One of the biggest communications-related problems in America is the issue of how to get broadband Internet access out to remote areas. While some look in the direction of wireless connectivity, this approach isn't without several drawbacks for the user. However, Perle Systems may well have a solution in hand thanks to the recent release of their new Ethernet Copper Extenders, devices that will boost the range of Ethernet to levels never before thought possible.

With Perle'sEthernet Copper Extenders, the former range of Ethernet, which stuck around 100 meters (328 feet) is now expanded out to three kilometers (1.86 miles), and all without the need to install extra cables. Perle's Ethernet Copper Extenders can work with existing copper wire installations--be they from telephone systems, alarm circuits, even old cable television systems and similar equipment--to boost the effective range of Ethernet capability and, essentially, use old hardware to bring in new technology.

Perle offers, at last report, 40 such models of both 10 / 100 and 10 / 1000 Ethernet Copper Extenders, all capable of operating in harsh environments. They boast included microcontrollers to both detect and recover from link errors and even offer a lifetime warranty.

While Perle's Ethernet Copper Extenders by themselves may not prove the key to unlock the issue of rural broadband, the ability to take advantage of currently existing infrastructure may well at least prove part of the puzzle. Most rural locales currently have power and phone hooked in, and have had for years, even decades. Taking advantage of the copper wires and the like already in place may well be the critical link to get that broadband traffic out there and available for anybody to use no matter their location. Additionally, it will also likely help in terms of performing Ethernet installations on large buildings; instead of requiring the addition of new cables--an expensive and time-consuming task--the cables in place can serve to handle most of the project's needs.

Taking advantage of what's already in place is a smart idea that allows projects to be handled more efficiently and with less consumption of time and resources.  Extending Ethernet capabilities not just for rural applications but for driving high-performance broadband to diverse environments such as nuclear power plants, sports facilities, and electrical grids has been a priority for many years. In fact, it is worth checking out Patton, whose CopperLink™ family of Ethernet Extenders has recently been enhanced with the addition of the US-manufactured CopperLink™ CL1314R Ruggedized Ethernet Extender and CL1314MDE Ruggedized Multi-Drop Ethernet Extender and Repeater. When it comes to creating these vital links for your network, one size does not fit all. You need to find the solution that best meets your needs.

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