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Black Box MED100A DIN Rail RS-232/RS-485 to Fiber Driver - 1 ST Port - Multi-mode - 4 km - DC - Rail-mountable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
The MED100A provides precise conversion between RS-232/RS-485 serial interfaces and optical fiber, utilizing multi-mode fiber technology to achieve a maximum supported distance of 4 kilometers (2.49 miles). This distance capability is essential for applications that span large facilities or outdoor installations, where fiber optic cabling offers superior noise immunity and signal integrity compared to traditional copper lines.
With a total of two ports, the device includes one duplex ST port for fiber connectivity, ensuring full-duplex communication for bidirectional data flow. It does not include network (RJ-45), DVI, USB, or management ports, focusing solely on serial-to-fiber conversion. The DC power input allows for flexible integration with various power supplies, commonly used in industrial settings.
Key Product Advantages
The MED100A excels in extending serial communications over long distances with high reliability, leveraging fiber optic technology to eliminate electromagnetic interference and ground loop issues common in industrial environments. Its rail-mountable design simplifies deployment in space-constrained installations, such as control cabinets or machinery panels, without requiring additional mounting hardware.
Long-Distance Serial Connectivity
Supports serial data transmission up to 4 kilometers using multi-mode fiber, ideal for sprawling facilities or harsh electrical environments where copper cabling falls short.
- Eliminates signal degradation over distance
- Provides immunity to EMI and RFI
Industrial-Grade Durability
Designed for demanding applications with a compact, rugged form factor that mounts directly to DIN rails, ensuring secure installation in vibration-prone or high-temperature settings.
- Suitable for automation and process control
- Reduces installation time and complexity
Deployment / Use Cases
This fiber driver is tailored for scenarios where serial devices need to communicate over extended distances or in electrically noisy conditions. Common deployments include industrial automation systems, where PLCs, sensors, or HMIs with RS-232/RS-485 interfaces must connect to remote control rooms or data centers. The fiber optic link ensures data integrity across manufacturing floors, utility substations, or transportation networks.
In building automation, the MED100A can integrate legacy serial equipment like access control panels or environmental monitors into modern fiber-based networks, future-proofing infrastructure while maintaining compatibility. Its rail-mountable form factor makes it a fit for retrofitting existing DIN rail setups in telecommunications cabinets or energy management systems, providing a seamless upgrade path without extensive rewiring.
Industrial Automation
Connect RS-232/RS-485 devices such as PLCs, motor drives, or instrumentation across factory floors or outdoor sites, using fiber to bypass electrical noise and distance limitations.
Infrastructure Monitoring
Extend serial signals from remote sensors or meters in utilities, water treatment, or oil and gas facilities to central monitoring stations, ensuring reliable data collection over kilometers.
Physical Profile
The MED100A features a compact physical design optimized for industrial mounting, with dimensions of 1" (25.40 mm) in height, 2.30" (58.42 mm) in width, and 4.30" (109.22 mm) in depth. Its rail-mountable form factor allows for quick attachment to standard DIN rails, commonly used in control panels and electrical enclosures, saving space and simplifying cable management. The small footprint ensures it fits into tight installations without obstructing other components, while the durable construction supports reliable operation in varied environmental conditions.
- Width
- 2.30" (58.42 mm)
- Depth
- 4.30" (109.22 mm)
- Height
- 1" (25.40 mm)
Highlights
- Converts RS-232/RS-485 serial signals to optical fiber for long-distance communication.
- Supports multi-mode fiber with a maximum distance of 4 kilometers (2.49 miles).
- Features one duplex ST port for reliable bidirectional data transmission.
- Rail-mountable form factor enables easy installation in industrial control panels.
- Powered by DC input for flexible integration with standard power supplies.
- Environmentally friendly design with TAA compliance for government and commercial use.
- Compact dimensions: 1" H x 2.30" W x 4.30" D (25.40 mm x 58.42 mm x 109.22 mm).
- Backed by a one-year limited warranty and manufactured in the United States.
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Black Box Corporation |
| Manufacturer Part Number | MED100A |
| Brand Name | Black Box |
| Product Model | MED100A |
| Product Name | DIN Rail RS-232/RS-485 To Fiber Driver |
| Product Condition | New |
| Product Type | Transceiver/Media Converter |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Ports | 2 |
| Network (RJ-45) | No |
| DVI | No |
| USB | No |
| Management Port | No |
| Number of ST Ports | 1 |
| ST Port Type | Duplex |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Optical Fiber |
| Fiber Mode Supported | Multi-mode |
| Maximum Distance Supported | 4 km (2.49 Mile) |
| Power Description | |
| Power Source | DC |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Rail-mountable |
| Height | 1" (25.40 mm) |
| Width | 2.30" (58.42 mm) |
| Depth | 4.30" (109.22 mm) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 1 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What types of serial signals does the MED100A convert to fiber?
The MED100A converts both RS-232 and RS-485 serial communication signals to optical fiber. This allows devices using these common industrial protocols, such as PLCs, sensors, or terminals, to transmit data over fiber optic cabling, extending their range and improving signal integrity in noisy environments.
What is the maximum distance supported by this fiber driver?
This fiber driver supports a maximum distance of 4 kilometers (approximately 2.49 miles) when used with multi-mode fiber optic cable. This extended range is ideal for applications that require serial communication across large facilities, outdoor sites, or between buildings without signal degradation.
What type of fiber connector does the MED100A use?
The MED100A uses a duplex ST connector for its fiber optic port. The ST connector is a common type in industrial and networking applications, providing a secure, twist-lock connection that supports full-duplex communication for simultaneous data transmission and reception over multi-mode fiber.
How is the MED100A powered?
The MED100A is powered by a DC power source. This power method is typical in industrial settings, allowing the device to integrate with standard DC power supplies or backup systems commonly found in control panels, racks, or DIN rail installations for reliable operation.
Can the MED100A be mounted in a standard rack or panel?
Yes, the MED100A features a rail-mountable form factor, designed for easy installation on standard DIN rails. This makes it suitable for mounting in control panels, electrical enclosures, or racks without additional hardware, saving space and simplifying deployment in industrial or networking environments.
Is the MED100A compliant with TAA requirements?
Yes, the MED100A is TAA compliant, meaning it meets the Trade Agreements Act standards for government procurement in the United States. This compliance ensures the product is eligible for use in federal and state contracts, along with being environmentally friendly and manufactured in the United States.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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