Managed Serial RS-232 to Fiber Media Converter

The iConverter RS232 is a managed serial RS-232 to fiber converter that transmits serial protocol over fiber media. The RS232 media converters operate in pairs, extending serial distances over fiber up to 120km.

The RS232 is available with a single-mode dual fiber, multimode dual fiber or single-mode single-fiber transceiver. The serial port interface is available with either a DB-9 female connector or terminal block connector for field wiring.

The RS232 automatically detects the signal data rate of the connected serial device, ranging from 110 bps to 921,600 bps. It also automatically adjusts to changes in the connected device’s data rate during operation without reconfiguration or interruption of service.

Connection to DTE or DCE devices are configured by an easily accessible DIP-switch on the front-panel of the module. This feature eliminates the need to use a null-modem cable when connecting two serial devices of the same type.

A built-in Fiber Loopback DIP-switch provides easy validation of the entire fiber segment without interrupting fiber operations.

The RS232 plug-in module can be used in managed or unmanaged applications. Management is accomplished by installing an iConverter Management Module (NMM2) or Network Interface Device (NID) in the same chassis. The management module provides access to all the advanced features available on the module.

The management software can override the physical DIP-switch settings such as DTE or DCE selection and Fiber Loopback test. Some of the real-time RS232 parameters that can be monitored include power, link, data activity status, module type and model, hardware and software revisions, serial numbers and a user-defined identifier.

The hot-swappable plug-in module can be mounted in a high-density 19 or 5-Module chassis with redundant AC and DC power supplies. It can also be mounted in a 2-Module or in a 1-Module chassis with AC or DC power input.

The iConverter Multi-Service Platform consists of Network Interface Devices, T1/E1 multiplexers, CWDM/DWDM multiplexers and managed media converters that combine to deliver Carrier Ethernet and TDM services over fiber or CWDM/DWDM wavelengths. This flexible architecture supports a wide variety of configurations for scalable and reliable fiber connectivity in Service Provider and Enterprise networks.