Firewire concentrators are used for networking with firewire. While firewire is most often used for connecting devices to a single computer, it can also be used in a simple, non-routable network. Operating systems that support networking over firewire include Mac OS X, Linux and some versions of Windows.

Computers connected to each other with firewire can generally transfer data at a rate that is faster than Ethernet. Firewire concentrators are used to add more than two computers to the network. Concentrators can also be used to connect firewire devices to an Ethernet network. When choosing firewire network concentrators consider the following:

1. Look for a firewire concentrators provider that offers a range of options that allow you to achieve your networking goals.

2. Choose the right cable to keep the connection reliable.

3. Install high-quality adapters to computers and laptops that allow them to take advantage of firewire capabilities.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check out the selection from a firewire concentrators provider

Work with providers of innovative firewire concentrators and related products. Their devices can help you expand your firewire networking capabilities.

I recommend: USBFireWire carries many NewNex products, including firewire repeaters, that allow connections to devices up to 100 meters away using Cat 5 cable and transceivers. It's compatible with all firewire devices and connects at speeds up to 100 Mbps. FireWire Depot offers the NewNex FireNEX-CAT5 400 Mbps Repeater. It can send signals across Cat5e cable at a rate of 400 Mbps to devices up to 246 feet away and is compatible with all firewire devices. Syncrotech, a Division of Synchronized Technologies, offers a wide selection of firewire concentrators.

Find firewire concentrators cables

The right cabling is crucial to a reliable and fast firewire network. Check the distance limitations of the concentrator before purchasing cable.

I recommend: Newegg and TigerDirect offer a wide selection of cables, including the Zip-Linq retractable firewire cable. For a firewire concentrators list of cable requirements, check out the FireWire Repeater Comparison from USBFireWire that includes distances and cable requirements for the firewire concentrators it provides.

Get adapters to use with firewire network concentrators

When setting up the firewire network, you may need to install an adapter on your computer to add a firewire port. Firewire adapters are available for PCs and laptops. They usually attach to a PC's PCI slot or a laptop's cardbus adapter.

I recommend: Get a firewire notebook adapter from Belkin that works in a notebook's cardbus slot and contains 3 firewire ports. CDW offers a wide variety of adapters with two or three ports for PCs and laptops.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check the return and warranty policies when choosing a firewire concentrators provider, as well as for adapters, cable and related equipment. If you decide to return the product, you may incur shipping and restocking charges.