Ethernet-to-Fiber Adapter

Ethernet-to-fiber adapters can bridge networks over long distances.

Ethernet-to-fiber adapters do what their name implies: connect a computer network using an Ethernet connection to a computer network that uses a fiber optic connection. Fiber optic networks offer advantages over a traditional Ethernet network.

Converter

Fiber optics feature up to 10 gigabits of bandwidth.

Ethernet-to-fiber adapters feature a single Ethernet port and two fiber optic connections. There are two types of connections: ST, which looks like a fancier cable jack, and SC, which has a square-shaped jack. The converter changes the connection type, allowing networks that use both connection types to communicate.

Fiber Bandwidth

Fiber optic networks can be used to connect computer networks over wide ranges.

Fiber optics feature up to 10 gigabits of bandwidth. That may seem like a lot when home networks operate efficiently on 100 to 1000 megabits, but the extra bandwidth pays off when connecting dozens or more computers to the same network.

Fiber Range

Fiber optic networks can be used to connect computer networks over ranges as large as 70 kilometers, while traditional Ethernet has a range of two kilometers. Home networks are not as spread out, but commercial broadband and business networks may have to connect multiple buildings together that are a few kilometers apart. College campuses can also use fiber optic networks to connect the entire campus to a single network.

References

• Sima S. Enterprises: About Ethernet to Fiber Optic Converters
• Cisco: Information onn Ethernet to Fiber Optic Conversion
• 10gea.org: About Optical Fiber and 10 Gigabit Ethernet
• A2Z Cables: About Cable Ranges