System provides Ethernet over old copper cables

Data rates from 192Kbit/s to 5.7Mbit/s in both directions over distances of up to 10km make the DDW-220 suitable for a broad range of applications.

Westermo Data Communications has released an Ethernet line extender that is capable of establishing a reliable, high-speed remote connection between Ethernet networks using any existing twisted-pair copper cables.

The DDW-220 combines the functions of two Ethernet line extenders and a four-port managed switch, enabling the user to build complete Ethernet networks.

A standard Ethernet network is limited to 100m for point-to-point transmissions over copper cables.

For longer distances, expensive fibre optic cabling or radio links must be used.

By employing a line extender such as the DDW-220 it is possible to create a high-speed link between two distant Ethernet networks using any twisted pair cables or a multidrop network covering potentially hundreds of miles.

Data rates from 192Kbit/s to 5.7Mbit/s in both directions over distances of up to 10km make the DDW-220 suitable for a broad range of applications.

Connecting networks over such long distances is especially useful for applications such as railway signalling (on board or on track), tunnels, highways, harbours, power stations and extended industrial plants.

The DDW-220 is suitable for use in extremely harsh industrial environments.

The DIN rail mountable metal case makes it robust and the unit is capable of operating in temperatures between -40 to 70C.

Total galvanic isolation and transient protection are standard for all interfaces, allowing it to handle indirect lightning strike transients, power induction and short circuit problems.

No external line protection is necessary.

The transient protection also ensures excellent performance even with noise on the line.

The DDW-220 is designed to be easy to use.

The unit is preconfigured for multidrop applications, meaning a simple installation can be undertaken with no software configuration at all.

Help functions and more advanced configuration are available from the built-in web interface, accessible through a standard web browser.

In addition, there are comprehensive diagnostics for both the SHDSL transmission interfaces and the Ethernet switch.

The DDW-220 also supports SNMP, allowing it to be managed as part of the overall network infrastructure.

To enable uninterrupted communication the unit is supplied with redundant power inputs that can be powered from two separate supplies and handle an operating voltage range of 16-60V DC.

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