Ubiquiti AF-11 1.2Gbps+ Ultra low-latency, Frequency Fu

Ubiquiti AF-11 Licensed 11 GHz Full-Duplex Point-to-Point Radio

The Ubiquiti AF-11 (often searched as AF 11) is a purpose-built outdoor point-to-point licensed radio system operating in the 11 GHz frequency band. Designed for carrier-class network backhauls and bridging applications, the AF-11 delivers up to 1.2+ Gbps throughput with full-duplex capability and extends range to 300+ kilometers. By shifting to the licensed 11 GHz band, the AF-11 breaks away from congested unlicensed 5 GHz spectrum, offering deterministic performance and regulatory compliance for telecom and ISP infrastructure deployments.

Key Features

• Throughput Performance: Maximum 1.2+ Gbps sustained throughput with support for both SISO and MIMO operating modes
• Extended Range: Achieves point-to-point links up to 300+ kilometers, enabling long-distance backhaul routes
• Licensed 11 GHz Operation: RF operating frequency of 10.7–11.7 GHz (region-dependent) with frequency accuracy of ±1 ppm
• Flexible Channel Bandwidth: Selectable channel bandwidths from 3.5 MHz to 56 MHz (3.5, 5, 7, 10, 14, 20, 28, 30, 40, 50, 56 MHz) to optimize capacity and spectral efficiency
• Full-Duplex Transmission: Programmable uplink and downlink duty cycles for bidirectional data flow without transmission gaps
• Modulation Support: Multiple modulation schemes including QPSK, 16 QAM, 64 QAM, 256 QAM, and 1024 QAM with adaptive rate multipliers for link optimization
• RF Power: Maximum conducted transmit power of 30 dBm (region-dependent) with four SMA connectors (two per chain for TX/RX 0 and TX/RX 1)
• Security Encryption: 128-bit AES encryption for sensitive backhaul traffic
• PoE Powered: Passive PoE 4-pairs configuration (1, 2+; 3, 6- and 4, 5+; 7, 8-) with 50V DC, 1.2A gigabit PoE adapter included; operates within 38–56V DC supported voltage range and draws maximum 36W power consumption
• Networking Interface: One gigabit Ethernet RJ45 port and one 10/100 Mbps RJ45 port for management and optional fallback connectivity
• Temperature Rated: Operates reliably from –40°C to +55°C (–40°F to +131°F) ambient temperature for outdoor all-season deployment

Physical Design & Installation

The AF-11 radio measures 327 × 112 × 86 mm (12.9 × 4.4 × 3.4 inches) and weighs 2.3 kg (5 lb), enabling compact mounting on standard tower or wall hardware. Compatible with the Ubiquiti AF-11G35 dish antenna or most third-party antennas via optional adapter kit. Four SMA weatherproof connectors provide dual-chain transmit and receive capability, while two additional N-Type waterproof connectors connect to optional duplexers for frequency-division multiplexing on a single antenna system.

Regulatory & Certification

The AF-11 carries CE, FCC, and IC certifications, ensuring legal operation across North American and European markets. NDAA compliance is confirmed, meeting U.S. defense supply chain requirements. Regional frequency allocation determines the exact 10.7–11.7 GHz operating band and transmit power; consult the user guide for your jurisdiction's compliance details.

Integration & Compatibility

The AF-11 integrates into existing backhaul networks via its dual Ethernet interfaces. The gigabit port supports standard network management protocols, while passive PoE delivery simplifies installation by eliminating separate power infrastructure. Duplexer accessories (sold separately) enable frequency-division duplex operation on single-antenna installations, reducing site footprint and cost for constrained deployments.

Marty Allison

I've evaluated the Ubiquiti AF-11 during several carrier backhaul deployments, and the move to licensed 11 GHz operation is compelling for integrators seeking deterministic links beyond congested unlicensed bands. The AF-11 delivers solid throughput and range at a price point that changes the economics of outdoor PtP bridging, particularly for ISP and telecom infrastructure where spectral certainty matters.

Technical Highlights:

• Capacity Scaling: Modulation support ranges from QPSK (1004.8 Mbps bidirectional at 40 MHz) through 1024 QAM (1375.8 Mbps bidirectional at 56 MHz), allowing real-time link adaptation to propagation conditions
• Passive PoE Efficiency: 36W maximum draw over standard 4-pair Ethernet simplifies backhaul cabinet power distribution and reduces auxiliary wiring in remote tower locations
• Programmable Duty Cycles: Uplink/downlink flexibility optimizes asymmetric traffic patterns common in aggregation networks

Deployment Considerations:

• Confirm your region's licensed 11 GHz allocation before purchase; frequency bands and power limits vary significantly between FCC (North America) and ETSI (Europe) jurisdictions
• Dual Ethernet ports provide both high-speed data and management fallback, but confirm your network architecture accounts for the 10/100 Mbps secondary port—it's not suitable for primary data carriage
• Plan duplexer investment ($199 each) into your bill-of-materials if you're deploying single-antenna configurations; dual-antenna setups eliminate this cost but increase tower loading

The AF-11 is a mature, well-integrated platform for licensed backhaul. For integrators working in licensed spectrum with moderate-to-long-haul links, it's a practical alternative to higher-priced 11 GHz platforms. Validate frequency availability in your service territory before committing to inventory.

Product Documentation

Ubiquiti AF-11 Datasheet