Fixed Wireless Equipment

RadioLAN Debuts BridgeLINK II Lineup

Combining the best qualities of Ethernet and circuit-switched networks, RadioNET version 3.5 produces very little network latency, but still protects against packet collisions that are often prevalent in wireless networks.

by ISP-Planet Staff [October 22, 2002]

Headquartered in San Jose, Calif., RadioLAN, Inc. has made its new RadioNET Version 3.5 available today. The system offers a way to connect buildings, Internet users, or even wireless hotspots.

RadioNET Version 3.5 is designed for point-to-multipoint applications such as multipoint backhaul, campus area networking, and access point interconnect. It allows network designers to establish a wireless infrastructure that interconnects both nodes and branches of wireless networks, and links them back to existing networks, Internet service providers, or local exchange carriers.

Based up RadioNET Manager software, RadioNET Version 3.5 is a robust, scalable, multi-user, multi-access platform that allows for efficient sharing of the airwaves without the common tradeoffs made in wireless outdoor links. It is an ideal solution for those who need a high-speed data bridge between three or more facilities.

Combining the best qualities of Ethernet and circuit-switched networks, RadioNET version 3.5 produces very little network latency, but still protects against packet collisions that are often prevalent in wireless networks. It is also works well for ISPs requiring multipoint backhaul applications where co-existence with 802.11b-based Access Points is required.

RadioNET Version 3.5 runs on the Campus BridgeLINK family of wireless Ethernet bridges. Campus BridgeLINK products offer long range, interference-immune wireless connectivity. All models of Campus BridgeLINK use 10BaseRadio technology, which is fully compatible with IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standards.

Operating in the license-free frequency bands at 5 GHz, Campus BridgeLINK products avoid interference in 2.4 GHz bands, while offering a fast, reliable, and cost-effective method of connecting computer networks in different buildings without wires.

All RadioLAN products are plug and play compatible with standard 10BaseT wired networks, and are completely scalable, allowing networks to expand to new locations with no drop in performance.

Pricing and availability
The Campus BridgeLINK-II is the flagship of the RadioLAN product line. With several models, the Campus BridgeLINK-II lineup offers link ranges from 1 to 32 miles and beyond, without a decrease in speed, regardless of whether the units are across the street from each other, across campus, or across town. Once installed, the Campus BridgeLINK-II provides a secure, always-on connection with remote locations.

The model RMG-387 Campus BridgeLINK-Lite retails at $1,499 and provides a building-to-building connection over a one-mile range. This is roughly the equivalent cost of deploying a typical 802.11b alternative. Suitable for client installations, the Campus BridgeLINK-Lite uses Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, making it unobtrusive and simple to install.

The model RMG-377-S90 or -S12 includes a 90 degree or 120 degree sector (wide-beam) antenna for $2,649, making it a suitable hub for connecting several Campus BridgeLINK-Lites into a campus setting or Metropolitan Area Network (MAN).

Using high-gain panel and dish antennas, models RMG-377-EA1, -25P, or -RW1 can be used for point-to-point links or distant stations on a multipoint network. Used in place of dial-up modems, ISDN, Frame Relay, or T1 lines, these bridges eliminate the recurring cost of leasing lines from the local phone company, or the expense of running fiber underground, which is especially useful where no right-of-way can be obtained.

Pricing and availability
The EA1 has a 1-mile range and includes an 8-inch panel antenna for $2,299 operating in the 5.775 GHz band or $2,499 in the 5.3 GHz band. The 25P has a 3.5-mile range and includes a 13-inch panel antenna for $2,299 and the RW1 has a 5-mile range and includes a 1.5-foot dish for $2,549.

All units are available now.

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