10/100Base Fast Ethernet Media Converters

Key Features & Benefits of Fast Ethernet Media Converters

The following features and benefits of fast Ethernet media converters have contributed to their popularity and easy acceptance across industries.

• Copper to Fiber Conversion: Fast Ethernet media converters seamlessly convert RJ45 Ethernet (copper) to fiber optic (single-mode or multimode) connections. They support 10/100Mbps auto-negotiation, ensuring reliable data transmission. This conversion eliminates electromagnetic interference (EMI), improves network stability and boosts overall reliability.
• High-Speed Data Transmission & Distance Extension: Our fast media converters support fiber distances up to 20 km (single-mode) and 2 km (multimode), making them ideal for long distance extensions. These media converters are ideal for industrial, telecom, and security applications, where reliable data transmission over extended distances are needed.
• Unmanaged Plug & Play Design: These fast Ethernet converters feature plug-and-play design and require no configuration, allowing for easy installation and integration into existing networks. Their hot-swappable feature enables replacement without disrupting ongoing network operations.
• Advanced Network Protection & Stability: All fast Ethernet media converters feature Link Fault Pass-Through (LFP) functionality for automatic network recovery. Features like Far-end fault detection ensure stable fiber connections, while built-in DIP switch settings provide manual adjustment options for fine-tuning the network.
• Low Power Consumption & Compact Design: Operating on +5V to 18V DC with less than 5W power consumption, these media converters are energy-efficient. Their compact form factor (94 x 71 x 26 mm) makes them ideal for tight spaces, and they can be easily mounted on DIN rails for efficient space utilization.
• IEEE 802.3u Ethernet Standard Compliance: Our fast Ethernet fiber media converters are fully compliant with IEEE 802.3u Ethernet standards, ensuring reliable performance and compatibility with various network devices.
• Advanced Network Monitoring: These fast media converters feature LED indicator lights to monitor fiber and copper signal detection, activity status, link status, and transmission speed for easy troubleshooting.
• Duplex Modes: These devices support full and half-duplex modes, providing flexibility in data transmission.
• RoHS Compliance: Our fast media converters are RoHS compliant, ensuring they are free from hazardous materials and support environmental sustainability.

Technical Specifications of Our 100BASE-TX to 100BASE-FX Media Converters

Explore the technical specifications of our Fast Ethernet Fiber Media Converters:

• Certifications & Compliance: FCC Part 15, Class B; CISPR 22 Class B; RoHS Compliant
• Network Standards Supported: IEEE 802.3; IEEE 802.3u
• Copper Port (100BASE-TX):
  • Connector Type: Shielded RJ-45
  • Cable Type: Cat5, Cat6 UTP, up to 100m
  • Speed & Duplex Modes: 10/100Mbps, Full/Half Duplex
• Fiber Port (100BASE-FX):
  • Connector Types: ST or SC (model dependent)
  • Fiber Type: Multimode (50/125, 62.5/125) or Single-mode (9/125)
  • Transmission Distance: 2km (MM), 20km (SM)
  • Far-end fault detection for signal integrity
• Dimensions: 3.70 x 2.79 x 1.02 inches (94 x 71 x 26 mm)
• DIP Switch Functions: Control speed, duplex, and Link Fault Pass-Through (LFP); Auto-status reporting for easy monitoring
• Wire Speed Conversion: Full wire-speed data transmission
• Packet Size Support: Up to 1600 bytes for store-and-forward mode; No packet size limit for smart-forward mode (100-to-100)
• Buffer RAM: 128KB buffer
• Mounting: Standalone or Rack-Mounted Setup
• Device Compatibility: Supports IP cameras, wireless access points, VoIP phones, and other networking hardware in remote areas
• Power Consumption: Low
• Environmental & Power Monitoring:
  • Operating Temperature: -10°C to 60°C
  • Storage Temperature: -40°C to 70°C
  • Power Input: +5V to 18V DC (<5W consumption)

Product Comparison: Feature Breakdown

This section offers a comparison of three high-performance models—M7273SB, M7274SB, and M7275S-2B—to help you assess their key features and make an informed decision based on your needs. By examining these attributes, you can quickly identify which product aligns best with your technical requirements and performance expectations.

How to Install & Use an Ethernet to Fiber Media Converters

Installing and using a fast Ethernet to fiber media converter is a simple process that helps ensure seamless connectivity between Ethernet and fiber networks. The steps below help ensure proper installation and optimal performance.

• Connect the RJ-45 Port to an Ethernet Device: Connect the RJ-45 port of the media converter to a router, Ethernet switch or any networking device using a CAT5e or CAT6 Ethernet cable.
• Attach the Fiber Optic Cable: Analyze your network requirements and decide on a Single-mode (SMF) or Multimode (MMF) fiber cable. Insert the fiber cable into the fiber optic port of the media converter, ensuring their proper alignment with SC, LC, and ST connectors.
• Ensure Power Supply Compatibility: Check the power input range + 5V to 18VDC of the media converter. You can use an appropriate PoE source or power adapter depending on your application requirement.
• Verify LED Indicators: Observe the LED light status on the media converter. Link/activity indicators help confirm a stable connection between Ethernet and fiber networks.
• Confirm Data Transmission: You can test the connection by sending data through the network. Ensure seamless data transmission between Ethernet and fiber with 100Mbps fiber connectivity.

Industry-specific Benefits of Fast Ethernet Media Converters

Fast Ethernet media converters are extensively used across industries where reliable, long-distance network connections are required. Here are some common applications of these media converters:

• Surveillance and Security Networks: Fast ethernet media converters are used for connecting IP-based cameras and other monitoring equipment across airports, campuses, malls, and so on. Our fast Ethernet media converters help bridge the gap between fiber-optic connections and copper-based Ethernet devices. These devices allow surveillance equipment to communicate over long distances without signal degradation.
• Telecom and Data Centers: Most telecom networks and data centers require fast, high-bandwidth connectivity to support massive data transfers. Our fast Ethernet media converters help extend LAN connectivity over fiber infrastructure, allowing high-speed data transmission across locations. These media converters help reduce latency and improve data integrity, ensuring seamless communication for voice, cloud, and video-based applications.
• Industrial and Manufacturing Networks: Most industrial environments demand rugged, stable, and interference-free networking solutions to support automation, remote monitoring, and process control. Our fast Ethernet media converters ensure reliable operation in harsh environments across the temperature ranges of -10°C to 60°C, making them ideal for factories, warehouses, and outdoor applications. Their stable and interference-free connectivity, ensures IoT devices, automation systems, and SCADA networks to operate without data loss or downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions on 10/100Base Fast Ethernet Media Converters

1. What types of fiber cables are supported by 10/100Base Fast Ethernet Media Converters?
   Our 10/100Base Fast Ethernet media converters can support single mode or multimode fiber optic cables.
2. What is the difference between 100BASE-TX and 100BASE-FX?
   The key difference between 100BASE-TX and 100BASE-FX lies in the type of cable used for transmission. The 100BASE-TX uses twisted pair copper cabling, however, 100BASE-FX uses fiber optic cables. The 100BASE-TX is suited for short distance whereas 100BASE FX allows longer transmission distances. They are used for connecting buildings spanning large campuses. Both of these devices offer the same data transfer speed of 100 Mbps.
3. How far can a Fast Ethernet Media Converter extend a network?
   A fast Ethernet medic converter can extend the network up to several kilometers depending on the type of fiber optic cables used. For instance, single-mode fiber cables can help users extend networks up to 120 kms depending on the fiber quality and converter design. However, multimode fiber cables may limit this to only 2km.
4. Can I use fast Ethernet to fiber converter with an unmanaged switch?
   Yes, you can connect a media converter to an unmanaged switch. This is a common set up, as most fast Ethernet to fiber converters are unmanaged devices. These Ethernet to fiber converters can automatically negotiate connection parameters, such as speed, duplex based on the connected device, etc.
5. What is the purpose of the DIP switches on the media converter?
   The DIP switches on the fast Ethernet media converter enable users to manually configure settings such as transmission speed, link mode, and other operational parameters to meet the particular needs of the network setup. For instance, one can use these switches to disable (OFF) or enable (ON) the port isolation between the copper ports. These switches are used on unmanaged fast Ethernet media converters where fine tuning is done through physical switches.
6. How do I choose the right Fast Ethernet Media Converter for my needs?
   Choosing the right fast Ethernet media converter requires careful consideration of factors, such as:
   • Network Type: Copper to fiber conversion, fiber to fiber conversion, and fiber to Ethernet conversion
   • Fiber Type: Multimode fiber, single-mode fiber
   • Distance Requirements: Multimode fiber for short distances; single-mode fiber for long distances
   • Power Options: Power over Ethernet (PoE), AC vs DC power
   • Form Factor: Standalone, rackmount
7. Are these media converters RoHS and FCC-compliant?
   Yes, these fast Ethernet media converters are RoHS-compliant.