Glossary
Terms that come up across these docs and on installs. Acronyms are also defined inline — hover any dotted-underlined term on a page to see its definition without leaving the page.
Network concepts
- Mesh
- A type of local area network (LAN) composed of multiple nodes that work together to broadcast a WiFi signal over a large area. "Meshing" refers to the ability for multiple nodes to be linked together within the same network, expanding service range.
- WiFi access point (AP)
- A wireless network device that acts as a portal for devices to connect to a local area network. Access points are used for extending the wireless coverage of an existing network and for increasing the number of users that can connect to it.
- Hub
- For PCW purposes, a hub refers to an install where we use a radio to "draw in" wireless connectivity. When we do hub installations, they include PhillyWisper.
- Node
- A mesh install that does not require a radio/router; it acts as a relay zone that expands WiFi connectivity from a hub.
- Line-of-sight (LoS)
- Our WiFi relies on "line of sight" between PhillyWisper sector antennas on high points and a rooftop (or otherwise) where we can install a radio to "draw in" wireless connectivity. More on line-of-sight propagation
- Point-to-point (PtP)
- A network consisting of only two nodes directly communicating with each other.
- Point-to-multi-point (PtMP)
- A network where a single central access point connects to multiple remote stations.
- Wireless internet service provider (WISP)
- An internet service provider that delivers the last mile over radio rather than cable or fiber. PCW's network partner PhillyWisper is a WISP.
Equipment
- Unifi (by Ubiquiti)
- The brand of WiFi equipment that PCW uses; a family of wireless access points, switches, routers, controller devices, VoIP phones, and access control products. Unifi product line
- EdgeRouter-X (ERX)
- The router PCW uses as a switch; a switch moves data between devices. EdgeRouter X product page
- Power over Ethernet (PoE)
- Passing electric power along with data on Ethernet cabling, so an outdoor device can be powered from an indoor outlet. PoE injector product page
- Bunny ears
- PCW's nickname for the Ubiquiti UAP-AC-Mesh, after its two upright antennas. UAP-AC-Mesh product page
- Panel antenna
- PCW's nickname for the Ubiquiti UMA-D, a flat directional antenna that clips onto a UAP-AC-M in place of its antennas to aim coverage in one direction. UMA-D product page
- UFO AP
- PCW's nickname for the Ubiquiti U6 Pro, a round ceiling- or wall-mounted indoor access point. U6 Pro product page
Mounting and power
- Non-penetrating roof mount (NPRM, "Non-Pen")
- A ballasted mount used for larger radios and WiFi devices so that we do not drill into any roofs, using rubber mats and cinderblocks to hold it down.
- Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
- An outlet that cuts power when it detects a fault. Outdoor power on a roof should be on a covered GFCI.