Media Converter Basics

Let’s face it. Ethernet networks have grown in size and popularity. Eighty percent of today’s LANs continue to use copper wiring, while the physical layer of MAN uses fiber. This requires copper and fiber to work together. Media converters allow you to expand and upgrade you network, while allowing you to still use you old copper wiring efficiently.

What are Media Converters?
Media converters are devices that receive data signals from one media, and convert and transmit them to another media. For example, many older systems transmitted signals through copper cables. Instead, of replacing your entire network with modern fiber, many people use media converters to convert signals transmitted on a copper cable to signals that run on fiber.

Why Use Media Converters?
There are two main reasons to use media converters.

Extend Distances—The wonderful thing about media converters is that it makes uninterrupted communication possible for over 93 miles.
Cost Effective—Stated simply, media converters save you lots of money. Let’s say you have copper equipment. We all know that cooper does not work as well as fiber. However, to change your equipment to all fiber would be an immense amount of money. So, instead you opt for a media converter. With media converters, you can simply hold on to your copper wiring and still receive all of the benefits you receive from fiber.

It is important to note that network equipment with all fiber interfaces will cost more than three times as mush as copper interfaces. So simply use copper and employ media devices to save money.

When Should I Use Media Converters?
Here is deal, in a nutshell:

Fiber is necessary when you need to extend your network beyond its copper limitations. Copper is limited to generally 300 feet. When you need to communicate without external interference beyond 300 feet, you will need a media converter.
If the network interface card manufactures change a high price, or your manufactures does not make the fiber particular configuration you are looking for, you will need a media converter.
You will need a media converter if all of your available device ports are copper, but your cables are fiber.

Are Media Converters Messy?
No. Media converters are not messy at all. Many people think that media converters will create clutter at their desk space, and the last thing busy people need is clutter. However, that is not the case. Simply have the media conversion take place behind the walls. This way, not only can optical interfaces be protected from stomping feet and rolling office chairs, this will create no clutter whatsoever. This is the safest and most efficient area-to-area media converters. Only the copper Ethernet will be exposed.

How Do I Install My New Media Converter?
If you cannot install your media converter behind a wall plate, here is how you can connect your media converter in your workspace.
1.Locate the RJ-45 port on you media converter.
2.Plug the copper cable into the RJ-45 port.
3.Locate the fiber optic port on you media converter.
4.Plug the fiber cable into the fiber optic port.
5.Connect one end of the power supply into the media converter.
6.Plug the other end of the power supply into the closest electrical socket.

So, if you need a media converter, simply hop on the online to sites such as www.Garrett.com, www.LanBasics.com, or B and B Electronics at www.bb-elec.com. If you have any questions, simply speak with one of their customer service representatives. Media converters are inexpensive and a reliable way to step into the future of communication technology.

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