StarTech.com Networking Transceivers & Converters

By integrating a transceiver into an existing networking setup, it's easy to apply signals to an Ethernet wire and also detect signals that come through that same wire. Transceivers enable simple communication between local network data link entities and generally come in three types - chip-style, board-style and modular.A chip-style transceiver is compact, installs internally and can be easily removed, while a board-style transceiver is a card that plugs into a computer's motherboard and is better for more permanent installations. Finally, a modular transceiver is a stand-alone device that's designed for external application. To enhance your wired network even further, consider adding a variety of networking and cable products and security tokens.

Half-Duplex or Full-Duplex Operation

A transceiver that features half-duplex operation makes it impossible to receive signals while the unit is transmitting signals, because transmission and reception are conducted on the same frequency band. However, a full-duplex transceiver allows the reception of signals during periods of transmission, since reception and transmission occur on different frequency bands to prevent interfering with one another.

Media Converters

Use a networking converter to connect two types of dissimilar media, such as twisted-pair cables and fiber optic cables. With plenty of media converters to choose from, it's easy to extend the distance of an existing network, even when it has older cabling. Media converters are also great for extending the life and use of non-fiber-based networking equipment or extending the distance between two networking devices.