Networking solutions advance at an unbelievably fast rate with new and
faster types of cables being released frequently. If you have a network
that utilizes the conventional type of Ethernet cables and another
network that uses the faster and more reliable fiber optic cables, it
is possible and advisable to connect them together using a special kind
of fiber optic Ethernet converter.
To allow multiple networks that are using different kinds of cables to communicate with each other, a fiber optic Ethernet converter
connects an Ethernet cable at one end into a fiber optic cable at the
other end. Also, it can be used within the same network if multiple
computers are using different technologies or not all of them have the
capability to use fiber optic cables.
Fiber optic cables are
highly resistant to interference from electronic devices, wireless
networks, or mobile phones, unlike the more unpredictable traditional
Ethernet cables which can frequently lose their signal if exposed to
certain types of equipment. This is the main reason why it is a wise
decision to convert Ethernet cables to fiber optic cables, as it
provides a faster signal than what Ethernet is capable of sending or
receiving.
Some fiber optic converters will work with any type
of Ethernet cable while others only have ports of either the 100
Megabit or the 10 Gigabit speed Ethernet cables. The maximum speed that
data is able to be transferred at on the faster type of cable will
slightly be lowered when a converter is attached between two different
types of cables. Varied brands and models of converters like Cisco and
HP will have different speed caps.
Ethernet converters are
available in different sizes. Some are especially designed for the size
of your home or office network. Most converters are made of small
plastic units that are intended to change a single Ethernet cable to a
single fiber optic cable. Larger converters are available also. They
have the capability to convert dozens of cables at once and are mounted
directly onto metal racks. Just make sure these are placed in a secured
network room
Fiber optic converters should be placed in a secure
location so that they cannot be disturbed by people or machinery. If
the converter is removed or broken, each computer connected to the
fiber optic cable would lose its internet connection. Extra care should
be given to these network solutions. Furthermore, it is important to
keep converters in controlled temperature rooms that never get too hot
or too cold because they contain special materials that only work
properly in specific temperature ranges.
Fiber optic cables that
continue to work after being converted from an Ethernet cable has a
range that is measured in miles. Thus, very large companies with huge
networks or internet service providers take advantage of Ethernet
converters. And, fiber optics can greatly extend serial communication
reach, and the required adapters and converters are inexpensive,
reliable, and easily available.
Good to know: When fiber optics
converters are used in an Ethernet-based system, serial data
communication is not limited to distance anymore. Ethernet converters
can easily handle 10BaseT 100BaseT 1000BaseT speeds and
gigabit-capable converters are available as well. Take advantage of
this advanced networking technology now.
