Southborough, Massachusetts-based Chipcom Corp has introduced an ONline Fibre Distributed Data Interface Copper Module – FCM. It is said to give users of Chipcom’s intelligent switching hubs a low-cost Fibre Distributed Data Interface-to-the-desktop offering over twisted pair cabling. According to Chipcom, the ONline FCM eliminates the need for facility rewiring because it can use existing unshielded or shielded twisted pair cabling. The new model includes eight RJ-45 connectors, supporting link distances of up to 300 feet on either unshielded twisted pair Level 5 or shielded twisted pair wiring for eight single attachment stations. The Module also supports up to four simultaneous Fibre Distributed Data Interface networks within one Chipcom hub, says the company. The module complements Chipcom’s existing line of ONline Fibre Distributed Data Interface and Management Modules. Chipcom says that the module can be used in its high-end ONcore Switching System, enabling users to upgrade as their network needs change. The Module uses redundant ‘S’ port capabilities to provide in-built, fault-tolerant links between cascaded concentrators, says the company. It is also said to be hot-swappable, enabling network administrators to install or remove the Module without reducing power to the concentrator or taking the network out of service. The FCM is said to be compliant with the American National Standards Institute X3T9.5 draft standard for Fibre Distributed Data Interface over twisted pair cabling and is said to support the MLT-3 signalling specifications adopted by the US Standards Institute, ensuring its interoperability with MLT-3 based adaptor boards. The Module will be shipping in 60 days for UKP6,900.
