General
Number of ports	2
Range	5 km
Wavelength	850 nm
MTBF	780.480 Stunden

The TCF-142-M-SC-T from Moxa is an industrial serial-to-fiber converter that converts RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 signals into light signals to transmit data over fiber optic cables over long distances. The device is designed for use in demanding industrial environments where reliable communication over extended ranges is required, for example in automation systems, power supply systems, or transportation infrastructures. The converters enable both point-to-point connections and the creation of complex ring networks, with simple ring formation via DIP switches supporting networks up to 100 km in circumference. The use of fiber optic provides protection against electromagnetic interference and chemical corrosion, increasing signal integrity and system lifespan.

Applications

The TCF-142-M-SC-T is suitable for industrial applications requiring serial communication over long distances. Typical use cases include networking machines in production facilities, transmitting control and measurement data in power supply systems, or communication in traffic control systems. The support for extreme operating temperatures from -40 to +75°C makes the device suitable for outdoor or harsh environments where other devices might fail. The converters are particularly advantageous when galvanic isolation between communication partners is required to avoid interference or voltage spikes.

Features and Equipment in Detail

The device features two serial interfaces supporting RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485. Baud rates can be automatically detected and range from 50 bps to 921.6 kbps, including non-standard rates. For RS-485 interfaces, Moxa’s ADDC technology (Automatic Data Direction Control) is used, which automatically controls data direction without requiring additional control lines. This simplifies installation and reduces error susceptibility. The optical interface of the TCF-142-M-SC-T is designed for multi-mode fiber and enables a range of up to 5 km at a wavelength of 850 nm. The TX power ranges from 0 to -5 dBm, the reception range (RX) from 0 to -20 dBm, with a link budget of 15 dB guaranteed.

Technology Explained Simply

The conversion of serial signals into light signals is performed by an integrated optoelectronic module that converts electrical data into optical pulses. These pulses are transmitted over the fiber optic cable and converted back into electrical signals at the other end. The use of fiber optic offers advantages over conventional copper cables, including immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and galvanic isolation, increasing safety and reliability. Automatic baud rate detection and ADDC technology reduce configuration effort, as no manual setting of transmission rate or data direction is required. The operating temperature range of -40 to +75°C enables use in extreme environments, such as in the oil and gas industry or rail transport.

Compatibility and Accessories

The TCF-142-M-SC-T is compatible with standard fiber optic cables for multi-mode connections. The optical interface is equipped with an SC connector, enabling universal connection to other SC-compatible devices. The serial interfaces are suitable for common industrial protocols such as Modbus RTU or ASCII protocols. The converters can be used in ring topologies, with ring formation achieved via DIP switches. The use of multi-mode fiber with a 5 km range makes the device particularly suitable for medium distances, while the single-mode variant (TCF-142-S) is intended for distances up to 40 km.

Mounting and Installation

The device is delivered in a metallic housing with protection rating IP30 and is designed for wall mounting. Dimensions are 90 x 100 x 22 mm (with mounting ears) or 67 x 100 x 22 mm (without ears). Mounting is done via integrated ears located at the rear of the device. Power supply is via DC voltage from 12 to 48 VDC, with current consumption between 70 and 140 mA. The device includes protection against reverse polarity and overcurrent, increasing safety during installation. Installation requires no special tools, and configuration is done via DIP switches, enabling quick commissioning.

Advantages in Operation

The TCF-142-M-SC-T offers high reliability through the use of fiber optic, which is immune to electromagnetic interference and galvanic loops. Automatic baud rate detection and ADDC technology reduce configuration effort and minimize error sources. The operating temperature range of -40 to +75°C enables use in harsh environments, and the high MTBF of 780,480 hours (according to Telcordia, GB) guarantees long service life. Simple ring formation via DIP switches supports redundant networks, increasing communication availability. Certifications according to EN 55032/35, CISPR 32, FCC Part 15B, and IEC 61000-4-x series, as well as safety standard UL 60950-1, confirm suitability for industrial use. The delivery includes the converter, a rubber stand foot, a quick start guide, and a warranty card.