Comparing Antenna Enclosure Solutions

antenna enclosure

When deploying advanced connectivity solutions, choosing the right antenna enclosure can be a game-changer. The Peplink Antenna MAX stands out for its innovative design, housing a router within an IP67-rated enclosure to minimize signal loss and maximize performance. Beyond the Antenna MAX, 5Gstore.com also offers alternative enclosure solutions like Poynting’s EPNT and SWIRL, which provide robust options for various applications. This guide explores the Antenna MAX and compares it with these alternatives to help you make the best choice for your network needs.


Peplink Antenna MAX
Peplink Antenna MAX

The Peplink Antenna MAX is not just an antenna; it’s a performance-enhancing antenna enclosure designed to house Peplink routers like the MAX BR1 Pro 5G, Transit Duo Pro, and others. This solution minimizes cable loss by integrating the router within the enclosure, ensuring a stronger, more reliable signal.

Key Features:

  • Integrated Antennas: Includes 4x 5G/LTE, 2x Wi-Fi, and 1x GPS antennas, delivering up to 7.4 dB gain.
  • Durable Design: IP67-rated enclosure protects against water and dust, withstanding extreme temperatures (-40°C to 80°C).
  • Minimized Cable Loss: Short RF cables inside the enclosure connect directly to the router, reducing signal degradation.
  • Flexible Network Integration: Connects to your network via Ethernet cable, with up to 100 meters of PoE-enabled reach.
  • Mounting Options: Supports fixed-roof, wall, surface, deck, and pole mounting.

Applications:

The Antenna MAX is ideal for outdoor environments, offering exceptional durability and performance for applications like mobile connectivity, fixed wireless access (FWA), and IoT deployments.


Alternative Antenna Enclosure Solutions

Poynting EPNT-4
Poynting EPNT-4

Poynting EPNT-4: Omni-Directional Excellence

The Poynting EPNT-4 combines multiple antennas in a robust, omni-directional design, making it a powerful alternative to the Antenna MAX. This antenna enclosure includes 4×4 5G/LTE MIMO, 2×2 Wi-Fi MIMO, and GPS antennas, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Key Features:

  • Wideband Coverage: Operates across 617–4200 MHz, supporting major 5G/LTE bands and multi-carrier aggregation.
  • Enhanced Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi antennas covering 2.4 GHz and 5–7.2 GHz with a peak gain of 5 dBi.
  • Rugged Construction: IP67 and IK10-rated for weather, water, and vandal resistance, suitable for marine and industrial use.
  • High-Performance GPS: Integrated GPS/GLONASS antenna for precise tracking.

Applications:

The EPNT-4 excels in scenarios like industrial automation, marine connectivity, and rural broadband expansion. Its superior MIMO performance enhances data throughput, making it ideal for demanding environments.


Poynting EPNT-1
Poynting EPNT-1

Poynting EPNT-1: Compact and Versatile

The Poynting EPNT-1 offers a compact solution for those needing enhanced stability and throughput in urban or suburban areas. With cross-polarized antennas and wideband support, it’s designed for LTE and 5G networks.

Key Features:

  • 4×4 MIMO Antennas: Covers 617–3800 MHz for reliable 4G/5G connectivity.
  • Wi-Fi Integration: Dual-band 2×2 MIMO Wi-Fi antennas for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands.
  • Weather-Resistant: IP65-rated enclosure withstands harsh weather conditions.
  • Compact Design: Fits routers up to 185 x 145 x 45 mm³.

Applications:

The EPNT-1 is perfect for urban deployments, providing strong connectivity in environments with multiple base stations. It’s well-suited for consumer internet connectivity, small-scale industrial setups, and FWA.


Poynting SWIRL-4-CPE: Compact Power for Harsh Conditions

Poynting SWIRL
Poynting SWIRL-4-CPE

The SWIRL-4-CPE antenna enclosure from Poynting is a compact, marine- and mobility-ready solution designed to optimize router performance and endure extreme environments. With 4x cellular, 2x Wi-Fi, and 1x GPS antenna connections, the SWIRL-4 offers robust connectivity in a weatherproof IP69K-rated enclosure.

Key Features:

  • Reliable Hardware: Casted aluminum base with built-in heat sink improves thermal regulation; UV and saltwater protection enhance durability
  • Easy to Install: Built-in cable routing options (via gland or external Ethernet port)
  • Compatible with Standard Mounts: Pre-drilled base plate compatible with marine mounting standards
  • Compact Size: Fits routers 231 x 193 x 50 mm (9.094 x 7.60 x 1.97 inch) or 293.5 x 148.5 x 50 mm (11.56 x 5.85 x 1.97 inch).

Applications:

Ideal for coastal, industrial, or transport deployments. Whether mounted on a vessel, vehicle, or fixed site, the SWIRL-4 ensures reliable 5G/LTE and Wi-Fi signal performance while minimizing cable loss and installation complexity.


Poynting SWIRL-8-CPE: High-Density Connectivity with 8×8 MIMO

Poynting SWIRL
Poynting SWIRL-8-CPE

For users needing maximum connectivity in rugged environments, the SWIRL-8-CPE delivers exceptional performance. This powerhouse enclosure integrates 8x cellular, 4x Wi-Fi, and 1x GPS antennas into a single, highly durable unit. It can support routers up to sizes of 231 x 193 x 50 mm (9.094 x 7.60 x 1.97 inches) or 293.5 x 148.5 x 50 mm (11.56 x 5.85 x 1.97 inches).

The 8×8 MIMO configuration and cross-polarized design (horizontal and vertical) provide ultra-wideband support from 617 MHz to 7200 MHz, maximizing data rates and network reliability.

Like the SWIRL-4, the SWIRL-8 includes a casted aluminum base with a heat sink, cable management options, and full IP69K weather protection. It also supports easy mounting on masts, radar towers, or vehicle rooftops using the pre-drilled marine-standard base or optional adhesive/magnetic mounts.

This makes the SWIRL-8 an ideal choice for marine vessels (tugboats, ferries, fishing boats), specialized vehicles (RVs, mobile command units, broadcast vans), or remote industrial deployments requiring high-speed, redundant cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity.


Comparing Antenna Enclosures

Feature / ModelAntenna MAXEPNT-1EPNT-4SWIRL-4-CPESWIRL-8-CPE
Cellular Antennas2x or 4x LTE/5G2x LTE/5G4x LTE/5G4x LTE/5G8x LTE/5G
Wi-Fi AntennasNoneNone2x Wi-Fi2x Wi-Fi4x Wi-Fi
GPS/GNSS Antenna1x GPS1x GPS1x GPS1x GPS1x GPS
Enclosure FunctionalityAntenna with internal router supportAntenna with internal router supportAntenna with internal router supportAntenna with internal router supportAntenna with internal router support
MIMO CapabilityUp to 4×4 MIMO2×2 MIMO4×4 MIMO4×4 MIMO8×8 MIMO
PolarizationVerticalCross-polarized (H/V)Cross-polarized (H/V)Cross-polarized (H/V)Cross-polarized (H/V)
Frequency RangeTypically 600–6000 MHz617–7200 MHz617–7200 MHz617–7200 MHz617–7200 MHz
Router HousingYesYesYesYesYes
Mounting OptionsPole or wallPole or wallPole or wallMarine base plate, mast/radar towerMarine base plate, mast/radar tower
IP RatingIP67IP67IP67IP69KIP69K
Dimensions (mm)248 x 218 x 100180 x 180 x 75247 x 230 x 120233 x 141.5 base, 185 x 50 x 230 housing233 x 141.5 base, 185 x 50 x 230 housing
Best Use CaseRugged CPE or fixed wireless setupsCompact CPE, light-duty outdoor useHigher gain CPE, remote or mobile useMarine & mobile with moderate needsMarine & transport with high performance needs

Maximizing Connectivity with the Right Antenna Enclosure

The Peplink Antenna MAX, as well as the Poynting EPNT and SWIRL are cutting-edge solutions that enhance connectivity by integrating advanced antennas with router enclosures. Whether you need the superior signal gain of the Antenna MAX, the rugged durability of the EPNT-4, or the compact versatility of the EPNT-1 or SWIRL, 5Gstore.com has the right product for your needs.

Explore these solutions today to elevate your network’s performance in any environment.