Introduction
The Alta Labs AP6-PRO is a cutting-edge, high-performance Wi-Fi 6 access point designed to revolutionize wireless networking in both business and advanced home environments. With support for the latest 802.11ax standard, this access point delivers lightning-fast connectivity, accommodating a wide range of devices and bandwidth-intensive tasks. Its dual-band functionality, featuring both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, ensures seamless connectivity for a multitude of devices, while the impressive throughput rates make it ideal for streaming 4K content and gaming.
One of the standout features of the AP6-PRO is its cloud-based management platform, which offers remote control and monitoring capabilities. This means you can fine-tune your network, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance from anywhere via a web browser or a mobile app. Additionally, its IP54 rating makes it suitable for deployment in various environments, making it a versatile choice for those looking to expand their wireless coverage both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re a business seeking robust network solutions or a tech enthusiast wanting top-tier performance, the Alta Labs AP6-PRO presents a compelling option to meet your wireless networking needs.
Specification
Here are the specifications of the Alta Labs access points.
| Brand | Alta Labs | Alta Labs |
|---|---|---|
| Model | AP6 | AP6 Pro |
| Dimensions | 19×12,5×3,2cm | 19×12,5×3,2cm |
| Weight | 400 gram | 400 gram |
| Outdoor protection | – | IP54 |
| Connection | PoE+, 1 gigabit RJ45 | PoE+, 1 gigabit RJ45 |
| Max consumption | 20W | 25W |
| Max speed 2.4GHz | 573Mbit/s | 573Mbit/s |
| Max speed 5GHz | 2,4Gbit/s | 5,8Gbit/s |
| Antenna setup 2.4 GHz | 2×2 | 2×2 |
| Antenna setup 5 GHz | 2×2 | 4×4 |
| WiFi standards | 4, 5, 6 | 4, 5, 6 |
| Roaming | 802.11r/k/v | 802.11r/k/v |
| Vlan | 802.1Q | 802.1Q |
| Avanced QoS | 802.11e | 802.11e |
| Concurrent clients | 300 | 300 |
Old Acquaintance
Alta Labs, a division of Sound Vision Technologies, brings us the AP6 and AP6 Pro access points. Formerly involved with Ubiquiti, the team behind Alta Labs has a strong background in networking. The Pro model offers impressive speeds, boasting a maximum throughput of 6.3Gbit/s, while the standard AP6 reaches 3Gbit/s. These access points connect via Power over Ethernet (PoE+), simplifying installation with just a single cable.
Interface
Alta Labs offers a cloud-based interface accessible via a web browser or mobile app. This interface provides extensive network management capabilities, ideal for businesses with multiple locations. While the interface is feature-rich, it may take some time to navigate due to its technical nature. Mobile app usage is better suited for quick inquiries, while significant adjustments are more convenient through the desktop environment.
Measurements
Real-world performance measurements were conducted to simulate the conditions of a typical Dutch household. Tests were performed using a Lenovo IdeaPad Carbon with an Intel AX211 Wi-Fi 6E adapter and a Google Pixel 7 Pro as clients. A PC with an AMD Ryzen 9 3900XT and an Intel X550-T2 10-gigabit adapter was connected to the AP6 Pro via a TP-Link gigabit PoE+ switch. These measurements revealed varying throughput speeds based on distance from the access point.
- Proximity resulted in speeds of around 812Mbit/s.
- At 10 meters, the speed dropped to approximately 35.5Mbit/s.
- On the first floor, located 17.5 meters from the Alta Labs access point, speeds measured around 26.9Mbit/s.
Similar performance measurements were obtained using a Google Pixel 7 Pro.
Usability
The Alta Labs AP6-PRO is a high-performance access point for wireless networking, particularly in a business or enterprise environment. Here’s an elaboration of its usability based on the provided information:
- Wireless Standard and Frequency Band: The AP6-PRO supports the 802.11ax wireless communication standard called Wi-Fi 6. It operates on a dual-band frequency, providing wireless connections on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. This is useful for accommodating various devices with varying Wi-Fi capabilities.
- Throughput and Capacity: The device boasts impressive throughput rates. The 5 GHz band offers a maximum throughput rate of up to 5.8 Gbps, making it ideal for high-bandwidth tasks like video streaming and online gaming. The 2.4 GHz band provides a throughput rate of up to 573 Mbps, suitable for less demanding tasks like web browsing.
- Access Point Mode and WPS: The access point mode allows you to use the AP6-PRO to create or extend a wireless network. This can be especially valuable in business settings where multiple access points are required to provide seamless coverage. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) simplifies connecting devices to the network securely and conveniently.
- Management Platform: Alta Labs includes a cloud-based management platform with an access point. This platform provides a customizable dashboard and an extensive feature set, accessible from anywhere via a web browser or a mobile app. This means you can remotely manage and monitor your wireless network, making troubleshooting issues and optimizing performance easier.
- IP54 Rated: The device is IP54 rated, indicating protection against dust and water. This makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor deployment, potentially expanding its usability in various settings.
- Compatibility: The AP6-PRO is compatible with personal computers, making it a suitable choice for businesses and homes that rely on desktops or laptops for networking.
- Components: The package includes various components, such as wall/ceiling mount brackets, a hardware kit, and safety instructions. These components are useful for installing the access point in the most suitable location for optimal coverage.
- Item Weight: The access point weighs 14.4 ounces, which is relatively lightweight, making it easy to handle during installation.
In summary, the Alta Labs AP6-PRO is a versatile and high-performance access point with Wi-Fi 6 capabilities, suitable for businesses and individuals who require a robust wireless network. Its dual-band support, cloud-based management platform, and compatibility with personal computers make it a valuable addition to a network infrastructure, delivering reliable and fast wireless connectivity.
Conclusion
Alta Labs presents a compelling option in the networking market with its AP6 Pro access point. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, it offers excellent performance and features. However, its price point, slightly above 200 euros, might have warranted support for Wi-Fi 6E. A notable downside is the dependency on Alta Labs’ cloud environment, which is free to use. The interface is feature-packed but may require some adaptation. In summary, Alta Labs’ access points, connected via PoE+, offer intriguing possibilities for network expansion, though performance is limited by the gigabit interface.
Advantages of the Alta Labs AP6-PRO:
- High-Performance Wi-Fi 6: The AP6-PRO supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, providing faster and more efficient wireless connectivity, which is advantageous for handling multiple devices and bandwidth-intensive tasks.
- Dual-Band Support: It operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, allowing for more devices to connect simultaneously and providing flexibility in accommodating different devices with varying Wi-Fi capabilities.
- Impressive Throughput: The device offers a high throughput rate, particularly on the 5 GHz band, which is excellent for activities like 4K video streaming and online gaming.
- Access Point Mode: The access point mode allows you to extend your existing network or create a new one, which is useful for expanding wireless coverage in larger areas.
- Cloud-Based Management: The included cloud-based management platform enables remote monitoring and management, making it easy to control and troubleshoot the network from anywhere.
- IP54 Rating: Its IP54 rating means it can be deployed in various environments, including outdoor locations, while still offering protection against dust and water.
- Compatibility: The AP6-PRO is compatible with personal computers, which makes it a suitable choice for businesses and homes that rely on desktops or laptops for network connectivity.
Disadvantages of the Alta Labs AP6-PRO:
- Cost: Wi-Fi 6 technology tends to be more expensive than older Wi-Fi standards. The initial investment in the AP6-PRO may be higher compared to older access points.
- Complexity: While the cloud-based management platform is a powerful feature, it may be complex for some users to set up and manage, requiring technical knowledge.
- Limited Frequency Band Class: The device operates on a dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) frequency. Some high-density environments might benefit from tri-band access points with an additional 5 GHz band.
- Not Suitable for All Users: The AP6-PRO is primarily designed for business or advanced home networking. It may have more features and capabilities than the average user requires, making it overkill for simpler setups.
- Region Compatibility: The product is designed for use in the US, and outlets and voltage standards may differ internationally, potentially requiring an adapter or converter for use in other countries.
In conclusion, the Alta Labs AP6-PRO offers advanced features and high-performance capabilities, but it may come with a higher price tag and complexities in setup and management, which might not be suitable for all users. However, for businesses and tech-savvy individuals looking for a powerful and feature-rich access point, it can be a valuable choice.
