Types of Media Converters
There are many types of Media Converters, but which is right for your needs? Listed below are stand-alone and chassis-based converters. We will also discuss Unmanaged media converters, T1/E1 and T3/E3 converters, and Copper-to-fiber and Power-over-Ethernet media converters. Listed below are the advantages of each. All these Media Converters have their benefits and drawbacks.
Unmanaged Media Converters
Managed media converters give network administrators total control over data and bandwidth and remote configuration and troubleshooting functionality. They are suitable for small and medium-sized networks, where a managed converter is a great help in simplifying the installation process. On the other hand, unmanaged media converters are plug-and-play devices that are easy to install and configure but do not offer the same network monitoring and administration level.
Managed media converters offer network monitoring and fault detection functions, while unmanaged converters allow simple communication between two systems. Unmanaged media converters do not offer remote configuration and monitoring and are suited for DIY fiber-network cable installations. Managed media converters have SNMP agents that enable them to report the status of their network to network management systems. While managed media converters are more expensive, they are worth every penny.
Features of Media Converters
Managed Ethernet media converters offer advanced features, including port management and configuration, an important feature for businesses. Those looking for unmanaged media converter may need to upgrade their existing infrastructure, while those needing fiber-only connectivity should consider a mini model. The mini version of fiber-to-ethernet converters may be more suitable for rack mounting in a chassis.
While unmanaged media converter are easy to install, managed converters offer more advanced features, including Power over Ethernet (PoE) support. PoE is a standard technology that allows you to power devices with Ethernet. Non-PoE devices cannot take advantage of passive PoE power sourcing equipment.
Managed fiber media converter are ideal for complex network environments. They provide fiber network connectivity and help network managers reach optimum performance and reliability. Unlike unmanaged media converters, managed converters provide full control over data, bandwidth, and traffic. The managed media converters also provide a host of useful features. And unlike unmanaged media converters, managed fiber media converters also extend the maximum single-mode fiber distance.
Managed and unmanaged media converter are the most common types of media converter. Managed media converters support multiple protocols and enable users to connect disparate cable types. They media converters can provide Ethernet services, while an unmanaged one can support only one or two. They can also connect various kinds of fiber cables, such as copper and fiber. A media converter can divided into two basic categories, managed and unmanaged.
T1/E1 (T3/E3) Converters
When comparing T1/E1 converters, it is important to remember the main difference between them. The T1 signal has a data rate of 1.544 Mbps, while E1 uses a higher data rate of 2.048 Mbps. To get a clear picture of the differences, let us compare the two common standards. In the end, you can make an educated decision based on your own needs and preferences.
When purchasing a T1/E1 (T3/E3) conversion device, various features are important. The new device supports various framing formats: C-bit and M23 parity for DS3 and E3 frames for E3. This converter also includes an HDLC controller for Path Maintenance Data Link, an advanced FEAC controller, a Bit Error Rate Tester, and complete diagnostic tools. The new device has loopback code detection and path features and is capable of a glue less interface. These features are supported by device-driver software, minimizing the amount of time spent on design.
Ethernet switches directly connected to a media converter module at the network core. T1/E1 (T3/E3) converters can extend copper connections up to 120 km using single-mode fiber. Fiber-to-fiber converters offer fiber extension for serial protocol copper connections. They also detect the signal baud rate of the connected devices and support point-to-point configurations. Despite the differences between the two protocols, both T1/E1 (T3/E3) converters are reliable and cost-effective.
A media converter is a simple networking device that allows two network devices to communicate. It works by converting electronic signals from copper UTP networks to light signals. Media Converters allow for a longer distance between two network devices than copper UTP cabling can cover. Additionally, media converter implement Link Integrity Test and IEEE data encoding rules. They are invisible to other networking devices. Media Converter allow for long-range connectivity for data, voice, and video.
Copper-to-fiber Media Converters
Fiber and copper networks are complementary and can be migrated with the help of copper-to-fiber media converter. Fiber offers both cost and performance-related advantages, but copper is more common and familiar to many people. However, organizations cannot afford to replace the costly electronics that currently use copper. This device is an effective way to extend the range of copper networks. Using copper-to-fiber media converter is an excellent solution for organizations in these situations.
A typical media converter consists of a small device with two media-dependent interfaces and a power supply. These devices installed almost anywhere in a network. The connectors used on these converters depend on the type of media they convert. Those converting UTP to multimode fiber typically have an SC/ST connector and an SFP port. Copper-to-fiber media converter can also convert data signals between fiber and copper, useful for extending a network.
Designed of Media Converters
Commercial-grade media converters are designed for offices and data centers and are used to extend networks. They can used in IP phones, videoconferencing equipment, and cameras. Standalone converters are also available, and they often used to connect copper to fiber in point-to-point installations. They have built-in security features, including link fault pass-through and auto-MDI/MDI. These converters also support remote management, making them suitable for medium and large-scale deployments.
While some people are confused about which media converter to use, it is common to use a copper-to-fiber media converter to connect two network devices with copper ports. The main advantage of this configuration is that copper-to-fiber media converter can extend the life of existing networks. If your network has many copper ports, a copper-to-fiber media converter can extend the life of your network by making it compatible with fiber optic cabling.
Copper-to-fiber media converter are often referred to as fiber-to-fiber transceivers. Optical transceivers used to extend network distances. The copper-to-fiber media converter designed to support both single-mode and multimode transceivers. Media Converter ensure a reliable and uptime network. These converters can also include SFP pluggable fiber optic ports for easy fiber connection.
Power-over-Ethernet Media Converters
PoE media converters provide an efficient copper to fiber connectivity solution. They supply power to PoE compliant devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points. As a result, the total number of wires in a network is reduced, saving money and time. Furthermore, PoE media converter simplify distribution networks. This article provides an overview of different PoE solutions and how they work. The following summarizes the main differences between PoE and other types of media converter.
PoE saves money and effort by eliminating the need for separate power supplies for each device. Unlike traditional power strips, Media Converter devices can install in locations that do not have AC outlets. They also feature advanced features such as LEDs that indicate the converter’s status. For example, a Link Fault Pass-Through feature monitors both SC and RJ45 ports and indicates if any power supplies are needed.
How can Work
Media converter can work in either extreme or average environments. The main difference between commercial-grade and industrial-grade units is the operating environment. Industrial-grade media converter are made to withstand extreme temperatures and are equipped with redundant power. They also designed to withstand big shock and vibration environments. Industrial-grade models widely used in traffic management, building automation, and oil drilling. The following comparison charts will help you decide when shopping for a power-over-ethernet media converter.
If your network is long enough to accommodate fiber optic cables, consider purchasing a PoE media converter. PoE media converter offer a flexible solution to long-distance problems. They break the distance limitations of Ethernet cables, enabling businesses to extend their network using fiber instead of a standard cable. They can used in IP phones, Wi-Fi access points, security cameras, and point-of-sale terminals.
Media Converter modules support all popular fiber connectors and distance up to 100 km. They are available in 1 to four, eight, and twelve slot configurations. Single-strand fiber modules are also available for the MCLE and Gigabit modules. Having tens of thousands of units installed worldwide, the Media Converter series offers the most reliable conversion platform. It also supports the seamless integration of fiber-based equipment into existing networks
