Mikrotik NetBox 5 ax

The MikroTik NetBox 5 ax (Part Number: L11UG-5HaxD-NB) is a dynamic outdoor wireless device designed to handle a variety of roles in network setups, including as an access point (AP), customer premises equipment (CPE), or for establishing robust point-to-point connections. Powered by a modern Qualcomm Maple CPU and equipped with advanced Wi-Fi 6 technology, this device is ideal for anyone needing a reliable and versatile outdoor connectivity solution.

At its core, the NetBox 5 ax features an ARM-based IPQ-5010 CPU with two cores, running at a nominal frequency of 800 MHz, and is backed by 256 MB of RAM and 128 MB of NAND storage. This powerful setup is housed in a weatherproof case designed for simplicity and ease of use, enabling system administrators to access the interior with a single hand. Connections, including the Gigabit Ethernet port with PoE-in, are thoughtfully concealed behind a protective door at the base, safeguarding them from environmental elements.

The device includes a single 10/100/1000 Ethernet port that offers fast and reliable wired connections. It also features a USB type A port with a maximum current of 1.5A, which can be used for additional storage or other peripheral devices. Power over Ethernet (PoE) support allows for simplicity in deployment, with passive PoE input ranging from 18-28 V. The device’s power consumption is efficient, requiring only 15 W at maximum operation and 6 W without attachments, thanks to its passive cooling system.

The NetBox 5 ax shines with its dual-chain 5 GHz Wi-Fi 6 radio, which supports high-speed data rates up to 2400 Mbit/s, ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications such as HD video streaming and large file transfers.. This radio features RP-SMA connectors that provide flexibility in antenna selection. Users can attach a HGO-antenna-OUT for an expansive omnidirectional AP setup or opt for the mANT30 PA antenna to establish a long-range point-to-point link capable of covering distances up to 30 kilometers, although the reliability of such distances can vary based on environmental conditions and antenna choice itself.

This device is not only powerful but also robust, with an IP54 rating that ensures it is protected against dust ingress and water splashes, making it suitable for all-weather deployments. The mounting loop makes installation on towers or poles straightforward, and an additional option for a DIN rail mount adds further versatility. The NetBox 5 ax meets stringent international standards as evidenced by its certifications, including CE, FCC, IC, EAC, and ROHS. These certifications ensure that the device complies with global operational and safety requirements, making it a reliable choice for deployments anywhere in the world.

The NetBox 5 ax is equipped with both a PCB temperature monitor and a voltage monitor, which provide real-time insights into the device’s operational status and help prevent issues related to overheating or voltage fluctuations. Additionally, it includes a beeper for audible alerts, which can be useful for diagnostics or alarm systems.