The TP-Link CPE210 operates on the 2.4GHz frequency band, while its counterpart, the CPE510, operates on the 5GHz frequency band. These are the main distinctions, leading to notable differences in their performance characteristics. The 2.4GHz band offers better penetration through obstacles like walls and trees and has a wider coverage range, making it suitable for environments with obstructions or for extending Wi-Fi over longer distances with lower throughput needs. The CPE210, with its 9dBi antenna, is designed for stable, long-range connections up to 5km.Conversely, the 5GHz band provides higher speeds and more available channels, resulting in less interference and greater capacity. However, 5GHz signals have a shorter range and are more susceptible to attenuation by obstacles. The CPE510 typically offers higher antenna gain (13dBi) and a longer recommended distance (up to 15km+) due to its optimized design for the 5GHz band, focusing on higher throughput.

The main Reasons Why they cannot communicate Effectively with each other include...

Different Frequencies:

The most fundamental reason is that they operate on entirely different radio frequencies. Just like a radio tuned to an FM station cannot receive an AM broadcast, a 2.4GHz device cannot send or receive signals from a 5GHz device. They are designed to transmit and receive on specific, non-overlapping frequency bands.

Incompatible Hardware and Protocols:

While both might support 802.11n standards, the underlying hardware components (radio transceivers, antennas, chipsets) are specifically engineered for their respective frequency bands. They don't have the capability to convert or translate signals between the two distinct frequencies. Therefore, they cannot establish a coherent wireless link.