Introduction: LiteAP AC Sector AP (LAP-120) and its key features
The LiteAP AC Sector AP (LAP-120) is a compact, lightweight outdoor 5 GHz sector access point designed for point‑to‑multi‑point (PtMP) broadband networks. With an integrated 16 dBi, 120° sector antenna and support for airMAX ac (TDMA), the LAP-120 targets WISPs, installers and network operators who need reliable throughput, simple installation and low power consumption in a small form factor. Key features include an integrated antenna and radio in a weather‑resistant housing, up to 450+ Mbps real TCP/IP throughput, a Gigabit Ethernet port and a supplied 24V passive PoE injector for straightforward deployment.
Detailed product specifications and benefits
The LAP-120 balances performance and simplicity. Its core specifications and the real‑world benefits they deliver are summarised below.
- Model:LAP-120 — an integrated sector access point built for outdoor PtMP use.
- Frequency band:5150–5875 MHz (region dependent) — ideal for rural and suburban broadband links where 5 GHz spectrum is available.
- Antenna gain:16 dBi with a 120° sector pattern — wide coverage per sector while maintaining focused signal strength for increased range and throughput.
- Throughput:Up to 450+ Mbps real TCP/IP — delivers practical, usable throughput for ISP backhaul and subscriber aggregation.
- TX power (max):25 dBm — adequate transmit power for many PtMP scenarios while keeping regulatory compliance in mind.
- Channel width:Up to 40 MHz (PtMP) — supports higher capacity channels where local spectrum permits.
- Protocol:airMAX ac (TDMA) — optimized for predictable latency, interference resilience and multi‑client efficiency.
- Ethernet:1× 10/100/1000 RJ45 — Gigabit uplink for backhaul and aggregation.
- PoE:Passive PoE 24V, 0.5A adapter included — the supplied injector ensures compatibility and simplifies installation.
- Power consumption:Approximately 7–8 W — low operating power reduces running costs and enables use with small solar or battery systems in remote sites.
- Dimensions:452.3 × 78.7 × 54.4 mm — compact footprint for tight mountings.
- Weight:420 g — extremely lightweight, easing pole or mast installations.
- Mount:Pole mount with ball‑joint — allows simple alignment and secure placement.
- Operating temperature:−40 to 70° C — suitable for harsh outdoor climates.
- Humidity:5–95% non‑condensing — robust for variable environmental conditions.
- ESD/EMP protection:±24 kV contact/air — protection against static and electrical events.
- Certifications:FCC, IC, CE (region dependent) — check local approvals before deployment.
- Management:airOS v8 and UNMS — web and centralized management tools for configuration, monitoring and RF diagnostics.
Benefits in practice: the LAP-120s integrated design reduces cabling and alignment time, while the airMAX ac TDMA protocol helps maximise airtime efficiency in multi‑client setups. The included passive PoE injector and low power draw simplify deployment at remote towers or rooftop sites where power budget is limited.
Use cases and scenarios where the LAP-120 excels
The LAP-120 is engineered for scenarios where compactness, coverage and cost efficiency matter. Typical use cases include:
- WISPs and rural broadband:Deploy multiple LAP-120s on a tower to cover distinct sectors and aggregate subscriber links. Its 120° sector pattern is well suited to cover contiguous service areas without excessive overlap.
- Point‑to‑multi‑point (PtMP) networks:Use the LAP-120 as a sector node to serve customer CPE units across a wide fan‑shaped coverage area. The airMAX ac protocol reduces collisions and improves throughput under load.
- Small campus and municipal Wi‑Fi:Provide backhaul or distribution for outdoor Wi‑Fi networks where a light, discrete sector AP is preferred over larger, more obtrusive hardware.
- Event and temporary deployments:Fast pole mounting, light weight and included PoE make the LAP-120 useful for short‑term installations such as festivals or remote construction sites.
- Long‑distance bridging and last‑mile aggregation:When used with compatible client devices or CPEs, the LAP-120's focused sector gain and TDMA scheduling provide stable links and predictable performance for backhaul segments.
How the LAP-120 compares with similar products
When choosing sector APs or outdoor radio nodes, buyers typically compare integrated sector APs, external antenna + radio combinations, and higher‑gain directional solutions. The LAP-120 sits in the mid‑range of these options with specific tradeoffs:
- Integrated sector AP vs. separate radio + sector antenna:The integrated design of the LAP-120 reduces cabling, alignment complexity and total weight. Separate radio and antenna setups can offer higher gain options or replaceable antennas, but they add mounting complexity, cost and potential points of failure.
- 16 dBi / 120° sector vs. narrower or higher‑gain sectors:A 120° sector provides broad coverage suitable for many WISP deployments. Narrower sectors with higher gain increase range and capacity per beam but require more units to cover the same area. The LAP-120 strikes a balance between coverage area per AP and usable signal strength.
- LAP‑120 vs. omnidirectional outdoor APs:Omnis can cover 360° but at lower effective range and with more interference. Sector APs like the LAP-120 concentrate energy into a controlled beam, improving range, capacity and interference management in multi‑sector deployments.
- Cost vs. performance:With a suggested price near $141.42 and low power demands, the LAP-120 offers strong price/performance for deployments where economy and ease of install are priorities. Higher‑end sector radios or phased‑array systems can provide greater throughput or advanced features but at substantially higher cost and complexity.
Customer feedback and typical user impressions
While specific customer reviews vary by deployment, installers and WISPs who choose compact sector APs often highlight a few recurring positives that apply well to the LAP-120:
- Fast, straightforward installation:Technicians appreciate the light weight and included PoE injector, which reduce time on the tower and simplify logistics.
- Reliable real‑world throughput:Operators report consistent, usable TCP/IP throughput in line with advertised figures when correctly configured and in environments with manageable interference.
- Good value for money:The combination of integrated antenna, management tools and low power consumption is frequently cited as delivering solid return on investment for small to mid‑sized WISPs.
Potential buyers should note that peak results depend on correct frequency selection, channel width and antenna alignment, and that regulatory limits for transmit power vary by region. Having an experienced installer handle initial configuration and grounding is recommended.
Conclusion: Why the LAP-120 is a great choice
The LiteAP AC Sector AP (LAP-120) is a pragmatic solution for operators who need a compact, cost‑effective sector node for 5 GHz PtMP deployments. Its integrated 16 dBi, 120° antenna, airMAX ac TDMA support, Gigabit uplink and low power consumption make it well suited to WISPs, small ISPs and installers deploying multiple sectors on towers or rooftops. The included passive 24V PoE injector, robust environmental ratings and centralized management with airOS v8 and UNMS further reduce operational friction.
For deployments that require a balance between coverage, throughput and price, the LAP-120 delivers a compelling mix of features. It is especially attractive where ease of installation, low power draw and predictable real‑world throughput are priorities. As always, verify local regulatory requirements before deploying 5 GHz equipment and consider professional installation to maximise performance and safety.
