- Description
- Specifications
5 GHz Outdoor CPE with Dual Ethernet Ports, 16 dBi Integrated Antenna, and -30 to 75C Operating Range
The Ubiquiti airMAX NanoStation M5 (NSM5) is a 5 GHz outdoor CPE with an integrated 14.6 to 16.1 dBi dual-polarization antenna, two 10/100 Ethernet ports, and airMAX TDMA protocol for point-to-point and point-to-multipoint links. It runs on 24V passive PoE (adapter included), operates from -30 to 75C, and pole-mounts with the included hardware. Managed through UISP for centralized networking device management or configured standalone through the airOS web interface.
The NanoStation M5 is the standard (non-Loco) model in the 5 GHz NanoStation lineup. Compared to the Loco M5, it adds a second Ethernet port for device passthrough and delivers higher antenna gain (16 dBi vs 13 dBi) in a slightly larger panel form factor. The dual-port design eliminates the need for a separate switch at the remote end when connecting both a camera and an access point from a single wireless backhaul.
Where the NanoStation M5 Fits
- Building-to-building bridges on campuses and properties where a 5 GHz PtP link carries internet, VoIP, or camera traffic between structures without trenching cable, and the second Ethernet port serves a device at the far end
- WISP subscriber installations where a 5 GHz CPE with 16 dBi gain provides strong signal back to the base station tower while the secondary Ethernet port feeds a local router or switch at the customer premises
- Outdoor surveillance backhaul in extreme climates where the -30 to 75C operating range handles desert heat, arctic cold, and everything between without environmental enclosures or heating elements
What the NanoStation M5 Delivers
- 14.6 to 16.1 dBi integrated antenna: Dual-linear polarization with cross-polarization isolation. Higher gain than the Loco variant for stronger links over longer distances without an external antenna.
- Dual 10/100 Ethernet ports: Primary port for uplink/data, secondary port for passthrough to a local device. Eliminates the need for an additional switch at the remote installation point.
- airMAX TDMA protocol: Eliminates hidden node problems in PtMP deployments and provides predictable per-client throughput. 5 GHz band avoids 2.4 GHz residential interference.
- -30 to 75C operating temperature: Rated for extreme environments without supplemental heating or cooling. UV-stabilized enclosure handles continuous sun exposure.
Can You Use a NanoStation M5 to Extend WiFi?
Yes. A pair of NanoStation M5 units creates a wireless bridge that extends your network to a remote building, garage, or outbuilding. One unit connects to your existing network via Ethernet and acts as the access point. The second unit mounts at the remote location, receives the 5 GHz signal, and provides a wired Ethernet connection to whatever device needs connectivity at that end. This is a dedicated backhaul link, not a WiFi repeater, so it does not cut your bandwidth in half the way consumer WiFi extenders do. For single-building WiFi extension where you just need internet at the far end, a NanoStation M5 pair is a proven, cost-effective approach that thousands of installers deploy daily.
