POP Module 1 - Wireless Hardware

Introduction to POPs and Connectivity Infrastructure

Understanding Point-of-Presence systems, their role in agricultural research, and the hardware that powers rural connectivity

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

Define what a Point-of-Presence (POP) is and explain its purpose
Describe why POPs are critical for research and operations at ASCs
Identify key components of the Vorp solar surveillance trailer
Recognize Ubiquiti wireless hardware and its functions
Articulate the benefits POPs provide to staff and researchers

Wireless Hardware Overviews

LiteBeams, Access Points, and Rocket M2 Sector Antenna


NMSU POPs use professional-grade Ubiquiti Networks equipment, chosen for reliability, performance, and cost-effectiveness in outdoor deployments. Understanding each component's role is essential for proper deployment and troubleshooting

LiteBeam 5AC Gen2 (Point-to-Point CPE)

Backhaul link from POP to main building

Frequency

5 GHz

Gain

23 dBi

Range

5+ km

Power

7W (PoE)

Role: The LiteBeam is the critical link between the POP trailer and the main ASC building. It's a highly directional antenna that must be precisely aimed at the sector antenna on the building to establish the backhaul connection.

Key Characteristics:

  • Narrow beam: ~20° beamwidth requires precise alignment
  • High gain: 23 dBi enables long-distance links (up to 5+ km)
  • Low power: Only 7W draw, ideal for solar operation
  • GPS sync: Built-in GPS for timing synchronization
  • Weatherproof: IP65 rated for outdoor deployment
Module 4 covers detailed alignment procedures for the LiteBeam.

Rocket 5AC Prism (Sector Base Station)

Hub antenna at main ASC building

Frequency

5 GHz

Coverage

60-120°

Clients

Multiple POPs

Power

9.5W (PoE)

Role: The Rocket M2 with sector antenna is mounted on the main ASC building and serves as the hub for all POP connections. It broadcasts in a wide sector pattern, allowing multiple LiteBeams to connect simultaneously.

Key Characteristics:

  • Wide coverage: Sector antenna covers 60-120° horizontal
  • Point-to-Multipoint: Supports multiple POP connections
  • GPS sync: Coordinates timing across all connected POPs
  • High capacity: Aggregate throughput supports multiple links
  • Fixed installation: Permanently mounted on building
The Rocket is typically installed by IT staff and does not require adjustment during POP deployment.

UniFi Access Points (Local WiFi)

U6 Mesh Pro and E7 Campus models

U6 Mesh Pro

WiFi

WiFi 6

Coverage

185 m²

Clients

250+

Power

9W

Standard deployment for most POPs. Dual GbE ports, mesh capable, IPX6 weatherproof.

E7 Campus

WiFi

WiFi 7

Coverage

465 m²

Clients

1000+

Power

44W

High-performance option for high-density areas. Tri-band, 10 GbE uplink.

Access Point Functions:

  • Provide local WiFi coverage around the POP trailer
  • Connect staff tablets, laptops, and mobile devices
  • Support IoT device connectivity (sensors, cameras)
  • Powered via PoE from equipment enclosure
  • Managed centrally via UniFi Network Controller

Training Checkpoint

Understanding these three equipment types is essential for POP deployment:

  • LiteBeam establishes the critical backhaul link
  • Rocket serves as the hub at the main building
  • UniFi APs provide local connectivity at the POP

Complete the equipment identification quiz before proceeding to Module 4.

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