Comparing SFP 10GBASE LR and other modules such as 10GBASE –SR SFP gives an individual a better understanding of the 10GBASE LR among other technologies. Further, the comparison enables better decision-making when choosing a 10GBase module.

There is increased demand for modules bearing smaller form factors and capable of producing high density to match the speed and work with the 10 Gigabit Ethernet. These fiber optics modules presented both low cost and high density. The 10G SFP series graduated to become the go-to modules compared to other packing forms associated with the optic modules. It is used for purposes of communication and telecommunication.  There are many divisions of the 10G SFP such as 10GBASE –SR SFP, 10GBASE LR SFP, 10GBASE ER SFP. This article will focus on the characteristics and distinctions between the 10GBASE –LR SFP and 10GBASE SR SFP.

10GBASE-LR SFP

It is different from the SR technologies. The abbreviation ‘LR’ stands for ‘Long range’ so, it is tailored to enable data transmission over a long distance.  The 10GBASE LR can reach 10km using single-mode fiber. This module does not have a minimum distance, so it is the best choice when working with single-mode fiber connections. Further, the SFP 10G SR is among the commonly adopted SFP+ modules. Each optical transceiver in the SFP+ module can be characterized based on its properties such as ; environmental, optical, and electrical. Optical properties highlight vital properties such as the suitable wavelength that the transceiver operates on, compatibility with the optical cable, and bandwidth. Transmission power and receiver sensitivity showcase the optical budget is related to the maximum budget. The laser and photonic components are the most costly aspects of the transceivers; the main advantage of the lases is bringing the cost down and allowing for a simplified production process.

Cisco SFP-10G SR

The SFP 10G SR complies with 10GBASE SR standards.  For instance, the Cisco 10GBASE SR module allows for a link length of up to 26 m. It does so through standard Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) grade multimode fiber. It reaches a link length of 300 m through 0M3 and more distance through 0M4 cables.

Cisco SFP -10G SR transceiver is the best input/output device that is swappable. It allocates up to 10Gigabit Ethernet ports to connect with the fiber-optic network. Because it is highly swappable and compliant with MSA standards, it means that the Cisco SFP 10g SR transceiver can be used in any Cisco SFP+ transceiver by directly plugging in without having to shut down the initial host system network. This ability makes add-ons, moves, and exchanges are executed quickly and painless. Below is a table showing the datasheet for SFP 10G SR.

The abbreviation ‘SR’ Implies ‘short range’.It aims to transfer through short distances. 10GBASE –SR is the first multimode specification to be developed, and it is still the most used, leading by a more significant margin. It performs using a single and low-cost state laser assembly that operates at 850nm. Among the other modules, it is the least expensive supporting the 10G Platform.  However, the 10GBASE SR is considered very sensitive to the type of fiber, and it has limitations when working on short distances. Due to the limits of the space, it is a requirement that new multimode fiber deployment should use OM3 or others with higher grade fiber to make sure other 10G deployments are not associated with issues to do with distance.

Differences between 10GBASE LR and 10GBASE –SR

The above definition of both modules has shown that the main difference between the 10GBASE-LR and 10GBASE-SR mainly exists in the transmission distance, fiber mode, optical power, and wavelength.

Type of fiber mode

 10GBASE –SR development is designed to provide short-range.  So, it has multimode fiber that is a media type. Further, it allows connection with serial multimode fibers such as those such as OM3 and OM4. 10GBASE LR is best suited for transmission over long distances. Also, it uses single-mode fiber, making it the most covered aspect in 10GBASE-LR SFP. The table below shows cable category and distance transmission.

Transmission distance

By using multimode fiber, the maximum distance for transmission of the 10GBASE-SR SFP is at 400m. (OM4).  For the 10GASE LR SFP, it reaches 400m. The 10GBASE LR SFP has transfer distances of up to 10 km using single-mode fiber. Important to note that 10GBASE-LR SFP is way ahead of the 10GBASE –SR SFP in transmission distance.

Wavelength

10GBASE –SR SFP utilizes shot wavelength when transferring signal. It has a wavelength of 850NM. Its TX range lies between 840 nm and 860nm. LR uses long wavelengths when transmitting data. It possesses a wavelength of 1310 nm, having a TX range ranging from 1260 nm to 135 nm. The range of RX lies between 1260 NM TO 1600 nm.

Optical power

The optical power of 10GBASE LR SFP is slightly higher when compared to that 10GBASE SR SFP. They have a gap of about 1.5 dB. It also has a link budget of 4.6 dB (OM3). On the other hand, LR has a dB of 6.1. In addition, the SR module will have higher loss when transmitting at the same distance.

Summary

When choosing the optical module for short-distance transmission, the 10GBASE SR SFP is the best choice. It is relatively cheaper and has a low power density. However, when working with long distances, the 10GBASE LR SFP is highly recommended to make sure signals are transferred throughout the entire length. Important to observe is the costs for the 10gbase LR SFP are usually high, and the plus side is that it preserves its quality. QSFPTEK can provide cost-effective sfp+ lr and sr modules, welcome to visit QSFPTEK.com.