The rapid advancement of network technology continues to push the boundaries of data transmission, with the 100G QSFP28 ER4 transceiver standing as a perfect example. This high-performance optical transceiver supports long-distance data communication up to 40km, serving as a vital component for large data centers, metro area networks, and other network applications that require high-speed, long-distance data transfer.

What is 100Gbase-ER4 Standard?

The 100GBASE-ER4 standard is part of the IEEE 802.3ba specification which defines Ethernet-based data communication over fiber optic cables. ER4 stands for “Extended Reach”, indicating its capacity to support data transmission distances up to 40km over single-mode fiber (SMF). This standard employs 4 wavelengths, each carrying a 25G data stream, to achieve the overall 100G data rate.

What is IEEE 802.3ba: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEEE_802.3ba

What Is QSFP28 ER4 Transceiver?

The QSFP28 ER4 transceiver is a high-performance optical module that operates according to the 100GBASE-ER4 standard. As the name QSFP28 (Quad Small Form-Factor Pluggable) suggests, it contains four independent optical transmitters and receivers, each capable of transmitting data at a rate of 25Gbps, contributing to the combined data rate of 100 Gbps.The 100G ER4 is operating at 4 WDM wavelength: 1295 nm, 1300nm, 1305 nm, 1310nm.

QSFP28-100G-ER4 transceivers are typically equipped with duplex LC connectors, and they incorporate advanced technologies such as SOA (Semiconductor Optical Amplifier) to support long-distance data transmission up to 40km.

The Working Principle of 100G QSFP28 ER4

The 100G QSFP28 ER4 transceiver operates by converting electrical signals into optical signals and vice versa. It consists of four channels, each transmitting data at a rate of 25Gbps. The electrical signals are first converted into laser light signals, which are then combined and sent over a single-mode fiber optic cable.

On the receiving end, the transceiver separates the combined light signal into individual wavelengths. An integrated SOA amplifier strengthens the signal before it’s converted back into an electrical signal, ready for processing by the receiving device. This way, a 100G QSFP28 ER4 transceiver can handle the transmission and reception of high-speed data over long distances without significant loss of signal quality.

QSFP28 ER4 Application

QSFP28 ER4 transceivers are commonly employed in various network applications that require long-distance, high-speed data transmission.

Metropolitan Direct Connection

In metropolitan area networks (MANs), QSFP28 ER4 transceivers serve to connect various local area networks (LANs) spread across a city or large campus. Their ability to support high-speed data transmission over distances up to 40km makes them ideal for such applications.

 Data Center Interconnect

Data center interconnect (DCI) is another prominent application area for QSFP28 ER4 transceivers. Data centers often require high-speed, reliable, and long-distance interconnections to ensure efficient data transfer and synchronization between different data centers.

QSFP28 ER4 FAQs

FAQs related to QSFP28 ER4 often revolve around their compatibility, distance capabilities, and use cases. It’s important to note that while QSFP28 ER4 transceivers are designed for long-distance data transmission, their actual performance can depend on various factors, including the quality of the fiber optic cables used and the overall network configuration. They are compatible with devices that support the 100GBASE-ER4 standard, and their applications extend beyond metropolitan networks and data centers to include any situation that requires long-distance, high-speed data transmission.

Q: What distances can QSFP28 ER4 transceivers cover?

A: QSFP28 ER4 transceivers are designed to support distances up to 40km over single-mode fiber optic cables. However, actual distances can vary depending on the quality of the cables and other aspects of the network configuration.

Q: Can QSFP28 ER4 transceivers be used with multimode fiber?

A: No, QSFP28 ER4 transceivers are designed for use with single-mode fiber. Using them with multimode fiber would likely result in a significant reduction in transmission distance and data rate.

Q: What type of connector is used with QSFP28 ER4 transceivers?

A: QSFP28 ER4 transceivers typically use duplex LC connectors, which are widely used in fiber optic communication due to their compact size and reliable performance.

Q: Can QSFP28 ER4 transceivers work with other QSFP28 transceivers?

A: Yes, as long as the other QSFP28 transceiver supports the same data rate and the same or a compatible standard. However, it’s important to remember that the total transmission distance will be limited by the transceiver with the shortest reach.

In conclusion, the 100G QSFP28 ER4 transceiver is a robust solution for high-speed, long-distance data transmission in a variety of network scenarios. Its versatility, performance, and adherence to the 100GBASE-ER4 standard make it an excellent choice for applications ranging from metropolitan networks to data center interconnects. As network demands continue to grow, technologies like the QSFP28 ER4 will undoubtedly play a crucial role in meeting those needs.