MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG-

MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG- : A Sector Antenna Powerhouse for Modern 5GHz Networks

MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG- stands as a specialized wireless access point engineered for highdensity outdoor 5GHz deployments. Designed to broadcast a wide yet controlled signal field, it merges a builtin 90° sector antenna with a robust 802.11a/n/ac radio system, creating a flexible and resilient platform for service providers, enterprise installations, and MRHPE class network infrastructures.

At its core lies the dependable QCA9557 720 MHz CPU, a processor known for handling simultaneous backhaul links, AP associations, and RouterOS management with precision. Bolstered by 128 MB of RAM and 128 MB NAND storage, the unit delivers rapid communication, low latency, and enough headroom for bandwidth management queues, firewall rules, and access control policies.

Its 14 dBi integrated sector antenna projects a uniform directional beam ideal for point to multipoint environments, WISP base stations, and structured outdoor campuses. The dual chain 2×2 MIMO configuration significantly enhances coverage penetration and stability, especially in RF intensive regions.

With an output power of up to 30 dBm, the SXT SA5 ac reaches impressive transmission distances while retaining spectral efficiency. The addition of a Gigabit Ethernet port with Passive PoE support simplifies field deployment and cable management. Compact, lightweight, and built for endurance, this device thrives in extreme climates—from 30°C frost lines to scorching +80°C conditions—making it a trusted component for outdoor networking.

Applications of MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG-

The versatility of the MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG- makes it an essential tool for numerous wireless scenarios:

• WISP Sector Coverage
  Ideal for small and medium wireless ISPs delivering internet to multiple endpoints within a 90° coverage arc.
• Enterprise Outdoor Networks
  Provides seamless outdoor WiFi for campuses, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and distributed industrial zones.
• PointtoMultipoint (PtMP) Backbones
  Efficient for linking multiple buildings, camera poles, or sensor clusters to a central hub.
• Rural Internet Expansion
  An excellent option for connecting remote households or small communities to a central station.
• Event Venues & Temporary Installations
  Quick setup for outdoor exhibitions, concerts, field research sites, and construction areas.
• MRHPE Wireless Architectures
  Designed for environments where reliability, controlled coverage, and longdistance distribution matter.

Ports and Connectivity

The networking architecture of the SXT SA5 ac is simple yet potent:

• 1 × Gigabit Ethernet Port
  Supports full 1Gbps throughput for highcapacity uplinks and efficient backhaul performance.
• Passive PoE Input (8–30V)
  Streamlines deployment by allowing power delivery through the same cable used for data transport.

Internally, the wireless radio supports:

• 802.11a/n/ac (5GHz)
• 2×2 MIMO dualchain transmission
• Highpower broadcast for improved subscriber penetration

This blend of connectivity ensures that each sector deployment can handle numerous clients while maintaining reliable sector symmetry.

Build Quality and Reliability

The MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG- is engineered with durability and stability in mind:

• Rugged outdoor enclosure built for extreme weather
• Lightweight (~265 g) for pole, mast, and wall installations
• Waterresistant and UVresistant housing
• Passive cooling—no moving components
• Highly reliable PCB architecture to withstand thermal stress

This commitment to structural integrity ensures the device remains consistent in demanding climates, from arid deserts to polar wind zones.

Practical Guide: Optimizing Deployment

Achieving maximum performance from the MikroTik SXT SA5 ac requires proper placement, tuning, and environmental awareness.

1. Best Practices for Installation

• Mount at optimal height
  Ensure clear line of sight between AP and client areas. Elevate above obstacles such as trees, rooftops, or terrain curves.
• Position with precise sector alignment
  Aim the 90° antenna accurately to avoid coverage gaps or overlap with adjacent sectors.
• Use stable mounting hardware
  Prevent micromovement from wind, which can reduce signal quality.
• Avoid reflective surfaces
  Metal walls or water surfaces can cause multipath distortions.
• Follow grounding best practices
  Protect the device from lightning surges and unstable electrical grids.

2. Tuning for Performance Of MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG-

To unlock optimal speed and stability:

• Select a clean 5GHz channel
  Use frequency scan tools within RouterOS to identify interferencefree bands.
• Deploy 20/40/80 MHz channels based on density
  Lower width = more stability
  Higher width = more speed
• Enhance MIMO performance
  Ensure clients support 2×2 for maximum benefit.
• Use advanced RouterOS tools
  Nv2, AC mode tweaks, and adaptive noise immunity significantly improve link quality.
• Monitor CCQ (Client Connection Quality)
  Maintain CCQ above 85% for dependable operation.

Practical Guide: Security Configuration MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG-

Outdoor wireless links demand stringent security hardening.

1. Secure Wireless Links

• Enable WPA2/WPA3 encryption whenever possible
• Use strong passphrases and rotate them periodically
• Disable legacy broadcasting or outdated protocols
• Restrict access to authorized MAC addresses only

Sector antennas often cover long distances, developing an enticing attack surface. Securing the airlink ensures data confidentiality.

2. RouterOS Security Features

RouterOS offers comprehensive protection layers:

• Firewall filtering and NAT
• Layer7 management for blocking malicious patterns
• Traffic shaping and packet inspection
• Protected management frames
• Disable unused services (FTP, Telnet, MacWinbox)
• Configure strong SSH, Winbox, and WebFig credentials

Applying these configurations significantly reduces potential vulnerabilities in outdoor networks.

Comparison with Similar MikroTik Models

The SXT SA5 ac fills the specific role of a compact yet powerful sector AP with dependable 5GHz AC coverage.

Technical Specifications Table of MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG-

FAQ: MikroTik SXT SA5 ac RBSXTG-

Q1: What distance can the SXT SA5 ac cover?

With optimal lineofsight and low interference, it can serve clients several kilometers away.

Q2: Is it suitable for pointtopoint links?

While possible, it is optimized for pointtomultipoint due to its 90° sector antenna.

Q3: Can it be used indoors?

It is designed for outdoor environments, but can be used indoors if needed.

Q4: What mounting accessories are included?

Typically includes mounting brackets compatible with poles or masts.

Q5: Does the device support Gigabit throughput?

Yes, the Gigabit port enables highspeed uplink.

Q6: What power options are available?

Operates on 8–30V Passive PoE, simplifying installation.

Q7: Does it support advanced MikroTik wireless protocols?

Yes, including Nv2 and optimized AC wireless enhancements.