Bridge in a Box Archives

Economics trumps technology over time, or said another way, technology is always in the service of economics. NTIA’s recognition that a fiber-first/only approach was economically impractical for a plurality of demographics in bringing broadband, 100:20 Mbps, to unserved addresses is both welcome and a nod to a free market approach. The technology-neutral revision of the BEAD program, which focuses the State Broadband Committees on the cost per bit per location to enable broadband, will drive more coverage and address the access gap faster at a substantially lower cost to taxpayers. Furthermore, it enables a more sustainable business model for all network operators. Fixed wireless broadband, utilizing both licensed and unlicensed spectrum, is an ideal solution for the typically low-density unserved and underserved markets that BEAD is seeking to address.

Cambium’s Fixed Wireless Solutions Meet BEAD Goals

Cambium Networks PMP 450 and ePMP product lines can meet and exceed the mandated BEAD standard of 100:20 service and can do so at an industry-leading $/bit basis – a winning combination. Both take advantage of both 5 and 6 GHz, with the PMP 450 platform also supporting use of the 3 GHz CBRS band. Legacy ePMP 3000 networks can be seamlessly migrated to ePMP 4500, enabling higher data rates for deployed subscribers and extending coverage in BEAD-defensible markets. cnHeat can provide rapid coverage and capacity models, enabling you to evaluate markets, select tower sites, and quickly support the BEAD funding proposals to meet the aggressive revised schedule defined by NTIA.

Act Now: Time Is Critical

Time now is of the essence. With proposals needing to be resubmitted and ever-increasing political pressure to begin rollouts, using trusted and available solutions is critical.

Cambium Networks stands ready to assist you prepare compelling BEAD applications that demonstrate that economics always wins. Please reach out to your Cambium Networks representative or complete a quick contact card, and we will follow up directly with you.

Talk to a BEAD expert at Cambium Networks.

At Della, we’ve always believed that smart buildings start with smart connectivity. Partnering with Cambium Networks has been a natural fit, combining their rock-solid wireless infrastructure with our intuitive building operating system to create something truly impactful.

What we’ve built together isn’t just technically sound, it’s meaningful. Residents are connected instantly, operators are relieved of setup headaches, and managed Wi-Fi becomes truly managementless. That kind of simplicity doesn’t just solve problems, it sets a new standard.

We’re already seeing incredible traction, and we couldn’t be more excited about what lies ahead. Cambium has been an exceptional partner, and we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together. This is just the beginning of a smarter, more connected future for multifamily living.

The future isn’t patched together. It’s purpose-built, and we’re building it, side by side.

“To me, connectivity isn’t just a feature—it’s the foundation smart living is built on”
–Adam Hepworth, Co-founder & President, Della Connect

April brought a significant shift in the US trade landscape—one that directly impacts how we at Cambium Networks approach pricing, order fulfillment, and customer communication. I want to share how we’re leading through this evolving situation with transparency and decisive action.

The Latest: Tariff Suspension and Exceptions

Recently, US Customs and Border Patrol issued new guidance suspending reciprocal tariffs for a range of products—key among them, many in our radio and switching portfolios. Thanks to this 90-day suspension, the vast majority of our point-to-multipoint, point-to-point, and Wi-Fi radios, as well as our cnMatrix™ switches, are now covered under a tariff exemption.

That’s good news for our partners and customers. Here’s what it means in practical terms:

No tariff impact on most Cambium products for orders placed prior to April 4, 2025, and scheduled to ship before July 1, 2025.
Orders placed after April 4, 2025, must also ship by July 1, 2025, to qualify for current pricing.
Some portfolios remain a managed exception due to sensitivity around country-of-origin (COO) status.

We’ve already resumed accepting new stocking orders and are actively reviewing exceptions. Our focus remains on protecting margins while maintaining supply chain agility.

What We’re Doing—and Why It Matters

While the current tariff waiver offers short-term relief, we are preparing for a potential reversion or realignment of policies later this summer.

We’ve taken quick, coordinated steps to manage this transition responsibly:

Communicated tariff updates to distributors globally—US, Canada, CALA, and APAC.
Reorganized fulfillment through key hubs to align with HTS code requirements.
Initiated SKU-level audits and prepared updates to our ordering system to reclassify pricing groups.

Our ability to move quickly stems from a strong foundation of operational readiness and the deep trust we’ve built with our distribution partners.

What’s Next: Stay Agile, Stay Informed

The tariff environment remains fluid. Our guiding principle is agility—being prepared to pivot but always with clarity and purpose.

I encourage our partners to:

Finalize orders for tariff-free shipping before July 1, 2025.
Connect with our team to review inventory status and exceptions.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as trade guidance evolves.

At Cambium, we’re not just reacting to change—we’re planning for what’s next. I remain confident in our collective ability to navigate this landscape with strength, precision, and integrity.

Let’s continue building the future of wireless connectivity together.

Deploying enterprise networks across multiple sites has long been a complex, time-consuming, and costly challenge. From tangled logistics to rising labor costs and unverified installations, providers struggle to keep projects on schedule and within budget.

Cambium Networks’ cnMaestro™ platform allows us to reimagine this process. By bringing all network elements together into a seamless end-to-end solution – and working closely with our customers to understand their real-world needs – we have created a platform that optimizes networks, empowers operators with actionable insights, reduces operational costs, and enhances end-user experience.

Cambium Networks Example Multi-Dwelling Unit Deployment

MarketApps is an application framework built into cnMaestro to address real-world challenges with simple user-facing apps. We are excited to launch MarketApps Installer as a new app to address real-world challenges with network installations. It enables Managed Service Providers (MSPs), system integrators, and facility owners to cut install times by 50% or more, reduce project costs, and bring new levels of consistency and quality control to every site.

The Old Way: Fragmented and Inefficient

Traditionally, network deployments have been burdened by inefficient workflows:

Access points (APs) were shipped to centralized warehouses.
Devices were manually unpacked, pre-configured, labeled, repacked, and shipped to final destinations.
Cabling teams, network admins, and fiber providers followed different standards – some verifying cabling, others not.
Time, labor, and errors stacked up quickly – increasing costs and delaying project timelines.
Sparse documentation often created long-term visibility issues for troubleshooting and maintenance.

The New Way with MarketApps Installer

MarketApps Installer simplifies and transforms the deployment process:

AP pallets are shipped directly to the site – skipping warehouse steps.
Installers pick any AP, scan it, assign a location label, and mount it.
Cable link and speed tests are performed on-site and logged automatically.
Photos of each AP placement and surrounding environment are captured.
A full audit trail records who installed what, where, and when.
If an AP needs replacement later, simply scan the new one – configuration is applied instantly.

The result? Faster deployments, reduced costs, improved visibility, and dramatically fewer issues in the field.

Real-World Benefits for MSPs and Property Owners

50% or more faster deployments – accelerate go-live dates across multi-site projects.
Lower overall project costs – eliminate warehouse labeling, minimize site revisits.
Increased first-time success rates – standardized install-quality with built-in link tests and reports.
Proactive maintenance – leverage testing and photo documentation to prevent issues.

Available Now in MarketApps

MarketApps Installer is now available inside the MarketApps section of cnMaestro X for Cambium APs and switches. No additional license is required.

If you’re ready to scale your deployments faster and with greater confidence, it’s time to explore MarketApps Installer.

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As senior living communities continue to expand, so do resident expectations—especially when it comes to staying connected. High-speed, reliable Wi-Fi isn’t a luxury anymore. It’s essential for maintaining independence, staying in touch with family, accessing telehealth, and enjoying modern digital life.

But designing a Wi-Fi solution for senior living has different requirements than an apartment complex or student housing development. There are unique challenges and even greater opportunities for operators who get it right. Here are three reasons why senior living communities need a managed Wi-Fi solution that’s built with their residents in mind.

1. Simplicity That Works—For Residents and Staff

Many seniors are not comfortable with smartphones, apps, or Wi-Fi-enabled appliances—and may feel uncertain about setting up a new device. That’s why the onboarding process must be intuitive and seamless. Residents should be able to connect without having to understand complex passwords, logins, or IT jargon.

With Cambium Networks’ Personal Wi-Fi enabled by ePSK (enhanced pre-shared key), residents can securely connect their devices with a single key—and that same connection follows them across the entire property. There’s no need to re-authenticate every time they move from their room to the dining area, garden, or community center.

Senior living staff also benefit from simplified network management. With limited or no on-site IT personnel, property operators need a Wi-Fi infrastructure that just works—with remote diagnostics and centralized control to keep support calls to a minimum.

Why It Matters:

Residents can connect independently with no tech support required.
Staff can manage the network remotely or through a centralized interface.
Fewer calls, fewer truck rolls, and less resident frustration.

2. Security That Builds Resident Trust

Seniors are among the most frequently targeted populations for online scams and fraud. When choosing a Wi-Fi provider for your property, you’re not just buying bandwidth—you’re delivering peace of mind.

A Cambium-powered managed Wi-Fi network gives each resident their own private network bubble, isolated from others. This segmentation prevents prying eyes or accidental sharing of devices and data. The result is a highly secure environment that protects residents while still giving them the freedom to use the internet as they wish.

Why It Matters:

Each resident’s network is isolated from neighbors and staff.
Personal data and devices are protected by enterprise-grade security.
Secure networks mean families and caregivers can feel confident using the Wi-Fi.

3. Affordable Access Without Compromising Quality

Many senior living residents live on fixed incomes. For them, affordability isn’t just a budget line—it’s a lifeline. Offering managed Wi-Fi as part of the lease or amenity package ensures that all residents have equal access to the connectivity they need, without hidden fees or confusing service provider contracts.

A property-wide managed Wi-Fi model gives operators the ability to deliver high-quality service at a lower cost per resident. It also eliminates the inefficiencies of individual routers and third-party ISPs—streamlining operations and generating long-term savings for the community.

Why It Matters:

Predictable pricing models help residents manage costs.
Operators reduce overall network expenses and avoid unnecessary complexity.
Everyone stays connected—no resident left behind.

Let’s Talk

If you’re attending the Argentum Senior Living Executive Conference in Tampa, FL (May 19–21) or LeadingAge Pennsylvania 2025 in Hershey, PA (June 11–13), let’s set up a time to meet.

👉 Book a meeting with Cambium Networks to explore how managed Wi-Fi can transform your senior living property—improving resident satisfaction, enhancing security, and reducing costs for years to come.

Cambium Networks. Built for MDU.

Book a meeting with Cambium Networks.

At Wireless Nation, our mission has always been clear: deliver internet connectivity where others can’t—or won’t. Based in Auckland, we’ve built our reputation providing broadband services for people in remote and mobile environments, from rural homes to motorhomes exploring New Zealand’s most scenic but isolated landscapes.

So when the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA) approached us to solve a very specific challenge—providing reliable Wi-Fi access across their park network, many of which are in areas with zero mobile coverage—we knew it would take more than just a standard solution.

That’s where Cambium Networks entered the picture.

The Challenge: Reliable Internet Where Mobile Networks Can’t Reach

NZMCA members rely on connectivity to pay for park access via the mobile app, navigate to their next destination, or simply stay in touch with family. However, many of the parks are nestled in areas that are signal dead zones. We needed a network solution that could withstand tough outdoor conditions, support both free and paid access tiers, and—most importantly—deliver unwavering reliability with minimal on-site maintenance.

Our Solution: Standardizing on Cambium’s Outdoor Wi-Fi Technology

We evaluated a number of vendors but ultimately standardized our solution on Cambium Networks. Why? Because they checked every box—and then some.

Here’s what our deployment includes:

XV2-2T0 Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Access Points – Dual-radio 802.11ax performance, exceptional range, built-in LTE filtering, and surge protection make these APs perfect for outdoor use.
cnMatrix™ PoE Switches – Provide robust connectivity and power to outdoor APs.
NSE 3000 Network Service Edge – Secure RADIUS traffic tunneling over WireGuard keeps user authentication safe and seamless.
Wi-Fi Designer Tool – Helps us plan optimal AP placements for each site, ensuring maximum coverage and user satisfaction.

All of this is managed through Cambium’s cnMaestro™, a cloud-based dashboard that gives our engineers a single pane of glass for configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting.

We sourced all of our Cambium gear through Go Wireless NZ (Streakwave NZ), whose distribution expertise and responsive support ensured a smooth supply chain and timely delivery to meet project milestones.

A Game Changer in the Field

Since implementing Cambium’s solution, we’ve seen transformative results. Parks that previously had zero connectivity now support seamless Wi-Fi usage for up to 80 vehicles at a time during peak season. From general browsing to app-based payments, users enjoy a consistent and dependable experience.

And from an operational standpoint, the benefits are just as impressive:

Plug-and-play deployment: Our installers simply mount the gear and run the cables—no need for complex configurations on site.
Pre-deployment lab testing: We replicate the entire field setup in our lab, so we know everything will work before it ever reaches the park.
Centralized management: Fewer site visits, faster troubleshooting, and lower maintenance costs.

Delivering More Than Just Connectivity

This isn’t just about internet access. It’s about enabling digital transformation in places where it’s most needed. With Cambium, we’ve empowered NZMCA to:

Improve safety and convenience for travelers
Reduce missed payments through reliable app usage
Enhance their service offerings to members
Strengthen their digital infrastructure in a scalable, cost-effective way

Why Cambium? Because It Just Works

What truly sets Cambium apart is their commitment to reliability and support. From their competitive pricing to the engineering assistance we received integrating WireGuard on the NSE 3000, Cambium has proven to be more than a vendor—they’re a partner.

Want to dive deeper into how we did it?

Read the full case study here.

Providing reliable broadband to rural communities isn’t just part of our job at MyJEC Broadband—it’s part of our mission. Deep in the heart of Texas, serving Matagorda County and its neighboring areas, we’ve witnessed firsthand how traditional broadband often fades where it’s needed most. When other providers couldn’t meet expectations, our neighbors turned to us for a better solution. We knew we had to deliver—and we were determined to get it right, from the very first signal.

Facing a Critical Crossroads in Our Network Growth

We started our broadband journey with wireless solutions, using Cambium Networks radios to connect our customers. But as demand grew, it became clear that we needed higher capacity and a long-term, scalable solution. The challenge intensified when our existing GPON vendor discontinued their product line. We were at a turning point: find a fiber solution that could integrate with our current setup without disrupting service—or risk falling behind.

We needed a partner who understood the unique challenges of rural broadband and could offer more than just hardware. That’s when we turned to Cambium Networks.

Why We Chose Cambium Networks

Cambium offered more than just a fiber platform—they provided a fully integrated solution that worked seamlessly with our existing infrastructure. Their interoperability meant we didn’t have to overhaul our network or waste resources on costly truck rolls. We could drop Cambium OLTs into place and keep moving forward.

With Cambium’s GPON Fiber Solutions, RV22 Wi-Fi 6 Home Mesh Routers, and centralized management through cnMaestro™, we gained exactly what we needed:

A scalable, high-performance fiber backbone.
Reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi for our customers’ homes.
A single management platform to oversee both our fiber and wireless networks.

The fact that we were already using cnMaestro for our wireless operations made the transition even smoother. We could onboard and manage equipment without reinventing our processes.

The Impact: Reliable Service, Streamlined Operations

Since deploying Cambium’s fiber and Wi-Fi solutions, we’ve seen immediate improvements:

Fewer Truck Rolls: Remote provisioning and management capabilities have drastically reduced the need to send technicians into the field.
Better Customer Experience: Our subscribers now enjoy fast, low-latency connections with strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout their homes.
Operational Efficiency: Managing our entire network—fiber, wireless, and customer premises equipment—from a single pane of glass has simplified our workflows and empowered our team.

We’ve had customers return to us after trying other providers because they know we deliver the reliable connectivity they need. And with Cambium’s solutions in place, our customer service reps and technicians can focus on supporting people, not troubleshooting network issues.

Download the case study to learn more.

Enabling Growth Without Adding Complexity

For us, this wasn’t just about upgrading technology—it was about positioning MyJEC Broadband for future growth. Cambium’s ONE Network approach allows us to expand rapidly without complicating our operations. With aerial fiber deployment and centralized management, we’re accelerating our buildout while keeping our team lean and effective.

One of the biggest wins has been the support from Cambium’s team. Knowing we had experts we could reach out to gave us the confidence to push forward, even when challenges arose.

Simplifying Rural Broadband—One Connection at a Time

Cambium Networks has helped us turn a potential obstacle into an opportunity. We’ve reduced costs, improved service quality, and set the stage for sustainable growth.

We’re proud to be delivering the kind of connectivity our community deserves—reliable, fast, and managed in a way that keeps us focused on what matters most: our customers.

Want to Simplify Your Network and Focus on Growth?

If you’re facing similar challenges, I can confidently say that Cambium Networks offers the right tools and support to get you where you want to go.

👉 Explore Cambium’s ONE Network solution today.

Wireless ISPs (WISPs) face growing encroachment from network operators using fiber and LEO satellite technologies. Consumers have high expectations around speed, latency, and reliability. WISP operators will maintain and grow their businesses by offering technical advantages and practical solutions on top of their inherent advantage in customer service. Cambium Networks’ ePMP 4000 Series, specifically the ePMP 4500 Access Point, introduces an innovative new feature designed to do just that: asymmetric channel bandwidth.

Boosting Capacity with Smarter Channel Configuration

At its core, this feature allows WISPs to configure different channel widths for uplink and downlink traffic—a first for this product class. The benefit? Higher capacity and reduced interference, especially in the noisy 5 GHz band where many WISPs operate.

To understand the value, consider how bandwidth behaves in real-world deployments. Wider channels combined with high-order modulations can dramatically increase throughput. The ePMP 4500 delivers this type of performance. However, these wide channels also make links more vulnerable to interference—particularly around the tower, where RF congestion is often at its worst.

Solving Uplink Challenges in Noisy Environments

Subscriber modules, located away from the tower, typically deal with less interference. But the tower itself—often surrounded by other radios and competing signals—can become a bottleneck. This is especially problematic for uplink performance, where signals are trying to reach the tower amid all that noise. This is where asymmetric channel bandwidth changes the game. By allowing WISPs to assign a narrower channel to the uplink, the system reduces the amount of noise it picks up. Narrower channels have a higher link budget and ultimately yield higher signal-to-noise ratios, which means more reliable uplink communication—even in tough RF environments.

Aligning Wireless Architecture with Traffic Patterns

At the same time, most internet traffic is downstream—streaming video, browsing, software updates. The asymmetric setup allows WISPs to maintain a wider channel in the downlink direction, enabling high-speed data delivery to the end user without sacrificing performance in the uplink direction.

This isn’t just a theoretical advantage. In practical terms, WISPs using the ePMP 4500 with this feature are unlocking faster downlink speeds while preserving stable and sufficient uplink capacity. That translates to better customer experiences without needing to compromise on reliability or redesign the network.

A Simple Upgrade Path with Immediate Benefits

The ePMP 4500 Access Point supports backwards compatibility to Force 300 Subscriber modules, meaning network operators can take advantage of this feature simply by upgrading their ePMP 3000 AP to an ePMP 4500 AP today and start seeing immediate benefit from asymmetric channel bandwidth and other enhancements while upgrading the SMs when convenient or as they expand and grow their business.

This asymmetric channel bandwidth feature is exclusive to the ePMP 4000 Series. It reflects Cambium Networks’ focus on solving real-world deployment challenges faced by WISPs—particularly those operating in dense or spectrum-constrained environments. For WISPs looking to stay competitive without major overhauls, this feature offers a straightforward way to get more out of existing spectrum. It’s a smart approach to spectrum management that aligns technical capability with traffic patterns, making it a timely innovation for today’s wireless landscape.

Ready to upgrade your network performance with smarter spectrum use?