Types of Media Converters
Copper-to-FibER Media Converters
Copper-to-fiber media converters enable connections of copper-based Ethernet equipment over a fiber optic link. This extends links over greater distances with fiber optic cable, protects data from noise and interference, and future-proofs a network with
additional bandwidth capacity.
Discover our wide selection of copper-to-fiber media converters.
FibER-to-FibER Media Converters
Fiber-to-fiber media converters connect different fiber-optic networks and support conversion from one wavelength to another. They provide connectivity between single-mode and multimode fiber, as well as between dual and single fibre.
Discover our fibre-to-fibre media converters.
PoE Media Converters
Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) media converters provide reliable and cost-effective fiber distance extension to PoE-powered devices. PoE media converters can power devices like IP phones, videoconferencing equipment, IP cameras and Wi-Fi devices over copper
UTP cabling.
Learn more about our vast selection of PoE media converters.
Stand-Alone vs. Chassis-Based Media Converters
Stand-alone media converters are compact and can be AC or DC powered. They are commonly used to convert one copper link to fibre in point-to-point installs. These converters are easy to deploy and offer a range of useful functionality for your network,
such as auto-MDI/MDIX, link fault pass through and more.
Chassis-based media converters are used in high-density locations such as a data center or equipment room. They mount in racks alongside network switches, enabling the conversion of copper ports on legacy switches to fiber.
Managed vs. Unmanaged Media Converters
Managed media converters give network administrators complete control of data, bandwidth, and traffic. This lets admins manage and troubleshoot a network remotely and securely to achieve and maintain optimal performance and reliability. Thus, these converters
are most suitable for environments requiring a medium- to large-scale deployment of media converters.
Shop our selection of managed media converters now.
Unmanaged media converters are "plug-and-play" converters which are easy to install and troubleshoot. Unlike managed converters, these do not provide the same level of monitoring, fault detection, and configuration.
Commercial vs. Industrial Media Converters
Commercial media converters are designed for typical office and data center environments where ambient temperature is controlled. These converters provide a cost-effective way to extend the distance of your network and improve the life of copper-based
equipment. They are perfect for commercial applications that do not deal with extreme environmental issues.
Industrial media converters convert data between twisted-pair cabling and multimode or single-mode fiber optic cabling, extending the distance of a network. They are able to withstand extreme temperatures (-40°C to 75°C) and harsh conditions,
feature redundant power design and are designed for high shock and vibration locations. This makes them a perfect fit for industrial networks. Industrial media converters are commonly used in applications such as building automation, oil and gas drilling and mining.
Learn more about our commercial media converters and industrial media converters.