
Extend RS-232 Communications Over Fiber
The F280xD Series is a circuit-card fiber optic modem designed to extend RS-232 serial communications over fiber. It provides fully transparent transmission of data, clock, and control signals, allowing RS-232 equipment to communicate across fiber optic links while maintaining the characteristics of the original serial interface.
The F280xD multiplexes the control signals together with clock and data signals for transmission to the remote modem. At the remote end, the combined signal is de-multiplexed and applied to the electrical interface.
Flexible Serial Data Transmission
The F280xD supports synchronous, asynchronous, and isochronous data transmission in full-duplex or simplex operation.
Data rates can reach 128 Kbps, with separate timing options for different system configurations. Terminal timing supports 20–128 Kbps, while source timing supports 20–100 Kbps and is switch selectable.
DCE/DTE Switch Selectable
The F280xD provides a convenient DCE/DTE switch-selectable interface, allowing the same modem design to accommodate different RS-232 equipment configurations without requiring separate DCE and DTE hardware models.
The electrical interface uses a DB25 connector, while the fiber interface uses an LC connector.
Multimode and Singlemode Fiber Options
Two primary F280xD models are available:
- F2802D — RS-232/RS-423/MIL-STD-188-114A fiber optic modem, LC, multimode, 1310 nm, up to 2 km
- F2805D — RS-232/RS-423/MIL-STD-188-114A fiber optic modem, LC, singlemode, 1310 nm, up to 20 km
The datasheet also notes that distances to 120 km are available for applicable configurations; customers requiring extended-distance transmission should contact VERSITRON for details.
Four-Channel Data Multiplexer Capability
In addition to operating as a fiber optic modem, the F280xD can be used as a four-channel synchronous/asynchronous data multiplexer. The datasheet describes the modem as providing an eight-channel data multiplexer, with four channels in each direction.
This capability allows the F280xD to support multiple serial data channels over a single fiber optic link when configured for multiplexing applications.
Seven LED Indicators for System Monitoring
The F280xD provides seven front-panel LED indicators for monitoring modem operation and link activity:
- PWR — Power
- ALM — Alarm
- TXD — Transmit Data
- RXD — Receive Data
- TXC — Transmit Clock
- RXC — Receive Clock
- LOOP — Loopback
These indicators provide at-a-glance visibility into power, alarm, data, clock, and loopback status.
Circuit Card Design for Flexible Installation
The F280xD is designed for integration into several VERSITRON housing and chassis options. Available configurations include a single-card enclosure, 2-slot 19-inch rack-mount chassis, 20-slot 19-inch rack-mount chassis, and the 20-slot VERSIMUX II chassis.
This gives system designers flexibility to deploy an individual F280xD modem or integrate multiple fiber optic modems into a centralized rack-mounted installation.
SFP Fiber Optic Module Technology
The F280xD uses SFP fiber optic module technology, providing flexibility in selecting the appropriate fiber optic interface for the application. The datasheet identifies SFP technology as one of the product's primary features.
RS-232 Fiber Optic Modem Applications
The F280xD Series is suited for applications requiring reliable RS-232 serial communications over fiber, including:
- Long-distance RS-232 communications
- Serial equipment interconnection
- Data terminal and communications equipment
- Electrically separated serial communication links
- Rack-mounted serial communication systems
- Multi-channel serial data multiplexing
- Systems requiring flexible DCE/DTE configuration
- Applications using VERSIMUX II multiplexing platforms
The F280xD can also interface with other VERSITRON FOM II F28xxD Fiber Optic Modems as well as the M62xxD and M82xxD Fiber Optic MicroModems.
Why Choose VERSITRON RS-232 Fiber Optic Modems?
The F280xD combines the flexibility of a circuit-card design with transparent serial data transmission over fiber. Its switch-selectable DCE/DTE configuration, source or terminal timing options, multiplexing capability, SFP technology, and multiple enclosure options make it adaptable to a wide range of serial communication systems.
For applications where a circuit-card or rack-mounted solution is preferred over a compact standalone MicroModem, the F280xD provides a flexible alternative within the VERSITRON fiber optic modem family.
VERSITRON — Safeguarding Communications Since 1958
Since 1958, VERSITRON has provided fiber optic communication solutions for demanding data and communications applications. The F280xD FOM II Series continues that tradition with a flexible fiber optic modem platform designed for reliable RS-232 serial communications and specialized data transmission applications.
For assistance selecting the appropriate F280xD model, fiber type, enclosure, or multiplexer configuration, contact VERSITRON for technical support.
General Specifications
Dimensions
11.75 x 7 x .845in / 29.8 x 17.8 x 2.1cm (L x W x H)
Weight
0.455kg (16oz)
Operating Temperature
0° to 50°C (32° to 122°)
Storage Temperature
-40° to 70°C (-40° to 158°F)
Humidity
Up to 95% relative humidity (non-condensing)
Altitude
Up to 10,000 ft
Electrical Interface
Power Requirements
12VDC, 1.2Amp
Copper Interface Connector
DB25
Format
RS-232 / RS-423 / MIL-STD-188-114A
Protocol
Asynchronous / Synchronous / Isochronous
Terminal Timing Data Rate
20 -128 Kbps
Source Timing Data Rate
20 – 100 Kbps
SDCE/DTE Options
DCE or DTE (Switch Selectable)
Fiber Interface
Fiber Interface Connector
LC
Fiber Cable
Multimode: 50/125, 62.5/125
Singlemode: 8/125, 9/125
Link Margin
11dB into 62.5/125 Multimode Fiber
8dB into 50/125 Multimode Fiber
19dB into 9/125 Singlemode Fiber
|
Model
|
Description
|
RFQ
|
| HF-1 | Single Card Enclosure | Request a Quote |
| HF-2SS | 2-Slot 19” Rack-Mount Chassis | Request a Quote |
| HF-20A | 20-Slot 19” Rack-Mount Chassis | Request a Quote |
| AC300WR | Redundant Power Supply / System Monitor | Request a Quote |
| PSAC08 | 110VAC to 12VDC Power Adapter | Request a Quote |
| PSAC09 | 220VAC to 12VDC Power Adapter | Request a Quote |
| ADPHF01 | Single-Slot Blank Panel for HF-2SS or HF-1 | Request a Quote |
| ADPHF02 | Double-Slot Blank Panel for HF-20A Chassis | Request a Quote |
RS-232 to Fiber Converter is used across the following Industries:
Industrial Automation & Manufacturing
- PLC serial links in control cabinets
- Legacy equipment communication over fiber
- Environmental sensor arrays (HVAC, pollution)
- Production line status/control reporting
Telecommunications & Network Providers
- Equipment rack DTE/DCE card slots
- POP-to-backhaul serial connections
- DSLAM or OLT legacy interface conversion
- Demarcation serial extension over fiber
Healthcare & Medical Facilities
- Lab instrumentation fiber uplinks (RS-232)
- Telemetry in ICUs and diagnostics
- Secure serial links in sterile areas
- Nurse station to patient monitor wiring long runs
Aviation & Airports
- Control tower ground equipment serial links
- Runway lighting and beacon control
- Gate signage and display interfaces
- Legacy ILS/VOR instrument panel integration
Transportation & Railways
- Signal and crossing cabinet serial links
- Tunnel lighting and ventilation control
- Station intercom and dispatch connections
- Depot maintenance system wiring
Utilities & Energy Providers
- Substation RTU serial backhaul
- SCADA legacy interface over fiber links
- Pipeline and valve telemetry systems
- Water/pump station serial command networks
Military & Defense
- Field-deployable comms racks
- Hardened shelter serial isolation
- Encrypted radio/sensor RS-232 links
- Bunker or tactical command post expansions
Public Safety & Emergency Services
- Dispatch and emergency ops command links
- Fire station control panel uplinks
- Mobile response communications racks
- Railway or highway safety serial control
Smart Cities & Municipal Infrastructure
- Traffic cabinet and signal serial data
- Public messaging/siren control serial links
- Streetlight controller aisles
- Environmental sensor serial fiber uplinks
Construction & Temporary Installations
- Jobsite comms trailer serial racks
- Temporary building control panels
- Crane/hardware RS-232 console over fiber
- Multi-phase build legacy equipment links
Maritime & Offshore Facilities
- Shipboard navigation/control panels
- Dockside or terminal serial uplinks
- Offshore rig console integration
- Secure vessel internal serial network
Research Labs & Universities
- EMI-sensitive instrumentation racks
- Cleanroom serial control cabinets
- Multi-building lab fiber serial links
- Environmental field experiment nodes
Versitron is one of the leading RS-232 to Fiber Converter manufacturing companies in the USA (based in Delaware). If your industry or installation location isn't listed above, feel free to reach out to us!
Buy the Best RS-232 to Fiber Converter from VERSITRON at a Competitive Price!!
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