iConverter Campus Star Ethernet Application

This application example illustrates a 10/100 Ethernet Enterprise network with a star topology that provides multiple fiber links to remote buildings.

At the Administration Building in the upper left, two copper UTP links from a core switch are converted to two fiber links via an iConverter 19-Module Chassis of 10/100M2 media converter modules. Up to 19 managed fiber links can be distributed from the high-density chassis. Network management is enabled by an iConverter Network Management Module (NMM2) installed in the chassis. A Network Management Station (NMS) connected to the NMM2 provides comprehensive trouble-shooting, performance monitoring and remote hardware configuration.

The fiber links distributed from the 19-Module Chassis can be dual or single fiber, single mode or multi-mode, and can support 100Mbps or Gigabit speeds. Note that iConverter GX/TM2 10/100/1000 media converters can be used in a similar fashion for Gigabit networks.

The fiber links from the Administration Building run to remote campus buildings, where the fiber at each location is converted back to copper and distributed to end users at different departments.

At Building A in the upper right, a 100Mbps fiber link connects to an iConverter 10/100M2 media converter with integrated management (also known as a Network Interface Device, or NID). The 10/100M2 is installed in an iConverter 2-Module Chassis with an iConverter 4Tx VT 4-port switch module. This chassis configuration functions as a managed switch with a fiber uplink and five managed 10/100 UTP ports that connect to multiple workstations and/or department switches.

At Building B, the other fiber link is connected to a standalone iConverter 10/100M2 with integrated management that provides media conversion and connectivity to a switch in the building.

Summary

This application diagram illustrates how to distribute multiple fiber links and connect UTP network equipment at different locations on the campus, and manage the equipment from a central location. iConverter Network Interface Devices and media converter modules provide cost-effective fiber connectivity that supports advanced features including VLAN technology , port access control, bandwidth control and QoS prioritization for real-time voice/data/video over Ethernet.

iConverter NIDs can be managed through IP protocols (SNMPv1, SNMPv2c, SNMPv3, Telnet). SMNPv3 strengthens secure access to devices by a combination of authenticating and encrypting packets over the network. The iConverter management system also supports an IP-less management protocol, preventing unauthorized access to the IP. Management VLAN can also be defined to separate management traffic from the data traffic.

The iConverter management system provides the ability to remotely monitor network status, configure hardware parameters, generate statistic reports and receive a variety of user-specified fault alarms. This comprehensive management capability enables the remote configuration of a variety of port parameters. Remote configuration and fault monitoring reduces trips to network equipment, improving network reliability and reducing operating costs.