Description Ubiquiti RocketDish 5GHz 30dBi (RD-5G30): The Ultimate Guide Overview and Introduction The Ubiquiti RocketDish 5GHz 30dBi (RD-5G30) is not a standalone radio, but a high-performance, parabolic dish antenna designed to be the cornerstone of powerful, long-distance wireless systems. It is part of Ubiquiti’s “Rocket” ecosystem, where you pair a dedicated radio (like the Rocket 5AC Prism) with a specialized antenna for maximum performance. Its key feature is the high 30 dBi gain achieved through a precise parabolic reflector design. This extremely focused signal is ideal for overcoming challenging distances and interference, making it a top-tier choice for demanding professional applications. Key Features at a Glance Extreme High Gain: 30 dBi parabolic dish for maximum signal concentration and long-range links. Narrow Beamwidth: A very tight 4° beamwidth minimizes interference and maximizes signal quality over long distances. Rugged, All-Metal Design: Built with a durable aluminum reflector and steel bracket to withstand harsh outdoor environments. Rocket Ecosystem Compatibility: Seamlessly integrates with Ubiquiti Rocket radios using a proprietary short cable. Professional Performance: The go-to solution for carrier-class PtP backhauls and PtMP base stations serving many clients. Full Technical Specifications Category Specification Model RD-5G30 Antenna Type Parabolic Dish Frequency Range 4.90 – 5.95 GHz (Covers full 5GHz band) Gain 30 dBi Horizontal Beamwidth 4° Vertical Beamwidth 4° Polarization Dual Linear (Slant 45°) VSWR < 1.5 Cross Pol. Discrimination > 25 dB Wind Load 90 N @ 200 km/h Wind Survival 200 km/h Mounting Universal RocketDish Mount (Included) Connector Proprietary (2x RP-SMA for MIMO rockets) Cable Integrated, 1 ft (0.3 m) low-loss cable Weight 3.7 kg Dimensions 900 mm (Dish Diameter) Operating Temperature -40°C to 80°C Ingress Protection IP67 (Junction Box) Performance and Real-World Use What is the RocketDish RD-5G30 Used For? Long-Range PtP Backhaul: The primary use. Connecting two sites over 50km with high throughput. Ideal for linking WISP towers or campus buildings. PtMP Base Station Sector: Serving as a high-performance sector antenna for a base station, providing coverage to a narrow, distant corridor of client devices. Challenging Link Environments: Overcoming weak signal levels in links with obstacles or high noise floors due to its exceptional gain. Carrier-Grade Applications: Used by WISPs and telecom providers for reliable, high-availability backbone connections. Throughput and Range Performance is determined by the paired radio. When combined with a modern radio like the Rocket 5AC Prism, this antenna can facilitate links with real throughput exceeding 450 Mbps over very long distances. Range: With clear Line-of-Sight, links of 50km to 60km are achievable and stable. The limiting factor is often radio sensitivity and Fresnel zone clearance, not the antenna’s gain. Crucial Note: The extremely narrow 4° beamwidth makes precise alignment critical. Using a professional alignment tool or the built-in AirPrism technology in compatible radios is essential for a successful installation. Setup and Compatibility Guide What’s in the Box? RocketDish RD-5G30 Antenna Universal RocketDish Mount Mounting Hardware The Missing Piece: The Rocket Radio The RD-5G30 is an antenna only. You must purchase a compatible Ubiquiti Rocket radio separately. The antenna connects directly to the radio, which is then mounted on the back of the dish. Highly Compatible Radios: Rocket 5AC Prism (Gen2) – Recommended choice for modern AC performance and easy alignment. Rocket 5AC Lite – A cost-effective alternative for slightly shorter links. Rocket M5 (Older, but still functional) – For legacy MIMO systems. RocketDish Adapter Kit – Allows you to use older Rocket M (single chain) radios. Step-by-Step Installation Process: Assemble the Mount: Attach the Universal Mount to a stable, vertical pole. Ensure it is secure. Attach the Radio: Mount your chosen Rocket radio to the back of the RD-5G30 antenna using the provided holes and secure it. Connect the Antenna: Plug the integrated, proprietary cable from the antenna directly into the antenna ports on the Rocket radio. It’s a keyed connector for easy installation. Connect Cables: Use the included PoE injector for the Rocket radio. Connect the Ethernet and power cables. Align the Antenna (Critical): This is the most challenging part due to the 4° beamwidth. Use the AirPrism tool in the radio’s airOS interface (if available) for live signal feedback. Make tiny, incremental adjustments to the azimuth and elevation. Tighten all bolts securely once the highest possible signal (RSSI) is achieved. Conclusion: The Ubiquiti RocketDish RD-5G30 is a professional-grade antenna for those who demand the utmost in range and signal quality. While it requires a more complex setup and a separate radio investment, its unparalleled 30 dBi gain and robust build make it an indispensable tool for creating carrier-class wireless bridges. If you have a challenging long-distance link, the RD-5G30, paired with a modern Rocket radio, is one of the most powerful and reliable solutions in the Ubiquiti arsenal.
