RS485 to FO

RS485 to FO

by sales.aus@protoconvert.com

RS485 to FO converters can be used to interconnect two RS-485 networks or devices over a 485g distance.

Our converters can be used as peer-peer modems or in a multi drop type network architecture.

RS485 to Fiber Optic converters provide a reliable method of extending RS-485 communication beyond the limitations of conventional copper cabling while maintaining signal integrity and communication performance. By converting electrical RS-485 signals into optical signals, these converters eliminate the effects of electromagnetic interference (EMI), radio frequency interference (RFI), lightning-induced surges, and ground loop problems that commonly affect industrial communication networks. This results in stable and error-free data transmission even in electrically noisy environments.

The converters support transparent communication and require no software modifications or protocol conversion, allowing existing RS-485 devices to communicate seamlessly over fiber optic cable. They are compatible with a wide variety of serial communication protocols operating on the RS-485 physical layer, making them suitable for numerous industrial automation applications. Their rugged industrial design ensures reliable operation under demanding environmental conditions including factories, substations, utilities, and outdoor installations.

These converters are ideal for connecting PLCs, RTUs, SCADA systems, HMI panels, energy meters, protection relays, variable frequency drives (VFDs), industrial sensors, remote I/O modules, environmental monitoring systems, and other RS-485 enabled equipment. They are widely deployed in manufacturing facilities, power distribution networks, renewable energy plants, water and wastewater treatment systems, oil & gas installations, transportation infrastructure, smart buildings, mining operations, and process automation industries.

Available in both multimode and single mode fiber variants, the converters provide flexible deployment options depending on communication distance and network topology. Multimode models support communication over distances up to 2 km, while single mode models enable reliable transmission from 20 km up to 100 km depending on the selected model. Multiple fiber connector options, industrial-grade power supply choices, DIN rail or wall mounting, and maintenance-free operation make RS485 to FO converters a dependable solution for extending RS-485 communication networks while ensuring high reliability, improved system availability, and long-term operational performance.

Depending on the type of fiber (multi mode or single mode), distance and network topology we have the following models available

Model # Fiber type No. fibers Max distance between FO nodes Connection topology
FM-485-FO-P2MMulti mode2 (tx and rx)2 kms.Peer to peer
FM-485-FO-P2SSingle mode2 (tx and rx)20 kms.Peer to peer
FM-485-FO-M4MMulti mode4 (tx rx from previous node and tx rx going to following node)2 kms.Multi drop bus
FM-485-FO-M4SSingle mode4 (tx rx from previous node and tx rx going to following node)20 kms.Multi drop bus

Please visit our other Media Converter range:

Lon to FO

CAN to FO

RS-232 to FO