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How NetPoint’s NP5-DP-3FT Antenna transformed a Network: A Real-World Case Study and Client Testimony

Published by Juan David Ramirez on 22nd Nov 2024

Hey everyone, Juan David here. I am your tech guy here at Flytec! Today, I want to chat about something that can really level up your network game—especially if you’re dealing with interference issues. I’m talking about the NetPoint NP5-DP-3FT antenna. Trust me, if you’re in the ISP world or doing any serious networking, this is one piece of gear you’re going to want to know about.

Netpoint Antennas

What’s the Big Deal About the NP5-DP-3FT?

So, let’s break it down. The Netpoint NP5-DP-3FT is a powerful parabolic antenna designed to deliver high-performance, focused connectivity for point-to-point applications. With dimensions of 41.33 x 41.33 x 14.56 inches (105 cm x 105 cm x 37 cm), this 3 foot antenna strikes a balance between substantial build and manageable size, making it ideal for stable installations in varied network environments. Its robust structure and targeted communication capabilities make it the go-to choice for professionals requiring strong, interference-free connections over long distances.

  • High Gain and Directionality: It’s got a powerful 34 dBi gain, which means it can pull in signals from a long way off. Plus, it’s highly directional, so you’re not picking up a bunch of interference from the sides—just the signal you want.
  • Distance: The Netpoint NP5-DP-3FT can establish reliable connections over impressive distances—up to 43 miles (70 km). This extended range makes it ideal for long-distance point-to-point applications, delivering strong, stable links in both urban and remote settings.
  • Wide Frequency Range: This baby operates in the 4.9 to 6.4 GHz range, which covers a lot of ground, including some unlicensed frequencies. That gives you flexibility depending on where you’re setting up.
  • Dual Polarization with Adjustable Slant:The antenna supports dual polarization, offering both vertical/horizontal and ±45° slant options. The ±45° slant improves signal clarity by reducing potential interference from cross-polarized signals, which is especially beneficial in environments with multiple signal sources. This feature allows users to choose the optimal polarization for their specific needs.
  • Compatibility: It’s compatible with all the big names—MimosaUbiquitiCambium, Radwin—you name it. So, no worries about it playing nice with your existing setup.

radiaton patters

  • And don’t forget about the included NP142 Jumper N - SMA. It’s a flexible 30 cm copper jumper with excellent shielding and minimal loss.

How Does It Perform in the Real World?

Now, I know you’re probably wondering how this thing holds up when you put it to the test. Well, let me tell you about a real-world case where the NP5-DP-3FT made all the difference.

In Plymouth, IN, Fourway.net, a local ISP, was having a tough time setting up new backhaul links in a high-interference zone. They were using unlicensed frequencies, and initially, their noise floor was -60 dBm and thanks to the beamwidth of the NP5-DP-3FT antenna, an RSSI of -53 dBm was achieved. They paired the NP5-DP-3FT antenna with their Force equipment and the new AX firmware; they managed to pull off an 80 MHz channel width on the 5855 MHz frequency. That’s no small feat!

Client's Testimony

Here’s what Quentin Gawronski, the CIO of Fourway.net, had to say:

"We received our first link last week. My team went out to install it on the tower—I believe it was on Friday. We couldn’t believe the results! Honestly, we haven’t found another product that performs like yours!!! We’ve made some slight changes to our plans since we last spoke. We decided to place this link on a tower with heavy interference from other companies. We figured that with 3-foot antennas, we could cut through that interference. And that’s exactly what happened! We went from a link running in the mid-60s to the low 40s!! Plus, the SNR jumped to nearly 50 dB! That tells me everything is running perfectly! It was also super easy to align and install! I couldn’t ask for a smoother process!"

"Right now, we’re running this link over 7.5 miles or almost 12 kilometers. Here are the results… This link is also operating in the high band (5855 MHz) on an 80 MHz channel. The signal, modulation, and quality are flawless—it’s the best link in our entire network. We’ve already purchased more antennas so we can keep deploying them on other towers. It’s a blessing to have found you and the opportunity that this equipment brings."

Why You Should Care

If you’re dealing with interference—or just need a solid, reliable antenna for your point-to-point links—the NP5-DP-3FT is worth a look. It’s not just about the specs (though they’re impressive); it’s about real-world results. This antenna is lightweight, easy to install, and compatible with pretty much everything. Plus, it’s proven to work in tough conditions, like high-interference areas.

So, if you’re ready to boost your network’s performance and cut through the noise, consider giving the NP5-DP-3FT a try. It could be the difference between a good connection and a great one.

Hey, if you liked what you read about the NP5-DP-3FT, I’ve got a few more gems that you might want to check out. These antennas and accessories are like the secret sauce to making your network setup even better:

  • NP1GEN2 (NP5-DP-2FT): This 2 ft (60 cm) parabolic dish antenna is great for backhauls in the 4.9 - 6.4 GHz frequency range and can reach up to 30 km. It’s a solid choice if you need something high-performance but on a smaller scale.
  • NPX1GEN3(NPX5-HP-2FT): The NPX1 is a 2 ft antenna with a 30 dBi gain, perfect for minimizing interference and ensuring stellar performance. It operates in the 4.9-6.4 GHz range, so it’s great for those tricky spots where you need high performance.
  • NP6-DP-3FT(NP63) If you’re looking for something that really goes the extra mile, check out the NP6-DP-3FT. This super high-performance dish antenna is designed for both licensed and unlicensed bands, including the 6 GHz spectrum. It supports channel widths up to 160 MHz and high-capacity links up to 2 GB, making it ideal for long-distance backhaul and high-capacity applications. It features dual polarization for enhanced signal clarity and an N-Female connector for reliable connections. Plus, it’s pre-assembled with an integrated radome, so it’s ready to perform in even the toughest conditions.

Thanks for reading, and if you have any questions or need more info, you know where to find us!

Catch you next time, Juan David you Tech Support Lead

Flytec Computers