Media Converters: Everything you need to know
What are Media Converters and when to use them
A Media Converter is commonly understood to be a networking device that seamlessly transforms data signals from one physical medium (like copper cabling) to another (like fiber optic cabling). While connecting copper to fiber is the most common application, Fiber Media Converters also enable users to join two multimode networks or link multimode to single mode for longer data transmission distances. Other Media Converters enable seamless communication between networks that use different protocols, speeds, or wavelengths.
By acting as a bridge between different types of network connections, Media Converters enable compatibility and extend network capabilities for enhanced performance. In short, Media Converters are the perfect solution to convert and extend multiple types of data signals throughout your network.
Perle Systems designs and manufactures the most extensive Media Converter offering in the world. Use the quick links below to browse our product selections, or scroll down to learn more about the many types of media converters, how they work, what they are used for, and why you need them.
What Media Converter do I need? Talk to an ExpertApplications of Media Converters
Copper to Fiber
Connect 10Mbps, 100Mbps, 1G, 2.5G or 10G Ethernet links over multimode or single mode fiber using SFP, Dual Fiber SC/ST/LC or Single Fiber SC/ST connections.
Fiber to Fiber
Link multimode to single mode or connect two multimode networks using SFP, Dual Fiber SC/ST/LC or Single Fiber SC/ST connections.
Ethernet Extenders
Extend 10Mbps, 100Mbps or 1G Ethernet links over Coax or any 2-wire 24 AWG twisted pair
Other Protocols to Fiber
Protocol transparent (Ethernet, Fibre Channel, ATM/SONET OC-X, SDH STM-X, FDDI, Video, etc…) links over multimode or single mode fiber using SFPs that support speeds up to 4.25 Gbps.
PoE Media Converters
Connect copper to fiber while providing up to 100 Watts of PoE power to devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones and wireless access points.
Serial to Ethernet
Connect any device with RS232, RS422 or RS485 serial ports over 10Mbps, 100Mbps or 1G Ethernet for access to network server applications.
Serial to Fiber
Transparently connect RS232, RS422 and RS485 devices to fiber optic cable.
RS232 to RS485
Bi-directionally convert RS232 interface signals to the RS485 2/4-wire and RS422 standard.
I/O Extension
Transmit digital, analog, pulse, relay or sensor input signals to a remote output peer over an IP/ Ethernet network.
Trusted by our Global Customers
Why Choose a Perle Fiber Media Converter?
Robust Media Converter
Choose a Media Converter that is made from certified components that can withstand the harshest environments and operating temperature ranges of -40°F to 167°F (-40°C to 75°C).
Cisco Compatible Media Converter
Perle Media Converters are compatible with Cisco switches and routers. As a key component in the reliability and stability of your network, you need dependable Media Converters with seamless interoperability.
Reliable Media Converter
Most Media Converter manufacturers do not publish (or make very difficult to find) their MTBF’s. Perle is proud to publish the high MTBF rates on the Hardware Specs for each product. In addition, we provide the best-in-class Warranty.
Secure Media Converter
Perle Secure Media Converters support all AAA security services used in corporate networks, including TACACS+, RADIUS, LDAP, Kerberos, NIS and RSA. And, to further protect ID’s and passwords from someone ‘snooping’ on the network, SSH, SNMPv3, Telnet and HTTPS secure management sessions are supported.
Technical Support
If you need a technical consultation (by phone or email) to help you choose the best Media Converter for your application, Perle is easy to reach and has technical engineers you can talk to. We have sales and technical support staff around the globe to support you when you need it.
Trust
Perle has been providing reliable device connectivity since 1976. That’s over 40 years of experience that businesses around the globe have come to trust to deliver superior connectivity technology for mission-critical applications. If network uptime is vitally important to your success, choose quality products from Perle.
The quality of Fiber Media Converter that you choose will affect the uptime of your network. Choose quality products. Choose Perle.
