Starting with firmware 5.12.0 , the ePMP 4xxx Series SM-to-AP Upgrade feature is available, allowing selected Subscriber Modules (SMs) to operate as Access Points (APs).
The conversion is enabled through a software license key that can be purchased and applied to supported ePMP 4xxx Series Subscriber Modules.
License Part Number: C050900S608A – ePMP 4xxx Series SM to AP Upgrade (8 SMs) Key
This feature provides service providers with a flexible and cost-effective way to deploy small coverage areas, temporary sectors, low-density subscriber clusters, and specialized point-to-multipoint applications without requiring dedicated AP hardware.
Key Benefits
Ultra low-cost AP deployment in both 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands.
Compact form factor , ideal for small sites and space-constrained installations.
Repurpose existing SM inventory as APs , reducing capital expenditures and improving inventory utilization (license sold separately).
Full support for cnMaestro™ management and monitoring.
Compatible with LINKPlanner network design tools.
Familiar and consistent ePMP AP user interface , minimizing operational and training overhead.
Enables rapid network expansion using readily available hardware.
Useful for temporary deployments, pilot networks, rural coverage extensions, and small business installations.
Tradeoffs and Limitations
Supports a maximum of 8 Subscriber Modules per AP .
GPS synchronization is not supported , limiting deployment in heavily synchronized networks.
Force 4616 and Force 4625 platforms are limited to a maximum channel width of 80 MHz when operating as an AP.
Not intended for high-density sectors or large-scale access deployments.
Subscriber Module antenna patterns are typically narrower than dedicated AP sector antennas , resulting in reduced coverage area and deployment flexibility.
Lower subscriber capacity and scalability compared to dedicated ePMP Access Point platforms.
Best suited for low-density, targeted coverage scenarios rather than primary network sectors.
Recommended Use Cases
Rural and low-density subscriber clusters
Temporary network deployments
Rapid service restoration during outages
Small business and enterprise connectivity
Network expansion using existing hardware inventory
I am not sure if it would be possible, but it would be nice to see some antenna patterns for the ePMP F4518 and F4616.
We have a couple of micro-cell sites where all the distances to the 3-4 clients are sub 300 meters, so while we technically need, say 90 degrees coverage, there is probably enough bleed that the F4518 and F4616 would just work as an AP.
this is a really nice feature coming up but I am sad the world we are in today needs to sell everything as a subscription when it is just features added via software updates
Because Cambium uses a distribution model that doesn’t allow for direct sale of anything with a part number directly to the end customer. Cambium relies on distributors to buy and stock inventory, handle customer sales, shipping logistics, returns/RMA’s, etc. By leaning on distributors to do this, Cambium doesn’t have to deal with a lot of the overhead associated with dealing directly with the end customer. If they were to start selling some or all of their products and licenses directly to customers, it would compete directly with their distribution network and destroy those relationships. There are pros and cons to both methods of product distribution.
Reach out to your Cambium RSM or your favorite distributor to purchase the key. The PN is C050900S608A and the MSRP is $99. You’ll need to make sure your F45xx or F46xx radio is running a minimum of firmware 5.12. Once you you’ve purchased the key from the distributor, they’ll give you instructions on how to activate the key and apply it to your radio.
Cambium Networks C050900S608A
ePMP 4xxx Series SM to AP Upgrade (8 SMs) Key
Cambium Networks’ ePMP™ Release 5.12 introduces a license key that converts any Force 4000 Series Subscriber Module (SM) into a fully functioning ePMP Access Point (AP).
This key can be applied to any Force 4000 Series 5 GHz or 6 GHz SM, but the most useful candidates are the Force 4518 (5 GHz) and Force 4616 (6 GHz).
Once the software key is applied to the SM, the AP functionality is available allowing the radio to connect to up to 8 SMs.
NOTE: These SMs do NOT support GPS synchronization, are limited to maximum 1024QAM, and are constrained by the antenna pattern of the SM, e.g., a 15° azimuth on Force 4518.
With this new capability, network operators can access new deployment scenarios. Examples:
Quickly and inexpensively open a new geographical coverage area and then upgrade later with a full AP.
Deploy a microPOP for coverage or capacity fill-ins.
Overlay a 6 GHz microcell in an existing 5 GHz sector.
Deploy point-to-a-few-points campus connectivity.
Prove market viability, including take-rate and ARPU, before deploying a full AP and expanding the density.
Since the device can still be used as an SM, the radio can later be redeployed, leaving no stranded inventory. This new capability is another way that ePMP makes network expansion economical and profitable for network operators.
*License key can be applied to Force 4518, Force 4525, Force 4525L, Force 400C, Force 425, Force 4616, Force 4625, and Force 4600C.
Does the 8 client limitation also apply to the 4600C, as the C is apparently the same hardware as the L?
I really need to get my hands on the 4600L but in my part of the world it is very difficult to get that model while the 4600C is everywhere.
Yes, the 8 client limitation (and other stated limitations) apply. If you need a full 4600L with all features, you will need to buy a full 4600L. If you review the price comparison chart I posted, you’ll notice that the cost of the full 4600L is slightly more then the cost of the 4600C + limited AP license.
