4 Factors That Influence High-Speed Transceiver Modules Connection
Rapid bursts of network traffic are fueling significant upgrades in data centers. Achieving seamless connectivity hinges on the compatibility of components. High-speed transceivers play a pivotal role in swiftly converting signals between electrical and optical forms. Yet, users often face challenges when connecting diverse transceiver types. In this article, FS delves into the top 4 factors shaping the connection of high-speed transceiver modules. You'll choose the right transceiver and make an informed decision based on this advice.
A Deep Dive into High-Speed Transceiver Wavelengths
The wavelength refers to the specific frequency of light that is used to transmit and receive data. It is measured in nanometers (nm). The commonly used wavelengths are 850nm, 1310nm, and 1550nm, as well as CWDM wavelengths of 1270~1610nm and DWDM wavelengths of 1525~1565nm or 1570~1610nm.
In fiber links, data transmits from one end to another. Optical modules at both ends should support the same wavelength to ensure conversion and transmission. A module at a wavelength of 1310nm could not establish communication and interconnection with one at 850nm. Wavelength mismatch could result in data loss during transmission.
How to check and confirm the wavelength of your modules? There are many methods. Take FS QSFP-DD 400G DR4 module as an example. You can browse the information on FS.com before purchasing, and check the label on the module in use. What's more, if your optical module supports Diagnostics Download Manager (DDM), you can check them directly through commands and Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).
The Transmission Distance of High Speed Transceivers Ranges
The transmission distance refers to the maximum distance the module can transmit optic signals without an amplifier or repeater. The short-range optical module is typically designed to transmit data over a distance of up to 300 meters, such as within a data center or local area network (LAN). A long-range module could transmit data over tens of kilometers, such as across a metropolitan area network (MAN) or a wide-area network (WAN). FS provides multiple choices of high-speed transceiver modules of different transmission distances. You can choose the products corresponding to the transmission distance and application scenarios according to actual needs.
Models & Transmission Distance
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100G Transceivers
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SR4(100m), PIR4(500m), IR4(2km), LR4(10km), ER4(40km), ZR4(80km)
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400G Transceivers
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SR(100m), DR(500m), FR(2km), LR(10km), ER(40km), ZR(80km), ER(40km), ZR(80km)
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Although it is possible to establish a connection between two modules with different transmission distances, as long as the TX&RX range does not exceed the other end and the wavelength is the same. A 100G DR module and a 400G XDR4 can theoretically establish a connection but are usually not connected in this way since one is a 500m module and the other is a 2km module.
Optical modules with different transmission distances cannot establish a connection directly. Improper use due to inconsistent transmission distances would shorten the service life of the module. In general, the range of output and input optical power increases with the transmission distance. Excessive TX output power can break through the detector of the other module. It might lead to the component’s failure. The light emitted by the long-range module may burn the short-range module, requiring an optical attenuator in the middle. Therefore, the short-range module could be burned when connecting to a long-range module. In this case, you are suggested to adopt an optical attenuator in the middle to prevent such failure.
Modulation Techniques in High-Speed Modules
Modulation refers to the process of encoding digital data onto an optical signal that can be transmitted over fiber optic cables using an optical module. At present, there are three forms of modulation, NRZ, PAM4, and QAM.
100G Transceivers
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400G Transceivers
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NRZ
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/
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100G PAM4
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50G PAM4
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/
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16QAM
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/
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ZR
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In the application scenario of 400G to 4x100G breakout, 400G DR4 can establish a breakout connection with 100G DR, 400G XDR4 can establish a breakout connection with 100G FR, and 400G PLR4 can establish a breakout connection with 100G LR. These modules have the same wavelength, transmission distance, and modulation mode. For instance, the 100G DR module's center wavelength is 1310nm. The 400G DR4 module has four sets of waves and each one is 1310nm. DR and DR4 are suitable for 500m scenarios. The transmission distance is the same, so you can establish a 4x100G breakout by MTP to 4xLC fiber patch cable. The optical modules with inconsistent signal modulation modes cannot perform signal conversion transmission.
High-Speed Module Form Factors
The form factor of a high-speed transceiver is designed to protect electronic components from damage and to provide a standardized form factor that is easily set up and replaced in a wide range of equipment. The wide range of FS transceivers ensures compatibility with various equipment and systems. FS 100G transceivers are mainly packaged in QSFP28. For 400G connectivity needs, FS provides a selection of transceivers packaged in QSFP112, OSFP, and QSFP-DD form factors. These transceivers are engineered to deliver exceptional performance, ensuring seamless integration and robust connectivity in data center environments. Trust FS for high-speed transceivers that meet your specific networking requirements and enhance your infrastructure's efficiency and performance.
Before inserting the optical module into the switch, you need to confirm that the equipment supports the corresponding form factor of the optical module.
Form Factor
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Backward Compatibility
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100G Transceivers
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QSFP28
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QSFP+ modules
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400G Transceivers
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QSFP112
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QSFP56/QSFP28 modules
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OSFP
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/
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QSFP-DD
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QSFP56/QSFP28/QSFP+ optical modules
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Typical Applications
The four-wavelength implementation of Shortwave Wavelength Division Multiplexing (SWDM) is called SWDM4. These four wavelengths are multiplexed/demultiplexed inside the QSFP transceiver into a pair of multimode fibers (one fiber in each direction, i.e., a standard duplex interface). Each of the four wavelengths operates at 25G, enabling the transmission of 100G (4x25G) Ethernet over existing duplex multimode fiber, using standard LC connectors.
FS 100G SWDM4 BiDi module is NRZ modulated. Cisco 100G PAM4 BiDi module is 50G PAM4 modulated. In the figure above, both modules can connect with the respective module. It is worth noting the situation in the 3rd line and you may ask why. As shown in the table below, the wavelengths and the modulation forms are different. That is why the two modules are unable to establish a connection.
Wavelength
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Modulation
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100G SWDM4 BiDi Module
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4x25Gb/s 850nm ✗
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NRZ ✗
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100G PAM4 BiDi Module
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2x50Gb/s 850nm ✗
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50G PAM4 ✗
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Summary
As stated above, high-speed transceiver module connections are generally influenced by four major factors: wavelength, transmission distance, modulation, and form factor. In complex situations, the last two factors may be variable. For example, a built-in gearbox chip (it could convert the QSFP-DD NRZ to PAM4) allows two modules with different modulations to connect. But in most cases, wavelength and transmission distance are decisive.
As you embark on your journey to optimize high-speed transceiver module connections, remember that FS.com is your trusted partner every step of the way. Our comprehensive range of 100G and 400G data center transceivers is designed to meet the diverse needs of modern networking environments. Whether you're navigating the complexities of wavelength, transmission distance, modulation, or form factor, our expert team is here to guide you towards the perfect solution. At FS, we don't just offer products; we deliver solutions. With our competitively priced transceivers, you can achieve maximum performance without breaking the bank. Get ready to elevate your networking experience with FS high-speed transceiver modules—because when it comes to connectivity, we're always one step ahead.
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