I am heading up a project that will implement 2 connections using nstream dual. These connections are each point to point. At this time I have selected RB532 boards, with cm9s , and dual feed horns with a 28 db grid dish for our 10 mile connection, and the same boards with cm9s, but am using 4 pa58-24 antennas for the 1 mile connection. I have seen some posts about cpu usage problems, etc.. , and just want to be sure I am making a good choice for these installs.
Typically, when using Nstreme-Dual you will run into CPU issues on the RB532. Nstreme is very useful but it is very hard on a CPU. You will see that your maximum bandwidth ( depending on the radios and antennas you are using ) will drop considerably. But you will MUCH LESS prone to wireless interferance.
The CM9s should be good for your links but I’ve heard a lot of good things about Mikrotik’s new R52 card.
If you’re new to wireless, I’d like to point out that you should (if at all possible) try to use horizontal polarization for one dish, and vertical for the other. Also put them on other ends of the spectrum from eachother if possible. Doing one or both of those will maximize your signal while minimizing interferance.
I’m guessing you want to implement nstream-dual for maximum bandwidth. If that is the case, I think that you will probably not be happy with the RB532 - it will limit your throughput due to the CPU.
I have not implemented any nstream-dual links, so I have no first hand experiance, but I would think you’ll probably need to look at something more like a nicely fast P4 or Athlon XP based micro ATX motherboard type AP to get the maximum throughput.
The R52s are worth the $113/pound of freight FedEx will charge you for the first pound of a shipment from Latvia to the US. 10 pounds worth of R52s are an even better buy!