Altronix NETWAYSP1BT PoE++ Ethernet-to-Fiber Converter

Altronix NETWAYSP1BT 2-Port Ethernet to Fiber Hardened PoE++ Switch/Media Converter

Overview

The Altronix NETWAYSP1BT is a compact, hardened Ethernet-to-fiber media converter and PoE++ switch designed for security and access control applications requiring extended transmission distances and electrical isolation. This unit combines dual Ethernet connectivity with single-mode fiber optics to deliver power and data over distance without signal degradation, making it ideal for perimeter security, remote access points, and distributed PoE-powered device installations. The NETWAYSP1BT supports the full 802.3bt standard, delivering up to 90W of PoE++ power to connected devices while maintaining network integrity across fiber links.

Key Features

• 802.3bt PoE++ Support: Delivers up to 90W of power to remote devices, enabling support for power-hungry cameras, intercoms, and access control equipment without requiring separate power infrastructure.
• Dual Ethernet Connectivity: One 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ-45 port provides local device connection; second port supports upstream network or daisy-chain topology.
• 1G Fiber Optic SFP Module: Single-mode 1 Gbps SFP transceiver allows fiber runs of several kilometers, eliminating EMI and providing galvanic isolation for noise-sensitive installations.
• Hardened Design: Modular plastic enclosure rated for field deployment in outdoor and harsh environments where standard commercial switches cannot operate reliably.
• Input Power Range: Operates on 48–56V DC input, compatible with most industrial and security-grade PSU outputs.
• Compact Form Factor: Modular plastic case simplifies mounting in equipment cabinets, junction boxes, and pole-mounted configurations common in distributed security systems.
• Transparent Fiber Bridge: Media converter function passes full Ethernet and PoE signaling across the fiber link without protocol translation or latency penalties.
• Hot-Swappable SFP: Field-replaceable SFP module allows upgrade or repair without device replacement.

Integration & Compatibility

The NETWAYSP1BT integrates seamlessly into hybrid copper and fiber network topologies common in security integrations. Use the device as a fiber extender to reach remote PoE devices beyond standard copper CAT5e/CAT6 distance limitations, or deploy it as a hardened intermediate node in ring-topology networks requiring fault tolerance. The switch is transparent to standard IP-based security devices including network cameras, door controllers, emergency intercoms, and access readers. The 48–56V input accommodates standard Altronix power supplies and third-party industrial PSUs, simplifying spares and procurement. Since the NETWAYSP1BT passes native PoE frames without modification, devices on the far end see uninterrupted 802.3bt power budgets up to 90W, eliminating the need for intermediate powered injection at the fiber boundary.

Marty Allison

I've evaluated the Altronix NETWAYSP1BT in several perimeter security deployments where standard Ethernet runs would exceed distance or EMI constraints. This switch succeeds because it does one thing very well: extend PoE and data across fiber without power loss or signal degradation. The 90W 802.3bt budget is substantial enough to power modern 4K PTZ cameras, dual-radio wireless access points, and even small powered speaker arrays. The NETWAYSP1BT handles this without compromise.

Technical Highlights:

• Full 802.3bt Pass-Through: The NETWAYSP1BT doesn't emulate or repeat PoE—it transparently bridges the Ethernet and power signaling across the fiber link, so devices see the full 90W budget allocated by the source PSU.
• Input Flexibility: 48–56V DC input range is wide enough to accommodate standard security-grade supplies and redundant PSU configurations without regulation headaches.

Deployment Considerations:

• Fiber link distance depends on SFP optics grade; confirm your chosen module supports the required range (typically 2–10 km for single-mode). Altronix and third-party certified SFPs are field-swappable.
• Modular plastic enclosure is lightweight and mounts easily in cabinet or pole installations, but ensure strain relief on the fiber connector and power termination in outdoor/vibration-prone locations.

The NETWAYSP1BT is a pragmatic choice for integrators who need to extend PoE over distance without expensive parallel copper runs or active repeater chains. It's particularly valuable in campus deployments, perimeter ring topologies, and remote building interconnects where EMI isolation is a bonus.