Moxa IMC-21GA Gigabit SFP Media Converter

How the IMC-21GA extends a link

A compact industrial media converter with one 10/100/1000BaseT(X) port and one 100/1000BaseSFP slot, so the fiber type is decided by the SFP module you fit. Moxa’s own one-line description of the IMC-21GA reads: Industrial 10/100/1000BaseT(X) to 100/1000BaseSFP media converter, -10 to 60°C operating temperature.

From the manufacturer’s specification table, the power input is 12 to 48 VDC; operating temperature is -10 to 60°C (14 to 140°F); dimensions are 30 x 125 x 79 mm (1.19 x 4.92 x 3.11 in); weight is 170 g (0.37 lb).

Standards and approvals printed for this model include safety standard EN 60950-1, UL 60950-1. Approvals can differ between variants of a series, so check the one on the exact order code.

Technical specifications

Where it fits and what to check

It is used to extend gigabit links over multi-mode or single-mode fiber to remote pumping stations, pipelines and substations, with the choice of reach left to the SFP.

On the practical side, mounting is listed as din-rail mounting; the housing is metal; the stated MTBF is 2,762,058 hrs; the warranty period is 5 years. Treat the MTBF as a manufacturer prediction under its stated method, not a guarantee for your site.

Before ordering, confirm the SFP module (ordered separately) and the temperature grade. Seven Star LLC is an independent supplier in Muscat and quotes against the exact code you give us.

Related models in the IMC-21GA family

The Moxa product list shows these models in the same family page (6 entries): IMC-21GA, IMC-21GA-LX-SC, IMC-21GA-LX-SC-T, IMC-21GA-SX-SC, IMC-21GA-SX-SC-T, IMC-21GA-T. Suffixes such as -T generally mark wide-temperature versions and fiber suffixes (M, S, MM, SS with SC or ST) mark the connector and fiber type, but the order code printed on the datasheet governs.

Planning a copper-to-fiber link with the IMC-21GA

Start by measuring the real cable route between the two locations, including vertical runs and slack loops, rather than the straight-line distance. That route length, together with the fiber already installed or planned, decides whether a multi-mode SFP such as 1000BaseSX or a single-mode SFP such as 1000BaseLX is appropriate; the datasheet lists typical wavelengths and link budgets for each. Because the IMC-21GA itself has an SFP slot rather than a fixed optic, the same converter model can be used at sites with different fiber types, which simplifies spares planning. Next, check the speed of the equipment on the copper side and on the far end of the fiber, since the SFP slot works at 100 or 1000 Mbps and both ends of the fiber link must match.

Installation and commissioning steps

• Mount the converter on DIN rail in a cabinet, leaving space for the fiber bend radius and the copper cable.
• Connect a 12 to 48 VDC supply to the terminal block, using a supply that can deliver the stated input current with margin.
• Fit the chosen SFP module, keeping fiber connectors and the optical interface clean and protected while the cabinet is being wired.
• Use the same fiber type, wavelength and speed on both ends of the link, typically with a second converter or a switch with a matching SFP.
• Test the link end to end with traffic from the connected device, and record the fiber route and the SFP part numbers in the as-built documents.

Operating in GCC field cabinets

Remote pumping stations, pipeline valve sites and substations in Oman and the Gulf often place network equipment in outdoor cabinets exposed to strong sun and dust. The standard IMC-21GA is rated for -10 to 60 C, while models with the -T suffix are listed in the family for wide temperature; compare the expected cabinet temperature in summer with these ranges before choosing the model. Shade the cabinet where possible, keep cable entries sealed against sand, and avoid condensation since the humidity rating is 5 to 95 percent non-condensing. The metal housing and the built-in 1.5 kV magnetic isolation support use in electrically noisy plant rooms, but good earthing and separation from power cables remain important.

What to send with your RFQ

Give the exact order code (IMC-21GA, IMC-21GA-T, or one of the SC fiber versions), the quantity, and the SFP type needed if you want it quoted together. Describe the fiber type and route length, the copper-side equipment and speed, and the supply voltage available in the cabinet, so the selection can be checked against the Moxa datasheet.

If the converters will be installed in pairs, say so and give the total number of links, so that both ends are quoted with matching SFP types. For replacements, include the order code from the label of the existing unit and note whether the site is classed as normal or wide-temperature service, since that decides between the standard and -T models.

Documents and quotation

The Moxa datasheet for this family (moxa-imc-21ga-series-datasheet-v1.7) is attached to this page. Request a quotation with the exact order code, quantity and delivery location, and we will respond with availability.

More products in this range: Industrial Communications.