February 1, 2016

Which Form Factor Is the Right Fit for My Network?

In an ever-increasing technological world, telecommunications companies are constantly in search of future-proof optical solutions that will support their networks. SFP, SFP+, and XFP optical transceivers are among the most common form factors; these small form factor interfaces plug into a switch or port, which transforms the port into a fiber or copper interface. Understanding the functions and major differences between SFP, XFP, and SFP+ transceivers is crucial when deciding the best fit for your optical network.

SFP (Small Form Factor Pluggable):

Works with different wavelengths at a designated location
Designed to support communication standards such as SONET, Fiber Channel, and Gigabit Ethernet
Uses 850nm and 1310 nm for ranges of 550 meters – 80 kilometers
Widely used and considerably smaller than its predecessor the GBIC interface

XFP (10 Gigabit Small Form Factor Pluggable):

First small form factor 10 GbE optics
Used almost exclusively in routers
Operate at near infrared wavelengths of 850 nm, 1310 nm or 1550 nm
Can be used over single wavelength or through WDM technology
Supports 10 Gigabit Ethernet, SONET at OC-192 rates, 10 Gigabit optical transport network, and 10 Gigabit /Fiber Channel

SFP+ (Enhanced Small Form Factor Pluggable):

10 GbE optics uses same form as gigabit SFP
Requires fewer components and generally more cost effective than XFP modules
Switches based on SFP+ have added flexibility using 1G/10 ports
Supports 10 Gigabit Ethernet, 8 Gigabit/Fiber Channels, and the standard OTU2
Supports module stacking
Most commonly used 10 Gigabit optics

All Small Form Factor Pluggable transceivers have capabilities to link equipment for use in telecommunication and data communication applications. They are also hot pluggable/swappable, allowing them to be inserted or swapped as needed without requiring shut down to routers or switch modules. Small Form Factor Pluggable optics serve as a high-tech, easy-to-use solution. Contact us at Precision Optics to discuss your transceiver needs. Let us help you decide how to best meet the needs of your business.