SFP+ MSA: Key Information You Should Be Aware Of

In data communication, the seamless transfer of high-bandwidth data between network devices is paramount. At the heart of this efficiency lies the Small Form-Factor Pluggable Plus Multi-Source Agreement (SFP+ MSA), a standardized framework shaping the design and functionality of optical transceivers. Explore with us the transformative role of SFP+ MSA, a driving force in standardizing interoperability for optical transceivers beyond mere specification.

Navigating the Impact of SFP+ MSA in Optical Transceivers

Definition and Expansion of MSA

MSA, an abbreviation for Multi-Source Agreement, is a protocol that enables different manufacturers to produce optical module products with similar basic functionalities and interoperability. The interface types of optical modules from various manufacturers were once diverse. To address the lack of interoperability, multiple manufacturers joined forces to create an organization dedicated to standardizing specifications for the interface types, installation, and functionalities of optical modules. MSA emerged as a supplement to IEEE standards. For optical modules, the MSA standard not only defines their physical dimensions but also outlines their electrical and optical interfaces, creating a comprehensive standard for optical modules.

Significance of SFP+ MSA in Networking Standards

Due to the MSA standard defining the physical dimensions and interface types of optical modules, suppliers strictly adhere to MSA standards during system design to ensure interoperability and interchangeability between optical modules. For end-users, the MSA standard holds crucial significance for two main reasons:

Firstly, the MSA standard offers users a variety of choices. As long as an optical module complies with the MSA standard and demonstrates good compatibility, customers can choose any optical module needed from any third-party supplier.

Secondly, concerning costs, the MSA standard, to some extent, prevents the optical module market from being monopolized by certain major manufacturers. This situation contributes to lowering the network construction costs for end-users.

Exploring the Key Features of SFP+ MSA

Unlocking the potential of SFP+ MSA involves understanding its key features. This section will explore the small form-factor design, high-speed data transmission capabilities, interoperability across vendors, compatibility with various fiber types, and the importance of compliance and certification. These features collectively contribute to the versatility and efficiency of SFP+ modules, redefining connectivity standards in modern networking environments.

Small Form-Factor Design

The compact form factor of SFP+ modules enables high port density in network equipment, a crucial aspect for contemporary data centers aiming to save rack space and optimize spatial layouts. Additionally, this design also supports hot-swapping, providing flexibility in network management.

High-Speed Data Transmission

SFP+ modules are designed to handle high-speed data transmission, with data rates exceeding 10 Gbps and reaching up to 25 Gbps. This high bandwidth is essential for applications demanding swift and reliable data transfer, such as in high-performance computing and data center interconnects.

Interoperability Across Vendors

The key goal of the SFP+ MSA is to ensure interoperability among modules from different vendors. This standardization allows network administrators to mix and match SFP+ modules from various manufacturers without compatibility concerns, promoting a vendor-neutral environment.

Compatibility with Various Fiber Types

Support various types of optical fibers, including single-mode and multi-mode fibers. This versatility in fiber compatibility enhances the adaptability of SFP+ modules to different networking scenarios and infrastructures.

Compliance and Certification

SFP+ modules undergo rigorous testing to ensure compliance with standards such as MSA, IEEE, GR-xx-CORE, ITU-T, guaranteeing reliable performance and interoperability in various aspects.

Unlocking Excellence in SFP+ MSA Advantages

SFP+ MSA brings several advantages to network infrastructures.

Flexible and Scalable Networks

The standardization provided by SFP+ MSA enhances network flexibility by allowing the deployment of modules from different manufacturers. It also facilitates the scalability of networks. As data demands increase, administrators can easily upgrade network capacities by adding or replacing SFP+ modules, ensuring that the infrastructure can evolve with changing requirements.

Seamless Integration in Diverse Environments

SFP+ modules find applications in diverse environments, ranging from enterprise data centers to telecommunications networks. The standardization ensures these modules integrate seamlessly, providing consistent performance across various settings.

Cost-Efficiency in Network Deployments

The interoperability of SFP+ modules reduces dependence on a single vendor, fostering a competitive market that can lead to cost savings for network infrastructure deployments. Administrators can select modules based on specific requirements. This flexibility is crucial for network administrators seeking cost-effective solutions without compromising performance.

Unleashing the Potential of SFP+ Modules in Applications

In the previous discussion, we covered aspects of SFP+ concerning MSA standards. Now, let’s unveil the applications of SFP+ in various environments. From data centers to telecommunications networks, the presence of SFP+ modules is ubiquitous.

Data Center Connectivity

SFP+ modules are essential for data center connectivity, providing high-speed links that ensure efficient communication among servers, storage devices, and networking equipment.

High-Performance Computing (HPC)

In the realm of high-performance computing, SFP+ modules support the high-speed data transmission required for parallel computing and scientific simulations.

Telecom and Network Infrastructure

SFP+ modules are integral to telecommunications networks and general infrastructure, serving as the foundation for dependable and high-performance data transmission.

Conclusion

In summary, SFP+ MSA serves as a cornerstone in the realm of optical transceivers, providing standardized specifications that ensure interoperability, versatility, and performance. By embracing the standards set by SFP+ MSA, the networking industry can continue to build robust, efficient, and future-ready infrastructures that meet the demands of modern data transmission.

SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-LR: How to choose?

Optical fiber communication technology is crucial for efficient information transmission, significantly enhancing data transmission speeds. Optical modules, a vital component of this technology, play a key role. Among the parameters associated with optical modules, common ones include SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR. When making a purchase decision, it’s pivotal for you to understand the difference between SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR before choosing products.

What are the SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR

SFP refers to hot-pluggable small form factor modules. 10G represents its maximum transmission rate of 10.3 Gbps, which is suitable for 10 Gigabit Ethernet. SR and LR represent the transmission distance of the SFP 10g module.

SFP-10G-SR

SFP-10G-SR is designed for short-distance transmission, typically up to 300 meters over multimode fiber. Using 850 nm wavelength laser and LC bidirectional connector, it is easy to plug and install. The module supports hot-swappable function, which can be safely replaced while the device is running, with stable performance and reliability. In data center networks, SFP-10G-SR is often used for connections between servers to support high-speed data transmission. It is also suitable for enterprise network environments, especially in scenarios with high network performance requirements.

SFP-10G-LR

The SFP-10G-LR is specifically engineered for medium to long-distance transmissions, typically spanning 10 to 40 kilometers over single-mode fiber. Boasting a 1310nm wavelength laser and an LC bidirectional connector, it facilitates effortless and smooth installation. The compatibility of SFP-10G-LR with single-mode optical fiber makes it an ideal solution for fulfilling communication needs in medium to long-distance scenarios, including establishing connections between remote offices. Furthermore, it proves well-suited for constructing network backbones, enabling high-speed data transmission among diverse network devices.

Differences Between SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR

Transmission Distance: The primary distinction lies in their coverage range, with SFP-10G-SR for short distances and SFP-10G-LR for longer ones.

Fiber Compatibility: SFP-10G-SR works with multimode fiber, while SFP-10G-LR requires single-mode fiber.

Use Cases: SFP-10G-SR is optimal for intra-building connections, while SFP-10G-LR is suitable for inter-building or even metropolitan-area connections.

Wavelength: The SFP-10G-SR uses a laser with a wavelength of 850 nanometers, while the SFP-10G-LR uses a laser with a wavelength of 1310 nanometers.

How to Choose the Right Module

After understanding the difference between SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR, we will start from typical application scenarios, combining them with your network requirements, to provide guidance on selecting the appropriate SFP 10G optical module for you.

Data Center

When linking servers, storage devices, or network components within the data center, opt for SFP-10G-SR for short-distance connections like in-rack setups. For cross-rack connectivity, SFP-10G-LR is the best choice.

Intra-Enterprise Network

Establishing high-speed connections within the enterprise, such as inter-floor or inter-department links, demands tailored choices. For shorter intra-floor connections, select SFP-10G-SR. Opt for SFP-10G-LR when spanning different floors.

Remote Office/Branch Office

For network connections linking remote or branch offices with the headquarters, SFP-10G-LR is the preferred module due to its suitability for longer distances, ensuring coverage for remote locations.

Inter-City Data Transmission

When establishing high-speed data connections between cities, the preferred choice is SFP-10G-LR, thanks to its compatibility with longer fiber distances, addressing the needs of inter-city connections.

Budget Constraints

If facing budget limitations and the connection distance permits, SFP-10G-SR is generally the more economical option.

Unlocking the Potential of the SFP 10g module with FS Products

The burgeoning era of digitization has spurred a growing demand for optical modules across various sectors, including enterprise networks, data centers, campus networks, and metropolitan area networks. Building on the diverse applications of optical modules, as a premier network solutions provider, FS.COM offers a diverse range of hot-swappable SFP 10G modules designed to maximize uptime and streamline serviceability. Equipped with Digital Optical Monitoring (DDM) capabilities, each unit is meticulously customized and coded for full-function compatibility. FS products undergo rigorous testing and verification to ensure the seamless and reliable operation of your network.

The following table sorts out the products of these two models (SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR) on the FS. You can choose the most suitable one according to your needs.

ModelSFP-10G-SRSFP-10G-LR
Data Rate (Max)10.3125Gbps10.3125Gbps
Wavelength850nm1310nm
Cable Distance (Max)300m@OM3400m@OM410km
ConnectorDuplex LCDuplex LC
Transmitter TypeVCSELDFB
Cable TypeMMFSMF
TX Power-7.3~-1dBm-8.2~0.5dBm
Receiver Sensitivity< -11.1dBm<-14.4dBm
Power Consumption<1W≤1W
Operating Temperature0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)
Application RangeOnly used for short distance connectionsOnly used for long distance connections

Conclusion

In short, which product to choose ultimately depends on your network layout and connectivity needs. The above considerations can help you quickly select the right product to achieve the best performance in your specific network environment. If you would like to learn about other types of SFP 10g modules, you can visit the following resources for more information.

Related resource: Other models of SFP 10g modules

Three Popular 10GBASE-SR SFP+ Modules Introduction

Time has witnessed the history and development of optical transceivers over the years. As we can see, the modern transceiver modules are moving in the direction of hot-pluggable design, smaller size, lower cost, lower consumption and higher speed. To cater for the above needs, 10GBASE-SR SFP+ transceivers have been frequently used in data centers. So what’s the options for 10GBASE-SR SFP+ modules? This tutorial will introduce three popular types for you: E10GSFPSR, 455883 b21 and J9150A.

10GBASE-SR SFP+ Module

10GBASE-SR is a 10 Gigabit Ethernet port standard specified in IEEE 802.3 Clause 49 for multimode fiber. It adopts 850nm lasers, which have the advantages of low cost, low power consumption, small size, and high density. The letters “sr” refer to “short reach”, but the exact reach distance depends on the fiber types matched with transceivers. For instance, when used over OM1 fiber, the 10GBASE-SR has a maximum transmission length of 33 meters. However, nowadays 10GBASE-SR SFP+ is commonly connected with OM3 or OM4 fibers to reach up to respectively 300 or 400 meters. E10GSFPSR, 455883 b21 and J9150A are three popular 10GBASE-SR 300m SFP+ modules.

This table shows the detail information of the three popular 10GBASE-SR SFP+ modules.

Form Type SFP+ Data Rate 10.3125Gbps
Wavelength 850nm Max Distance 300m over OM3 MMF
Interface LC duplex Laser VCSEL
Fiber Type MMF DOM Support Yes
TX Power -7.3~-1dBm Receiver Sensitivity Below -11.1dBm
Temperature Range -40~85°C (-40~185°F) Protocols MSA Compliant

E10GSFPSR

E10GSFPSR is a 10GbE SR SFP+ transceiver type designed for Intel Ethernet 500 and 700 Series Network Adapters. It has a hot-pluggable SFP+ print and is built-in digital diagnostic functions. This 10GBASE-SR SFP+ optics has the installation benefits of small physical dimensions, less power consumption, tighter bend radius, lighter weight and longer reach distance compared to copper alternatives. FS.COM offers Intel E10GSFPSR compatible 10GBASE-SR and also LR for adapting different data centers.

E10GSFPSR 10GBASE-SR

Figure 1: This photo shows the Intel E10GSFPSR compatible 10GBASE-SR SFP+ 850nm 300m DOM transceiver module manufactured by FS.COM.

455883 B21

455883 b21 stands for HPE Blade System c-class 10GBASE-SR SFP+ module, which supports the 10 Gigabit SR standard. 455883 b21 10GBASE-SR transceiver module is in SFP+ form-factor specially for HPE blade switches and severs. It has the feature of low power consumption, under 0.8W. “HPE” refers to the brand name of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, which is the original equipment manufacture (OEM). The well-known brand superiority attracts customers to buy their expensive SFP+. However, FS.COM is a third-party vendor who can provide the exact same specifications and functions as the original 455883 b21 while offering a cost-effective price.

455883-B21 10GBASE-SR

Figure 2: This photo shows the HPE Blade System 455883 b21 compatible 10GBASE-SR SFP+ 850nm 300m DOM transceiver module manufactured by FS.COM.

J9150A

J9150A is a SKU code compatible for HPE X132 10G SFP + LC SR transceiver module, which is consistent with the 10 Gigabit SR standard in SFP+ form-factor. It is typically applied to some HPE Aruba switch series rather than HPE blade servers. However, the high compatible option of J9150A allows it to be used on blade switches too. HPE J9150A compatible 10GBASE-SR SFP+ is a compatible transceiver module produced by FS.COM under strict quality system verification. Meanwhile, it is supported on a wide range of HPE equipment and commonly used in data and optical networks.

J9150A 10GBASE-SR

Figure 3: This is a demonstration of FS.COM J9150A fits into HP 5900 Series Switch (JG510A).

To sum up, E10GSFPSR, 455883 B21 and J9150A are three most popular 10GBASE-SR SFP+ modules sharing much commons in manufacturing specifications and functional performance, such as 850nm wavelength, 10GbE data rate, 300m short reach and low consumption for using VCSEL lasers. However, they are different from original vendor brands and matched equipment.

Table below shows the detail information.

Type Brand Supportability Matched Equipment
E10GSFPSR Intel A wide range of Intel equipment Intel Ethernet 500 and 700 Series Network Adapters
455883 B21 HPE A wide range of HPE equipment HPE Blade switches and severs
J9150A HPE A wide range of HPE equipment Some HPE Aruba Switch Series

Conclusion

This article introduced three popular 10GBASE-SR SFP+ modules: E10GSFPSR, 455883 b21 and J9150A. First illustrated their general characteristics as 10GBASE-SR SFP+ modules. Then explained each one respectively. People choose what to use according to exact matched equipment and their personal requirements.