MikroTik BaseBox 2

The MikroTik BaseBox series represents a robust lineup of outdoor wireless networking solutions engineered to serve as Access Points (AP), Backbone links, or Customer Premises Equipment (CPE). Each model in the series is tailored to meet specific network requirements, ensuring versatile and reliable connectivity across various deployment scenarios.

As Access Points, the BaseBox devices excel in distributing wireless internet access to multiple end-users. This functionality is critical in both urban and rural settings where reliable Wi-Fi coverage is essential. The inclusion of multiple SMA connectors and additional slots for antennas allows for both omnidirectional and directional configurations, providing flexible coverage options that can be optimized for specific area layouts and user densities.

In Backbone configurations, BaseBox units can establish high-speed point-to-point links that are essential for connecting network segments across substantial distances. This capability is crucial for extending the reach of a network to remote areas or across physical barriers, thus enhancing the overall connectivity and performance of the network infrastructure. High radio rates and robust hardware ensure stable and fast data transmission, which is vital for backbone communications that require high reliability and throughput.

When deployed as CPE, the BaseBox devices provide end-users with a dedicated and robust connection point to the broader network. This setup is particularly valuable in environments where individual users or local networks (such as small businesses or residential complexes) need a reliable external network connection. The flexibility to integrate 3G/4G modems enhances this functionality by ensuring connectivity even in areas with limited traditional broadband infrastructure, enabling consistent internet access and network services.

With their durable design and versatile configuration options, the MikroTik BaseBox 2 and BaseBox 5 are engineered to adapt to these varied roles, making them indispensable components in modern wireless network architectures. Each device combines high-performance wireless technology with practical, user-friendly features to meet the evolving demands of network access, extension, and customer connectivity.

The MikroTik BaseBox 2, based on the RB912 model, is designed for outdoor wireless networking. Its construction includes a durable case with a moisture-resistant cable hood, aimed at protecting the device in various outdoor conditions and ensuring its longevity. The device features standard SMA (SubMiniature version A) connectors, which are commonly used in radio frequency applications and support secure coaxial cable connections, essential for maintaining stability in environments exposed to weather and physical stress.

This device comes with two SMA connectors for antenna attachment, facilitating reliable wireless performance. These connectors are versatile, compatible with a broad range of antenna types, and can support both low and high-power signals. Additionally, the BaseBox 2 has three extra slots for antenna connectors, offering flexibility in configuring the wireless network to meet specific operational needs, such as employing directional antennas for targeted signal distribution or omnidirectional antennas for widespread coverage. The inclusion of a 3G/4G modem integration option in the BaseBox 2 provides alternative connectivity solutions, enhancing the device’s utility in locations with limited or unreliable wired internet services. This feature is also practical for managing the device remotely, enabling firmware updates, monitoring, and diagnostics from a distance.

The BaseBox 2 operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, a widely utilized spectrum in wireless communication, known for its effective range and ability to penetrate obstacles. Within this band, the BaseBox 2 achieves a radio rate of 300 Mbps, adhering to the 802.11b/g/n, or Wi-Fi 4 standards. This performance capability positions the BaseBox 2 as an adept solution for creating high-speed wireless point-to-point links, which are direct connections between two locations. These links are essential for extending network coverage or bridging network segments across distances, with directional antennas often enhancing the signal quality and speed. Additionally, the BaseBox 2 can serve effectively as the central unit in a wide-coverage hotspot, providing the necessary processing power and radio capabilities to manage multiple connections simultaneously, ensuring consistent and reliable wireless access across extensive areas.

Incorporating a miniPCI Express (miniPCIe) slot, the BaseBox 2 offers substantial flexibility in network configuration. This expansion slot enables the addition of specialized hardware, such as extra Wi-Fi radios for a dual-band setup or cellular modems for 3G/4G connectivity. This adaptability allows users to tailor the device to meet specific network requirements and scenarios, enhancing the overall functionality and utility of the BaseBox 2 in diverse networking environments.

The BaseBox 2 is designed with accessibility and practicality in mind, featuring a case that can be effortlessly opened with one hand, supporting seamless integration into diverse mounting environments such as tower/pole or DIN rail setups. These mounting options facilitate optimal placement for enhanced signal transmission and reception, necessary for overcoming physical obstructions and extending wireless communication range. Additionally, the device’s structure includes designated exits for USB, Ethernet, and a grounding wire, all of which are secured by a protective door to ensure operational integrity in various outdoor conditions.

At its core, the BaseBox 2 operates on an AR9342 chipset from Qualcomm Atheros, which houses a single-core 600 MHz processor. This chipset is tailored for wireless communication tasks, providing a stable and efficient performance. The device is equipped with 64 MB of RAM and 64 MB of storage memory, offering adequate capacity for routine networking operations and data storage, while maintaining a low power consumption of 10 W. Connectivity is a strong suit of the BaseBox 2, featuring a Gigabit Ethernet port for high-speed wired networking, capable of supporting up to 1 Gbps data transfer rates, which is crucial for robust internet access and network connectivity. The inclusion of a USB-A 2.0 port allows for the attachment of external devices, enhancing the device’s functionality with additional storage or connectivity solutions like 3G/4G modems. Completing the package, a Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector and power supply unit are provided, simplifying the power arrangement and guaranteeing consistent device performance.