Extending TG Range with Siklu MultiHaul T280

The Siklu MultiHaul^TM TG series introduced at the end of 2020 enabled service providers to deliver Terragraph-certified, gigabit-speed, fixed wireless broadband access in 60 GHz. Now Siklu has sweetened the deal by releasing their new MultiHaul TG Long Range unit, the longest range PtP/PtMP solution now available in the entire Terragraph (TG) ecosystem. This article takes a closer look at this new T280 model, and its unique ability to address the range issue in a way that no other Terragraph device can.

MultiHaul TG Long Range T280 Overview

The new TG Long Range T280 utilizes Facebook Terragraph technology and operates in the 60 GHz mmWave spectrum, delivering multi-gigabit capacity in dense deployments. The unit features 3 ports (RJ-45 up to 5GE or fiber up to 10Gbps), and a range of reflector antennas. (The fourth circular slot pictured above to the right is for the DVM / antenna alignment.)

Polarization options includes vertical, +45°, and -45° in PtP mode, allowing for better isolation in dense networks. Vertical polarization only is available in PtMP mode (see below for more on modes).

Additionally, the T280 includes a built in software configured ethernet switch, PoE out up to 55W for collocated CPEs, cameras or other devices, plus fiber termination. Overall use is simplified through a common feature set and interfaces, and management integrates with all Siklu products. Alignment can be achieved with the a visual alignment tool (included with all Siklu antennas) or fine tuned with a DVM.

Modes and Applications for TG T280

The TG Long Range T280 can function in two modes, creating a wide variety of possibilities for applications:

1. Point-to-MultiPoint
   As a Terminal Unit (TU) that's compatible with the MultiHaul TG Node N366, the T280 can provide additional distances to served locations, in coexistence with other T26x units in the same sector.
   
   
2. Point-to-Point
   A pair of T280's can form a bridge, connecting at even longer distances. It's important to note that the T280 offers up to 3 ports with both copper and fiber interfaces, as well as a PoE out to power a collocated N366 or any other 3rd party device.

As a result, the many applications for this new unit include:

• Fixed 5G Wireless Access
• Gigabit-to-the-Home, MDU and the Enterprise
• Micro-POP
• Wi-Fi Hotspot Backhaul
• Security / Safe City Networks
• Smart City Business Services
• Municipal Networks
• Small Cell Backhaul
• Fiber Hand-off

Illustration of PtP & PtMP applications of Siklu MultiHaul TG T280 Long Range 

What Are the Key Advantages of TG Long Range?

The choice of antenna gain, along with high Tx power and scalable capacity, allows the T280 to accomplish more for less by achieving:

1. Reduced CAPEX - fewer units, less access rights, minimized infrastructure costs
2. Shorter time to market
3. Reduced OPEX - less sites to operate, configure, and power

3.8 Gbps aggregate throughout can be achieved today up to 350m with 0.5 ft antenna, and will soon reach up to 1000m with a 1 ft antenna. Additionally, the chart below compares the antenna specs at 1 Gbps symmetrical throughout.

See also Siklu's link budget calculator for your specific link scenarios.

Learn More about the T280  

Interested in learning more? Get more details for the Siklu MultiHaul TG Long Range T280 on our website, or by calling the DoubleRadius team at (866) 891-3602. This new long range option makes Terragraph more powerful than ever!