Cisco 100BASE-FX SFP Fast Ethernet Interface Converter

The Cisco 100BASE-FX SFP Fast Ethernet Interface Converter is a high-quality networking solution designed to bridge copper Ethernet cables with fiber optic networks. This reliable media converter is ideal for businesses that want to extend their existing 100 Mbps infrastructure without the cost and disruption of a full switch upgrade. Built for performance and reliability, it easily integrates into data centers, branch offices, and multi-building deployments, delivering seamless connectivity between 100BASE-TX copper and 100BASE-FX fiber. The converter emphasizes plug-and-play simplicity—no complex configuration required—while offering the essential features to support stable, long-distance links and improved network scalability. By leveraging the flexibility of an SFP (small form-factor pluggable) interface, it accommodates a range of fiber types and distances, enabling organizations to choose the appropriate fiber solution for their specific layout and application needs.

• Dual-port versatility: one 10/100BASE-TX RJ-45 copper port and one 100BASE-FX SFP fiber port provide a straightforward copper-to-fiber bridge, letting you extend traditional Ethernet links across buildings or campuses without replacing existing infrastructure.
• Unmanaged, plug-and-play operation: designed for quick deployment with no required management or IP addressing. Simply connect power, insert an appropriate SFP module, and your link comes to life with auto-negotiation and auto MDI/MDI-X support on the Ethernet side.
• Fiber flexibility and distance optimization: the SFP slot accommodates a 100BASE-FX transceiver, enabling transmission over fiber. Distance depends on the chosen SFP module and fiber type, with typical ranges spanning from hundreds of meters to several kilometers, making it suitable for campus-wide or multi-building connectivity.
• Reliability and rugged design: built with a compact, solid enclosure and fans-free operation to ensure silent, durable performance in office, data-center, or lab environments. The device is designed to withstand 24/7 operation while maintaining stable link integrity.
• Easy integration with Cisco ecosystems: engineered to complement Cisco network architectures and compatible with a broad spectrum of network equipment that supports 100BASE-FX SFP modules, helping preserve existing investments while expanding network reach.

Technical Details of Cisco 100BASE-FX SFP Fast Ethernet Interface Converter

• Interfaces: 1 x 10/100BASE-TX RJ-45 copper port, 1 x SFP slot for 100BASE-FX fiber
• Data rate: Up to 100 Mbps Ethernet transmission (full- or half-duplex on the copper port, depending on SFP and fiber configuration)
• Media support: copper (RJ-45) and fiber (SFP module for 100BASE-FX)
• Operation: unmanaged, plug-and-play; no IP configuration required
• Power: external DC power input (typical ranges align with standard 5–12 V supplies); energy-efficient, fanless design for quiet operation
• LED indicators: status indicators for power, link/activity on copper, and fiber link status to simplify diagnostics
• Form factor: compact, durable enclosure suitable for desktop placement or rack/wall-mounting with compatible brackets
• Environment: designed for reliable performance in typical office, data-center, or lab environments; standard operating conditions and protections against common electrical variances
• Compatibility: optimized for Cisco networking environments and broadly compatible with 100BASE-FX SFP transceivers; check SFP compatibility with your fiber type (MMF/SMF) and distance requirements

how to install Cisco 100BASE-FX SFP Fast Ethernet Interface Converter

• Power down the device you are connecting to (switch, router, or hub) if you prefer recommended best practices during initial setup.
• Insert an appropriate 100BASE-FX SFP transceiver into the SFP slot of the converter. Ensure the module clicks securely into place.
• Connect the RJ-45 Ethernet cable from your 100BASE-TX network device to the copper port on the converter. Use a straight-through Ethernet cable for most networks unless your environment specifies crossover wiring.
• Connect your fiber optic cable to the SFP transceiver, matching connector types (for example SC or LC) and ensuring the fiber type (MMF or SMF) aligns with the SFP module’s specifications and your link distance.
• Apply power to the converter and verify the LED indicators. A steady link LED on the copper port and the fiber port typically indicates a healthy connection; blinking LEDs usually denote activity, while off LEDs suggest no link or a need to troubleshoot fiber alignment or transceiver compatibility.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the Cisco 100BASE-FX SFP Fast Ethernet Interface Converter?

  The device is a media converter that bridges a copper 100BASE-TX Ethernet link to a fiber optic 100BASE-FX link using an SFP transceiver. It’s designed for environments where you need to extend legacy copper networks over fiber without replacing existing equipment, delivering a simple, cost-effective means to increase distance and flexibility.

• Do I need any configuration to use it?

  No. This converter is unmanaged and plug-and-play. After installing a compatible SFP module and connecting cables, the device typically operates automatically with auto-negotiation on the copper side and a stable fiber link, with no management interface required.

• What determines the distance I can reach over fiber?

  Distance is primarily determined by the SFP transceiver you install and the fiber type. 100BASE-FX transceivers on MMF generally support shorter distances (hundreds of meters to a few kilometers), while SMF configurations can extend those ranges further depending on the specific SFP module’s capabilities and the fiber quality. Always select an SFP module rated for your required distance.

• Is this converter compatible with Cisco devices?

  Yes, it is designed to integrate with Cisco networking environments and is compatible with devices that support 100BASE-FX SFP modules. It also works with other manufacturers’ equipment that accommodates standard 100BASE-FX transceivers, making it a flexible choice for mixed-brand networks.

• What are common use cases for this converter?

  Typical scenarios include extending a campus Ethernet backbone to a new building, linking a data center rack to a remote office over fiber, or upgrading a legacy copper link to fiber to improve interference resistance and security while preserving existing copper-based devices at the edge.