StarTech.com PCIe Gigabit Ethernet Multimode SC Fiber NIC - 550m

Upgrade your desktop or server with a high-performance PCI Express fiber network adapter from StarTech.com. The PCIe Gigabit Ethernet Multimode SC Fiber Network Card Adapter NIC delivers reliable, long-distance connectivity by leveraging a multimode SC fiber link that can span up to 550 meters when paired with the right transceiver. Built for durability, compatibility, and easy deployment, this NIC is an excellent choice for data centers, server rooms, and workstations that require fast, scalable, fiber-based networking without copper cabling.

• Deliver a full 1 Gbps Ethernet connection over multimode SC fiber with low latency and efficient processing, making it ideal for high-traffic workstations, virtualization hosts, and small to mid-size servers. The card is engineered to optimize throughput while reducing CPU overhead, enabling smoother operation for databases, backups, and media workflows.
• PCI Express interface for modern systems. This NIC plugs into a PCIe slot (x1 compatible) on desktops or servers, offering a straightforward installation path that minimizes downtime and maximizes compatibility with current motherboards and expansion plans.
• SC fiber optic connectivity with multimode support. The 550-meter capability is designed for medium-to-long fiber runs, connecting directly to fiber switches, storage arrays, media converters, or remote devices without copper media. It’s an ideal upgrade for environments seeking fiber reliability and interference resistance.
• Rugged, enterprise-ready design with robust EMI/ESD tolerance. The StarTech NIC is built to withstand the rigors of data centers and busy office deployments, ensuring stable operation in temperature-variant rooms and high-traffic network closets while maintaining consistent link quality.
• Broad operating system and driver support. This card is designed to work with major Windows and Linux distributions, with drivers from StarTech to ensure smooth deployment, ongoing updates, and easy management in diverse IT environments. It’s a practical solution for mixed-OS networks and virtualization hosts.

Technical Details of StarTech.com PCI Express (PCIe) Gigabit Ethernet Multimode SC Fiber Network Card Adapter NIC - 550m

• Product type: PCIe Gigabit Ethernet Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Interface: PCI Express (PCIe) card for desktop and server systems
• Fiber connector: SC multimode optical port for 1000BASE-SX or equivalent multimode transceivers
• Distance: Up to 550 meters on multimode fiber, depending on fiber grade and transceiver module
• Data rate: 1 Gbps Ethernet (Gigabit Ethernet)
• Supported media: Multimode fiber optic cabling with SC connectors
• Operating systems: Windows and Linux families (drivers provided by StarTech or included)
• Form factor: PCIe card suitable for standard riser slots in compatible chassis
• Safety and compliance: Designed for reliable operation in standard IT environments with appropriate shielded cabling

How to install StarTech.com PCI Express (PCIe) Gigabit Ethernet Multimode SC Fiber Network Card Adapter NIC - 550m

• Power down your computer, unplug it, and remove any peripheral power sources. Open the chassis to access empty PCIe slots on the motherboard.
• Identify an available PCIe slot (preferably a PCIe x1 slot for compatibility) and remove the slot cover to allow access to the backplane.
• Insert the StarTech PCIe NIC firmly into the PCIe slot until it is seated securely. Reattach the slot bracket with a screw to ensure the card remains in place during operation.
• Connect the fiber optic SC multimode patch cable to the card’s SC port. Attach the other end to your fiber network equipment or to a compatible transceiver module as required by your network design.
• Power on the system. Install the necessary drivers from StarTech’s official website or the driver CD included with the product, following on-screen prompts. Reboot if the installer advises it to complete the setup.
• Verify network recognition in the operating system. In Windows, check Device Manager and the Network Connections panel; in Linux, verify with ifconfig/ip a and the appropriate driver module loading. Configure IP addressing as needed for your network.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Does this card require a separate transceiver or module for the SC fiber interface?
• A: Yes. The SC multimode fiber port requires a compatible multimode fiber transceiver/module (1000BASE-SX or equivalent) appropriate for your fiber type and distance. The NIC provides the physical interface; the transceiver determines the link characteristics and distance capability.
• Q: What operating systems are supported?
• A: The StarTech PCIe Gigabit Ethernet Multimode SC Fiber NIC supports major Windows and Linux distributions. Driver availability and installation procedures vary by OS version; refer to StarTech’s download resources for the latest releases and compatibility notes.
• Q: How far can I run fiber with this NIC?
• A: The design supports up to 550 meters on multimode fiber, subject to fiber grade, transceiver characteristics, and environmental conditions. For longer runs, you may need higher-performance transceivers or additional link equipment.
• Q: Can I install this NIC in a standard desktop case?
• A: Yes. The card is designed for PCIe-enabled desktops and servers. Ensure your chassis has an available PCIe slot and that space in the back panel accommodates the bracket and fiber connections.
• Q: Do I need any special software to manage the NIC?
• A: Basic functionality is provided by standard OS network drivers. For advanced features, monitoring, or vendor-specific utilities, download the latest drivers and management tools from StarTech’s website.
• Q: Is this NIC suitable for data centers or virtualization hosts?
• A: It’s well-suited for small-to-medium data centers, edge servers, and virtualization environments that benefit from fiber-based connectivity, reduced electromagnetic interference, and reliable long-distance links. For highly dense data centers, verify compatibility with your existing switches and transceivers.