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+5 [7 votes]
Networking company HD Communcations has announced a low-cost WiFi bridge with up to five miles line-of-sight range. The HD26200 consists of two high performance Ubiquiti network radios with integrated 17dbi dual polarity antennas, and can bridge WiFi b and g networks. Best of all is the price: just $318.
Power is via the ethernet connection, rather than a separate supply, which means only a CAT5 cable is necessary to get the HD26200 up and running. The system is also rated for outdoor use, which is likely to be a necessity unless you’re looking to extend a WiFi link down a very long bowling alley. HD Communications are claiming that its performance exceeds rival systems priced in the thousands.
“Since the introduction of WiFi radios people have tried to push the range of consumer level products by adding external antennas, RF cables, and WiFi amplifiers. The cost of those devices often totaled well over $500 and that was after they had already bought two D-Link or Linksys radios for $75 each. Now they can have an FCC certified wireless bridge that will work better, look better, is easier to configure, and easier to install for less than $320″ Don Davis, President and CEO, HD Communications Corp.
The HD26200 is available now. HD Communications also have non-line-of-sight products in their range.
This is just a 2 pack of Ubiquiti Powerstation 2s. I don’t see why anyone would put out a press release for something that’s already available at lots of online resellers.
Metrix has them available for $159. You will have to put two in your cart if you want the same deal that HD is offering, which is simply MSRP.
If you want to see something really interesting, check out the Nanostations. They’re made by the same manufacturer, and are half the price. Here’s what the inside of a NS2 looks like, and it’s only $79
I have bought product from this company for about a year now. They just made it easy for the installer buy bundling the product and supporting the product as a bridge. Try calling Metrix for support. lots of luck. I was stuck on a tower waiting for someone at Metrix to answer my question. That was the last time I bought a product from them.
I believe that HD is also marketing this to the guys that are trying to connect two sites with a linksys router and two external antennas. Good for them smart marketing.
FYI The Nanostations only have a 7dBi antenna in them instead of a 17dBi antenna, are good for 3 miles not 5 miles, and try to find someone that has stock of the Nanostations.
It also looks like you are a Metrix employee based on the fact you are linking their website. Spend your time learning how to configure radios so when us poor guys call in you can actually answer our questions. Anyone can sell a product online. I can even buy a product on ebay if I did not want someone to support it. Service still means something to me.