Description

The Ubiquiti NanoStation 5AC Loco is a compact, high-performance 5 GHz wireless CPE that packs serious capability into a surprisingly small package. Built on Ubiquiti’s proven airMAX ac platform, this unit delivers real-world throughput of over 450 Mbps – making it ideal for point-to-point links between buildings or as a client radio in larger wireless networks.

For installers, the Loco5AC hits the sweet spot between performance and simplicity. The integrated 13 dBi antenna means there’s no external antenna to mount or align, and the included pole-mount kit gets you up and running without hunting for additional hardware. The compact 179 x 77.5 x 59.1 mm form factor is unobtrusive on residential or commercial buildings.

The airMAX ac TDMA protocol is what sets this apart from standard WiFi gear. It eliminates the hidden node problems that plague busy wireless networks, giving you consistent performance even when multiple clients are connected. The custom silicon handles 256QAM modulation efficiently, which is where the throughput gains come from compared to older airMAX products.

One feature that’s often overlooked is the dedicated management WiFi radio. You can configure the unit from your phone using the UNMS app without needing to be physically connected – handy when the radio is mounted 10 metres up a pole. The built-in airView spectrum analyser also runs in the background without disrupting your link, letting you identify interference sources and optimise channel selection.

The outdoor-rated UV-stabilised enclosure handles Australian conditions well, with an operating temperature range from -40°C to 70°C. ESD protection rated at ±24kV adds peace of mind for exposed installations. Power comes via 24V passive PoE (injector not included – you’ll need the POE-24-12W-G or similar).

Typical applications include connecting a shed or granny flat to the main house network, linking office buildings across a car park, or providing broadband backhaul for remote sites. Paired with another Loco5AC or a NanoStation AC, you can establish reliable links over several kilometres with proper line of sight.

Technical Specifications

Physical: 179 x 77.5 x 59.1 mm, 180 g, outdoor UV-stabilised plastic enclosure, pole-mount kit included

Radio: 5 GHz (5150-5875 MHz), 13 dBi integrated dual-polarity antenna, 45° beamwidth, 25 dBm max TX power

Performance: Up to 450+ Mbps real TCP/IP throughput, 10/20/30/40/50/60/80 MHz channel widths, 256QAM modulation

Network: 1x Gigabit Ethernet port, airOS 8 firmware, UNMS app compatible

Power: 24V passive PoE (pairs 4,5+; 7,8 return), 7W max consumption, injector not included

Environment: -40 to 70°C operating temp, 5-95% humidity, ±24kV ESD protection, CE/FCC/IC certified, NDAA compliant