Ubiquiti LAP-GPS LiteAP AC Outdoor 5GHz 16dBi Point-to-Point Access Point with GPS Sync

When it comes to outdoor wireless connectivity, reliability and range make all the difference. The Ubiquiti LAP-GPS LiteAP AC is designed to deliver both—offering high-speed, stable, long-range point-to-point (PtP) and point-to-multipoint (PtMP) wireless links that don’t compromise on performance. Built for professional outdoor networking environments, it combines 5GHz AC technology, GPS synchronization, and a compact design that’s easy to install and maintain. Whether you’re connecting two buildings, linking remote surveillance points, or extending internet access across a wide area, this Ubiquiti access point ensures consistent throughput and superior signal stability.

The Ubiquiti LAP-GPS (LiteAP AC) stands as a perfect balance between affordability and performance. It’s part of the Ubiquiti airMAX AC series, which is renowned for its exceptional wireless performance and scalability in outdoor environments. Using a directional 16dBi antenna and GPS synchronization, it eliminates interference and ensures smooth, coordinated communication between multiple base stations. With this device, you get the performance of enterprise-grade equipment at a fraction of the price — making it a popular choice for ISPs, network engineers, and outdoor connectivity projects across Dubai and the UAE.

In-Depth Overview of Ubiquiti LAP-GPS

The Ubiquiti LAP-GPS LiteAP AC Outdoor 5GHz 16dBi Point-to-Point Access Point (Part Number: LAP-GPS) is purpose-built for long-distance communication and seamless synchronization between multiple access points. Its integrated GPS receiver allows it to work in time-division multiple access (TDMA) environments, ensuring that transmission from different APs doesn’t overlap — reducing latency and improving efficiency across all connected devices.

One of its standout features is airMAX ac technology, Ubiquiti’s proprietary wireless communication protocol that enhances throughput and reduces latency compared to traditional Wi-Fi. This technology, combined with GPS Sync, creates a coordinated network of APs that can handle high-density deployments in rural or urban settings without interference. It also supports advanced channel flexibility, offering a full range of frequency and channel-width options (up to 80 MHz), ideal for high-throughput backhaul links.

From a hardware perspective, the LAP-GPS includes a 5GHz radio integrated into a sleek, lightweight body that makes outdoor installation simple. The 16dBi directional antenna provides strong gain and extended range, while the weather-resistant enclosure ensures stability under the harsh heat and dust conditions found in UAE environments. Powered via Gigabit PoE, this access point is designed to integrate smoothly with other UniFi or airMAX devices for scalable, reliable network expansion.

Applications of Ubiquiti LAP-GPS

The Ubiquiti LAP-GPS is highly versatile and can be used in various outdoor scenarios, such as:

• Point-to-Point (PtP) connections: Establishing dedicated wireless links between two distant locations — for example, connecting an office building to a remote warehouse or a camera station.
• Point-to-Multipoint (PtMP) base station: Acting as a main transmitter to multiple LiteBeam or NanoBeam devices in rural networks or campus environments.
• Video surveillance networks: Ideal for outdoor CCTV setups that require reliable data transfer without running extensive fiber cables.
• Rural broadband deployment: Used by ISPs to deliver wireless internet access across wide areas with limited infrastructure.
• Temporary event networks: Easily deployed for exhibitions, outdoor festivals, or construction sites.

For Dubai-based businesses or technicians using ITMan’s hardware solutions, the Ubiquiti LAP-GPS is a cost-effective way to create high-speed links without recurring operational costs or licensing requirements.

Ports and Connectivity

The Ubiquiti LAP-GPS is designed with a single Gigabit Ethernet port, which serves both data and PoE power input. It supports 24V passive PoE, allowing easy integration with compatible Ubiquiti PoE injectors or airMAX power sources.

This single-port design minimizes complexity while maintaining high throughput — ideal for outdoor deployments where reliability is critical. The Gigabit port ensures full AC throughput capability, allowing data speeds to match its wireless potential.

Additionally, the Ethernet port is protected with ESD/Surge protection, reducing the risk of damage from lightning strikes or electrical surges — an essential feature in outdoor environments like desert or coastal regions.

Real-World Benefits of Ubiquiti LAP-GPS

• Interference-free connectivity: GPS Sync ensures neighboring APs don’t interfere with each other.
• High throughput: airMAX AC protocol provides up to 450+ Mbps real TCP/IP throughput.
• Long-distance coverage: 16dBi antenna supports long-range, stable links.
• Energy-efficient: PoE-powered for easy setup and low energy consumption.
• Weatherproof design: Built to withstand heat, rain, and dust.
• Lightweight and simple mounting: Quick pole or wall mounting system with minimal tools required.

Optimizing GPS Sync Performance

For maximum performance, it’s crucial to position the Ubiquiti LAP-GPS with a clear line of sight to both the GPS satellites and the connected access points. Avoid obstacles like large metal objects or trees that can block the signal. In point-to-multipoint setups, ensure all access points are synchronized under the same GPS timing domain — this avoids data collision and maintains low latency for all users.

Educational Section: AirMAX AC vs. Traditional Wi-Fi

The Ubiquiti LAP-GPS operates using airMAX AC technology, which differs significantly from standard Wi-Fi protocols like 802.11ac. In typical Wi-Fi networks, devices share the medium and may cause interference due to simultaneous communication attempts.

airMAX AC, on the other hand, uses TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), which allows multiple clients to communicate without overlapping transmissions. This scheduling mechanism ensures that each device gets its own time slot — resulting in reduced latency, higher speeds, and more stable connections across all users.

For businesses and ISPs, this means better reliability, even in crowded frequency environments.

Advanced Use Case: Expanding Rural Internet Coverage

The Ubiquiti LAP-GPS is an excellent choice for ISPs or network integrators who need to extend broadband connectivity to rural or suburban areas. Paired with compatible CPEs like the LiteBeam AC Gen2 or NanoStation AC, it can act as a powerful central hub for distributing high-speed internet across long distances — often several kilometers.

Using GPS synchronization, multiple LAP-GPS units can be deployed in the same area without causing self-interference. Each access point transmits and receives data in perfectly coordinated time slots, enabling scalability for dense outdoor deployments.

Comparison with Similar Ubiquiti Models

Below is a comparison between Ubiquiti LAP-GPS, LiteBeam AC Gen2, and NanoBeam AC Gen2, which are often considered in similar outdoor wireless setups:

As shown, the LAP-GPS is the most balanced choice for setups that demand synchronization and moderate range without needing ultra-high gain. Its GPS capability makes it a better fit for scalable point-to-multipoint environments.

Technical Specifications Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the range of the Ubiquiti LAP-GPS?
   Up to 20 kilometers in line-of-sight conditions, depending on environmental factors and antenna alignment.
2. Can I use Ubiquiti LAP-GPS with UniFi devices?
   No, the LAP-GPS is part of the airMAX series, which uses a different management system than UniFi.
3. Does it support GPS synchronization?
   Yes, that’s one of its core features, allowing interference-free multi-AP deployments.
4. What type of PoE injector do I need?
   A 24V passive PoE injector is recommended, usually included with the device or available from ITMan.
5. Is it weatherproof?
   Yes, it’s designed for outdoor use with UV-resistant housing.
6. Can it be mounted on walls or poles?
   Both options are supported; mounting hardware comes included in the box.
7. Does the LAP-GPS support VLAN tagging?
   Yes, VLANs can be configured via the airOS interface.
8. What management interface does it use?
   It uses airOS 8, accessible through a web browser for configuration and monitoring.
9. Can it work as a base station for LiteBeam AC clients?
   Yes, that’s one of its most common use cases in PtMP setups.
10. What’s the difference between LAP-GPS and LAP-120?
    LAP-120 lacks GPS synchronization and has a slightly different antenna pattern, while LAP-GPS is designed for multi-AP synchronization.

Final Thoughts

The Ubiquiti LAP-GPS LiteAP AC is a professional-grade outdoor access point that bridges the gap between affordability and performance. It offers GPS synchronization, high throughput, and long-distance reliability, making it ideal for ISPs, surveillance networks, and enterprise outdoor connectivity.

For anyone in Dubai or across the UAE looking for a scalable wireless link solution, ITMan proudly offers genuine Ubiquiti LAP-GPS units ready for immediate deployment. With its lightweight design, weatherproof body, and industry-leading airMAX AC performance, it’s a future-proof investment in reliable connectivity.