Network bridge PLANET VC-234 managed 4-port Fast Ethernet (10/100) rack-mount 1U, DC-in, 0.8 Gbit/s switching capacity

The Network bridge PLANET VC-234 is an Ethernet-over-VDSL2 bridge designed to deliver high-performance Ethernet connectivity over existing copper telephone lines. Supporting symmetric data rates up to 100/100 Mbps within 300 m and extended rates such as 20/4 Mbps up to 1.4 km, the VC-234 enables fast data transmission without rewiring. It provides four RJ-45 Ethernet ports and two RJ-11 jacks (one for VDSL and one for POTS) with a built-in POTS splitter, allowing simultaneous phone service and VDSL data on the same line. The device is available in Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) and Central Office (CO) modes and is suitable as an Ethernet extender or a bridge for service-provider or in-building deployments.

Advantages

The VC-234 combines VDSL2 and Ethernet technologies to deliver wire-speed performance at short distances and reliable long-reach connectivity over existing copper pairs. Its symmetric 100/100 Mbps capability supports bandwidth-demanding services while the built-in POTS splitter avoids the need to replace telephone wiring. The unit is plug-and-play, energy-efficient, and provides clear front-panel LEDs for port and system diagnostics. A simple DIP-switch selects CPE or CO mode for flexible deployment in point-to-point links.

Suitable for

• Extending Ethernet to remote rooms or floors over existing copper telephone lines
• Delivering triple-play services (IPTV, VoIP, VOD) for homes and small apartments
• ISP last-mile connections and multi-dwelling unit installations
• Providing Ethernet connectivity where cable re-wiring is impractical

Key specifications

• Data rate: up to 100/100 Mbps symmetric within 300 m; up to 20/4 Mbps at 1.4 km (varies by profile and line quality)
• Interfaces: 4 × RJ-45 Ethernet ports, 2 × RJ-11 (1 × VDSL, 1 × POTS)
• VDSL2 profiles: supports 17a (long reach) and 30a (short range/wire-speed)
• Modes: CPE and CO (selectable via DIP switch)
• Standards: IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3x
• Power: DC input, typical power consumption 7.2 W
• Dimensions: 155 × 86 × 26 mm; Weight: 0.368 kg
• Color: Blue

How to use

Install the VC-234 by connecting its RJ-11 VDSL jack to the existing telephone wall jack and linking LAN devices to the RJ-45 Ethernet ports. Ensure the built-in POTS splitter is used if a telephone needs to share the same line. Set one unit to CO mode and the remote unit to CPE mode using the DIP switch for a point-to-point connection. Power the device with the appropriate DC adapter and verify operation using the front-panel LEDs to confirm link and activity status.

Recommendations

For optimal performance, choose the VDSL2 profile that matches line length and quality: use profile 30a for short-range, wire-speed needs and profile 17a for longer-distance reach. Place the CO unit nearer the distribution point and the CPE unit at the customer or remote endpoint. Maintain good-condition copper pairs and minimize bridged taps or noise sources on the line to preserve throughput.