Fiber-optic distance extender links access control card readers, control panels

ComNet (Danbury, CT) has introduced a fiber-optic distance extender interface that allows optical connectivity between one access control card reader and its associated door or gate locking hardware, and any Wiegand, Magstripe, or F/2F-based control panel.

The ComNet FDW1000 transmits Wiegand data optically over multimode or singlemode fiber at distances up to 3.5 km or 40 km, respectively. An associated expansion module, the EXP100, allows up to 7 additional card readers be integrated onto the fiber-optic network. The company says that both device models are designed to inhibit tampering while providing safe and secure operation.

“Wiegand data interfaces are extremely popular for access control applications," comments Andrew Acquarulo Jr., president and COO of ComNet. "This application might be considered a niche market, but as the ComNet product line expands, we’re able to develop solutions for these niche applications. Being US-based, our engineering and product development teams can quickly develop the products that solve customer challenges.”

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