In the first quarter of 2008 three English universities have used Singlemode fibre to extend their E1 circuits utilising Metrodata's popular FC1100 which transports E1 (2.048kbps) over single mode fibre (short haul interface) using a unit at each end of the fibre link.
With the cost of fibre falling it is becoming a valid option to use fibre connect a communication infrastructure over a greater distance. It is ideal for connect two or more buildings over a short distance like that on-campus. In fact in many academic and local authority organisations, fibre cable probably already exists, but yet unused.
Using Metrodata's fibre converters, it is now possible to cheaply, easily and reliably interconnect PBX’s and routers, or any G703 device ( or non-G703 via an Interface converter) using a BNC electrical (coaxial copper) connection, or RJ45 (CAT5 twisted pair copper).
Maximum operating distances depend on the quality of the fibre and number of connections, and are up to 5km using Multimode fibre, 30km using Singlemode fibre (using short haul interfaces) and 70km using Singlemode fibre (using long haul interfaces).
For more information regarding the Metrodata Fibre Converters please browse the following links:
FC1X00 series - E1 Fibre Modem
FC1X00 series - Application Note (APN040)
If you are looking for other interfaces other than E1 to fibre one of the following may be of interest:
FC2X00 series - Singlemode to Multimode fibre conversion at 155Mbps
FC3X00 series - E3/DS3 Fibre Modem
FC4X00 series - STM1/OC3 to Fibre Converter
FC6X00 series - Singlemode to Multimode fibre conversion at 622Mbps
For a managed solution look at our MetroRack product range which offers a centralised managed chassis and modular configuration.

