MCA-1000 — Gigabit Ethernet media converter from 10/100/1000Base-T to 1000Base-X, PoE-PD, LFPT, Jumbo Frame 16K
OPTOKON MCA-1000 — a compact Gigabit Ethernet media converter for converting copper Ethernet 10/100/1000Base-T to a fiber-optic interface 1000Base-X. The device extends the Ethernet connection distance from the standard 100 m over twisted pair to 2 km over multimode fiber or up to 20 km over single-mode optical fiber.
The media converter is equipped with an RJ45 10/100/1000Base-T port and a Duplex SC optical interface. Versions are available for Single Mode and Multimode fiber with an operating wavelength of 1310 nm.
One of the key features of the MCA-1000 is support for IEEE 802.3af PoE-PD. The device can receive power from compatible PoE equipment over the Ethernet link, reducing cabling and simplifying installation at remote locations. In addition to PoE, alternative power options are available via a terminal block 7–50 V DC or a DC jack 5 V DC.
MCA-1000 also supports Jumbo Frame up to 16K, Auto MDI/MDIX and Link Fault Pass Through (LFPT). The extended temperature range of −25...+75 °C allows the media converter to be used not only in office and enterprise networks, but also in industrial, transportation, energy and other professional systems.
Key benefits of the MCA-1000
- 10/100/1000Base-T ↔ 1000Base-X — Gigabit Ethernet conversion between copper and fiber media.
- 1 × RJ45 for connecting Ethernet equipment.
- Duplex SC optical interface.
- Single Mode and Multimode versions.
- Up to 2 km over multimode optical fiber.
- Up to 20 km over single-mode optical fiber.
- Wavelength 1310 nm.
- IEEE 802.3af PoE-PD — power over Ethernet capability.
- Terminal block 7–50 V DC — wide external power supply range.
- DC jack 5 V DC — alternative power option.
- Jumbo Frame up to 16K.
- Auto MDI/MDIX on the TP port.
- Link Fault Pass Through (LFPT) for link integrity monitoring.
- LED indication of Ethernet and optical connection status.
- Operating temperature −25...+75 °C.
- MTBF 100 000 hours.
- Compact enclosure — 21 × 46 × 85 mm.
- RoHS compliant.
Gigabit Ethernet conversion to an optical link
MCA-1000 is used as an interface between standard copper Ethernet equipment and a fiber-optic network. The device receives the Ethernet signal via RJ45 and transmits it over optical fiber.
Typical connection diagram:
Ethernet device → RJ45 → MCA-1000 → Duplex SC → optical fiber → media converter / optical switch → Ethernet network
A compatible media converter or network equipment with a matching 1000Base-X optical interface can be used at the other end of the optical link.
Copper Ethernet interface
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of ports | 1 × RJ45 |
| Ethernet | 10/100/1000Base-T |
| Speed | 10 / 100 / 1000 Mbit/s |
| Auto MDI/MDIX | Yes |
| PoE-PD | IEEE 802.3af |
1000Base-X optical interface
MCA-1000 is equipped with a pair of optical connectors Duplex SC. Depending on the version, the media converter can be used with multimode or single-mode optical fiber.
| Parameter | Multimode | Single Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber type | 50/125 or 62,5/125 µm | 9/125 µm |
| Wavelength | 1310 nm | 1310 nm |
| Maximum reach | Up to 2 km | Up to 20 km |
| Optical interface | Duplex SC | Duplex SC |
Power over PoE — IEEE 802.3af PoE-PD
A key advantage of the MCA-1000 is support for IEEE 802.3af PoE-PD. The media converter can operate as a Powered Device and receive power from a compatible PoE switch or PoE injector via an Ethernet cable.
This is particularly convenient when installing equipment at remote locations where providing a separate power supply line is difficult or not cost-effective.
Advantages of PoE power
- a single Ethernet cable for data and power;
- fewer cables at the installation site;
- no need for a local power outlet;
- centralized power from a PoE switch;
- convenient deployment at remote network nodes;
- simplified backup power through a central UPS.
Multiple power options
The MCA-1000 is not limited to PoE power. Its design supports several power input options, simplifying integration into various systems.
| Power option | Specifications |
|---|---|
| PoE-PD | IEEE 802.3af |
| Terminal Block | 7–50 V DC |
| DC Jack | 5 V DC |
The wide range of 7–50 V DC when connected via the terminal block is particularly convenient for telecommunications, industrial, and transportation systems with centralized DC power.
Jumbo Frame 16K
The MCA-1000 supports transmission of Jumbo Frames up to 16K in size. This is significantly larger than a standard Ethernet frame and allows the media converter to be used in networks that handle large volumes of data.
Jumbo Frame can be useful for:
- server networks;
- data storage systems;
- backup operations;
- IP video surveillance;
- large file transfers;
- industrial Ethernet systems;
- high-traffic networks.
Link Fault Pass Through
Link Fault Pass Through (LFPT) allows link loss information to be passed between the copper and fiber segments of the network.
Without LFPT, the loss of a fiber link is not always immediately detected by the Ethernet device connected to the RJ45 port. LFPT propagates the fault status to the other side of the media converter, allowing active network equipment to detect the problem more quickly.
Benefits of LFPT
- rapid detection of a fiber link failure;
- end-to-end Ethernet link monitoring;
- simplified diagnostics;
- reduced troubleshooting time;
- appropriate response by active network equipment to link loss.
Auto MDI/MDIX
The RJ45 port on the MCA-1000 supports Auto MDI/MDIX. The device automatically detects the Ethernet connection type, so the user does not need to choose between a straight-through and a crossover cable.
This simplifies the connection of switches, routers, controllers, servers, IP cameras, and other Ethernet equipment.
LED indicators
LED indicators allow quick monitoring of the copper and fiber interface status without additional diagnostic equipment.
| Indicator | Function |
|---|---|
| TP LINK/ACT | Ethernet link status and data transmission via RJ45 |
| Fiber LINK/ACT | Fiber link status and data transmission activity |
Extended temperature range
The MCA-1000 is designed to operate at temperatures from −25 to +75 °C, and its storage temperature range is from −40 to +85 °C.
This broadens the media converter's range of applications compared with standard office equipment and allows it to be used in:
- industrial premises;
- telecommunications cabinets;
- transport infrastructure;
- automation systems;
- equipment rooms;
- remote network nodes.
MCA-1000 Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | MCA-1000 |
| Device type | Gigabit Ethernet Fiber Media Converter |
| Conversion | 10/100/1000Base-T ↔ 1000Base-X |
| Standards | IEEE 802.3 10Base-T; IEEE 802.3u 100Base-TX; IEEE 802.3ab 1000Base-T; IEEE 802.3z 1000Base-X |
| Copper interface | 1 × RJ45 |
| RJ45 speed | 10 / 100 / 1000 Mbit/s |
| Optical interface | Duplex SC |
| Optical standard | 1000Base-X |
| Wavelength | 1310 nm |
| Multimode fiber | 50/125 µm or 62,5/125 µm |
| Single Mode fiber | 9/125 µm |
| Multimode reach | Up to 2 km |
| Single Mode reach | Up to 20 km |
| PoE-PD | IEEE 802.3af |
| Terminal Block | 7–50 V DC |
| DC Jack | 5 V DC |
| Jumbo Frame | Up to 16K |
| Auto MDI/MDIX | Yes |
| Link Fault Pass Through | Yes |
| LED | TP LINK/ACT; Fiber LINK/ACT |
| Operating temperature | −25...+75 °C |
| Storage temperature | −40...+85 °C |
| Humidity | 5–95%, non-condensing |
| Dimensions | 21 × 46 × 85 mm |
| Weight | 320 g |
| MTBF | 100 000 hours |
| RoHS | RoHS compliant |
MCA-1000 and a standard media converter
| Feature | MCA-1000 | Typical basic media converter |
|---|---|---|
| Gigabit Ethernet | Yes | Depends on the model |
| Single Mode / Multimode | Yes | Depends on the version |
| PoE-PD | IEEE 802.3af | Typically no |
| Terminal Block | 7–50 V DC | Typically no |
| Jumbo Frame | Up to 16K | Depends on the model |
| LFPT | Yes | Depends on the model |
| Operating temperature | −25...+75 °C | Typically 0...+50 °C |
Enterprise and campus networks
MCA-1000 enables Gigabit Ethernet connections between remote buildings, floors and network nodes over optical fiber.
- office centers;
- inter-building connectivity;
- university campuses;
- schools and educational institutions;
- dormitories;
- remote offices;
- server rooms and technical rooms.
Industrial Facilities
The extended temperature range, terminal block with a 7–50 V DC power input, and optical interface enable the MCA-1000 to be used in industrial infrastructure.
- production lines;
- control rooms;
- industrial controllers;
- terminals;
- kiosks;
- data acquisition systems;
- remote process nodes.
Video Surveillance and Security Systems
Gigabit Ethernet transmission over optical fiber enables long-distance links for IP video surveillance without the 100 m limitation typical of standard Ethernet over twisted-pair cable.
- remote IP cameras;
- perimeter video surveillance;
- security posts;
- parking lots;
- industrial sites;
- access control systems;
- urban security systems.
Transport Infrastructure
- airports;
- railway stations;
- metro systems;
- tunnels;
- road infrastructure;
- information displays;
- transport terminals;
- monitoring systems.
Energy, Utility Infrastructure, and SCADA
- electrical substations;
- manufacturing plants;
- pumping stations;
- pipelines;
- water treatment facilities;
- SCADA;
- remote telemetry systems;
- engineering monitoring systems.
Government and Specialized Facilities
A reliable optical link, multiple power supply options, and operation at high and low temperatures make the MCA-1000 suitable for networks at government and specialized facilities.
- control centers;
- access control checkpoints;
- remote stations;
- secure facilities;
- monitoring systems;
- local telecommunications nodes.
Healthcare and Educational Institutions
- hospitals;
- laboratories;
- research centers;
- academic buildings;
- lecture halls;
- campus networks.
Retail and Hospitality
- POS networks;
- Digital Signage;
- hotels;
- shopping centers;
- remote checkout terminals;
- back-of-house Ethernet connections.
Temporary and Mobile Networks
Compact dimensions and various power supply options also make the MCA-1000 suitable for temporary network installations.
- exhibitions;
- temporary facilities;
- mobile network nodes;
- field installations;
- event and presentation venues.
When to Choose the MCA-1000
The MCA-1000 is particularly suitable when:
- Gigabit Ethernet needs to be transmitted over a distance greater than 100 m;
- a fixed, reliable Duplex SC optical interface is required;
- Single Mode or Multimode fiber is used;
- a reach of up to 2 km over MM or up to 20 km over SM is required;
- the media converter needs to be powered via PoE;
- power from a 7–50 V industrial DC supply is required;
- Jumbo Frame support up to 16K is required;
- Link Fault Pass Through functionality is required;
- an extended temperature range of −25...+75 °C is required;
- a high MTBF of — 100 000 hours is important.
FAQ — frequently asked questions
What speeds does the MCA-1000 support?
The copper RJ45 port supports 10/100/1000 Mbit/s, while the optical interface operates according to the standard 1000Base-X.
What optical connector is used?
The MCA-1000 is equipped with a pair of optical connectors Duplex SC.
What transmission distance does the MCA-1000 support?
For multimode fiber, the maximum transmission distance is up to 2 km, and for single-mode fiber — up to 20 km.
What is the wavelength?
The MCA-1000 optical interface operates at a wavelength of 1310 nm.
Can the MCA-1000 be powered via PoE?
Yes. The media converter supports IEEE 802.3af PoE-PD and can be powered by a compatible PoE switch or PoE injector.
Does the MCA-1000 supply PoE power to other devices?
No. The MCA-1000 operates as a PoE Powered Device (PD), meaning it receives power via Ethernet. It is not a PoE-PSE and is not designed to power IP cameras or other PoE devices.
What other power options are available?
In addition to PoE-PD, the device supports an external power supply of 7–50 V DC via a terminal block or 5 V DC via a DC jack.
Does the MCA-1000 support Jumbo Frames?
Yes. The maximum Jumbo Frame size is 16K.
What is LFPT?
Link Fault Pass Through allows link-loss information to be passed between the optical and copper segments, simplifying monitoring and troubleshooting.
Is Auto MDI/MDIX supported?
Yes. The RJ45 port automatically detects the Ethernet connection type.
What is the operating temperature of the MCA-1000?
The device is designed to operate at temperatures of −25...+75 °C.
Can the MCA-1000 be used in industrial systems?
Yes. Its extended temperature range, 7–50 V DC power supply, optical Gigabit Ethernet and LFPT support make the MCA-1000 suitable for many industrial, transportation and infrastructure applications.
Configuration selection
OPTOKON MCA-1000 — a versatile Gigabit Ethernet media converter for establishing fiber-optic links between 10/100/1000Base-T equipment. The model combines a Duplex SC optical interface, support for Single Mode and Multimode fiber, a range of up to 20 km, Jumbo Frame 16K, Auto MDI/MDIX and Link Fault Pass Through.
A key advantage of the MCA-1000 is its flexible power supply options: IEEE 802.3af PoE-PD, 7–50 V DC via a terminal block or 5 V DC via a DC jack. Combined with an operating temperature range of −25...+75 °C, this allows the media converter to be used in enterprise, industrial, transportation, energy and specialized Ethernet networks.
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