fSONA adds power over Ethernet option to optical wireless system

Free-space optical (FSO) systems vendor fSONA Networks Corp. has added a new power option for its SONAbeam free space optical wireless links. The SONAbeam Z and E series can now be ordered with or upgraded to Power over Ethernet (PoE). This new option will save operators time and money during installation by eliminating need for separate cabling, the vendor says.

A SONAbeam Z or E system adapted with the PoE kit can be connected to any standard network port using the PoE kit, via the included injector. The company says SONAbeam with PoE saves time and money during installation by eliminating the need for separate cabling and, in some instances, separate contractors to run both power and Ethernet. There will be three versions of the SONAbeam PoE kit – one each for North American, European and Universal power cord types.

“Power over Ethernet simplifies installation by running both power and connectivity over the same type of cable,” said fSONA President and CEO, Andrew Grieve. “This reduces time to deployment and increases ROI for our customers who want to avoid delays and get connected quickly.”

The SONAbeam E series connects locations up to 1000 m apart at speeds up to 2.5 Gbps (OC-48/STM-16). The SONAbeam Z series is optimized for links up to 500 m and also operates at speeds up to 2.5 Gbps.

fSONA says the main benefit of its SONAbeam is to eliminate the substantial costs of digging up streets and sidewalks required to install fiber. Unlike other wireless solutions, the SONAbeam is immune to electro-magnetic (EM) and radio-frequency (RF) interference which means no licensing is required. The SONAbeam’s high-powered laser transmitters are able to penetrate heavy rain, snow and fog far more effectively and consistently than any other available FSO technology.

For more information on free-space optical systems and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyers Guide.