TP-Link CPE605 5GHz Outdoor CPE: what it is, specs and who it suits

The TP-Link CPE605 is an outdoor wireless unit for 5GHz networks. It's what's usually called a CPE, or customer premises equipment, which is a weatherproof radio with a built-in directional antenna. It's mounted outside a building to receive a signal from a distant access point or to link two locations without running a cable. The listing is brief, so this page sticks to what it states and to general background on how such devices work.

What a CPE is for

Outdoor CPEs are typically used for point-to-point and point-to-multipoint links. One example is carrying a network connection across a yard, between two buildings, or to an outbuilding where trenching a cable isn't practical. Another is connecting to a wireless internet provider's base station. Because the antenna is built in and directional, you aim the whole unit at the other end of the link.

The product is listed in the wireless access point category. The listing describes it only as durable, low in energy consumption and covering a wide frequency range, so check TP-Link's documentation for the details of the supported modes and frequencies.

What the headline specs mean

• 5GHz: this band is usually less crowded than 2.4GHz and gives faster links, though it needs a clearer line of sight and suffers more from obstacles like trees and walls.
• 150Mbps: this is the link rate TP-Link lists. Real throughput on a wireless link is normally lower than the rate and depends on distance, alignment and interference.
• 23dBi: a measure of antenna gain. A higher figure concentrates the signal in a narrower beam, which extends range in the direction it's pointed but covers a smaller area. A 23dBi antenna is typically meant for aimed links, not for covering a whole garden.

Placement and alignment

Directional links work best with a clear line of sight between the two ends. Mount the unit high enough to clear obstacles, point it at the partner device, and fine-tune the angle while watching the signal indicator. Small changes in alignment can make a clear difference at longer distances.

The unit measures about 5.9 x 7.9 x 9.8 inches (roughly 15 x 20 x 25 cm) and weighs 1.5 lb (about 0.68 kg), so it's light enough for a pole or wall mount. Check the mounting hardware included.

Power and cabling

Outdoor CPEs of this type are typically powered over the Ethernet cable by a power injector placed indoors, which means one cable carries both data and power. Check the power method in TP-Link's documentation. Use outdoor-rated, shielded Ethernet cable, and follow the manual and local electrical codes for grounding, surge protection and installation, especially on masts and rooftops.

Who it suits

It suits people building a wireless bridge between buildings, or connecting to a compatible 5GHz base station, who are comfortable with some setup. It's less suited to anyone who just wants better Wi-Fi inside a home, as it isn't designed for that.

What to check before you buy

• The other end: confirm what the CPE will connect to and that the two are compatible.
• Line of sight and distance: check that there's a reasonably clear path for the link.
• Power: confirm what power source or injector is included or needed.
• Mounting: work out how and where you'll fix it, and how you'll aim it.
• Local rules: some countries limit 5GHz outdoor use, power levels and channels, so check them.
• Specifications: read TP-Link's official specification sheet, as the listing gives few details.

The short version

• A 5GHz outdoor CPE with a 23dBi directional antenna.
• Rated at 150Mbps by TP-Link.
• Built for aimed point-to-point or point-to-multipoint links.
• Weighs 1.5 lb and mounts outdoors.
• Check power method, compatibility and local radio rules first.

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