The MikroTik LHG XL 5 ac (RBLHG-5acD-XL) is a high-gain, long-distance wireless device designed for creating Point-to-Point (PtP) links.¹ It's an ideal choice for connecting two locations over a significant distance, like across a valley or between buildings that are several kilometers apart.

Key Features and Specifications

• Wireless Technology: It operates on the 5 GHz frequency band and uses the 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) standard.² This provides faster speeds and improved performance over longer distances compared to older wireless standards.

   

• Antenna: The "LHG" in the name stands for Lite Head Grid. The device features a very large, integrated grid antenna with a high gain of 27 dBi.³ This large grid design creates a highly focused beam, which is essential for maintaining a strong, stable connection over long distances and helps to reject interference from the sides.

   

• Performance: The LHG XL 5 ac is powered by a 716 MHz CPU and has 256 MB of RAM.⁴ It is capable of achieving real throughput of up to 500+ Mbps.

   

• Ports: It has a single 10/100/1000 Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet) port, which is necessary to handle the high throughput of the wireless link.

• RouterOS: Like all MikroTik products, it runs on the full-featured RouterOS operating system, providing a vast array of networking functionalities, including firewall rules, QoS, and various routing protocols.⁵ The device comes with a RouterOS License Level 3.⁶

   

• Power over Ethernet (PoE): It is powered by 24V passive PoE, which allows power and data to be transmitted over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation. A compatible PoE injector is typically included.

• Design: The LHG XL 5 ac is built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.⁷ The open grid design provides excellent wind load performance, which is a major benefit for tower installations.

This device is a professional tool for network engineers and WISPs (Wireless Internet Service Providers) who need to create a reliable and high-speed wireless link over a long distance.