Product Overview
The StarTech.com C2-ETHERNET-EXTENDER kit extends network connectivity beyond the typical 100m (328ft) limit of UTP cable. It supports dual-speed (10/100Mbps) Ethernet signals over distances up to 0.5 miles (800m) using existing copper wiring, including UTP, Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, or phone line (RJ11). This solution is ideal for remote office access, IP video surveillance, VoIP, and remote equipment management where wireless solutions are impractical or unreliable.
Features
- Extended Range: Supports up to 800m (0.5mi) over single-pair wire/phone line or RJ45 UTP.
- Flexible Connectivity: Compatible with RJ11 (phone line) and RJ45 (Cat5/5e/6 UTP) cabling.
- Dual Speed: Operates at 10/100Mbps, adapting to cable length and type.
- Transparent Operation: Acts as a transparent network device, supporting standard Ethernet protocols like Wake-on-LAN (WoL), 16K Jumbo frames, 802.1Q VLAN tagging, and PXE boot.
- Easy Monitoring: Features DIP switches for configuration and LED indicators for power, link status, and speed.
- Versatile Installation: Can be wall-mounted or surface-mounted.
Package Contents
- 2 Ethernet Extender Units
- 2 Power Adapters
- 2 Mounting Brackets
- 4 Mounting Screws
- 1 Quick-Start Guide
Image: The complete package contents of the StarTech.com Ethernet Extender Kit, showing two black extender units, two power adapters, two silver mounting brackets, and four small silver mounting screws.
Setup Instructions
- Identify Units: The kit includes two identical extender units. One will function as the local unit (connected to your network source), and the other as the remote unit (connected to your remote device).
- Connect Local Unit:
- Connect one end of a standard Ethernet cable (Cat5e or Cat6 recommended) to the LAN port of the local extender unit.
- Connect the other end of this Ethernet cable to an available Ethernet port on your network switch, router, or other network source.
- Connect one of the provided power adapters to the 12V DC IN port of the local extender unit and plug it into a power outlet.
- Connect Remote Unit:
- Connect one end of a standard Ethernet cable (Cat5e or Cat6 recommended) to the LAN port of the remote extender unit.
- Connect the other end of this Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port of your remote device (e.g., IP camera, computer, VoIP phone).
- Connect the second power adapter to the 12V DC IN port of the remote extender unit and plug it into a power outlet.
- Connect Line Cable:
- Connect your long-distance cable (either RJ11 phone line or RJ45 UTP Cat5e/6) between the "LINE" ports of both the local and remote extender units. Ensure the cable is securely terminated.
Image: Two black StarTech.com Ethernet Extender units are shown side-by-side. Each unit has a LAN port, a LINE port, and DIP switches. Cables are connected to the LAN and LINE ports, illustrating the connection points.
- DIP Switch Configuration (Optional): The units are typically plug-and-play. However, for specific deployments, you may need to adjust the DIP switches on each unit. Refer to the "Operating Instructions" section for details on DIP switch settings.
- Verify Connection: Once all connections are made and power is supplied, observe the LED indicators on both units. The "PWR" LED should be solid green. The "LAN Link" and "LFPT" LEDs should indicate an active connection. Refer to the "Operating Instructions" section for LED indicator meanings.
Video: This video demonstrates the features and connectivity of the StarTech.com C2-ETHERNET-EXTENDER, showing how to connect the units and highlighting key functionalities like extended range and protocol support.
Operating Instructions
DIP Switch Settings
The C2-ETHERNET-EXTENDER units feature DIP switches for customizing their operation. Ensure both local and remote units have matching configurations for optimal performance.
Image: A detailed view of the front panel of a StarTech.com Ethernet Extender, highlighting the four blue DIP switches and the various LED indicators for status monitoring.
| Switch | Position | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | OFF | Auto (Default) |
| 1 | ON | LFPT (Link Fault Pass-Through) |
| 2 | OFF | Auto (Default) |
| 2 | ON | 10M (Force 10Mbps) |
| 3 | OFF | Auto (Default) |
| 3 | ON | Local (Set as Local Unit) |
| 4 | OFF | Auto (Default) |
| 4 | ON | Remote (Set as Remote Unit) |
Note: For most installations, leaving DIP switches 1, 2, 3, and 4 in the OFF (Auto) position is recommended. If you need to manually set one unit as 'Local' and the other as 'Remote', ensure Switch 3 is ON for the Local unit and Switch 4 is ON for the Remote unit. Do not set both to ON or OFF simultaneously for switches 3 and 4 across the two units.
LED Indicators
The LEDs on the front panel provide real-time status information:
- PWR (Power): Solid green when the unit is powered on.
- Local: Indicates the unit is configured as the local extender.
- LAN Link: Solid green when an active Ethernet link is established on the LAN port. Blinks during data transmission.
- LFPT (Link Fault Pass-Through): Indicates the status of the link fault pass-through feature.
- 10M / 100M: Indicates the current link speed on the LINE port.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the units. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Ventilation: Ensure the units have adequate ventilation to prevent overheating. Do not block the ventilation slots.
- Cable Integrity: Periodically inspect all connected cables for damage or wear. Replace any damaged cables immediately.
- Firmware Updates: Check the StarTech.com website for any available firmware updates for your model. Follow the provided instructions carefully if an update is necessary.
Troubleshooting
- No Power: If the PWR LED is off, ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the unit and a working power outlet. Try a different outlet or adapter if available.
- No LAN Link: If the LAN Link LED is off, check the Ethernet cable connection between the extender and your network device/remote device. Ensure the cable is not damaged and is properly seated.
- No LINE Link: If the LINE speed LEDs (10M/100M) are off or not indicating a link, check the long-distance cable connected to the LINE ports on both extender units. Verify the cable is correctly terminated and not damaged. Ensure the cable length and type are within the supported specifications for the desired speed.
- Incorrect Speed: If the link speed is lower than expected, verify the cable type and length. Longer distances or lower quality cables may result in 10Mbps operation. Check DIP switch 2 to ensure it's not forced to 10M.
- Intermittent Connection: Check all cable connections for looseness. Ensure the power adapters are providing stable power. Verify that the DIP switch settings on both units are identical and appropriate for your setup.
- Resetting Units: If issues persist, disconnect power from both units for 10 seconds, then reconnect. This can resolve temporary communication issues.
Specifications
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | StarTech |
| Model Number | C2-ETHERNET-EXTENDER |
| Data Transfer Rate | 100 Megabits Per Second |
| Data Link Protocol | Ethernet |
| Hardware Interface | Ethernet, RJ11 |
| Max Extension Distance (1 Pair) | 300m (984ft) at 100Mbps, 800m (2624ft) at 10Mbps |
| Max Extension Distance (2 Pairs) | 600m (1968ft) at 100Mbps, 800m (2624ft) at 10Mbps |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | 0.9 x 3.8 x 2.9 inches (2.29 x 9.65 x 7.37 cm) |
| Item Weight | 2.56 ounces (72.57 grams) |
| Color | Black |
Warranty and Technical Support
The StarTech.com C2-ETHERNET-EXTENDER is backed by a two-year warranty, ensuring reliability and peace of mind.
StarTech.com also provides free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance. For support, please visit the official StarTech.com website or refer to the contact information provided in the quick-start guide included with your product.
