1. Product Overview
The Ubiquiti NBE-M5-16 5GHz NanoBeam M5 16dBi Wireless Bridge Kit is designed to extend your internet connection wirelessly between two locations where running physical cables is impractical or impossible. This kit is pre-configured to establish a reliable point-to-point wireless link, allowing you to share internet service from a main building to a guest house, detached building, or to connect remote devices like security cameras.
The NanoBeam M5 16dBi directs RF energy in a focused beamwidth, maximizing noise immunity in environments crowded with other RF signals. This ensures a stable and high-throughput connection over distances.
Figure 1: Ubiquiti NBE-M5-16 NanoBeam M5 16dBi devices.
Video 1: An overview of the Ubiquiti Wireless Bridge, explaining its purpose and how it extends internet connectivity to remote locations like guest houses, detached buildings, and security cameras, highlighting its pre-configured nature.
2. Features
- Pre-Configured Kit: The devices are pre-programmed and paired before shipping, ensuring a plug-and-play setup without complex technical configuration.
- 5GHz Frequency: Operates on the 5GHz band for high-speed, reliable wireless communication.
- 16dBi Gain Antenna: Features a high-gain antenna for extended range and improved signal strength.
- Noise Immunity: Designed to maximize noise immunity by focusing RF energy in a tighter beamwidth, crucial in crowded RF environments.
- Flexible Mounting: Can be mounted to various surfaces including poles or walls, with three-axis alignment for optimal signal direction.
- airMAX TDMA Protocol: Utilizes Ubiquiti's airMAX technology for unprecedented scalability, high throughput, and low latency in unlicensed, multipoint networks.
- All-in-One CPE Design: Continues Ubiquiti's pioneering all-in-one Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) design.
3. Setup
The Ubiquiti NBE-M5-16 kit is designed for easy installation as it comes pre-configured. Follow these steps to set up your wireless bridge:
- Identify Units: The kit includes two NanoBeam units. One is configured as the Access Point (Master) and the other as the Remote Station.
- Connect Access Point (Main House):
- Connect the Access Point unit to its Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapter.
- Connect an Ethernet cable from the LAN port of the PoE adapter to an available LAN port on your main house's internet router.
- Plug the PoE adapter into a power outlet.
- Connect Remote Station (Secondary Location):
- Connect the Remote Station unit to its Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapter.
- To provide Wi-Fi coverage at the remote location, connect an Ethernet cable from the LAN port of the Remote Station's PoE adapter to the WAN/Internet port of a secondary Wi-Fi router (not included).
- Alternatively, you can connect the Ethernet cable directly to a device (e.g., computer, security camera system) if Wi-Fi is not needed at the remote location.
- Plug the PoE adapter into a power outlet.
- Mount and Align:
- Mount both NanoBeam units in a location that provides a clear line of sight between them. Use the provided mounting straps for poles or a single wall screw (not included) for wall mounting.
- Aim the units directly at each other. The light panel on the side of each unit will indicate signal strength. Adjust alignment until you achieve the strongest possible signal (more lights illuminated).
Video 2: Demonstrates the physical connection of the NanoStation LocoM5 units, showing the Ethernet cable connection to the PoE injector and the signal strength indicators during the pairing process.
4. Operating
Once properly set up and aligned, the Ubiquiti NBE-M5-16 Wireless Bridge will automatically establish a wireless link between the Access Point and the Remote Station. The internet signal from your main router will be transmitted to the remote location.
- Signal Strength Indicators: The LED lights on the side of each NanoBeam unit provide a visual indication of the link status and signal strength. More illuminated lights typically mean a stronger, more reliable connection.
- No Direct Wi-Fi Broadcast: It is important to note that the wireless bridge itself does not broadcast a Wi-Fi signal for your devices. It creates a high-speed, reliable Ethernet connection between the two locations. To have Wi-Fi at the remote location, a separate Wi-Fi router must be connected to the Remote Station's PoE adapter.
5. Maintenance
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your Ubiquiti NBE-M5-16 Wireless Bridge, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Maintain Clear Line of Sight: Periodically check that there are no new obstructions (e.g., growing trees, new buildings) blocking the line of sight between the two units. Obstructions can degrade signal quality.
- Inspect Physical Connections: Ensure all Ethernet cables are securely connected and free from damage. Check PoE adapters for proper power supply.
- Keep Units Clean: Gently clean the exterior of the units to remove dirt, dust, or debris that might accumulate, especially on the front face where the antenna is located. Use a soft, dry cloth.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check the Ubiquiti Networks website for any available firmware updates for your NanoBeam devices. Firmware updates can improve performance, stability, and security.
- Weather Resistance: The units are designed to be outdoor-ready. However, ensure they are securely mounted to withstand strong winds and other weather conditions.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your wireless bridge, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- No Connection/No Internet:
- Check Power: Ensure both NanoBeam units and their respective PoE adapters are powered on.
- Verify Ethernet Cables: Confirm all Ethernet cables are properly seated and undamaged.
- Line of Sight: Re-verify that there is a clear, unobstructed line of sight between the two units.
- Alignment: Adjust the alignment of the units to achieve the best possible signal strength as indicated by the LED lights.
- Router Check: Ensure your main internet router is functioning correctly and providing internet access. If using a secondary Wi-Fi router at the remote location, ensure it is also powered on and configured correctly.
- Slow Connection/Intermittent Connectivity:
- Signal Strength: Check the signal strength LEDs. If they are low, re-align the units for a stronger signal.
- Interference: Environmental factors or other wireless devices operating on the same frequency can cause interference. Ensure the units are mounted away from potential sources of interference.
- Obstructions: Even partial obstructions can significantly impact performance.
- Reset Button: Each NanoBeam unit has a reset button (located under the cover near the Ethernet port). To perform a factory reset, power on the device, then press and hold the reset button for approximately 10 seconds until the LEDs flash. This will revert the device to its default settings, which may require re-configuration if the pre-configuration is lost.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Wireless Type | 5 GHz Radio Frequency |
| Brand | Ubiquiti Networks |
| Series | NanoBeam M5 16dBi |
| Item Model Number | NBE-M5-16X2PRECONF |
| Item Weight | 3.39 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 5.51 x 5.51 x 2.13 inches |
| Manufacturer | Ubiquiti Networks |
| ASIN | B01ETXEMRU |
| Date First Available | August 4, 2016 |
8. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Ubiquiti Networks website. For technical support, product registration, or additional resources, please contact Ubiquiti Networks directly through their official support channels.
