What are these SFP modules? These include compact transceivers or transceivers used to send data in telecommunications. Their main feature is their small size. They are inserted into the connector of the host device, receive and transmit information, endowed with optical connectors, interact with routers, media converters, server network cards, switches and other network equipment.
What is it
The SFP module converts signals from network devices into light waves. SFP stands for Compact Optical Transceiver Standards. They are used to create fiber optic networks and are considered the most popular. SFP modules differ from others in that they operate at speeds up to 1 Gbit / s. When choosing modules for a device, you must be guided by the permissions established by the manufacturer. For example, Cisco has built-in protection against the use of transceivers of other models. Such transceivers as Zyxel, Allied Telesis, Cisco are in demand among users.
What are these SFP modules? These are devices that are a small unit in a metal case. They have contacts for connection to the main device, such as a router, and connectors for an optical cable, closed with a special plug. Almost all types of modules of this standard are of the same size, identical design. Thanks to similar parameters, the slots in the equipment for them are universal.
Principle of operation
What is and how does the WDM SFP module work? This is a single-fiber device with a form factor. It is used to work in single-mode optical fiber over long distances (up to three kilometers). All SFP modules are connected to a network device, optical fiber and act as a cable. The transceiver's peculiarity is that it, in comparison with bulky GBIC, has a smaller size, but it can accommodate up to forty-eight optical ports. Their main purpose is to transmit information at speeds of up to one hundred megabytes per second.
Specifications
What is it - SFP modules, what are their technical characteristics? The design operates at speeds up to 1250 Mbit / s, it is endowed with a quick change function without the need to turn off the equipment, including disconnecting the power. Two types of optical fiber are used: single-mode (SM) and multimode (MM). They emit laser light that is safe for humans. Modern optical transceivers support digital diagnostic monitoring. All designs that support the SFP standard meet their specifications and operate at 3.3 volts.
Benefits
SFP-module is used in equipment where high speed is required. It has a number of features:
- Quick change. In order to replace the module, you do not need to disconnect the computer from power. This reduces installation time and does not interrupt the workflow.
- Small form factor. Electronics manufacturers can place many module slots in the instrument. This allows one equipment to serve a huge number of network devices.
- High-speed information transfer. The peculiarity is that SFP-type modules provide high-speed Internet connection. Data processing is accelerated, the speed of information transfer for applications increases.
- Long distance. The modules provide fast data transfer to a distance of up to one hundred and twenty kilometers.
- High fault tolerance. The SFP standard does not fail during power surges, so you can be absolutely sure that the equipment is in good working order.
- Support for digital optical control. Some models have the function of troubleshooting and checking parameters for compliance.
For example, a Cisco SFP module is designed to be installed in a slot on a switch or router. It is connected to the network using the interface. The device supports the function of "hot" replacement, adapted to different transmission media.
Types
Optical SFP-module is one of the varieties of the standard. They are also copper. Optical devices are designed to communicate with the router and the fiber optic network. This type of communication is considered the most secure, secure and has a high data transfer rate. The main purpose of optical transceivers is to connect the device to switches.
Copper modules are used as a converter from the standard SFP port to the copper connector. This port is used to establish communication with a computer or laptop, that is, the end network device. According to the type of construction, transceivers are single-mode and single-fiber. The former are characterized in that they otherwise distribute optical radiation in the fiber. A multimode has a greater dispersion than a single mode, and less bandwidth. They serve to transmit information over short distances.
Single-mode, on the contrary, transmit signals over long distances. Single or dual fiber SFP module - standard design for data transmission and reception. Thanks to WDM technology, modules can transmit and send information in both directions. Single fiber WDMs are equipped with both a sensor and a receiver. There is another standard - SFP +. These transceivers operate at a speed of ten gigabytes per second, but do not differ in size.
Cost
How much is the SFP module? The price of this device depends on its purpose, technical characteristics, scope of use. The cost of the most inexpensive SFP is 1,500 rubles. The maximum price is 8 thousand rubles.
How to connect
What is this - SFP-module, we have already figured out, but how to configure it and connect to the equipment? The first step is to connect the transceiver to the device. Then connect the optical cable to the port of the SFP module. If it was previously in a cold place, allow the transceiver to warm up at room temperature to avoid condensation. Difficulties with the connection should not arise.
The housing of the SFP standard module is made of heat-resistant metal. Despite its small size, the transceivers are heavy in weight. The module has latches that are made of spring steel. This protects the metal from deformation, and even if the operation of the module was incorrect, it will still retain its shape. The case is sealed and durable, protects the device from getting inside of foreign small objects.
Specialists use the latest industry standard AT-SP. These transceivers include Allied Telesis. They work at different distances, organize a network connection on small and large-scale areas. To connect the module, you do not need to install special configurations. Another important point is the choice of transceiver. If you do not want to make a mistake, measure the attenuation with a special device, and only then select the module. You can choose a transceiver at random, but in this case, the risks are great to buy the wrong transmitter.