Industrial Automation & Networking Solutions Guide
Firecomms fiber optic solutions deliver on the harsh demands of industrial automation and networking applications, ensuring data integrity is not compromised by high-voltage environments or electromagnetic interference. Our light sources use Resonant Cavity LED (RCLED) technology to ensure strong optical output at the lowest currents, preserving stability over decades of operation. Our robust receiver topologies guarantee error-free reception in high EMI fields.
Sense, Control, Communicate
In industrial automation and networking applications, the factory environment can be viewed in three layers: the device network, the control network, and the corporate network. Each layer must overcome significant challenges to ensure reliable communication in the presence of ground loops and EMI. Fiber optic connectivity is often used to protect equipment and communication links.
On the device network layer, arrays of sensors, actuators, and valves must be controlled and monitored. Firecomms’ 650 nm analog RCLED light sources are ideal for use in light barriers and distance sensors due to their high coupling efficiency into Plastic Optical Fiber (POF).
Device network components often use fieldbuses such as SERCOS, EtherCAT, INTERBUS, or PROFIBUS. POF fiber links mitigate EMI from motors and high-voltage circuits. Firecomms DC-5 MBd and DC-10 MBd transmitters and receivers are well-suited for these fieldbus applications.
Firecomms DC-50 MBd transmitters and receivers are used in power stage control links to generate control signals for high-voltage semiconductors such as IGBT/IGCT devices.
In the control network layer, Industrial Ethernet standards like PROFINET are increasingly adopted. Fiber links provide galvanic isolation, EMI protection, and ground loop elimination. Firecomms’ 10/100 Mbps transceivers are designed for POF or PCS fibers up to 100 m and are packaged in robust OptoLock® or LC-compatible formats.
Within the corporate network, Firecomms supports Fast and Gigabit Ethernet over POF and large-core glass fibers for extended distances.
Flexible Solutions from Firecomms
To ensure compatibility and versatility, Firecomms offers transmitters, receivers, and transceivers in four connector configurations: OptoLock®, LC, SMI, and RedLink®.
- Industrial Transceivers (1 Mbps – 1 Gbps)
- Analog Transmitters & Receivers
- Industrial RedLink® Transmitters & Receivers (DC-1/5/10/50 MBd)
Fiber Optic Communications for Industrial Automation
Firecomms is a global leader in fiber optic solutions, combining compound and silicon semiconductor technology with innovative small-scale integration. Our products serve clients across industrial, transportation, power, medical, and consumer markets.
Our POF/PCS links offer many advantages:
- EMI/RFI immunity for harsh industrial environments
- Galvanic isolation between transmitter and receiver
- Visible-spectrum operation for eye-safe troubleshooting
- Low power consumption (3–4 mA operation)
- High flexibility and resilience to bending/vibration
- Extended temperature range (-40 to +85°C)
- 20-year lifecycle and simplified field installation
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