Features and Common Problems of the SFP Fiber Media Converter

Media converters are typically dumb devices, although some contain sophisticated capabilities that make managing vast networks easier.

One of the most typical methods for resolving computer-related issues is to power-cycle the device and see if the issue goes away. Too automatically reset PoE-powered devices, just cut off the power on the switch port linked to the device. However, most media converters aren't remotely manageable, thus this isn't possible. Instead, a technician must be called to the remote site to disconnect and reconnect the PoE wire.

The SFP Media Converter is commonly used in actual network environments where Ethernet cables cannot be covered and optical fibers must be used to extend the transmission distance, and is typically positioned in the access layer application of broadband metropolitan area networks; for example, high-definition video image transmission for monitoring security projects; and it also played a significant role in the development of the Fiber Media Converter.

Here are some other common problems of the SFP fiber media converter

Is there a problem with the power light?

There was a power outage. Please double-check that the power supply is operational.

1. Is the LOS light turned off?

The optical cable connecting the computer room and the user end has broken. The SC pigtail and the fiber optic transceiver's slot are either not properly inserted or have been detached.

2. Why doesn't the Link light turn on?

Check to see that the optical fiber line is in good working order. Examine whether the optical fiber line's loss is excessively high, exceeding the equipment's receiving range. Verify that the optical fiber interface is properly linked, that the local TX is connected to the distant RX, and that the remote RX is connected to the local RX.

3. How do I figure out what's wrong with the converter connection?

Near-end test: Both computers ping each other; if both computers ping, there is no problem with the optical fiber transceiver. If the near-end test fails to communicate, the fiber optic transceiver is likely to be defective.

Remote test: PING both ends' computers; if PING fails, verify that the optical connection is normal and that the fiber optic transceiver's transmission and receive power are within the permissible range. If you can PING, the optical link is working properly. The swap appears to be the source of the problem.

R.W. Tull is the President of VERSITRON. He interfaces daily with current and potential end-users. R.W. works closely with clients to review layout diagrams and drawings in order to ensure that the best fiber optic solution is achieved.