Overview
Fiber can connect an applicable Just Add Power Encoder or Decoder to a network switch, or connect network switches together. The required connection speed and hardware depend on the device and system configuration.
Just Add Power does not require or favor single-mode or multimode fiber. Follow standard Ethernet and fiber cabling requirements, using compatible equipment that provides the required speed and reliably carries traffic across the connection.
Endpoint Connections
The MaxColor Series MC-TX2 Encoder and MC-RX2 Decoder support a 1 Gbps network connection through either the RJ45 port or the SFP port. These ports do not provide simultaneous network data connections.
Use a 1Gb Ethernet SFP module for the fiber connection. Just Add Power has not encountered an incompatible 1Gb Ethernet SFP module and does not maintain an approved-module list.
Endpoint power: Optical fiber does not carry PoE. Provide a local power supply that meets the Encoder or Decoder's specifications.
Standardized Configuration
No currently supported AMP Standardized switch provides a direct fiber endpoint connection. Use a Gigabit fiber media converter at the switch location to connect the fiber endpoint to its assigned RJ45 switch port.
- Connect the media converter's RJ45 port to the endpoint's assigned switch port using a Cat5e-or-better patch cable.
- Connect the media converter's optical port to the Encoder or Decoder's SFP module through the fiber run.
- Provide appropriate power for the media converter and endpoint.
The media converter must support 1 Gbps Ethernet and an optical connection compatible with the endpoint's SFP module.
Alternate Configuration
In an AMP Alternate Configuration system, an MC-TX2 or MC-RX2 can connect directly to an SFP fiber switch that meets the Just Add Power network requirements, including multicast management and sufficient bandwidth.
Use compatible 1Gb optical connections at the endpoint and switch. A media converter is not required when the switch provides the appropriate fiber connection.
Inter-Switch Connections
AMP Standardized multi-switch systems require supported 10Gb SFP+ connections. Follow the AMP Report and system design for the assigned ports and required number of links.
Use compatible SFP+ optical modules and fiber between switches. For nearby switches, a compatible Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cable may be used instead.
See Multi-Switch Considerations for AMP Standardized Systems for connection, topology, and bandwidth requirements.
In AMP Alternate Configuration systems, select inter-switch connections with sufficient capacity for the traffic crossing each link.
Select Modules and Fiber
Single-mode and multimode fiber are both suitable when matched to the optical modules and installation distance.
| Fiber Type | Selection Guidance |
|---|---|
| Single-mode | Commonly used for longer distances. Use optical modules specified for the installed single-mode fiber. |
| Multimode | Commonly used for shorter distances. Match the fiber classification, such as OM3 or OM4, to the modules' distance specifications. |
- Match the connection speed and optical specifications at both ends. A 10Gb SFP+ module does not upgrade a 1Gb endpoint port.
- Confirm module compatibility with the switch or media converter.
- Match the installed fiber and patch cords to the modules' fiber type, connector requirements, and supported distance.
Just Add Power does not impose additional fiber cabling standards. A reliable Ethernet connection at the required speed is the goal.
Verify the Connection
For endpoint connections, use AMP Gather Details to confirm a 1 Gbps link. Also check the switch's port status. When a media converter is used, the switch reports its connection to the converter; verify the fiber connection separately.
For inter-switch connections, confirm that all required links are active at their intended speed and that sufficient bandwidth is available for the system.
