Tag: comparison

Understanding AC and DC Power, and the Advantages of Power over Ethernet

Power sources play a crucial role in anything involved with electronics. Understanding the differences between Alternating Current (AC) and Direct Current (DC) can be essential. Additionally, the evolution of technology has introduced innovative solutions like Power over Ethernet (PoE), changing the way devices receive power and data. In this article we’ll explore details about different types of power sources and how they apply to our everyday lives. 

AC vs. DC: The Basics

AC and DC refer to two distinct types of electric current. AC is characterized by the continuous change in the direction of the flow of electrons, making it the standard form of electricity distributed in homes and businesses. On the other hand, DC flows in a constant direction, making it ideal for electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and electric cars.

Most electronic devices are designed to operate on DC power. Even devices with AC plugs, such as laptops and phone chargers, incorporate internal voltage converters that transform AC into DC current, ensuring compatibility with these devices. These converters, commonly known as power supplies or adapters, are available in various sizes, from small phone chargers to larger laptop power supplies.

Power Supply Connectors

DC power connectors come in different shapes and sizes to cater to various devices. Examples include cylindrical connectors, barrel connectors, and USB connectors. AC connectors, typically used in larger devices, have their specific standards and shapes.

Examples of some DC connectors:

Examples of AC connectors:

Powering Network Devices

In networking setups, routers, switches, and Access Points (APs) require a stable power supply. For home and small business routers and switches, external AC adapters are commonly used, supplying the necessary power to these devices. Larger routers and switches utilize standard AC cables connected to internal power supplies, ensuring efficient power distribution.

Examples of some external power supplies:

Examples of some internal power supplies:

Power over Ethernet

Power over Ethernet (PoE) has emerged as a game-changing technology in the world of networking. PoE enables both power and data transmission over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installations and reducing clutter.

Types of PoE: Active vs. Passive

There are two main types of PoE: Active and Passive. Passive PoE delivers a constant voltage (such as 12 volts) over the Ethernet cable, with the connected device consuming the provided voltage. In contrast, Active PoE operates at standard voltages of 24 or 48 volts. The device at the end of the Ethernet cable communicates its voltage requirements to the PoE injector, which then supplies the precise voltage needed. Although they aren’t very common, PoE splitters can also be used in the cases that active PoE is the only option. For example, a 48V active splitter can provide 12V to a device that does not support PoE by negotiating the amount of power needed. 

PoE Switches: A Convenient Solution

PoE switches further streamline the implementation of PoE technology. These switches have built-in PoE injectors, eliminating the need for separate PoE injectors. By integrating power and data delivery into a single device, PoE switches simplify network setups, especially in scenarios where multiple PoE devices need to be connected.

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Selecting an Antenna: A Comprehensive Guide

The need for robust and reliable wireless communication has become paramount. Whether you’re trying to enhance your home Wi-Fi network, optimize your cellular signal, or ensure accurate GPS tracking, selecting the right antenna for your router is a crucial decision. To make an informed choice, it’s essential to consider a multitude of factors before diving into the world of antennas.

Before embarking on your antenna quest, pause for a moment and ponder the following questions. Do you require a cellular antenna, a Wi-Fi booster, GPS enhancement, or perhaps a combination of these connections? Where will you be mounting the antenna—indoors, outdoors, or in a marine setting? How far will the antenna be from your router, and does it come with the necessary cable? These questions are just the beginning of a journey to find the perfect antenna solution for your unique needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeper into these critical factors, equipping you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision when selecting the perfect antenna for your router. Whether you’re enhancing your home network or embarking on a mobile adventure, understanding the intricacies of antennas is the key to unlocking seamless and reliable wireless communication.

What Should You Know? 

Before you start the search for an antenna for your router, consider the following questions:

  • Do you need a cellular antenna, WiFi, GPS, or something that combines these connections?
  • Where do you need to mount the antenna?
    • If installing at a fixed location, where are you getting the best signal and performance?
    • Is it going to be indoors or outdoors, or in a marine type setting? 
    • Does the antenna need to meet certain size requirements to fit in this location? 
  • How far is the antenna going to be in relation to your router? 
  • Does the antenna include cable?
    • Is the included cable going to be enough or will you need more?
    • If you need more cable, can you use an extension cable or should you select an antenna without cable so you can use the full required length?
  • Will your application be traveling or stationary?
    • Does the antenna need to be portable or can it be permanently mounted?
  • What type of antenna connectors does your router use, and how many are there?
  • What cellular frequencies does your router support? 

What is MiMO? What is a 2-in-1 or 4-in-1 Antenna?

Most cellular routers these days will have a main and diversity/ auxiliary port for bringing in the cell signal and communicating back to the cell tower. This is called a MiMO connection. MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) is a technology used in wireless communication systems to improve the capacity and performance of the communication link. MIMO systems use multiple antennas at both the transmitter and the receiver to transmit and receive multiple data streams simultaneously over the same frequency band. 

In the case of 2×2 or 4×4 MIMO, there are two or four antennas at both the transmitter and the receiver, which allows for the transmission of two or four data streams in parallel. This can significantly increase the capacity and performance of the communication link, especially in environments with high levels of interference or noise. 

When an antenna is considered a “2-in-1” or “4-in-1” it means that the antenna has 2 or 4 connections. These can be cellular, WiFi, GPS, or a combination such as 2 cellular, 1 WiFi, and 1 GPS (this would be a 4-in-1). In most cases, the number of antenna ports on your router will determine how many connections you need on your antenna. However, if you don’t need GPS tracking, or to broadcast a WiFi signal outside, you can opt for an antenna with less connections. Simply focus on the signals you require and get an antenna with just those connections.

Selecting an Antenna Type

Most travel applications and locations in more suburban/ urban areas should use an omnidirectional antenna. Use a Directional antenna if there are little to no obstructions between your location and the cell tower, and you are in a weak signal location or there is only one tower in your area. If you’re looking to install an antenna indoors, keep in mind that the more obstructions between your antenna and the signal outside, the weaker and less consistent your signal and bandwidth speeds can be. 

If your application will be at a fixed location, doing a site survey first, can help determine whether or not an antenna could be helpful. It also allows you to find the best signal and bandwidth speeds where an antenna can be mounted. This ensures you get the best performance for your router. 

Frequency Band support

Ensure you select an antenna that covers the same, or more frequencies than your router. These are listed in the specifications of your router and the antennas. Some service providers may specify a certain frequency band that they utilize. Such as FirstNet’s Band 14 (700Mhz) and T-Mobile’s Band 71 (600Mhz). 

Cables

Once you know where the antenna can be mounted to get the best performance, you can measure how much cable is needed. Some antennas will include cabling. For those that do not, note that there are many different types of coax cables so you want to ensure you get one of a compatible impedance. You’ll also want to keep the length to a minimum as more signal loss, or attenuation, is created the longer the cable is. If you plan on using an omnidirectional antenna, try to use a length shorter than 50 feet. If using a directional antenna, you can normally make due with lengths closer to 100 feet. 

Checking the Connectors

Common antenna connector types include N, SMA, TNC, TS9, QMA, and FAKRA. Note that these connectors have male and female types, which must match up between the antenna and your router (i.e SMA Male to SMA Female). Not all antennas are created equal so it is important to check this information in the specifications. Use our connector reference guide to compare if you’re unsure. 

Gain

Gain is another factor to consider when selecting your antenna. Gain can be thought about like focusing the signal. The higher the gain, the more focused the antenna is on the signal in a particular direction. For an omnidirectional antenna, imagine a ball that flattens, extending outward. For a directional antenna, imagine a cone is made longer but the base of the cone is made smaller. A lower gain antenna might not have as much range as a high gain antenna, but it does allow for a wider degree of sight to the tower. This can be important to note for mobile applications, especially marine as boats will rock on the water at varying degrees. 

Let 5Gstore.com Help!

Try out our Antenna Search and Comparison to help guide you to finding the best antenna for your application. You can either select a router from our list, or manually enter specifications and matching antennas will be displayed. Filter options allow you to narrow down the antenna options further.

Is all this information still a little too overwhelming? Are there some outstanding questions you’re unable to answer? Not to worry! Contact our sales team and let us guide you through the process. 

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Enhanced Antenna Search: Streamlining Your Connectivity Experience at 5Gstore.com

Adding an antenna to improve signal to your cellular router can be the difference between your connection working or not working. Over the years we have added new antenna manufacturers, but haven’t had an easy way to show all the compatible antennas for your router….until now. Easily filter by your router, in stock, color, band and more. Then compare the different antennas side by side.

Select Your Router for Tailored Results

At 5Gstore.com, we understand that finding the right antenna for your router can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve made it easier than ever. Now, when you visit our Antenna Search page, you have the option to select your router from a comprehensive list of models that we carry. This feature ensures that you’ll only see antennas that are compatible with your specific device, eliminating the guesswork and saving you valuable time.

For those with routers not listed in our database, fret not! We provide an “other” option that allows you to manually input your router’s specifications. This flexibility ensures that everyone can benefit from our Antenna Search, regardless of their router model.

Fine-Tune Your Search with Filters

Finding the right antenna is not just about compatibility; it’s also about meeting your unique requirements. That’s why we’ve incorporated powerful filtering options into our Antenna Search. With just a few clicks, you can narrow down your options based on factors such as stock availability, antenna type, gain, frequency range, and more. These filters help you refine your search to find the antenna that perfectly suits your needs.

Compare Antenna Models Easily

We understand that making a decision can be challenging when you have multiple options to choose from. To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve introduced a new feature that allows you to compare antenna models side by side. Now, you can easily see the similarities and differences between various antennas, helping you make an informed choice that aligns with your connectivity goals.

Expert Guidance at Your Fingertips

If you ever find yourself overwhelmed or unsure about which antenna is right for you, our dedicated sales team at 5Gstore.com is here to help. We’re just a click or a call away, ready to provide you with personalized guidance and expert advice. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we’re committed to ensuring you get the best possible solution for your connectivity needs.

The new and improved Antenna Search feature at 5Gstore.com is a game-changer in the world of connectivity solutions. Whether you’re looking to boost your internet speed, extend your network coverage, or improve your signal quality, we’ve made the process of finding the perfect antenna easier and more efficient than ever before. With router compatibility options, advanced filters, and the ability to compare antenna models, you’re empowered to make an informed decision that suits your needs. And, if you ever need assistance, our friendly sales team is always here to help. Don’t compromise on your connectivity – choose 5Gstore.com for a seamless and reliable experience.

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Comparing Sierra Wireless Management Services

Managing remote assets and infrastructure has become increasingly complex in our interconnected world. Whether you’re dealing with gateways, routers, or in-vehicle deployments, the need for effective network management is paramount. Sierra Wireless offers a range of solutions to address these challenges: AirLink Management Service (ALMS), AirLink Manager (AM), and AirLink Mobility Manager (AMM). In this article, we’ll compare these services to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs best.

AirLink Management Service (ALMS)

ALMS is Sierra Wireless’ flagship network management solution for AirLink gateways and routers. It offers an array of advanced features to streamline device management and ensure optimal performance:

  1. Over-the-Air (OTA) Device Management: ALMS supports OTA device registration, configuration, and software updates, reducing the need for manual intervention and on-site visits.
  2. Customizable Dashboards: Configurable dashboards provide real-time insights into your entire fleet, allowing you to monitor device status, signal information, and locations effortlessly.
  3. Advanced Troubleshooting: An interactive monitoring dashboard and map enable quick troubleshooting, while one-click firmware updates help maintain device software efficiently.
  4. Alerts and Heartbeat Reporting: Custom alerts and heartbeat reporting help you identify and address device issues promptly, minimizing downtime and field trips.
  5. Subscription Model: ALMS is available through an active AirLink Services subscription, making it accessible to businesses of varying sizes.
  6. AirLink Complete: Sierra Wireless offers AirLink Complete, which combines ALMS with 24/7 technical support and an extended warranty. It’s a cost-effective way to ensure mission-critical infrastructure operates at peak efficiency.
  7. AirLink Premium: This service enhances ALMS further, providing robust reporting capabilities, reducing downtime, and extending your warranty coverage for up to 5 years with an active subscription.

AirLink Manager (AM)

AM is designed for situations where cloud-based management is not an option, catering to fixed deployments. Key features of AM include:

  1. On-Premises Solution: AM offers an on-premises network management solution for AirLink routers and gateways, ideal for environments where cloud-based management is not feasible.
  2. Real-Time Data: AM provides a continuous stream of real-time network data, allowing users to monitor and analyze the behavior of connected devices.
  3. Custom Alerts and Reports: Users can create custom alerts and generate on-demand or pre-scheduled historical reports for in-depth analysis and diagnostics.

AirLink Mobility Manager (AMM)

AMM is a comprehensive network management solution designed specifically for in-vehicle deployments. It comes in two variations: hosted service for MG routers and gateways and “in the enterprise” for all AirLink routers and gateways:

  1. Real-Time Fleet Management: AMM enables real-time configuration, control, and troubleshooting of in-vehicle AirLink routers and gateways, making it suitable for mobile assets and mission-critical applications.
  2. Rich Real-Time Data: Like AM, AMM provides a continuous stream of rich, real-time network data for monitoring and analysis.
  3. Advanced Vehicle Tracking: AMM includes advanced vehicle tracking capabilities, thanks to the AirLink Tracker®. This allows organizations to monitor fleet positions, direction, and speed in real-time, as well as access detailed information about access routes and incident scenes.
  4. Custom Alerts and Reports: Similar to AM, AMM allows the creation of custom alerts and offers on-demand or pre-scheduled historical reports for in-depth analysis and diagnostics.

How to Select the Right Solution for Your Needs

When it comes to choosing the ideal device management solution, several factors come into play. Your choice hinges on the nature of the assets you’re overseeing, your data requirements (including when and where you want it stored), and, naturally, your budget. As you contemplate different device management platforms, here are some key questions to consider:

  1. Where Should Your Data Reside? Sierra Wireless offers two hosting options for your data:
    • Cloud-based: This option entails hosting your device management software and associated data on Amazon Web Services (AWS), taking advantage of AWS’s robust security, scalability, and performance. Cloud-based deployments can save organizations both time and money. They offer a lower entry cost and eliminate the need to build or maintain physical data centers.
    • On-premise: With this choice, the solution is locally installed on your computers and servers. For businesses operating in highly regulated industries, the decision may already be clear, as regulations might dictate on-premise hosting. Others may prefer on-premise hosting for the control and peace of mind it offers by keeping data in-house.
  2. Are Both On-Premise and Cloud Equally Secure? Yes, both on-premise and cloud solutions can be secure, but each has its own strengths and weaknesses. The security of a system largely depends on how organizations secure, manage, and operate it, regardless of its hosting location. Common vulnerabilities include outdated patches, weak security infrastructure, and insufficient monitoring of user access.

The trend has been moving toward cloud management systems due to their scalability and access to specialized teams with expertise in cloud services. Cloud management also reduces the labor-intensive tasks required to maintain on-premise servers. In our recommendation, cloud management is the choice for its ease of use and security that matches or surpasses on-premise alternatives.

  1. Are You Monitoring Fixed or Mobile Assets? Asset monitoring serves various purposes, such as data collection, process monitoring, secure operations, asset lifespan extension, and worker safety and productivity improvements. The level of information needed depends on the type of assets under observation.
    • For fixed assets, tracking can enhance security, prolong asset life, and facilitate telemetry and operational data collection and distribution.
    • Mobile assets offer richer data, including telematics and vehicular information. Ensure your asset management platform can seamlessly integrate and present advanced location and diagnostic data from remote telematics.
  2. Do You Require Real-Time Data Updates? Traditional data analytics involve data gathering followed by analysis. Real-time analytics, tailored to your business needs, continually ingest fresh data, enabling analysts to observe changes as they happen and gain insights in real time, rather than relying solely on retrospective analyses.

The need for real-time data depends on your specific analysis and application requirements. For instance, dispatch and logistics agencies benefit from real-time asset tracking to manage routes effectively. If your use case permits, opting for scheduled data updates can help keep data costs in check.

Need Further Assistance?

Don’t stress over all your choices! Contact our team to discuss your requirements. We’ll help to determine the best solution for your application. 

Ready to Purchase?

Head over to 5Gstore.com and check out the available licenses for Sierra Wireless.

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RootMetrics Reports on 2H 2022: How the Cellular Networks Compare

RootMetrics just released its report that measures overall network experience and performance for the most popular cellular networks in North America.

Test results were based on the second half of 2022 and cover all network technologies (5G, 4G LTE, and any sub-4G technology). The report also looks at the newest C-Band 5G performance for AT&T and Verizon. The test space for the report consists of the entirety of the United States, which includes 125 of the country’s most populated metropolitan markets (as defined by the United States Census Bureau’s Census Urbanized Areas [CUAs].

The report noted a few important points to take away regarding the three top cellular networks: AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.

2022 RootMetrics Report Highlights for AT&T

AT&T won five national awards, including the U.S. Overall Performance RootScore Award. AT&T was also recognized within the Reliability, Speed, Data and Call categories. AT&T tied with Verizon for first in the Text category. Additionally, AT&T also took home the most State RootScore Awards. Its results in major cities were strong, but it came in second to Verizon. AT&T shows 5G speed gains in 70 C-Band markets. Overall, AT&T has clearly made some improvements, both in LTE and 5G. 

2022 RootMetrics Report Highlights for T-Mobile

Compared with its competitors, T-Mobile’s results showed great speeds. It took home 88 Speed RootScore Score Awards, which were higher than those of AT&T (59) or Verizon (71).

Out of all carriers, T-Mobile’s overall median download speeds measured above 50 Mbps in the most cities. T-Mobile was also the only carrier that posted median download speeds above 200 Mbps. These speeds were achieved in 59 markets.

Even more impressive is how in 32 of those cities, T-Mobile recorded median download speeds above 300 Mbps; additionally, it acheived 400 Mbps speeds in one city (Fort Wayne, Indiana). Overall, the carrier delivered the Fastest 5G and the Best Overall 5G Experience in the U.S. for the third time. It was recognized for its top 5G availability four years in a row.

2022 RootMetrics Report Highlights for Verizon

Verizon took home the most awards out of any carrier in major metropolitan markets — a total of 747 awards out of 875 total opportunities. This was a representation of roughly 85% of all possible network awards. Verizon demonstrated the best 5G reliability out of all cellular carriers and earned the second most state-level awards. Verizon showed improved speeds, including 5G C-Band speed increases: RootMetrics’ tests recorded Verizon’s C-Band in 102 of its 123 cities with 5G. Further, the carrier’s 5G speeds improved in nearly 90 of these markets since 1H 2022. Outstanding Verizon reliability has also been seen in major metros, compared to 1H 2022.

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