Electro Standards' network converter extends USB connections

Converters are available in a desktop package with optional DIN-rail-mounting hardware.

-- Test & Measurement World, 7/29/2010 7:00:00 AM

A pair of products from Electro Standard Laboratories—the Model 4162 host and the Model 4169 four-port hub—serves as a converter/extender system to extend USB connections via a high-speed fiber interface. The device set is useful for environments subject to high EM or RF interference that might corrupt USB communications over a copper interface.

The fiber-to-USB converter/extender system offers plug-and-play operation with support for Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and all USB device types, including control, interrupt, bulk, and isochronous at up to 480 Mbps. Typical applications include industrial control; keyboard, video, and mouse extension; remote desktop USB connections; and remote USB device sharing.

The Model 4162 host and the Model 4169 four-port hub operate over a temperature range of 0°C to +50°C. In addition to ESD protection circuitry on all copper USB I/O interfaces, both units' power inputs are protected against damaging transients. The four-port hub provides the USB standard of 500 mA/port. The Model 4162 employs LED indicators for power, link, and host, while the Model 4169 has a port-active indicator. Converters are available in a desktop package with optional DIN-rail-mounting hardware.

Electro Standards Laboratories, www.electrostandards.com.