throughput, robust RF resilience, and ultra-low latency even in noisy RF environments.

4. Hybrid Division Duplexing (HDD)

The AF5 features a breakthrough in wireless transmission with HDD technology, combining aspects of TDD and FDD. It calculates propagation delay using a proprietary ranging algorithm, allowing precise synchronous transmission and reception. This minimizes packet latency, making the connection nearly real-time.

5. Secure Wireless Alternative to Fiber or Copper

Wired backhauls are prone to copper theft, fiber cuts, vandalism, and accidental damage. airFiber eliminates these risks by securing only two physical points the radios making it a more reliable and cost-effective solution for long-distance links in NZ.

6. Plug-and-Play Deployment with airOS™

Installation is fast and efficient. Using Ubiquiti’s intuitive airOS™ interface, users can align and configure links using:

• LED signal indicators

• Real-time audio tone feedback

• Web-based configuration GUI

The lightweight structure allows single-person deployment, with enhanced alignment tools for precision.

7. Global License-Free Operation

The AF5 operates in license-exempt 5.1–5.8 GHz mid-band frequencies, usable worldwide without special permissions. The AF5U variant supports 5.7–6.2 GHz bands and includes robust filtering for co-located devices, allowing higher output power where permitted.

8. Network Management Options

Manage and monitor your link with:

• In-band and out-of-band management

• SNMP support for enterprise-grade monitoring

• Remote diagnostics and live link stats via airOS

Applications

• Rural wireless ISP backhaul

• Remote infrastructure bridging (e.g., farms, mines)

• Enterprise building-to-building links

• Emergency network deployments and disaster recovery

• Government or municipal wireless infrastructure

Technical Specifications (Summary)

• Frequency: 5.1–5.8 GHz (AF5), 5.7–6.2 GHz (AF5U)

• Throughput: 1+ Gbps

• Range: 100+ km with xRT

• Duplexing: HDD (Hybrid Division Duplexing), TDD, FDD

• Antenna: Dual 2×2 MIMO reflector system

• Latency: Near-zero (via synchronous HDD)

• Management: SNMP, in-band/out-of-band, airOS UI

• Deployment: Single or two-person setup, alignment aids included

Why Choose airFiber AF5 for New Zealand Networks?

✅ Ideal for rural and remote NZ connectivity
✅ No spectrum license required
✅ Resilient to interference and RF noise
✅ Easy to install and manage remotely
✅ Cost-effective alternative to trenching or laying fiber
✅ Built-in tools for link alignment and monitoring

FAQs

Q1: What is Hybrid Division Duplexing (HDD) and why is it important?

A: HDD is Ubiquiti’s proprietary duplexing method that enables simultaneous packet transmission and reception with minimal latency, improving spectral efficiency and range.

Q2: How does AF5 compare to fiber backhaul?

A: AF5 offers gigabit speeds without trenching or wiring, avoids theft and damage risks, and is far easier to deploy in rural NZ.

Q3: Can I operate AF5 in New Zealand without a license?

A: Yes, the AF5 uses license-free 5GHz spectrum, legal for use in most NZ areas. Always confirm local RF regulations.

Q4: What tools are included for installation and alignment?

A: The AF5 includes LED signal indicators, real-time audio tone alignment, and a web GUI via airOS.

Q5: What’s the maximum link distance achievable?

A: With eXtended Range Technology (xRT), the AF5 supports stable links over 100 kilometers in ideal conditions.

Q6: What antenna system does AF5 use?

A: It has a dual 2×2 MIMO antenna system with separate TX and RX elements to enhance signal strength and eliminate internal RF losses.

Q7: Can this be installed by one person?

A: Yes, the mechanical design and lightweight body make single-person installation possible, though two people improve alignment speed.

Q8: Does the AF5 support SNMP monitoring?

A: Absolutely. SNMP and both in-band/out-of-band management are supported, giving full control to network admins.