Ubiquiti airMAX AC LiteBeam 5AC AP, 16dBi, 120°

Highlights at a Glance

• Throughput: Up to 450+ Mbps real TCP/IP
• Antenna Gain: 16 dBi
• Protocol: airMAX ac
• Operating Modes: Access Point, Station
• Channel Widths: PtP 10/20/30/40/50/60/80 MHz; PtMP 10/20/30/40 MHz
• Power Method: Passive PoE (24V, 0.5A Gigabit adapter included)
• Weight: 420 g (14.82 oz) – lightweight, low-cost design

Performance & Throughput

The LiteBeam 5AC leverages the airMAX ac protocol with a powerful Atheros MIPS 74Kc processor at 533 MHz and 64 MB of memory. It supports selectable channel widths up to 80 MHz in point-to-point mode, enabling real TCP/IP throughput of up to 450+ Mbps. Advanced modulation and automatic distance selection (Dynamic Ack) optimize link performance over long distances, while Ackless Mode further reduces latency in high-interference environments.

Comprehensive statistical reporting tracks data rates, Ethernet link rate, packet errors, uptime, and wireless distance, giving operators full visibility into link health. QoS with WMM packet classification allows prioritization of traffic at High, Medium, or Low levels, ensuring critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.

Design & Power

Weighing only 420 g and measuring 452.3 x 78.7 x 54.4 mm, the LiteBeam 5AC features an ultra-lightweight, integrated antenna and radio design. It is powered via passive PoE (24V, 0.5A) using the included Gigabit PoE adapter, with a maximum power consumption of just 7W. The device is built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, with an operating temperature range of -40 to 70° C and wind survivability up to 200 km/h (125 mph). Its ESD/EMP protection is rated at ± 24 kV Contact/Air, and it meets ETSI300-019-1.4 shock and vibration standards.

Management & Features

The LiteBeam 5AC offers a robust set of networking services, including bridging, routing, DHCP, and ping watchdog. Secure remote management is supported via SSH, SNMP, and an embedded webserver. Ubiquiti-specific enhancements such as airMAX AC mode, frequency band offset, traffic shaping with burst support, and 30/50/60 MHz channel operation provide fine-grained control for demanding wireless networks. The device is NDAA compliant and carries FCC, IC, CE, and RoHS certifications, ensuring regulatory adherence across global deployments.

Deployment & Use Cases

Ideal for WISP and enterprise point-to-multipoint networks, the LiteBeam 5AC operates in the license-free 5150 – 5875 MHz frequency range (5150 – 5850 MHz in the USA). The included pole mounting kit simplifies installation, and the device’s wind loading of 77 N at 200 km/h ensures stability on towers and rooftops. With support for both access point and station modes, it can serve as a sector AP in a PtMP topology or as a long-range PtP bridge, delivering reliable connectivity in rural and suburban broadband applications.