Tech/Rep

A GBIC or Mini GBIC is a commonly used media converter used with switches that allow multiple switches to be connected by fiber.

Each GBIC contains an Rx and Tx port, and can be configured in Multi Mode (<500 meters) typically called out as SX, and Single Mode (>500 meters) typically called out as LX. GBIC's will typically use MALE LC connectors.

Typically you would run (1) full duplex mm fiber that will be terminated with a duplex LC connector for video applications.

Multi Mode vs Single Mode

Multi mode is usually signified by an ORANGE cable jacket

Single mode is usually signified by a YELLOW cable jacket

Multi Mode Fibers typically come in (2) types:

62.5/125 10Mbps up to 2km

100Mbps up to 300m (850nm)/2km (1300nm)

1000Mbps 220m

50/125 10Mbps up to 2km

100Mbps up to 300m (850nm)/2km (1300nm)

1000Mbps 550m

Single Mode Fibers typically come in (1) type:

8.3/125 for distances up to 20,000 kilometers

Connectors

There are a wide range of connector options:

*Most GBIC's will use the MALE LC connector

Simplex vs Duplex

Simplex fiber is a single fiber available in single mode, multi mode, or polarization maintaining.

Duplex fibers consist of two fibers, either single mode or multi mode, and are used in applications where data needs to be transferred bi-directionally. One fiber transmits data one direction; the other fiber transmits data in the opposite direction.

There are two types of duplex fibers:

Half-duplex: Data may only be transmitted in one direction at a time.
Full-duplex: Data is transferred in two directions simultaneously.

*We want to use FULL-DUPLEX for video applications

GBIC Module Port Connections

Figure 1 is DUPLEX Cable

Figure 2 is DUPLEX Connector

Figure 3 is SIMPLEX Cable

Figure 4 is SIMPLEX Connector

Figure 5 is GBIC Rx

Figure 6 is GBIC Tx

There are several fiber suppliers, but Corning appears to be the favorite. A fully terminated Multi Mode Duplex 62.5/125 fiber jumper LC-LC will cost around $1.25/meter.