We reviewed all the issues with the current link and fully surveyed both locations and the link path. The link distance was calculated as 300 metres, with direct line of sight and a clear Fresnel Zone.

Multiple options were then presented to the client to choose from. From discussions we established the link would only be needed for around two years, as they were planning on building a new warehouse at the main office site. Bearmach were very keen to minimise costs due to the short ROI period.

The challenge with this project was to maximise link throughput at minimal cost, whilst providing a solution that could be re-utilised elsewhere, once the new warehouse was built. Additionally the link path was occasionally blocked by heavy machinery briefly passing through.

After reviewing several different solutions we settled on the Unifi UBB Building to Building bridge. This fitted the application perfectly, providing the key benefits:

• High throughput
• Relatively low cost
• 60GHz operating frequency eliminating current 5GHz interference
• 5GHz fall back radio, providing link stability if link line of sight is lost
• Small form factor
• Remote cloud management

Zero working hours were lost as the link was pre-configured off-site and a temporary network links were run during the installation.  This ensured we could install, align and fully test the link performance before committing to the change over.

With testing complete and the remote warehouse closed for the day, the new link was connected to both locations and handed over to the IT department for final checks.

Since completion the 5GHz fall back radio has been tested with no loss of connectivity when switching between radios. Giving link stability regardless of the external conditions.

New Link Specification

• 60 GHz PtP link using 802.11ad
• Ideal for high-throughput connectivity
• 1.7+ Gbps bi-directional Plug and Play 60 GHz Bridge
• 5 GHz Radio Redundancy
• UniFi Controller Management
• Range of up to 500 metres

Building-to-Building Bridge is the ideal solution for short-range, high-throughput connectivity. Integration with the UniFi Controller makes bridging two networks seamless.

Click image to see a larger version

After completing the installation the customer has a >500 MBits/s connection to their remote factory with no drop outs, which increased their connectivity by 450 MBits/s. As confirmed with iPerf network throughput testing and reduction in backup time.

The installation process was fairly easy and straight forward utilising existing mounting points and was completed in one day.

If a wireless link like this is something that can benefit you or your business, please contact us to discuss how we can help.