Managed vs. Unmanaged Media Converter

Managed and unmanaged media converters have unique features that make their use desirable for a particular type of network administrator. When deciding on which media converter to buy, you must consider the network needs, the expectation, the location and the appropriate budget intended for it.

An unmanaged media converter is more cost-effective than a managed media converter due to the functionality that a managed media converter has, such as network monitoring, fault detection and remote configuration—and these functionalities are not available with an unmanaged media converter. 

Unmanaged Media Converter

Unmanaged media converters are easy-to-use plug-and-play devices, but most unmanaged converters require minimal configuration. After connecting an unmanaged media converter to the power supply, they combine the hardware with auto-negotiation of data rates and duplex modes. The basic configuration of duplex modes, auto-negotiation and crossover can be configured with DIP switches. Unmanaged media converters can be configured with DIP switches such as remote fault indication, fault propagation and loopback modes.

Unmanaged Copper to Fiber Media Converters

Here is a list of Omnitron's unmanaged copper-to-fiber media converters:

Unmanaged Fiber-to-Fiber Media Converters

Here is a list of Omnitron’s unmanaged fiber-to-fiber media converters:

Managed Media Converter

A managed media converter provides network monitoring, fault detection and remote configuration, which bring substantial benefits such as reduced operating costs and improved network reliability. Managed media converters demand supplemental hardware to enable management, including SNMPv1, SNMPv2c, and SNMPv3. The additional hardware installed in the same chassis can be a management module or a media converter with integrated management capabilities. Easily accessible DIP switches or Web, Telnet, SSH, SNMPv1/v2c/v3 or Serial Console management interfaces can be used to configure the mode of operation. 

Remote configuration

Managed media converters' remote configuration feature enables the device to troubleshoot and configure network equipment remotely. Remote configuration reduces network administrator trips to edge equipment, which reduces network operating costs (OPEX).

Network Monitoring

Network monitoring is the process of continuously inspecting the network for potential problems. Network monitoring informs the network engineer of problems such as slow traffic or component failure via text, email or other applications.

Fault Detection

In addition to being actively responsible for network problems, error management quickly isolates network errors to ensure security in the network and prevent them from spreading to other departments.

Managed Copper to Fiber Media Converters

Here is a list of Omnitron's managed Copper to fiber media converters:

Managed Fiber to Fiber Media Converters

Here is a list of Omnitron's managed fiber-to-fiber media converters:

Save the Best for Last

Now you must consider whether you want to choose a managed or unmanaged media converter, which entirely depends on multiple options, including your network needs, the manufacturers, quality and compliance.

Here are some Tips for Selecting a Managed or Unmanaged Media Converter:

• The size and complexity of your network should be assessed. Larger networks with a variety of requirements may benefit from managed media converters' advanced features. 
• Budget: Take into account your financial limitations. Unmanaged media converters may be a better choice if cost is a major consideration.
• Future Expansion: Evaluate the expansion potential and requirements of your network. More scalability and versatility are available with managed media converters.
• Skill Level and Support: Assess the technological know-how of your technicians. For configuration and troubleshooting, managed media converters could need more specialized knowledge.

Omnitron Systems is a privately held company headquartered in Irvine, California and manufactures all its products in the United States. We provide a lifetime warranty on all managed and unmanaged media converters. If you have any future questions about media converters or want to get pre-sale support, give us a call; we are available 24/7 to answer your questions. Call us now to get pre-sale support.

At Omnitron, we understand that network design is essential to any successful IT infrastructure. That's why we offer free network design services to our customers. Our experienced network engineers will collaborate with you to develop a comprehensive design that meets your unique needs, budget and time limit. Schedule your free network design session. 

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