By Dominic Sakwa, Telecommunications Engineer

As Internet consumption surges across rural and urban landscapes alike, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are being challenged to deliver high-speed, reliable broadband with minimal capital and operational expenditure. Whether the goal is fiber extension into hard-to-reach areas, deploying a cost-effective  alternative to licensed microwave backhaul, or scaling up MicroPOP capacity, wireless connectivity is more crucial than ever. This is where the Cambium Networks’ Force 400C steps in.

Designed to operate in high-interference, high-demand environments, the Force 400C leverages the latest in 802.11ax technology, robust hardware design, and Cambium’s proprietary ePTP protocol to offer a compact, affordable, yet powerful point-to-point (PTP) solution. With throughput of up to 1 Gbps, sub-5 ms latency, and flexible deployment options, it’s built to serve the evolving needs of ISPs.

Extended Applications Across the Network

Key Use Cases for Cambium Force 400C Wireless Backhaul

1. PTP Wireless Backhaul for High-Speed Data Links

The Cambium Force 400C is engineered primarily as a Point to Point (PTP) backhaul solution. It provides the capacity needed to connect network nodes, aggregate traffic from MicroPOPs, or link remote areas without the cost and complexity of fiber. The Cambium Force 400C supports:

• High Throughput: Supports 80 MHz channels and 1024 QAM for up to 1 Gbps. 
• Customizable Antennas: Two RP-SMA RF connectors let ISPs pair the radio with high-gain parabolic or horn antennas to match distance and deployment needs. 
• Low Latency: Sub-5 ms latency ensures the seamless delivery of latency-sensitive applications, such as VoIP and video.

2. Fiber Extension with SFP Support

When fiber rollout becomes prohibitively expensive due to terrain or high population density, the Cambium Force 400C enables ISPs to extend fiber-grade connectivity wirelessly. It comes with:

• SFP Interface: Allows integration into fiber-fed networks.
• Optional GPON ONU Module: Facilitates seamless hybrid fiber-wireless architecture.
• Cost-Efficient Reach: Delivers enterprise-grade bandwidth at a fraction of the cost of trenching fiber.

3. Outdoor Wi-Fi and MicroPOP Backhaul

Wi-Fi access points and MicroPOPs in suburban and rural environments often require high-capacity uplinks. The Cambium Force 400C delivers just that with its robust design and efficient air interface.

• ePTP Air Interface: Cambium’s proprietary protocol that delivers deterministic performance.
• Integrated cnMaestro Management: Enables ISPs to view and manage wireless links alongside APs and switches in a single console.

4. Redundant and Emergency Backhaul Links

For critical infrastructure and enterprise customers, the Cambium Force 400C provides a reliable failover or backup link. With the Cambium Force 400C comes: 

• Rapid Deployment: Easy to install without the logistical burden of fiber or trenching.

Field-Ready Resilience: IP67-rated enclosure ensures uptime in harsh weather or remote environments.

Technical Foundation for Performance

The Cambium Force 400C benefits from advancements found in the 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 standard, adapted for fixed wireless:

• 1024 QAM: Delivers higher data rates through advanced modulation.
• 80 MHz Channels: Supports greater capacity across wider channels.
• Efficient Frame Structure: Minimizes overhead, optimizing spectrum use.

Combined with Cambium’s ePTP mode, the Force 400C ensures high spectral efficiency with minimal jitter, making it ideal for critical ISP backhaul applications.

Built-In Security and Reliability

Security is built into the Cambium Force 400C, not added as an afterthought. Key capabilities include:

• 128-bit AES Encryption (256-bit where export rules allow)
• RADIUS and Role-Based Access Control
• Secure Web Interfaces and Remote Access

In addition, Cambium Force 400C is tested to industrial-grade standards with IP67 certification, suitable for long-term deployment in coastal, high-humidity, or dust-prone regions.

Unified with Cambium’s ONE Network

Part of the broader Cambium ONE Network ecosystem, the Force 400C is manageable via cnMaestro, enabling:

• Single Pane of Glass Management
• Zero-Touch Provisioning for easier rollouts.
• Network-Wide Monitoring and Policy Enforcement to streamline operations and improve visibility.

This integration not only improves efficiency but also simplifies troubleshooting, helps with planning, and enhances overall network visibility.

Build Better Backhaul Today!

The Cambium Force 400C provides ISPs with a compelling tool to deliver high-performance wireless connectivity for a range of applications. Whether used for backhaul, fiber extension, or emergency redundancy, it offers carrier-grade performance in a cost-optimized package. As the demands on networks continue to increase, solutions like the Cambium Force 400C ensure that ISPs can scale confidently and profitably.

Ready to deploy the Cambium Force 400C in your network? Contact us today for more information or to make your purchase.