Media Converters

Simple Devices to Connect Dissimilar Network Protocols

Media converters are an essential tool for building the right industrial network. From managing water systems to automated production, it’s common to need fast data over distances that standard Ethernet can’t deliver. Our media converter devices offer comprehensive solutions to this problem. They are designed and manufactured to convert various fiber-optic lines to existing copper ones. Whether it is managed or unmanaged, these devices cover the full range of necessities, and they are ready out of the box for simple plug-and-play deployment. These converters provide one of the most cost-effective ways to extend your network capacity with minimal investments of both time and money. They give full access to any of your standard switches, routers, and other tools, and they do it with the durability ratings that offer deployment in nearly any environment.

Ethernet Protocol Media Converters

To adapt one networking protocol to another, convert a physical connector, or interconnect a fiber optic to copper network, an industrial media converter is a great solution. These simple-to-configure devices convert Fast (10/100TX) or Gigabit (10/100/1000TX) Ethernet to fiber optics (100/1000SX/LX). They may be managed or unmanaged. A managed media converter is based on the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). With SNMP, these converters may be configured, managed, and monitored by a network administrator. Our SNMP enabled media converters, like the FCN-3112SC from Antaira Technologies, include standard features like web management, port configuration, traffic statistics, Q-in-Q double tag, jumbo frames, flow control, trap management, alarms, VLAN, and remote login.

Fiber Optic Media Converters

When copper conversions don’t get the job done, fiber converters can give your LAN devices access to more advanced optic technology. Fiber optic ports are available in multimode with 550 m and 2 km transmission distances and singlemode in 10 km, 20 km, 40 km, and 60 km versions. Conversion to WDM-A or WDM-B is available along with SFP, SC, and ST fiber connections. Choose from small 1-port devices or larger 19” rack mount systems. The rackmount system, FCU-RACK16, accommodates plug-in media converter boards. It’s perfect for projects needing lots of ports. Easy install and configure, our Gigabit Ethernet media converters are durable and highly reliable.

Take the FCU-2802SC, for example. This compact media converter uses an SC connector to convert gigabit (10/100/1000TX) copper to gigabit multimode fiber. It transmits up to 550 meters with no significant delays. LED indicators make it easy to monitor power, link activity, and fiber activity. It fully conforms to FCC emission standards and is compliant with IEEE 802.3z. Variant models allow for multiple access points that convert more than one switch simultaneously.

Industrial Reliability

No matter the type of media converter required, it is the industrial durability that boosts confidence in your selection. Industry rated models, like the compact IMC-C1000-SFP, are tested against extreme temperatures and voltage input spikes. Some media converters are consistently designed for control cabinets and include DIN-rail mounting to protect from heavy vibrations. Each device is made for universal compatibility and easy deployment. They are guaranteed to live up to expectations, handling heavy jobs in intense situations. Many of the full-sized units come backed by an industry-leading 5-year warranty.

Learn More

The options are vast, so you should talk to a Westward Sales representative today. Our experience can help you customize a solution that will get the most out of your existing network and prepare for future expansion.