StarTech.com USB to Fiber Optic Converter — 1000Base-SX SC, USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter, 550m MM, Windows / Mac / Linux

The StarTech.com USB to Fiber Optic Converter is a powerful bridge that lets you connect laptops and tablets to a high-speed fiber network with confidence. This USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet adapter is engineered for secure, reliable performance across diverse operating systems, making it ideal for mixed-OS environments in offices, classrooms, labs, and remote work setups. With a 1000Base-SX fiber interface and an SC connector, you can extend your network reach over multimode fiber up to 550 meters, converting simple USB access into a full-featured fiber-enabled Ethernet link. Whether you’re upgrading an aging wired setup, landing a dedicated fiber link in a conference room, or provisioning a mobile workstation for field use, this converter delivers consistent throughput, plug-and-play simplicity, and broad compatibility.

• High-speed USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet — experience up to 1 Gbps Ethernet performance over fiber using the 1000Base-SX standard, enabling fast file transfers, smooth video conferencing, and responsive remote access for bandwidth-intensive applications.
• 1000Base-SX fiber with SC connector — features a robust SC fiber optic port designed for reliable, standards-based fiber connections to your fiber switches, patch panels, or media converters, ensuring interoperability with existing infrastructure.
• Long-reach multimode fiber — supports up to 550 meters on multimode fiber, giving you flexible placement options in offices, classrooms, and data center edge deployments without needing to upgrade switches.
• Cross-platform compatibility — works with Windows, macOS, and Linux, enabling seamless integration into diverse environments and simplifying deployment in mixed-OS networks.
• Compact, portable, and easy to deploy — a compact, lightweight adapter that travels well with your laptop or tablet and offers straightforward setup with minimal configuration for quick, reliable connectivity.

Technical Details of StarTech.com USB to Fiber Optic Converter

• Product type: USB to fiber optic converter / USB to Gigabit Ethernet network adapter
• Fiber interface: 1 x 1000Base-SX SC fiber port
• USB interface: USB 3.0 Type-A host connection
• Network speed: 1 Gbps Ethernet (Gigabit)
• Fiber reach (MMF): Up to 550 meters
• Fiber type: Multimode fiber
• Operating systems: Windows, macOS, Linux
• Compatibility: Compatible with standard 1000Base-SX fiber networks and SC connectors
• Form factor: External USB to fiber converter with single fiber port

How to install StarTech.com USB to Fiber Optic Converter

• Step 1 — Connect the USB link: Plug the USB 3.0 cable from the converter into an available USB port on your computer.
• Step 2 — attach fiber cable: Connect a compatible 1000Base-SX multimode fiber patch cable to the SC fiber port on the converter. Ensure the other end is connected to a compatible fiber switch, patch panel, or media converter.
• Step 3 — power and recognition: Power on the connected devices if required. Your computer should recognize a new network interface. In most Windows and macOS environments, the adapter will install automatically or prompt you to install drivers from StarTech if needed.
• Step 4 — install drivers (if prompted): For Windows, macOS, or Linux, follow on-screen prompts to install any available drivers or configuration utilities from StarTech’s website. In many cases, the device is plug-and-play and will function without additional driver installation.
• Step 5 — test connectivity: Open your network settings and verify a valid IP address is assigned. Run a quick test such as a ping to a known server or a local network device to confirm the link is up and data can travel through the fiber path.

Frequently asked questions

• What networks does this USB to fiber converter support? It supports 1000Base-SX fiber networks with an SC connector, enabling Gigabit Ethernet connectivity over multimode fiber.
• What operating systems are supported? The adapter is designed to work with Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it suitable for mixed-OS environments.
• Do I need an external power supply? This device is typically powered via the USB connection to your computer, eliminating the need for an external power adapter in most setups.
• What is the maximum fiber distance? The maximum reach on multimode fiber is up to 550 meters, depending on fiber type and network hardware.
• Are fiber cables included? Fiber patch cables are not always included; you will need a compatible 1000Base-SX multimode fiber patch cable with SC connectors to complete the link.
• Can this adapter be used with a wired Ethernet switch? Yes, you can connect the SC fiber port to a fiber switch, media converter, or patch panel to integrate the USB host into a broader network infrastructure.