Low cost, brief duration, slow transmission.
Low cost, brief duration, slow transmission.
You're looking to separate two RJ45 switches without a DC path using copper cables, aiming to reduce noise at a receiver location. This approach avoids ground loops and common mode interference. Since speed isn't critical, you can skip high-end features. You mentioned no budget beyond $200 and are open to fiber ports for the switches. It sounds like a practical setup if you find compatible gear.
Media changes formats from RJ45 to fiber. See this example: https://www.amazon.com/Converter-SFP-Tra...r=1-3&th=1 Then obtain a fiber cable such as this one. You should choose LC connectors and check for multi-mode options in the name. https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-Fiber-O...r=1-3&th=1
Search for two switches with at least one SFP+ port, the remaining ones RJ45. You'll need two SFP transceiver modules that fit your switch. 1000BASE-SX offers the shortest range, usually up to over 500m. You can purchase them from fs.com, ensuring you select a model compatible with your vendor. Prices should stay around $10 each. Use an LC-LC multimode cable sized for your needs. An alternative approach exists, but I generally prefer avoiding media converters. You might find used switches on eBay that fit your requirements at very low cost, even including spare parts within a $200 budget. This should be for non-commercial use, and older equipment is acceptable.
Thanks for the feedback! The responses provide useful material. This setup is designed for low cost, using remote webSDR receivers between 0.1 to 30 MHz in a quiet rural area. We're focusing on reducing noise by keeping things simple. Ethernet cables act as antennas, and short runs help cut radiation. Ground loops are avoided with DC isolation.