Media Converters

How Do Media Converters Work?

Media converters change the physical interface between network connections without altering the data being transmitted. They have ports that receive a signal through one transmission medium and output an equivalent signal through another medium. For example, a 1000BASE-T to 1000BASE-SX media converter changes a copper Ethernet connection to a fiber optic connection.

Media converters handle physical layer conversions only. The data link, network, transport and application layers remain unchanged. This allows different cabling technologies to interconnect seamlessly. Common conversions include copper to fiber, fiber to copper, multi-mode fiber to single-mode fiber and more.

Extending Network Reach

A major benefit of media converters is expanding network coverage over longer distances. Fiber optic cabling has a much higher bandwidth and can transmit signals over longer runs than copper. Converting existing Ethernet copper networking to fiber optic increases the potential reach significantly.

Improving Performance

Converting to fiber optic cabling also improves network bandwidth and reliability. Fiber is less susceptible to electromagnetic interference, which degrades signals over copper cables. It can carry data at much higher speeds - from 1Gbps up to 100Gbps.

This delivers faster connectivity between critical networking devices like servers, storage and switches. Using media converters to fiber-enable more of the network improves overall data transfer speeds and throughput significantly. Network congestion and latency are reduced as well.

Browse Our Selection

Servers Fit offers a wide selection of top-brand media converters from manufacturers like Cisco, Allied Telesis, TP-Link and more. Browse single-mode and multi-mode fiber optic converters, gigabit and fast Ethernet models, and equipment suitable for different network switch, router, and server interconnect requirements.

Contact us today to discuss your specific needs.