In today’s Internet era, both enterprise network deployment and data center construction cannot do without optical modules and switches. Optical modules are mainly used to convert electrical and optical signals, while switches are used to forward photoelectric signals. Among the many optical modules, the SFP+ optical module is one of the most widely used optical modules. When used with a switch, different connection methods can be used to achieve different network requirements. Next, I will introduce the concept, types and matching applications of SFP+ optical modules.
What is SFP+ optical module?
The SFP+ optical module is a 10G optical fiber module in the SFP optical module, which is independent of the communication protocol. Generally connected with switches, fiber optic routers, fiber optic network cards, etc., it is used in 10G bps Ethernet and 8.5G bps fiber channel systems, which can meet the higher speed requirements of data centers and realize the network expansion and conversion of data centers. The SFP+ optical module line card has high density and small size, and can be interconnected with other types of 10G modules, providing a higher installation density for data centers and saving costs. As a result, it has become the mainstream pluggable optical module on the market.
Types of SFP+ optical modules
Under normal circumstances, SFP+ optical modules are classified according to actual applications. Common types include 10G SFP+, BIDI SFP+, CWDM SFP+, and DWDM SFP+.
10G SFP+ optical module
This type of optical module is an ordinary SFP+ optical module, and can also be regarded as an upgraded version of 1G SFP optical module. It is the mainstream design on the market at present, and the maximum distance can reach 100KM.
BIDI SFP+ optical module
This type of optical module adopts WDM wavelength division technology, the highest speed can reach 11.1G bps, and the power consumption is low. It has two optical fiber jacks and the maximum transmission distance is 80KM. They are generally used in pairs. When building a network in a data center, it can reduce the amount of optical fiber used and the construction cost.
CWDM SFP+ optical module
This kind of optical module adopts coarse wavelength division multiplexing technology, and is often used in conjunction with single-mode optical fiber, which can save optical fiber resources, and is more flexible and reliable in networking, and has low power consumption. Using LC duplex optical interface, the longest distance can reach 80KM
DWDM SFP+ optical module
This kind of optical module adopts dense wavelength division multiplexing technology, which is mostly used in long-distance data transmission. The maximum transmission distance can reach 80KM. It has the characteristics of high speed, large capacity, and strong scalability.
Solution for the collocation of SFP+ optical modules and switches
Different types of optical modules are connected to switches and can be used in different networking solutions. The following is a demonstration of the practical application of SFP+ optical modules and switches.
10G SFP+ optical module and 40G switch connection scheme
Insert 4 10G SFP+ optical modules into the 10-Gbps SFP+ port of one switch in turn, then insert a 40G QSFP+ optical module into the 40-Gbps QSFP+ port of another switch, and finally use a branch fiber jumper in the middle Make a connection. This connection method mainly realizes the expansion of the network from 10G to 40G, which can quickly and easily meet the network upgrade requirements of the data center.
Precautions for the use of SFP+ optical modules:
1. When using the optical module, try to avoid static electricity and bumps. If bumps occur, it is not recommended to continue to use the optical module; 2. Pay attention to the front and back of the optical module, the pull ring and label should face upwards; 3. When inserting the optical module into the switch, try to push it to the bottom as hard as possible. Generally, there will be a slight vibration. After inserting the optical module, you can gently pull out the optical module to check whether it is in place; 4. When disassembling the optical module, first pull the bracelet to a position of 90° to the optical port, and then pull out the optical module.