Aruba Networks, Inc. has announced enterprise-grade outdoor gigabit Wi-Fi access points designed to be relatively unobtrusive.
Aimed at restaurants, hotels and campuses needing high-performance and small cell capabilities, the new 270 Series APs have high performance in a package designed to blend into its environment, the company said. The first two 802.11ac units released are about the size of and could be mistaken for oval video surveillance camera enclosures that hang from walls or poles.
Many organizations including schools, universities, municipalities and enterprises have strict requirements on design and form factor, Aruba says, forbiding APs with large antennas, exposed wiring and large enclosures. Aruba developed a compact element-resistant enclosure for the Aruba 270 Series with no exposed antennas or wiring. The result is a solution that is no more obtrusive than a modern video surveillance camera.
The 270 Series uses both the 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands to deliver gigabit speeds, Aruba says. Performance gains are not limited to 802.11ac devices; it says the Aruba 270 Series APs also enable existing 802.11n clients to operate up to three-times faster, achieving a higher transmission rate at the same range. When coupled with Aruba ClientMatch technology, users are able to realize the full potential of 802.11ac with predictable performance as they roam across their facilities.
The 270 Series APs mount with single-screw brackets and include an integrated connector and antenna enclosure, dual PoE+ and AC powering options. The units are also built to withstand temperatures between -40 to +150F and persistent moisture.
The AP-274 has external antennas and the AP-275 has integrated antennas. The base list price starts at $1,595.
