When it comes to deploying wireless networks in tough outdoor environments, durability and performance are key. That’s where the MikroTik NetMetal 5 RB922UAGS-5HPacD-NM shines. Designed with a solid aluminum enclosure and IP66-rated weatherproof protection, this MikroTik Router is built to handle extreme conditions without compromising on speed or reliability. Whether you’re setting up point-to-point links in mountainous terrain or building long-distance wireless backhaul, the MikroTik NetMetal 5 offers the power, flexibility, and ruggedness you need.
MikroTik NetMetal 5 RB922UAGS-5HPacD-NM
The MikroTik NetMetal 5 RB922UAGS-5HPacD-NM belongs to MikroTik’s high-performance outdoor wireless series known as NetMetal, engineered for professional-grade use in complex and demanding scenarios. What sets this model apart is its powerful dual-chain 5GHz 802.11ac wireless capability, paired with an integrated high-power 1300mW radio for extended range and robust signal quality.
Under the hood, it features the RB922UAGS board—a versatile and high-speed router board with a 720MHz CPU, 128MB RAM, Gigabit Ethernet, SFP port, and miniPCIe slot for additional expansion. It supports 2×2 MIMO and offers up to 866Mbps throughput. This combination of processing power and wireless capability ensures that it can handle high traffic loads and maintain stable connections over long distances.
Designed with installers and network engineers in mind, its practical features like easy-access enclosure, solid mounting options, and waterproof cable glands make deployment fast and secure. This unit also includes an N-type antenna connector, giving you the freedom to attach your preferred external antenna for precise signal direction and gain.
Key Features of MikroTik NetMetal 5
- Weatherproof IP66 Aluminum Enclosure: Durable casing ensures reliability in outdoor setups, from coastal areas to high-altitude locations.
- 802.11ac Support: With dual-chain 2×2 MIMO and speeds up to 866Mbps, you get modern performance for fast and efficient data transmission.
- 1300mW High Output Power: Delivers long-range performance with excellent signal stability in noisy environments.
- Gigabit Ethernet + SFP Port: Offers flexible connectivity for both copper and fiber infrastructure.
- MiniPCIe Expansion: Enables LTE or additional Wi-Fi card installations to suit diverse project requirements.
- N-Male Connector: Ideal for using directional high-gain antennas in point-to-point or point-to-multipoint scenarios.
- RouterOS Level 4 License: Allows use as a wireless client, bridge, or access point without limitations on number of users.
Benefits of Using MikroTik NetMetal 5
- Reliable Long-Range Links: Perfect for bridging buildings or sites located several kilometers apart.
- Enterprise-Grade Performance: Ideal for ISPs, wireless backhauls, or remote office connectivity.
- Customizable Setup: Thanks to miniPCIe and antenna options, tailor it precisely for your network architecture.
- Low Maintenance: Rugged design reduces failure rate and need for servicing in harsh outdoor environments.
- Cost-Effective Powerhouse: Delivers high performance at a competitive price compared to enterprise competitors.
Common Use Cases RB922UAGS-5HPacD-NM
- Rural ISP Wireless Distribution: Extend coverage to underserved areas efficiently.
- Campus or Industrial Site Connectivity: Bridge buildings or extend network access across wide areas.
- Wireless Surveillance Backhaul: Support video monitoring over long distances.
- Temporary Event Networks: Ideal for outdoor events, festivals, or mobile command units.
Mounting and Antenna Selection
One of the advantages of the MikroTik NetMetal 5 is its flexibility with antennas. Since it uses an N-male connector, you can pair it with high-gain directional antennas like MikroTik’s own mANT30 or third-party parabolic dishes to achieve focused, long-distance links.
For secure mounting, the package includes a solid metal mounting ring that supports pole installations. Just make sure your cables are properly sealed with the included waterproof glands, and you’re good to go.
How to Boost Wireless Distance with NetMetal 5
Want to squeeze maximum range from your MikroTik NetMetal 5 setup? Here’s what we recommend:
- Use a High-Gain Directional Antenna: Pairing with a 30dBi parabolic dish boosts distance and minimizes signal loss.
- Align Precisely: Use tools like MikroTik’s alignment feature in RouterOS to fine-tune direction.
- Use the SFP Port for Long Ethernet Runs: In larger deployments, fiber ensures no interference or power loss over distance.
Combine with MikroTik’s Dude for Monitoring
The NetMetal 5 runs RouterOS, which means you can integrate it with MikroTik’s The Dude network monitoring system. You’ll get real-time performance metrics, alerts, and remote diagnostics—perfect for managing remote installations without site visits.
MikroTik NetMetal 5 vs Similar MikroTik Devices
| Feature | NetMetal 5 | BaseBox 5 | NetMetal ac2 | NetMetal 5SHP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wireless Standard | 802.11ac | 802.11a/n | 802.11ac Wave2 | 802.11ac |
| Wireless Chains | 2×2 MIMO | 2×2 MIMO | 2×2 MIMO | 3×3 MIMO |
| Output Power | 1300mW | 1000mW | 1300mW | 2000mW |
| Antenna Connector | 1x N-Male | 2x RP-SMA | 2x RP-SMA | 3x RP-SMA |
| Enclosure | Aluminum IP66 | Plastic weatherproof | Aluminum IP66 | Aluminum IP66 |
| Ethernet Port | 1x Gigabit | 1x Gigabit | 1x Gigabit | 1x Gigabit |
| SFP Port | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Expansion Slot | 1x miniPCIe | 1x miniPCIe | 1x miniPCIe | 1x miniPCIe |
| Ideal Use Case | Long-range backhaul | Medium-range outdoor | High-performance AP/backhaul | Long-distance + High-throughput links |
| RouterOS License | Level 4 | Level 4 | Level 4 | Level 4 |
| Price Range | Mid | Low | Higher | Mid-High |
If you’re aiming for maximum output power and longer range, the NetMetal 5SHP with 2000mW is your go-to device. For standard long-distance links with flexibility in antenna setup, the NetMetal 5 still holds great value.
Technical Specifications Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | MikroTik NetMetal 5 RB922UAGS-5HPacD-NM |
| Wireless Standard | 802.11a/n/ac (5GHz only) |
| Wireless Chains | 2 |
| Output Power | Up to 1300mW |
| Frequency Range | 5150 MHz – 5875 MHz |
| Antenna Connector | 1x N-Male |
| CPU | AR9342 720MHz |
| RAM | 128MB |
| Storage | 128MB NAND |
| Ethernet Port | 1x 10/100/1000 Ethernet |
| SFP Port | 1x SFP (1.25G) |
| Expansion Slot | 1x miniPCIe |
| USB Port | 1x USB 2.0 |
| Enclosure | Rugged aluminum, IP66 rated |
| Power Input | PoE in (Passive PoE) or DC jack |
| Power Output | PoE out on Ether1 (Max 500mA) |
| Operating System | RouterOS Level 4 License |
| Dimensions | 143 x 247 x 48 mm |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +70°C |
| Mounting | Pole mount kit included |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the range of MikroTik NetMetal 5?
The range depends on the antenna used, but with a high-gain antenna, it can exceed 10km for point-to-point links.
2. Does NetMetal 5 support 2.4GHz?
No, the NetMetal 5 operates only on the 5GHz band.
3. Can I use NetMetal 5 for point-to-multipoint setups?
Yes, it supports AP mode and can be used in point-to-multipoint networks.
4. Does it come with an antenna?
No, it includes an N-type connector but requires an external antenna of your choice.
5. Is it suitable for fiber connectivity?
Yes, it has an SFP port for fiber connections.
6. What power supply methods are supported?
You can use Passive PoE or DC input via the power jack.
7. Can I monitor the device remotely?
Yes, with RouterOS and tools like The Dude, you can monitor and manage it remotely.
8. How secure is this device?
RouterOS supports advanced security features including WPA2, firewall, IPsec, and more.
9. What’s the best antenna to pair with NetMetal 5?
For long-range links, MikroTik’s mANT30 or similar high-gain dish antennas are recommended.
Looking for the Best Price NetMetal 5? At ITMan, we provide competitive pricing, expert support, and original MikroTik products you can rely on.
Ryan Grant –
Installed it last month for a client. Performance and signal strength are great.