To install a Ubiquiti Loco M2 for a shed or gate camera you need to conduct a site survey, mount the outdoor unit, run Ethernet to the camera, power it with a Power over Ethernet (PoE) injector (or solar kit), and configure the device using the airOS web interface (default IP 192.168.1.20) or the UISP app.
What PtP wireless is and why the Loco M2 works well for outbuildings
Point‑to‑point (PtP) wireless creates a dedicated radio bridge between two fixed locations, essentially acting like an invisible Ethernet cable. The Loco M2 runs on the 2.4 GHz band with theoretical wireless rates up to 300 Mbps, though its single 10/100 Mbps physical Ethernet port caps real‑world throughput to under 100 Mbps—more than enough for a high‑definition security camera feed. Its focused directional antenna makes the link resistant to interference and able to span several hundred metres when there’s a clear line‑of‑sight, which is ideal for properties where laying a cable to a shed or gate would be expensive or impractical. Across Melbourne and outer‑suburban acreage properties, many homes have outbuildings and long driveway gates, so the Loco M2 is a common choice.
Comparing Ubiquiti PtP devices: Loco M2 vs Loco M5 vs other options
| Feature | Loco M2 | Loco M5 | Typical alternative (e.g., NanoStation) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frequency | 2.4 GHz | 5 GHz | 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz (depends on model) |
| Antenna gain | 8 dBi (integrated) | 13 dBi (integrated) | Varies, often lower gain |
| Max range (clear LOS) | Up to 5 km (manufacturer claim) | Up to 10 km | Usually 3‑5 km |
| PoE requirement | 24 V passive PoE | 24 V passive PoE | 24 V passive, 802.3af, or 802.3at (model‑dependent) |
| Power consumption | ~5 W | ~5.5 W | Varies |
The 2.4 GHz band on the Loco M2 penetrates light foliage better than 5 GHz, which helps around leafy outskirts and semi‑rural properties in Greater Melbourne. If you have a clear line‑of‑sight and need a longer reach, the Loco M5’s higher‑gain antenna can be useful. For most residential sheds or gates, the Loco M2 offers a good balance of range, simplicity and low power draw.
Installing the Loco M2 for a shed camera – step‑by‑step
- Site survey – Walk the route from your main router to the shed. Make sure you have a direct line‑of‑sight (no trees, metal roofs or large fences) and plan to mount the unit at least 2‑3 m high to avoid ground‑level obstructions.
- Mount the outdoor unit – The Loco M2 ships with zip‑tie mounts for pole installation. Use a pole‑mount or a compatible standoff/bracket (e.g., Ubiquiti’s universal arm bracket) to attach the unit, securing it with the provided zip ties.
- Run Ethernet to the camera – Connect a short (≤30 m) Cat6 cable from the Loco M2’s Ethernet port and your IP camera into a small outdoor switch or individual PoE injectors inside the shed.
- Power the hardware – Connect a 24 V passive PoE injector into a nearby outlet for the Loco M2, and power the camera separately through its own injector or switch port, keeping the cabling tidy.
- Configure via airOS – Connect a laptop to the Loco M2, open the airOS web interface at 192.168.1.20 (or use the UISP app), and set the wireless bridge mode to “Station”. You can also isolate a virtual local area network (LAN) for the camera traffic, making future expansion straightforward.
HiVizz Security can handle the site survey, mounting and airOS bridge configuration for you, ensuring the bridge stays stable through wind and rain.
Best practices for installing the Loco M2 on a driveway gate
- Weather‑proof enclosure – Although the Loco M2 is built with UV‑stabilised outdoor plastic rather than carrying an IP67 rating, adding a protective housing shields it from dust and direct sunlight during hot Victorian summers.
- Antenna placement – Keep the antenna at least 10 cm away from any metal gate components, as metal can reflect or absorb the 2.4 GHz signal and cause drops.
- Cable routing – Run a short Ethernet cable from the gate’s power box to the nearest router or an existing Loco M2. If the run exceeds 100 m, a fibre‑to‑ethernet media converter will avoid signal loss.
- Power options – Where there’s no nearby mains, a solar‑panel kit (12 V panel with a charge controller) can feed a PoE injector, giving you a fully off‑grid solution.
Our technicians know the local NBN layout and can integrate the gate camera into your existing UniFi Protect system, so you can view live footage from the same mobile app you use for your home cameras.
Power and connectivity options for remote Loco M2 setups
- Standard 24 V passive PoE injector – Plug into a wall socket and connect the Ethernet cable (an Instant 802.3af adapter is required if powering from an active 48 V PoE switch).
- Solar‑panel kit – A solar panel combined with an appropriate charge controller and battery can power a PoE injector for off‑grid installations; typically an 80‑W to 120‑W panel with a 40 Ah (or larger) deep‑cycle battery is required for continuous operation.
- Cable‑length limits – Ethernet runs over 100 m degrade the signal. For longer distances, use a fibre‑to‑ethernet converter at the house end and a media converter near the Loco M2. This keeps the PtP link strong while still delivering power via a short PoE run.
All power solutions work with HiVizz Security’s 24‑month parts and labour warranty, so any component failure is dealt with promptly.
Troubleshooting common Loco M2 issues
- LED status – The device has separate LEDs: a green Power LED, a green LAN LED, and four signal‑strength LEDs (red at ≥ ‑94 dBm, amber at ≥ ‑80 dBm, green at ≥ ‑73 dBm, and a second green at ≥ ‑65 dBm). The LEDs indicate power, link and signal quality rather than a single “bridge up” indicator.
- Firmware updates – In the airOS web interface (under the System tab) or via UISP, upload and apply the latest firmware. Keeping firmware current fixes many stability bugs.
- Signal loss – Seasonal foliage can block the line‑of‑sight. Trim low branches or re‑aim the antenna a little higher. In windy conditions, tighten the mounting brackets to prevent micro‑movement.
If you run into any of these problems, we offer on‑site support and can replace faulty hardware under the 24‑month warranty.
Why choose HiVizz Security for your Loco M2 installation
- 24‑month parts and labour warranty – Covers both the camera and the installation work.
- $10 million public liability cover – Protects you and your property while our technicians are on site.
- Free on‑site quote within 2 business days – We’ll visit your Melbourne property, assess the best mounting spots and give you a transparent estimate.
- Australian‑owned, owner‑operated, based in Marong (Bendigo region) – Our local team understands the weather patterns and NBN layouts of Central Victoria and Greater Melbourne.
Choosing us also gives you access to our Professional CCTV installation services, ongoing system support and a friendly local point of contact.
FAQ
Q: What is point‑to‑point (PtP) wireless and how does it differ from regular Wi‑Fi? A: PtP wireless creates a dedicated radio link between two fixed points, whereas typical Wi‑Fi shares bandwidth among many devices. The dedicated link behaves like a wired Ethernet cable, offering a stable, high‑throughput connection.
Q: Do I need a separate PoE switch for the Loco M2? A: No. A 24 V passive PoE injector supplies power over a single Ethernet cable. If you need to power both the Loco M2 and an IP camera at the outbuilding, you will need two separate injectors or a small switch supporting passive PoE.
Q: Can I power the Loco M2 with solar panels? A: Yes. A small solar‑panel kit with a battery and charge controller can run a PoE injector, providing an off‑grid power source for remote sheds or gates. We can design and install a solar solution that meets the Loco M2’s power draw.
Q: How much does a Loco M2 installation cost? A: We provide a free on‑site quote within 2 business days. Pricing depends on site complexity and includes labour, mounting hardware and bridge configuration.
Q: Will you help me set up the mobile app to view my gate camera? A: Yes. We’ll configure the camera viewing app on your phone, add the new camera and show you how to access live footage and recordings.
Next step
Ready to secure your shed or driveway gate with a reliable Ubiquiti Loco M2 link? Request a free quote today or call HiVizz Security on 0406 048 875. Our local team will visit your Melbourne property, give you a no‑obligation estimate within 2 business days and set you up with a 24‑month warranty and $10 million public liability cover.