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Black Box ME660A-MST FlexPoint RS-232 to Fiber Converter - Multi-mode ST Duplex - 2. 5 km - External/Rack-mountable
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Product Features
Technical Overview
Technically, the ME660A-MST features one duplex ST port for fiber connectivity and supports standard multi-mode fiber cable core/cladding specifications including 100/140 µm, 62.5/125 µm, and 50/125 µm. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of existing fiber installations without requiring specialized cabling.
The converter operates with an external power supply, providing stable performance in varied environments. Its compact dimensions of 1" height, 3" width, and 4" depth allow for space-efficient placement in racks or on desktops, while the lightweight design at 181.4 grams simplifies handling and setup.
This section brings together practical product details such as Total Number of Ports, Number of ST Ports, ST Port Type, Media Type Supported, so buyers can judge configuration, deployment fit, and day-to-day suitability with less guesswork.
Key Product Advantages
This converter excels in extending RS-232 signals over distances where traditional copper cabling is impractical, leveraging fiber optics for superior noise immunity and data integrity. Its design prioritizes ease of integration and reliable performance in demanding network environments.
Long-Distance Reliability
Supports transmission up to 2.5 km over multi-mode fiber, eliminating signal degradation common in long copper runs.
- Optical fiber media
- 2.5 km maximum distance
- Noise-resistant transmission
Flexible Deployment
External and rack-mountable form factor allows installation in diverse settings, from server rooms to industrial floors.
- External power supply
- Rack-mountable design
- Compact footprint
Deployment / Use Cases
The ME660A-MST is ideal for scenarios where serial devices need to communicate over extended distances without compromising signal quality. Common applications include connecting legacy industrial equipment, point-of-sale systems, or monitoring devices across buildings or campuses.
In data centers, it can integrate older serial-based hardware into fiber-optic backbones, while in manufacturing environments, it ensures reliable control signals over long runs where electromagnetic interference is a concern. The rack-mount option suits organized IT closets, whereas the external design works for temporary or desktop setups.
Industrial Automation
Extend RS-232 signals from PLCs or sensors over fiber to central control rooms, avoiding electrical noise in factory settings.
IT Infrastructure
Integrate legacy serial servers or consoles into fiber networks for enhanced distance and reliability in data centers.
Physical Profile
The converter has a slim profile measuring 1" x 3" x 4" (H x W x D), making it suitable for tight spaces in racks or on desktops. Its external power supply and rack-mountable design provide installation versatility, while the lightweight build at 181.4 grams ensures easy portability and mounting without heavy hardware requirements.
- Width
- 3" (76.20 mm)
- Depth
- 4" (101.60 mm)
- Height
- 1" (25.40 mm)
- Weight
- 181.4 g
What's in the Box
The package includes the FlexPoint RS-232 to Fiber Converter and a DC power supply, providing all necessary components for immediate deployment out of the box.
Highlights
- Converts RS-232 serial signals to optical fiber for long-distance communication.
- Supports multi-mode fiber with a maximum transmission distance of 2.5 kilometers.
- Features one duplex ST port for reliable fiber connectivity.
- External and rack-mountable form factor for flexible installation options.
- Compatible with 100/140 µm, 62.5/125 µm, and 50/125 µm fiber cable specifications.
- Includes external DC power supply for stable operation.
- Compact dimensions of 1" H x 3" W x 4" D for space-efficient placement.
- Lightweight design at 181.4 grams for easy handling and setup.
- TAA compliant and made in the United States for regulatory adherence.
- Backed by a 2-year limited warranty for assured reliability.
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Black Box Corporation |
| Manufacturer Part Number | ME660A-MST |
| Brand Name | Black Box |
| Product Line | FlexPoint |
| Product Model | ME660A-MST |
| Product Name | FlexPoint RS-232 to Fiber Converter |
| Product Condition | New |
| Product Type | Transceiver/Media Converter |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| Total Number of Ports | 2 |
| Number of ST Ports | 1 |
| ST Port Type | Duplex |
| Media & Performance | |
| Media Type Supported | Optical Fiber |
| Fiber Mode Supported | Multi-mode |
| Maximum Distance Supported | 2.50 km |
| Fiber Optic Cable Core/Cladding Specification | 100/140 µm,62.5/125 µm,50/125 µm |
| Power Description | |
| Power Source | Power Supply |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | External,Rack-mountable |
| Height | 1" (25.40 mm) |
| Width | 3" (76.20 mm) |
| Depth | 4" (101.60 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 181.4 g |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | FlexPoint RS-232 to Fiber Converter DC Power Supply |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| TAA Compliant | Yes |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 2 Year |
User Manual
FAQ
What does this converter do?
The Black Box ME660A-MST converts RS-232 serial data signals to optical fiber, allowing transmission over longer distances up to 2.5 km using multi-mode fiber cables. It bridges legacy serial devices with fiber networks for improved signal integrity and noise immunity.
What type of fiber does it support?
This converter supports multi-mode optical fiber with core/cladding specifications of 100/140 µm, 62.5/125 µm, and 50/125 µm. It uses ST duplex connectors, making it compatible with standard multi-mode fiber installations commonly found in enterprise and industrial environments.
How far can it transmit data?
The maximum supported distance is 2.50 kilometers over multi-mode fiber. This extended range is ideal for applications where RS-232 signals need to travel between buildings, across large facilities, or in settings where copper cabling would suffer from signal loss or interference.
What are the installation options?
The converter features an external and rack-mountable form factor, allowing flexible deployment. It can be placed on a desktop or mounted in a standard rack, and it includes an external DC power supply for easy setup in various locations without requiring internal power modifications.
What connectors does it have?
It has a total of 2 ports, with 1 ST duplex port for fiber optic connectivity. The ST port type is duplex, supporting bidirectional data transmission over fiber, which is essential for full-duplex communication in serial applications.
Is it compliant with industry standards?
Yes, the ME660A-MST is TAA compliant and manufactured in the United States, meeting regulatory requirements for government and institutional procurement. It also includes a 2-year limited warranty, ensuring reliable performance and support for critical deployments.
| Qty | Price | Available |
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