2.5GHz Programmable RFoF Transmitters & Receivers

RF over Fiber 2.5GHz operate between 1MHz to 2.5GHz, provide long distance RF signal transport over Single Mode Fiber and are commonly used for applications in the L band such as point-to-point, broadcast, GPS, satcom, and remote antenna. Their compact design and the low power consumption make them ideal for standalone and subsystem applications. The modules are available with FC/APC or with SC/APC optical, and SMA RF connectors.

Each 2.5GHz link has a transmitter (Tx) and a receiver (Rx) modules which may be controlled via RFOptic Configuration tool app. The app provides access to settings, features and diagnostic parameters. The software tool can activate built in Temperature compensation algorithms, RF level monitoring and Automatic Level Control as well as BIT and RF link test diagnostics, and log file that simplify troubleshooting in the field and allow remote tech support.

RFOptic solutions may be installed into indoor enclosures [1U, 2U removable, and 2U HD, 1U Generic (including CWDM), 1U MINI RFoF] and/or outdoor enclosures small (4 port) or large (8 port). Selection of enclosure is made according to the number of modules and additional required components based on available space, environmental conditions, maintenance parameters, and customer need.

The RF over Fiber programmable family consists of direct modulation RFoF solutions covering bandwidths from 1MHz to 2.5GHz, 3GHz, 4GHz, 6GHz, 8GHz, 10GHz, and 12GHz. BIT and diagnostic tools that enables the testing of the transceiver, receiver, and link are part of the RFOptic Configuration tool. Remote Monitor & Control for modules is available via USB and for enclosed modules also through HTML/SNMP/REST ethernet interface. Diagnostic capabilities include optical and RF test of the Tx, Rx, and full RFoF end-to-end link test.

RF over Fiber 2.5GHz has many applications including point-to-point, L band Satcom. Other popular applications are broadcast for audio and video signals, for e.g., events or concerts. DAS deployments in buildings, tunnels, and other shielded areas offer better coverage and access. RF over Fiber 2.5GHz links are also used for remote drone control, and remote antenna applications in L band. It can be used a standalone link or a group of links in enclosures.

Features
  • Supports 1MHz — 2.5GHz.
  • Flat response irrespective of distance and frequency
  • Distance between RF ports is limited only by optical losses
  • Insensitive to RF EM radiation
  • Cost-benefit increases as RF bandwidth increases
  • Low loss transmission, low power consumptiion
  • Excellent phase noise, high dynamic range
  • Wide operating temperature range -45°C — 85°C
  • Full tunable links with 2x 31.5dB step attenuator with 0.5dB steps
  • Built-in bypassable 30dB LNA
  • ALC technology available in Tx and Rx modules
  • Noise Figure down to 5dB with LNA ON
  • MDS: -169 dB/Hz for very low incoming signals
  • End-to-end, built-in optical and RF diagnostics reduces installation and maintenance time
  • Built-in optical power and RF sensor sensors in both Tx and Rx terminals to monitor connection quality and provide diagnostic information
  • Configurable optical alarm level
  • USB plug-and-play interface and free RFOptic Configuration tool
  • Remote Management and Control (M&C) over ethernet supports SNMP, HTML webserver
  • REST API for test station integration
  • Event log tracking system operation conditions and changes to operating parameters
  • RFoF module level information includes temperature, RF signal power, and optical power
  • Full control of all Tx and Rx terminals,, configurable optical alarm level
  • Secure communication with M&C over HTTPS with user-specified SSL PKI credentials
  • Ethernet configuration supports DHCP and static IP assignment
  • Supports manual, local, or NTP time zone setup
  • Support features include RFoF system log and service packages
  • Unidirectional and Bidirectional links
Configurations
  • Bias-T for GPS applications
  • Outdoor enclosure (unidirectional/bidirectional
  • 1U generic enclosure (4 units)
  • 1U removable panel enclosure (4/8 units)
Applications
Remote antenna
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RF over Fiber for 5G testing
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Broadcast
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GPS / GNSS
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Mines & security, testing
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DAS applications
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WiFi extension
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Options
  • Bias-T option feeds DC onto the coax connector to power an LNB or post amplifier
  • Optional reduced gain variation control over temperature; ±1dB typical over 90°C variation
  • Adjustable gain tracking between RFoF links of ±0.5dB
Monitoring

RFOptic’s optical RF Monitor and Control software is designed to manage, monitor, and control RF over Fiber converters and RFoF systems locally or remotely.

These optical fiber control and monitor capabilities reduce the daily maintenance expense, allowing maintenance personnel to perform diagnostic tests and calibration in the field without special test equipment, and to locate faults and problems in the optical and RF domains.

All fiber optic management systems are user-friendly, intuitive, and easy to operate. Detailed information can be found in the help and manuals of the management software.

RFOptic’s Optical RF Monitor & Control is available using USB interface for local management and over Ethernet connection for remote management. Both M&C systems enable changes to operating parameters and provide status details for all RFOptic’s RFoF products.