Intellinet Network Solutions Fast Ethernet WDM (RX1550/TX1310) Bi-Directional Single-Mode, RJ45 to SC, 12.4 miles (20 km) Media Converter

The Intellinet Network Solutions Fast Ethernet WDM Bi-Directional Single-Mode Media Converter is a high-performance, cost-saving solution designed to extend your 10/100 Mbps networks over long distances with ease. Using advanced Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) technology, this device enables two data streams to travel in opposite directions on a single fiber strand by pairing TX1310 nm and RX1550 nm wavelengths. With an RJ45 Ethernet port for copper connections and an SC fiber port, it bridges copper and fiber networks seamlessly, delivering reliable, scalable connectivity for offices, data centers, campuses, and remote sites. Built for rugged reliability and simple deployment, this media converter helps you maximize existing fiber assets while expanding network reach to 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) without costly fiber spurs or complex configurations.

• Bi-directional WDM over a single fiber: RX1550 nm and TX1310 nm wavelengths enable two-way Fast Ethernet traffic on one fiber strand, reducing fiber sprawl and maintenance while doubling your reach without laying new fiber.
• Copper-to-fiber bridge for 10/100 Mbps: An RJ45 copper port supports 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, while a dedicated SC fiber interface carries the counterpart, delivering a dependable copper-to-fiber conversion for legacy devices or remote offices.
• Long-reach Single-Mode fiber connection: Extend networks up to 20 km (12.4 miles) on standard single-mode fiber, enabling remote campuses, data centers, and inter-building links with minimal signal loss.
• Plug-and-play, auto-negotiation: Designed for easy deployment with automatic sensing of Ethernet speeds, duplex settings, and fiber link status, reducing setup time and the need for configuration.
• Rugged, compact design with clear indicators: Durable enclosure suited for data centers, network closets, and field deployments; LED indicators provide immediate status for Power, Link/Activity, and Fiber activity for quick troubleshooting.

Technical Details of Intellinet Network Solutions Fast Ethernet WDM Bi-Directional Single-Mode Media Converter

• Wavelengths: TX1310 nm (transmit) and RX1550 nm (receive) for bi-directional transmission on a single fiber strand.
• Fiber type: Single-Mode optical fiber, designed for long-distance deployments with minimal attenuation.
• Fiber connectors: SC optic port for reliable, widely used fiber connectivity.
• Copper interface: RJ45 port supporting 10/100 Mbps Ethernet with auto-sensing capabilities.
• Data rate: Fast Ethernet speeds of 10/100 Mbps in the copper domain with corresponding fiber-side bandwidth.
• Distance: Up to 20 km (12.4 miles) on standard single-mode fiber, enabling expansive network topologies.
• Bi-directional operation: True bi-directional WDM operation allows simultaneous upstream and downstream transmission over one fiber strand.
• Power requirements: External power supply required (not typically included); designed for reliable operation in 24/48V or standard AC setups depending on region.
• Enclosure and installation: Compact, durable housing suitable for desktop use or easy integration into network cabinets and closets; no complex configuration necessary.

Whether you’re expanding a campus network, linking buildings in a data center, or extending a distance between a backbone switch and remote access devices, this media converter delivers dependable performance with minimal overhead. The combination of a copper RJ45 port and a fiber SC port means you can leverage existing copper devices while connecting them to a distant fiber network, maximizing your current investments. The bi-directional WDM approach reduces the number of fiber strands required, lowering installation costs and simplifying maintenance. This is particularly valuable in environments where fiber availability is limited or where new fiber laying is impractical due to budget, time, or logistical constraints.

In addition to its technical capabilities, the device is designed with operational practicality in mind. The plug-and-play architecture means you can deploy the converter without complex setup or software alignment. LED indicators provide immediate visibility into power status, copper link status, fiber link status, and data activity, enabling quick fault isolation and faster mean time to repair (MTTR). The robust construction helps it withstand the rigors of data center floors, network closets, and field deployments, while its sleek form factor makes it easy to position in tight spaces or mount alongside other network devices.

For IT teams and network engineers, this media converter offers a clear path to incremental network growth. Rather than committing to a full fiber upgrade or rebuilding infrastructure, you can leverage WDM technology to use a single fiber channel for multiple data streams. This unlocks new possibilities for inter-building connections, remote office links, and disaster recovery architectures, all while preserving your existing copper devices at the edge. The result is a scalable, future-ready solution that protects your investment and accelerates project timelines.

From a security and reliability perspective, the unit provides a stable bridge between copper and fiber networks, reducing potential bottlenecks in metropolitan-area networks and campus environments. Its long-range capability makes it suitable for backhaul applications, where fiber from a central spine must reach distant access switches, IP cameras, wireless access points, or other network endpoints. Proper installation will ensure minimal latency and robust uptime, which is essential for business-critical applications and real-time communications.

how to install Intellinet Network Solutions Fast Ethernet WDM Bi-Directional Single-Mode Media Converter

• Power down the devices you plan to connect and verify that you have a suitable external power supply ready for the converter.
• Connect the Ethernet-enabled device (switch, router, or hub) to the RJ45 copper port on the media converter using a standard Ethernet cable.
• Attach the SC fiber optic cable to the SC port on the converter, ensuring it matches the fiber type (single-mode) and the correct wavelengths aligned with RX1550/TX1310 specifications.
• Secure the fiber and copper connections, then apply power to the converter. If mounting in a rack or cabinet, place it in a well-ventilated area to maintain optimal temperature.
• Power on the connected devices and observe the LED indicators. A healthy Link/Activity LED on the copper side and a corresponding fiber link LED indicate proper operation. If there is no link, re-check connections and ensure the fiber is clean and properly seated.

Frequently asked questions

• What is a WDM media converter? A WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) media converter uses specific wavelengths (in this case TX1310 nm and RX1550 nm) to carry two data streams in opposite directions over a single fiber strand, enabling copper-to-fiber connectivity with extended reach.
• What distances can I expect with this device? It supports up to 20 km (12.4 miles) on single-mode fiber, making it suitable for inter-building links and campus-wide connections.
• Do I need special fiber types or connectors? Yes, you should use standard single-mode fiber with SC connectors to match the device’s fiber interface.
• Do I need to configure the converter? No configuration is typically required. It features auto-negotiation on the copper side and automatic link establishment on the fiber side for plug-and-play operation.
• Can this device support Gigabit Ethernet? This specific model is designed for Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) over copper, paired with the corresponding fiber link. For Gigabit Ethernet, a different media converter would be required that supports 1000 Mbps over copper and fiber.
• Is external power required? Yes, an external power supply is required for operation; ensure you have the correct power adapter for your region.