MED100A 304 pg. 1 / 4

6132-r1

Model MED100A

Fiber Optic Modem Sends

RS-232, 422, 485 Signals Up to 2.5 Miles CE

Description

The MED100A is designed to provide the most versatile connection possible between any asynchronous serial equipment using Fiber Optic cable. It allows any two pieces of asynchronous serial equipment to communicate full or half-duplex over two fibers at typical distances up to 2.5 miles. The converter can also be set up in "Repeater" mode to create a multi-drop master/slave configuration, allowing one serial device to talk to multiple slave devices around a fiber ring. The DIN rail mountable box makes it ideal for industrial cabinets and enclosures.

RS-232 data signals up to 115.2K bps and RS-422, or RS-485 data signals up to 460K bps are supported. Different standards can be mixed and matched to allow RS-232 devices to connect to your RS-422 or RS-485 system. This means the MED100A can replace converters and isolators when connecting remote devices, while providing the EMI/RFI and transient immunity of optical fiber.

The MED100A supports both the Transmit and Receive data lines, and provides full hardware control of the RS-422/485 driver with automatic Send Data Control circuit. Timeouts are dip-switch selectable between 0.10 and 2.2 ms. All serial connections are provided on terminal blocks, while the multimode fiber is connected via two ST connectors. The unit is powered by 10 to 30VDC at 140 mA max.

RS-232 Connections

Connection of the MED100A is simple and straightforward. The RS-232 driver and receiver are connected to 2 terminal blocks. The RS-232 DATA OUT is on terminal block (A), and the RS-232 DATA IN is on terminal block (D). Ground is located on terminal block (B) and (C), and power comes in on terminal block (F).

RS-422 and RS-485 Connections

The RS-422/485 driver and receiver are connected to 4 terminal blocks. Signal ground is on terminal block (M), and power comes in on terminal block (J). When connecting to a four-wire RS-422/485 device or system, connect the output of your device to terminal block (L) (RDB or RD+) and terminal block (K) (RDA or RD+). Connect the input to your device to terminal block (H) (TDB or TD+) and terminal block (G) (TDA or TD-). For two-wire RS-485 systems, the driver and receiver of the MED100A must be connected together by tying terminal blocks (L) and (H) together and (G) and (K) together. This allows the MED100A to communicate half-duplex over the same pair. Refer to Figure 1 for connection diagrams to your RS-422 or RS-485 equipment.

If termination is needed, the PCBD is laid out to allow a termination resistor (Rt) to be soldered in across the RD(A) and RD(B) lines. The off-state bias resistor values can also be changed by removing R8 and R16 and replacing them with through-hole components.

Figure 1: RS-422/485 Connection Diagrams

422/485 4W Device

MED100A

485 2 Wire Device

MED100A

FOSTCDR

FOSTCDR

TD A (-)

(K) RD A

Data A (-)

(K) RD A

TD B (+)

(L) RD B

 

(L) RD B

RD A (-)

(G) TD A

 

(G) TD A

RD B (+)

(H) TD B

Data B (+)

(H) TD B

GND

(M)

GND

(M)

Black Box Corporation - 1000 Park Drive - Lawrence, PA 15055-1018

Tech Support and Ordering: 724-746-5500 - Fax: 724-746-0746

To contact us about Black Box products or services: info@blackbox.com

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Black Box Fiber Optic Modem, MED100A manual Description, RS-232 Connections, RS-422 and RS-485 Connections
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Fiber Optic Modem, MED100A specifications

The Black Box Industrial Serial to Multi-mode Fiber Optic Converter, MED100A, is an essential device designed to bridge the gap between Serial RS-232 or RS-422/485 interfaces and multi-mode fiber optic cabling. As industries evolve, the necessity for reliable and high-performance data transmission over longer distances becomes increasingly critical. The MED100A addresses this need by providing a seamless method for converting electrical signals to optical signals, enabling robust communication across extensive networks.

One of the key features of the MED100A is its ability to extend communication distances significantly beyond the limitations of standard copper connections. While traditional copper cabling can handle distances of up to 1,200 meters, the MED100A can transmit data over multi-mode fiber optic cables for distances up to 2 kilometers. This capability makes it ideal for industrial environments, where equipment may be scattered over vast areas.

The MED100A supports multiple serial standards including RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485, making it versatile for various applications. Its auto-transceiver feature allows automatic configuration for half or full-duplex transmission, reducing the need for manual adjustments and facilitating ease of use. The device also includes baud rate settings ranging from 300 bps to 115.2 kbps, accommodating a wide variety of devices and ensuring compatibility across different systems.

In terms of durability, the MED100A is built for industrial environments. It boasts an IP30-rated metal housing, which protects it from dust and physical damage. The device operates efficiently in a temperature range of -40 to 85 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for challenging applications such as factory automation, process control, and utility monitoring.

Powering the MED100A is straightforward, as it can be powered either by an external power supply or through Power over Ethernet (PoE), providing flexibility in installation. Additionally, LED indicators for power, data transmission, and signal integrity allow for easy monitoring and troubleshooting.

In conclusion, the Black Box Industrial Serial to Multi-mode Fiber Optic Converter, MED100A, stands out for its robust performance, extensive distance capabilities, and adaptability to various serial protocols. Its rugged design and installation flexibility confirm its position as a reliable tool for modern industrial communication requirements.
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