Wireless solution combines space optics, RF

Lightpointe Communications Inc. has rolled out the SX and SXR-5, the first two from its HyBridge Series that integrate next-generation free space optics and radio technology. The patented hybrid point-to-point products provide up to 99.999 percent availability under all weather conditions, the company said.

Carriers and enterprises can add the SX to existing RF links to increase bandwidth while protecting their legacy investment or to select the radio of their choice. For a turnkey solution, the SXR-5 includes a radio and antenna. Both systems offer LightPointe's exclusive Maximized DualPath feature for longer distances.

"The HyBridge Series utilizes patented DualPath technology, which automatically switches between optical wireless and radio transmission for the highest level of system availability," stated Heinz Willebrand, LightPointe's CEO. "This exclusive technology provides a quantum leap in link performance, enabling customers to obtain the low latency, Gigabit Ethernet throughput, enhanced security and license-free advantages of optical transmission in conjunction with a robust, cost-effective radio. The system operates at full throttle and the highest efficiency of any wireless platform in the industry via optical transmission. And when needed, DualPath switches to the radio, where our adaptive rate technology achieves the highest performance possible, even in fog and heavy snow."

The HyBridge SX and SXR-5 are available for about $10,000 in North America and Europe.