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Fiber delivers numerous signal transmission benefits over twisted pair, including longer distances, immunity to static electricity and surges, immunity to RF and EM interference, and significantly higher supported signal bandwidths. However, the majority of network-enabled devices don't feature a fiber connection. Most switches, routers, access points, cameras, media players and other network connected devices still rely on traditional twisted pair connections through RJ45 ports. Does that mean you're limited to 100 meter max distances over a cable prone to interference and slow speeds? Thankfully no.

This article explores adapting twisted pair-based devices to fiber optic cabling through the use of SFP modules and media converters. 

When it comes to audio, media players are no longer being designed for integration. Early generations slotted into the professional installation thanks to analog and digital audio outputs, but the latest generations from Apple TV, Roku, and countless other manufacturers only offer a single HDMI output. So how do we handle audio distribution? 

There are several solutions depending on the application, but increasingly integrators are turning to audio de-embedders with or without decoding. This article explores these devices, as well as other common solutions that have become mainstream in professional AV. 

Fiber optic cabling does not transmit electricity and therefore won't power connected devices -- it's an issue many integrators must grapple with when converting their projects from copper to fiber. And while there are several important benefits to not transmitting power, dealing with power distribution for connected devices can be a challenge. 

This article looks at the whys, whats and hows of dealing with power in fiber-based installations. 

We often get asked how to wire a demarc with fiber optic cabling. Unfortunately, there isn't a single answer or a dominant installation example -- several variables combine to determine the best way to integrate fiber into a new or retrofit installation.

This article will examine seven different integration patterns, including the reasoning behind each configuration. However, before we begin it's important to understand the terminology and technology we will be using. 

Most importantly, one must understand that the demarc (or point of demarcation) is the area where the public network connects with the private network. It divides the responsibility between the telecom provider or ISP (internet service provider) and the individual home or business owner. In a residential internet application, the demarc is typically where cable from the street terminates into a modem. In some cases, the demarc must be extended and this article will explore the necessary wiring.