Industrial Module Temperature: How Much Do You Know?

The deployment of transceiver modules in diverse environments introduces challenges related to temperature management. Factors such as quality, usage environment, and workload can impact the temperature of transceiver modules. This article explores the considerations for handling high operating temperatures of optical modules and provides recommendations for selecting the ideal operating temperature range.

What Is Optical Module Temperature?

The operational temperature of optical modules is dictated by their specific types and brands. Different modules, such as optical modules and copper modules, come with varying temperature ranges. For instance, the temperature span for optical modules is broader compared to copper modules. Typically, transceiver module temperatures are categorized into three main levels: commercial temperature grade (COM: 0-70°C), extended temperature grade (EXT: -20°C- 85°C), and industrial temperature grade (IND: -40°C-85°C).

Factors Influencing the Temperature of Optical Modules

• Quality Issues: The quality and manufacturing process of the module directly impacts its performance and heat dissipation. Modules with poor quality and rough craftsmanship are more prone to temperature anomalies because of their unstable performance and inadequate heat dissipation.

• Usage Environment: Modules are typically designed for specific environments such as data centers or server rooms. If used in harsh conditions like oil fields, deserts, or mountainous areas, changes in ambient temperature can cause variations in the module's temperature, affecting its optical power and sensitivity.

• Workload: The workload of the module is a crucial factor. High workloads often lead to the generation of more heat, causing an increase in temperature.

Managing Operating Temperatures in Optical Modules

When the operating temperature of the optical module exceeds the specified range, the corresponding port will display a red indicator light. In this case, it is recommended to replace the optical module. The polling cycle of the optical module is 5 minutes, so after replacing the optical module, it is necessary to wait for 5 minutes before observing whether the port indicator light returns to normal. If the port red light is off, it indicates that the optical module has returned to normal. To avoid high temperatures during the use of optical modules, the following recommendations are provided:

Select the Appropriate Module for the Environment

For applications in data centers and enterprise server rooms, consider using commercial-grade optical modules. These environments typically have air conditioning to maintain stable indoor temperatures. In outdoor settings, remote mountainous areas, tunnels, or environments with large temperature variations, industrial-grade optical modules are recommended. Industrial-grade modules often incorporate temperature compensation software to ensure a steady supply of operating current. The temperature compensation software adjusts the module's performance in response to temperature changes. FS offers different industrial optical modules, such as 25G industrial optical modules. Featuring low power consumption and high speed, this 25G transceiver is ideal for 25G Ethernet, data center, and 5G Wireless Network.

Check the Equipment's Cooling System

Ensure that the cooling airflow structure is well-designed, particularly in machines with active fans providing airflow. This design helps keep module temperatures closer to the ambient temperature. Check the module installation density to avoid high local temperatures. Consider spacing high-power optical modules and inserting them into switch ports to reduce the likelihood of localized high temperatures.

Use Modules with DDM Functionality and Temperature Control Systems

It is advisable to use optical modules with Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM) functionality. Alternatively, opt for temperature control systems that monitor and compensate for the working temperature of optical modules in real time. Generally, commercial-grade optical modules are not intended for industrial working environments, and high temperatures may trigger DDM alarms. If DDM monitoring is not available, use contact-type temperature probes to measure the external shell temperature of the module (the specified operating temperature range usually refers to the external shell temperature).

When to Choose Industrial Modules?

Choosing industrial-grade modules typically depends on specific application requirements and working environments. Here are some common scenarios for selecting industrial-grade modules:

• Extreme Temperature Conditions: Industrial-grade modules are suitable for environments with extreme temperature ranges. For example, they can reliably maintain performance in high or low-temperature conditions.

• Harsh Industrial Environments: If network equipment is to be deployed in harsh industrial environments such as oil fields, deserts, or mountainous areas, choosing industrial-grade modules is advantageous to cope with these challenging conditions.

• Industrial Automation: In industrial automation applications where highly reliable communication is needed, industrial-grade modules can often provide the stability and reliability required.

• Internet of Things (IoT) Devices: For IoT devices that need to operate across a wide temperature range, industrial-grade modules can ensure the reliability of communication connections in various environmental conditions.

• Utility Infrastructure: In the modernization of utility infrastructure such as power and transportation, industrial-grade modules can adapt to various temperature and environmental conditions, ensuring network reliability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the temperature of transceiver modules is a critical aspect that can affect their performance and reliability. Addressing issues related to temperature anomalies requires a combination of quality modules, appropriate environmental considerations, and efficient cooling systems. By selecting modules based on the specific application, environment, and long-term reliability requirements, network operators can ensure the seamless operation of optical modules in diverse and demanding scenarios. Temperature management remains a key consideration for maintaining the optimal functionality of transceiver modules in evolving network infrastructures.