Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T Gigabit Multi-mode SC Turbo Ring Media Converter

The Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T is a robust Gigabit Ethernet to multimode fiber media converter designed for demanding industrial environments. This converter facilitates the seamless extension of industrial networks over long distances, enhancing reliability and performance in challenging conditions. Its key advantages include support for the Turbo Ring protocol, ensuring millisecond recovery times in ring topologies, and a wide operating temperature range, making it ideal for extreme applications.

Product Specifications

| Feature                  | Specification                                   |

| :----------------------- | :---------------------------------------------- |

| Ethernet Ports           | 1 x 10/100/1000BaseT(X) RJ45 port                 |

| Fiber Ports              | 1 x 1000BaseSX SC connector                     |

| Fiber Wavelength         | 1310 nm                                         |

| Fiber Cable Type         | Multimode (MMF)                                 |

| Max. Distance            | 550 meters (for 2 km MMF)                       |

| Power Input              | 12/24/48 VDC (9.6 - 60 VDC)                      |

| Power Consumption        | Max. 5.76 W                                     |

| Operating Temperature    | -40 to 75 °C                                    |

| Dimensions               | 37 x 115 x 117 mm                              |

| Mounting                 | DIN-rail, Wall-mount                            |

| Protocols                | IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3x, 802.3az, 802.1D     |

| Turbo Ring Recovery Time | < 300 ms (with up to 250 switches)              |

| MTBF                     | 600,000+ hours                                  |

Core Features & Market Positioning

The Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T distinguishes itself through its industrial-grade construction and advanced networking capabilities. Its primary differentiator is the integrated Turbo Ring technology, a proprietary Ethernet redundancy protocol developed by Moxa, offering rapid network recovery times essential for mission-critical industrial automation and control systems. Unlike standard media converters, the IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T is built to withstand harsh environmental factors, including extreme temperatures, vibrations, and electrical noise commonly found in manufacturing plants, substations, and transportation hubs. This positioning as a rugged, reliable solution for extending Ethernet connectivity in challenging settings makes it a preferred choice over less durable commercial-grade alternatives. The device's ability to convert between copper and multimode fiber optics over extended distances also significantly enhances network flexibility and resilience.

Key Application Scenarios

This media converter is particularly well-suited for extending industrial Ethernet networks in environments where copper cabling limitations are a concern or where electromagnetic interference (EMI) is prevalent. Typical applications include connecting surveillance cameras in remote outdoor locations, linking control systems across large factory floors, extending network reach in power substations, and integrating devices in transportation infrastructure like railways and tunnels. The multimode fiber support enables reliable data transmission up to 550 meters, a common requirement for inter-building communication or within large industrial complexes. For deployments requiring higher bandwidth or longer distances, Moxa offers single-mode fiber variants. The IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T also plays a crucial role in building redundant network loops with its Turbo Ring functionality, ensuring continuous operation even if a fiber link fails.

Practical System Integration Guidance

Integrating the Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T into an industrial network is straightforward. The unit features a standard RJ45 port for the copper Ethernet connection and an SC connector for the multimode fiber optic link. For power, it accepts a wide DC input voltage range (9.6 to 60 VDC), utilizing screw terminals for secure connections, which is critical for preventing accidental disconnections in vibration-prone environments. Installation typically involves DIN-rail mounting, a standard for industrial control cabinets, or optional wall-mount kits. When establishing a Turbo Ring topology, all ring member switches, including the IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T, must be interconnected using their fiber ports (or a combination of fiber and copper, depending on the switch types) and configured via the unit's management interface (if applicable, though this model is typically unmanaged, relying on physical connections for ring formation). Ensure proper fiber optic cable management, using high-quality multimode fiber (e.g., OM3 or OM4 for optimal performance) and maintaining clean connector ends to prevent signal degradation.

Operation and Risk Mitigation

The Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T operates as a plug-and-play device for basic media conversion, automatically negotiating speed and duplex settings on its RJ45 port. For advanced features like Turbo Ring, a simple physical ring connection is established. Risk mitigation in its operation primarily revolves around robust power supply and environmental protection. The wide DC input voltage range helps protect against power fluctuations, and the device's IP30 rating signifies protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm, though it does not offer ingress protection against water. Proper ventilation within the enclosure where the converter is housed is crucial to maintain optimal operating temperatures, especially in high-ambient temperature environments. Faulty fiber connections or incompatible cable types are common issues; always verify cable integrity and adherence to the 550-meter multimode distance limit. Regular inspection of power and fiber connections can prevent operational downtime.

Scalability & Long-Term Value

The scalability of the Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T is primarily realized through its integration into larger network architectures and its compatibility with Moxa's broader industrial networking solutions. By utilizing the Turbo Ring protocol, multiple IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T units can be interconnected to create redundant network segments that scale to support a significant number of devices while maintaining rapid failover. This converter serves as a critical bridge between legacy copper-based Ethernet devices and modern fiber optic networks, extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure. Furthermore, its hardened design and extensive MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures) figures ensure long-term reliability, reducing the total cost of ownership through minimized maintenance and replacement cycles. For integration into Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) ecosystems, its robust connectivity makes it an ideal foundational component for data acquisition from edge devices, facilitating the transmission of critical operational data to central management systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the maximum distance for the Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T?

The IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T supports a maximum transmission distance of 550 meters over multimode fiber optic cable. This distance is suitable for many industrial applications within a plant or campus environment.

This range is achievable with standard 50/125 µm or 62.5/125 µm multimode fiber optic cables. Ensure the fiber quality meets specifications for reliable communication.

For distances exceeding 550 meters, consider Moxa's single-mode fiber media converters, which can reach up to 30 kilometers.

Q2: Does the IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T support Jumbo Frames?

Yes, the Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T supports Jumbo Frames. This feature allows for larger data packets to be transmitted, potentially improving network efficiency for certain applications.

Enabling Jumbo Frames can reduce CPU load on network devices by decreasing the number of packets that need processing. The maximum supported frame size is typically 9K bytes.

Ensure that all devices in the network path, including the connected switches and end devices, also support and are configured for Jumbo Frames for successful operation.

Q3: How do I configure Turbo Ring on the IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T?

The IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T is a unmanaged media converter, meaning Turbo Ring is configured automatically through physical connections. No software configuration is required.

To enable Turbo Ring, connect the devices in a ring topology using the available fiber ports. The converter will detect the ring structure and establish redundancy.

Ensure all devices participating in the Turbo Ring are compatible and interconnected correctly to achieve the desired millisecond recovery times.

Q4: What power supply is required for this media converter?

The Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T requires a DC power input, accepting a wide voltage range from 9.6 to 60 VDC. This flexibility accommodates various industrial power sources.

The device features screw terminals for secure power connection, minimizing the risk of disconnection in vibrating environments. It's crucial to use a stable DC power source.

It is recommended to use a power supply that provides stable voltage and sufficient current, as the converter's maximum power consumption is 5.76 W.

Q5: Can I use this converter in extremely cold or hot environments?

Yes, the Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T is designed for industrial environments and features a wide operating temperature range of -40 to 75 °C. This makes it suitable for demanding conditions.

Its rugged industrial design ensures reliable operation even under extreme temperature fluctuations, common in outdoor installations or unconditioned industrial facilities.

Always ensure adequate ventilation around the device to prevent overheating, even within its specified operating temperature range.

Q6: What type of fiber optic cable should I use with the IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T?

You should use multimode fiber (MMF) optic cable with an SC connector for the IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T. The device uses a 1310 nm wavelength.

For the 550-meter distance rating, standard 50/125 µm or 62.5/125 µm multimode fiber is recommended. Ensure the fiber is clean and in good condition.

Using single-mode fiber or incorrect connector types will result in communication failure or significantly reduced range. Always verify cable specifications.

Q7: Is the IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T managed or unmanaged?

The Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T is an unmanaged media converter. This means it operates with plug-and-play functionality and does not require complex configuration.

As an unmanaged device, its primary role is to convert signals between copper Ethernet and multimode fiber. Advanced features like Turbo Ring are enabled through physical connections.

For managed industrial Ethernet switches with extensive configuration options, you would need to look at other Moxa product series.

Q8: What is Turbo Ring, and why is it important for this product?

Turbo Ring is Moxa's proprietary Ethernet redundancy protocol, offering ultra-fast network recovery times, typically under 300 milliseconds. This ensures minimal downtime in industrial networks.

The IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T integrates this technology, allowing it to be part of a redundant ring topology. If one link fails, traffic is automatically rerouted through the alternative path.

This rapid failover is critical for applications where network interruption can lead to production loss or safety hazards, providing a highly reliable network infrastructure.

Q9: How do I connect the RJ45 port for Gigabit Ethernet?

The RJ45 port on the IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T supports 10/100/1000 Mbps auto-negotiation. You connect standard Ethernet patch cables to this port.

Use Category 5e or higher Ethernet cables for 10/100 Mbps connections, and Category 6 or higher for reliable 1000 Mbps (Gigabit) speeds.

Ensure the cable is properly terminated and the connected device (e.g., switch or PC) is also configured for Gigabit Ethernet for optimal performance.

Q10: What are the physical dimensions and mounting options?

The Moxa IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T has compact dimensions of 37 x 115 x 117 mm, designed for space-saving installations. It is suitable for industrial control cabinets.

It supports standard DIN-rail mounting, which is the most common method for industrial automation equipment. Wall-mount kits are also available as an option for alternative mounting.

Proper mounting ensures secure installation and accessibility for potential maintenance or cable management within an industrial enclosure.