Fiber-Optic Modems

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Tips & Advice to help you make your decision on Fiber-Optic Modems

Available in both single and multi-channel formats, fiber-optic modems can simultaneously convert electrical communication data signals into optic signals and vice versa. Internal fiber-optic modems are printed circuit boards where chips and other electronic elements are located. These boards are installed in computers. External fiber-optic modems are free-standing units that are attached to other electronic devices via ports.

One of the benefits of replacing wire-based modems with fiber-optic modems is that this allows for the replacement of co-axial communication cable with more efficient and lighter weight fiber-optic cable. Fiber-optic cable provides increased bandwidth, reduction in repeater requirements, reduction in electro-magnetic interference, increased security, and overall cost reduction. Data, voice, and video can travel for longer distances with an increase in quality and security. These benefits have contributed to the rapid worldwide expansion of fiber-optic systems.

Fiber-optic modems use single-mode or multi-mode fiber. Single-mode fiber is typically utilized for long distance transmission of ten miles or more at a high rate of speed. Multi-mode fiber is utilized for transmission of date over shorter distances of ten miles or less where high speed transmission is not required. Proper evaluation of the needs and goals of your communication system is necessary to determine if fiber-optic networking is right for you.

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Purchasing a Fiber Optic Modem

When purchasing a fiber optic modem, your choices are endless. Many features remain the same from one brand to another, but the technicalities change. You’ll need to purchase the modem that will best suit your needs without compromising on any aspect. You can choose based on the range of communications you’ll need as well as speed and design.

Speed

If you are looking for a multi interface fiber optic modem, your range of choices is still wide. If speed is a factor in your decision process then you’ll want to purchase a product that can reach the speeds necessary to keep your connection moving smoothly. The Hi-Speed' Multi-Interface Fiber Modem - TC1710 can reach 10mbps at a range of 80km. This product was created for speed, and works best as a link device for various networks going to a central modem. It’s built in power redundancy and loopback capabilities give you even more reason to purchase this feature rich modem.

Communication

If you are looking for a modem that is able to communicate well with other networks, you’ll want to narrow your search down to a few options. Self Healing Ring communication and Bus/String offer communications possibilities with many different controls. This will allow your modem to link within SCADA, security networks, etc. These technologies feature fast Async data rates, Single or Multimode, and compatibility with a variety of other modems.

Distance

Depending on what your fiber optic modem needs will be, distance between your modem and other connecting equipment might be important. You’ll want a modem that reaches the farthest distances while remaining useful and efficient. The FOM-T1 T1 Fiber Modem allows up to an 89 foot range. This is paramount if the modem is becoming a part of an existing network across a campus, for example.

Cables

When purchasing a fiber optic modem you’ll also need to purchase compatible cables. These can be found at any electronics store, though you may find discount specialty stores online that can offer a better deal. You may want to consider patch cables.

Fiber optic modems are the part of a technological advancement to keep communication flowing freely. These modems can be used to connect an existing network, or help to create a new one. As a confusing piece of equipment, be sure to know what you’ll need and direct specs of the network you hope to create or add to. Luckily, fiber optic modems are easy to find, so your job is to compare before buying the first one you see.