Purchase Guide about SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-LR, and SFP-10G-LRM

You will find three common types of 10G SFP+ modules – SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-LRM, and SFP-10G-LR, typically used for optical fiber. However, in practical use, how should we choose among these three modules? This article will analyze it for you.

Exploring the Versatility of SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-LR, and SFP-10G-LRM Modules

SFP-10G-SR can be paired with OM3 multimode fiber (MMF), with a transmission distance of up to 300 meters. It is acclaimed as the lowest cost and lowest power consumption module utilizing VCSEL.

SFP-10G-LR is a module using a distributed feedback laser (DFB). It operates at a wavelength of 1310nm, and its transmission distance through single-mode fiber (SMF) can reach 10 kilometers. It is used for building wiring in large campus areas and even for establishing a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN).

SFP-10G-LRM supports a link length of 220m on standard Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) grade multimode fiber. To ensure compliance with FDDI grade, OM1, and OM2 fiber specifications, the transmitter should be coupled with a mode conditioning patch cable. Applications on OM3 or OM4 do not require a mode conditioning patch cable.

Conclusion

In general, when the transmission distance is less than 300 meters, it is recommended to use SFP-10G-SR. However, if you have other requirements, such as a 200m transmission with a mode bandwidth of 500 MHz km, then an SFP-10G-LRM transceiver is needed. For single-mode transmission within 300 meters, choosing SFP-10G-LRM is an economical solution. But for transmissions of 2-10 kilometers, SFP-10G-LR is the only choice.

Click to learn more: SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-LRM vs SFP-10G-LR, Which to Choose? | FS Community

How FS Can Help

FS is capable of offering a diverse range of 10GSFP+ models, and we can tailor solutions to meet your specific requirements. If you are still contemplating, take action now by clicking to register, and benefit from complimentary technical support.

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.

Unleashing Small Business Potential: Demystifying the Applications of 10G Multi-Rate Optical Modules

In the digital age, small businesses increasingly rely on efficient network infrastructure to support business growth and information transfer. However, as many small business owners have experienced, networking faces its own set of challenges. Next, we will explore suitable optical networking solutions around these issues.

Small Business Networking Challenges

Bandwidth Bottlenecks

It’s a common challenge for small business networks, restricting the speed and efficiency of data transfer. Traditional networks typically provide businesses with only a limited bandwidth, resulting in network slowdowns during peak hours or when handling substantial data loads. This not only affects employee productivity but also has implications for hinders overall business growth.

Performance Limitations

Traditional networks face performance limitations when dealing with business growth and extensive data demands. As an enterprise expands, the rigidity of traditional network architecture becomes evident, rendering it incapable of effectively adapting to new business requirements. This, in turn, can result in network congestion, delays, and instability, thereby affecting the day-to-day operations of a business.

Low Maintenance Efficiency

With a shortage of dedicated IT personnel, small businesses may encounter delays or insufficient monitoring, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance of network equipment. Concurrently, the manual nature of these monitoring and maintenance processes proves time-consuming and error-prone, thereby diminishing the overall efficiency of maintenance tasks.

Waste of Cable Resources

During the process of network transformation, many small business owners opt to abandon traditional cable deployments in favor of adopting fiber optic solutions, thereby rendering the original cables unusable and resulting in cable wastage.

These challenges not only affect employees’ efficiency but also exert a detrimental influence on overall business growth. Addressing these challenges necessitates the implementation of advanced technologies and optical networking solutions, which becomes crucial.

Unraveling the Wonders of the 10G Multi-Rate Optical Module

In this context, the utilization of 10G multi-rate optical modules serves as an effective solution to challenges encountered in small business networks, including bandwidth bottlenecks, performance limitations, low maintenance efficiency, and cable wastage. This adaptive Ethernet module supports rates of 100M, 1G, 2.5G, 5G, and 10G, contributing to the establishment of a more robust and reliable network infrastructure for small enterprises.

Therefore, FS has also introduced 10G multi-rate optical modules, assisting small business owners in better addressing these challenges. The transceiver delivers 10GBase-T throughput for distances of up to 30m over Cat6a/Cat7 copper cables using an RJ-45 connector. It complies with IEEE 802.3-2012, IEEE 802.3ab, and SFP MSA standards. Each SFP transceiver module undergoes individual testing, ensuring compatibility with various switches, routers, servers, network interface cards (NICs), and more. Known for its low power consumption, this easily installable, hot-swappable 10G SFP transceiver is well-suited for enterprise networking in LAN applications and other networking environments utilizing copper connections.

Optimize Your Business Connectivity: Selecting Better Optical Networking Solution

The introduction and implementation of 10G multi-rate optical modules in optical networking solutions can markedly enhance network performance. This application supports larger data transmission capacity and reduces the delay in data transmission. This not only improves network efficiency for enterprises, but also provides scalability for future business growth. The following is the application of this multi-rate module in actual scenarios of small businesses.

File Sharing and Data Storage

The 10G Multi-Rate Optical Module significantly enhances the efficiency of file sharing and data storage by providing a data transfer rate of up to 10Gbps. Employees can swiftly access and transmit large-capacity files, and multiple users can concurrently access the file server. With the growth of business operations, the 10G multi-rate optical module offers scalability to adapt to the escalating demand for data storage, providing an enduring solution for sustainable file sharing in enterprises.

Video Conferencing and Real-Time Collaboration

In video conferencing scenarios, the 10G multi-rate optical module ensures high-definition video transmission, delivering a clear and seamless meeting experience for remote teams. This is crucial for real-time collaboration and communication. The low-latency feature guarantees the timeliness required for video and audio transmission in conferences, enhancing the overall effectiveness and engagement. The reliability of the module ensures stable connections, preventing signal interruptions or quality degradation.

Cloud Service Access and Data Center Connectivity

The 10G multi-rate optical module facilitates swift access to cloud services for small enterprises, enabling rapid uploading and downloading of large volumes of data to the cloud. It supports the demands of cloud computing and storage, providing enterprises with a more efficient experience of cloud services. Moreover, it enhances the data security of cloud services, safeguarding sensitive information for enterprises.

Optical Networking Solutions Tailored for Small Businesses

In order to tackle challenges like low network operational efficiency, cable wastage, and limitations in bandwidth and performance, small businesses require a customized optical networking solution. As a prominent solutions provider in the industry, FS has specifically crafted a 1/10GBASE-T Solution for Campus & Enterprise Network, featuring three key value propositions.

Enhanced Cable Utilization

Optimize the use of existing copper cable resources during network construction, minimizing the deployment of optical cables. This not only ensures the network’s normal development but also significantly reduces investment costs.

High Flexibility and Scalability

The 10G multi-rate optical module supports speeds ranging from 100M to 10G and can operate at different rates based on bandwidth requirements. This provides a high degree of flexibility to accommodate varying needs.

Simplified Maintenance

In contrast to traditional optical modules, these modules lack complex DDM information, simplifying the troubleshooting process. The streamlined operations, coupled with the elimination of the need for optical instruments, enhance overall troubleshooting efficiency.

Conclusion

In summary, small businesses facing network challenges may consider adopting the technology of 10G multi-rate optical modules. By providing greater bandwidth and higher performance, this technology facilitates the establishment of a robust, flexible, and efficient network infrastructure, promoting sustainable business growth. In the digital era, such network upgrades are not only an investment but also a crucial step for small businesses to open up broader development opportunities.

Related resource: Optical Networking Solutions for SMB

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

Which 10G SFP+ Optics Are Compatible with Intel X520 Adapter?

The escalating deployments of servers with multi-core processors and demanding applications are driving the need for 10 Gbps connections. Intel X520 10 GbE Adapter is the most flexible and scalable Ethernet adapters for today’s demanding data center environments. At the same time, 10G SFP+ optics play the most important role for its 10G connectivity. But seriously, do you know which 10G SFP+ optics are compatible with the Intel Ethernet converged network adapter X520 series? This blog will give you solutions.

About Intel X520 Adapter

Intel X520 adapter is powered by reliable and proven 10G Ethernet technology, which offers high performance for high-IO intensive applications and showcase the next generation in 10 GbE networking features for the enterprise network and data center. It is designed for multi-core processors, which supports for technologies such as multiple queues, receive-side scaling, multiple MSI-X vectors and Low Latency Interrupts. It addresses the demanding needs of the next-generation data center by running mission-critical applications in virtualized and unified storage environments. In a multicore platform, the Intel X520 adapter supports Intel I/O Virtualization Technology (IOVT), which helps accelerate data across the platform, therefore improving application response times. For virtualized environments, it offers advanced features with VMDq (Virtual Machine Device Queues) that lower processor utilization and increase I/O performance.

Intel X520 Dual Port 10GbE SFP+ Adapter

Figure 1. Intel X520 Dual Port 10GbE SFP+ Adapter

The Intel X520 adapter provides SFP+ based connectivity options (fiber or DAC cabling). Intel X520 adapters are provided with 7 models: X520-QDA1, X520-DA2, X520-SR1, X520-SR2, X520-DA1OCP, X520-DA2OCP and X520-LR1. X520-SR1 is shipped with 1 SR SFP+ Optic,  X520-SR2 has dual-port and is shipped with 2 SR SFP+ Optics, X520-LR1 has single-port and is shipped with 1 LR SFP+ Optic, and X520-DA2 has dual-port and does not ship with any optics or cables, which is the most suitable one for 10G SFP+ Optics and the most popular one on the market. The following table lists the detailed information of Intel X520 adapter series in Table 1.

Intel X520 Adapter Product Code Connector and Cable Cable Type Ports
X520-QDA1 QSFP+ direct attach copper (4x10GbE mode) QSFP+ direct attached twinaxial cabling up to 10m Single port
X520-SR1 Fiber optic MMF up to 300 m Single port
X520-SR2 Fiber optic MMF up to 300 m Dual port
X520-DA2 SFP+ direct attach copper SFP+ direct attached twinaxial cabling up to 10 m Dual port
X520- LR1 Fiber optic SMF up to 10 km Single port
X520-DA1OCP SFP+ direct attach copper SFP+ direct attached twinaxial cabling up to 10 m Single port
X520-DA2OCP Copper SFP+ direct attached twinaxial cabling up to 10 m Dual port

Table 1: Intel X520 Series Adapters

10G SFP+ Optics for Intel X520 Adapter

A 10 Gigabit Ethernet network is essential for businesses that demand high bandwidth for virtualization and fast backup and restore for an ever-growing amount of data. To ensure maximum flexibility, Intel X520 adapters support the ability to mix any combination of the SFP+ optical modules, direct attach copper cables, or 1000BASE-T SFP modules. Besides, 10G SFP+ Optics are available in both short-range (SR) 850 nm and long range (LR) 1310 nm options. This enables customers to create the configuration that meets the needs of their data center environment.

10G SFP+ Optical Modules for Intel X520

Intel Ethernet SFP+ SR optics and Intel Ethernet SFP+ LR optics are the only 10 Gbps optical modules supported. Other brands of SFP+ modules are not allowed and can’t be used with the X520 adapters. The following table lists the supported 10Gb Ethernet SFP+ optical transceivers for Intel X520 adapters in Table 2. (Note: Other brands of SFP+ optical modules will not work with the Intel Ethernet Server Adapter X520 Series.)

10G SFP+ Optical Modules
Name Intel Product Code (MFG PART#) FS P/N Type
Intel 10G SFP+ SR Optical module E10GSFPSR SFP-10GSR-85 Dual Rate 10GBASE-SR/1000BASE-SX
Intel 10G SFP+ LR Optical module E10GSFPLR SFP-10GLR-31 Dual Rate 10GBASE-LR/1000BASE-LX

Table 2: 10G SFP+ Optical Transceivers for Intel X520 Adapters

1000BASE-T SFP Modules for Intel X520

Some 1000BASE-LX and 1000BASE-SX modules can work with Intel Ethernet Converged Network Adapter X520 series. These modules referred to only highlight specifications and compatibility with Intel Ethernet server adapter X520 series. The table lists the tested modules in Table 3. Other similar modules may work but have not been tested (many similar modules can be purchased in FS.COM). Remind you to use your own discretion and diligence to purchase modules with suggested specifications from any third party.

1000BASE-T SFP Modules
Name Intel Product Code (MFG PART#) FS P/N Type
Avago Gigabit Ethernet Module ABCU-5710RZ SFP-GB-GE-T 1000BASE-SX
Intel Gigabit Ethernet Module TXN22120 SFP1G-LX-31 1000BASE-LX

Table 3: 1000BASE-T SFP Modules for Intel X520 Adapters

10G SFP+ Direct Attach Copper Cables (10G SFP+Cu) for Intel X520

A DAC cable is a 2-pair shielded copper cabling terminated with SFP+ electrical modules. Intel X520 Adapters require that any SFP+ passive or active limiting direct attach copper cable should comply with the SFF-8431 v4.1 and SFF-8472 v10.4 specifications. SFF-8472 Identifier must have value 03h (You can verify the value with the cable manufacturer). The maximum cable length for passive cables is 7 meters. Support for active cables requires Intel Network Connections software version 15.3 or later. The following table lists the fully compatible 10Gb DAC cables for Intel Ethernet server adapter X520 series in Table 4.

10G SFP+ DAC Cables
Name Product Code (MFG PART#) FS P/N Type
Intel Ethernet SFP+ Twinaxial Cable, 1 meter XDACBL1M SFP-10G-DAC 10G SFP+ Passive Direct Attach Copper Twinax Cable
Intel Ethernet SFP+ Twinaxial Cable, 3 meter XDACBL3M SFP-10G-DAC 10G SFP+ Passive Direct Attach Copper Twinax Cable
Intel Ethernet SFP+ Twinaxial Cable, 5 meter XDACBL5M SFP-10G-DAC 10G SFP+ Passive Direct Attach Copper Twinax Cable

Table 4: 10G DAC cables for Intel X520 Adapters

QSFP+ Breakout Cables for Intel X520

The new QSFP+ single-port X520-QDA1 can connect the server to the latest 40GbE switches with a single cable operating in 4x10GbE mode. This adapter can also utilize existing 10GbE SFP+ switches using the QSFP+ to 4xSFP+ breakout cable. The QSFP+ adapter supports direct attach copper cables and Intel Ethernet QSFP+ SR optical transceivers. Intel Ethernet QSFP+ breakout cables have one QSFP+ connector on one end and break out into four SFP+ connectors on the other end for direct attachment to SFP+ cages. The following table lists the Intel Ethernet QSFP+ cable for Intel adapter X520-QDA1 in Table 5.

Intel Ethernet QSFP+ Breakout Cables for Intel Adapter X520-QDA1
Name Product Code (MFG PART#) FS P/N
Intel Ethernet QSFP+ breakout cable, 1 meter QSFP-4SFP10G-CU1M QSFP-4SFP10G-DAC
Intel Ethernet QSFP+ breakout cable, 3 meter QSFP-4SFP10G-CU3M QSFP-4SFP10G-DAC
Intel Ethernet QSFP+ breakout cable, 5 meter QSFP-4SFP10G-CU5M QSFP-4SFP10G-DAC

Table 5: QSFP+ Breakout Cables for Intel Adapter X520-QDA1

Summary

From what we have discussed, 10G SFP+optics are determined to the data transmission of Intel X520 adapters. SFP+ SR Optics, SFP+ LR optics, 1000BASE-T SFP modules, 10G SFP+ direct attach copper cables and QSFP+ breakout cables are available stock in FS.COM. All SFP+ cables are 100% tested to ensure compatibility and quality. Welcome to visit www.fs.com.

Related Articles

Copper SFP vs Optical SFP: Which One Is the Best to Use?

How Many Types of SFP Transceivers Do You Know

A Comprehensively Understanding of Cisco 10G SFP+

Overview of BiDi Transceiver Modules

During optical transmission process, it’s no wonder that using one fiber to receive data from networking equipment, and another one to transmit data to the networking equipment. This kind of transmission mode will increase investment cost certainly. Luckily, here is a type of transceiver can solve this problem. It’s bi-directional transceiver. Today, this article will take you to make sense why BiDi transceiver can make it possible to transmit data over one fiber.

Basics of BiDi Transceiver

BiDi is short for bidirectional. BiDi transceiver is a type of fiber optic transceiver which is used WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) bi-directional transmission technology so that it can achieve the transmission of optical channels on a fiber propagating simultaneously in both directions. BiDi transceiver is only with one port which uses an integral bidirectional coupler to transmit and receive signals over a single fiber optical cable. Thus, it must be employed in pairs.

How Does BiDi Transceiver Work?

The obvious difference between BiDi transceivers and traditional two-fiber fiber optic transceivers is that BiDi transceivers are fitted with Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) couplers, also known as diplexers, which combine and separate data transmitted over a single fiber based on the wavelengths of the light. For this reason, BiDi transceivers are also referred to as WDM transceivers.

To work effectively, BiDi transceivers must be deployed in matched pairs, with their diplexers tuned to match the expected wavelength of the transmitter and receiver that they will be transmitting data from or to.

For example, if paired BiDi transceivers are being used to connect Device A (Upstream) and Device B (Downstream), as shown in the figure below, then:

  • Transceiver A’s diplexer must have a receiving wavelength of 1550nm and a transmit wavelength of 1310nm
  • Transceiver B’s diplexer must have a receiving wavelength of 1310nm and a transmit wavelength of 1550nm

bidi transceiver diagram

Common Types of BiDi Transceiver

BiDi SFP Transceiver

BiDi SFP transceiver is typically applied for the high-performance integrated duplex data link over a single optical fiber. It interfaces a network device mother board (for a switch, router or similar device) to a fiber optic or unshielded twisted pair networking cable. And the most typical wavelength combination is 1310/1490 nm, 1310/1550 nm, 1490/1550 nm and 1510/1570 nm. This BiDi SFP transceiver is used in optical communication for both telecommunication and data bidirectional communications applications.

BiDi SFP+ Transceiver

BiDi SFP+ transceiver is an enhanced SFP transceiver. It is designed for bi-directional 10G serial optical data communications such as IEEE 802.3ae 10GBASE-BX by using 1330/1270nm transmitter and 1270/1330nm receiver. And its transmission distance is up to 20 km.

SFP+ BX

Advantages of BiDi Transceiver

The obvious advantage of utilizing BiDi transceivers, such as BiDi SFP+ and BiDi SFP transceivers, is the reduction in fiber cabling infrastructure costs by reducing the number of fiber patch panel ports, reducing the amount of tray space dedicated to fiber management, and requiring less fiber cable.

While BiDi transceivers (a.k.a. WDM transceivers) cost more to initially purchase than traditional two-fiber transceivers, they utilize half the amount of fiber per unit of distance. For many networks, the cost savings of utilizing less fiber is enough to more than offset the higher purchase price of BiDi transceivers.

Conclusion

In summary, BiDi transceivers can combine and separate data transmitted over a single fiber based on the wavelengths of the light. That is to say, to achieve the same transmitting result, it needs less money. Except for above SFP & SFP+ BiDi transceivers, FS.COM also provides 40G BiDi transceiver. This BiDi transceiver has two 20 Gbps channels, each transmitted and received simultaneously on two wavelengths over a single MMF strand (OM3 or OM4). Any one of the transceivers would meet your different application requirements with high performance.

Related ArticleA Brief Introduction of BiDi SFP Transceiver

SFP+ Optical Transceiver Testing Introduction

Owing to its ubiquity, simplicity and low cost, Ethernet, one technology enabling Internet communications, is everywhere, from carrier networks to local area networks, from desktop PCs to the largest supercomputers. And with its widespread deployment, there occurs countless equipment accordingly designed for Gigabit communications, such as SFP+ transceiver. Are you familiar with SFP+? How much do you know about its testing challenges? This text will discuss its key features firstly, and then delve into SFP+ optical transceiver testing challenges.

SFP+ Optical Transceiver Background

As an enhanced version of the small form-factor pluggable (SFP), the enhanced SFP (SFP+) is a hot-pluggable, small-footprint, and multi-rate optical transceiver accessible for up to 16 Gbit/s data communications and storage-area network (SAN) applications. And this SFP+ enjoys the following advantages.

Smaller, Cheaper, More Efficient

Just as the last paragraph mentioned above, the SFP+ module is a variant of the SFP optical transceiver. It simplifies the functionality of the 10G optical module significantly by moving functions, such as clock and data recovery (CDR), electronic dispersion compensation (EDC), 10G SERDES, and signal conditioning. Thus, the SFP+ module requires fewer components, consumes less power, and allows for increased port density. Certainly, it’s also smaller and less expensive compared with the 10-Gigabit small form-factor pluggable module (XFP) form factor.

As SFP+ becomes more prevalent, it’s imperative for engineers to become familiar with some of the key challenges linked to testing SFP+ capable devices.

SFP+ Optical Transceiver Testing Challenges

On one hand, SFP+ gives a hand in reducing the overall system cost. On the other, its physical layer (PHY) and performance are put with new burdens. The SERDES framer interface (SFI) between the host board and the SFP+ module displays great design and testing challenges.

  • One challenge attributes to the increased port density and the testing time required for 48 or more ports per rack. For instance, there are 15 measurements each for the host transmitter tests, and each of these measurements using manual methods can easily take from three to five minutes. This means it will take engineers more than an hour per port to complete the required tests.
  • The second one that engineers need to consider is: if a measurement fails, how can they determine which component is causing such a failure, and how they debug the issue to arrive at the root cause. Such determinations are especially challenging because of the tight physical packaging and compact designs.
  • Another challenge falls on the connectivity. That is: how to get the signal out from the device under test (DUT) to an oscilloscope. Test fixtures are typically required, but questions arise around consequently: whether the fixtures have been tested and validated against the specification.
  • The additional problem lies in the fact that the SFP+ specification requires some measurements to be performed using a PRBS31 signal. At a sampling rate of 50 Gsamples/s, the designer can acquire around 40 million unit intervals (UIs). At a sampling rate of 100 Gsamples/s, the instrument can acquire 20 million UIs. However, a PRBS31 pattern has more than 2 billion UIs. Hence, acquiring an entire pattern poses a challenge.

Conclusion

SFP+ transceiver with its compact size has become a popular industry format supported by many network component vendors. And with the above-mentioned points in mind, designers have gained an overview of SFP+ optical transceiver testing challenges. FS is an outstanding and professional SFP+ manufacturer and supplier, available with a sea of high-performance and -quality SFP+ transceivers. Besides SFP+transceiver, FS also supplies QSFP+ transceiver, fully compatible with major brands. For more information about transceivers, you can visit FS.com.