Antenna
Equinix provides rooftop platform space and connectivity at its International Business Exchange (IBX) data centers for customers to install and operate their antennas. Rooftop space is available at most IBX data centers globally.
Services offered include:
- Secure, structurally engineered platforms, rails, and masts
- Ability to connect your antenna to your colocation space of record
- Unconditioned rooftop AC power (optional)
- Lightning protection
- Installation and permitting
Equipment
The following antenna types are supported:
- Global Positioning System (GPS)
- Line of Sight (LOS) Optical
- Microwave or Millimeter Wave
- VSAT
- Cellular
- Broadcast
Customers must provide outdoor-rated cabling, which Equinix installs through a weatherproof conduit.
For data centers with no rooftop capacity for GPS antenna applications, Equinix Precision Time (EPT) is available.
Installation
Equinix can:
- Install the antenna mast,
- Provide any power needed, and
- Run the cables to your licensed space inside the IBX.
If customers choose to install the antenna themselves, they must provide Equinix with the required permits and obtain approval for all structural engineering before installation. Equinix runs all power and cross-connect cables in accordance with the Global IBX Policies.
The antenna connection must be run to the colocation space licensed by the same customer of record.
To learn more about the installation steps, contact your Account Rep or Sales Engineer.
FAQs
Where is this service offered?
Equinix offers rooftop space for antennas at the most of our data centers globally.
Why is a CFR required?
Each IBX varies, so a Capacity Feasibility Review (CFR) is required to evaluate the capability, cable distances, and line of sight at each location.
What is the cost for this service?
Pricing varies depending on the antenna type and size. Contact your Account Rep or Sales Engineer for details.
Can my antenna connect directly to another customer?
No, each antenna must connect to a cabinet or cage owned by the same customer of record.
Who is responsible if my antenna’s line of sight is obstructed?
Equinix is responsible for any natural obstructions within our property boundary. Equinix is not responsible for intra-customer interference or obstructions/interference outside our property line.
Can Equinix share the location or position of a customer’s antenna with another customer?
No, we observe the same security guidelines around protecting the privacy of antenna deployments as we do for colocation deployments.
Are lifts required to install antennas?
Some data centers require a lift to install antennas, depending on the antenna type and the location of the antenna mast. If your specific installation requires a lift, you are notified during the quoting process.
Can Equinix suggest a frequency selection?
No, Equinix does not track, monitor, or offer opinions on frequency selection. If you need assistance, you can contact an independent Frequency Coordinator or register with the FCC.
How do I access the antenna platform at an IBX?
Roof access requires Equinix authorization and supervision throughout the visit. To request access to the roof area, contact the Global Service Desk to create Work Visit and Scheduled Maintenance tickets. Submit access requests through the Service Desk at least 24 hours in advance. Service-affecting incidents can be reported through Trouble Tickets, but supervision services are not guaranteed.