FAQs about FS 40G QSFP+ Transceivers

If you want to learn more about 40G QSFP+ transceivers, you came to the right place. In this post, we'll answer frequent questions, look at the many models and applications of 40G QSFP+ transceivers, and share key insights to help you make smart networking decisions.

Q: What 40G QSFP+ transceivers are available from FS?

A: FS provides a range of 40G QSFP+ transceivers tailored to diverse networking requirements. Some of the available module options include SR4, LR4, UNIV, PLRL4, PSM4 and so on. These transceivers offer high performance, reliability, and compatibility with a wide range of network equipment. For more information, please read "QSFP+ Transceiver Wiki and Types".

Q: What is the QSFP-40G-UNIV transceiver? What role does it contribute to the 40G network?

A: The QSFP-40G-UNIV transceiver is a versatile optical module designed for 40G networks. It stands for "Universal" and offers flexibility by enabling operation on both single-mode fiber (SMF) and multimode fiber (MMF).

This transceiver plays a crucial role in 40G networks by providing compatibility with various fiber types, allowing network administrators to consolidate their optics and simplify inventory management. The QSFP-40G-UNIV transceiver supports different data rates and distances, making it suitable for a wide range of applications within data centers and high-speed networks. Its universal compatibility and high performance contribute to efficient and reliable data transmission in 40G network environments.

Q: What is the transmission range capability of the 40G UNIV transceiver?

A: The 40G UNIV transceiver offers versatile distance capabilities depending on the fiber type used. When utilizing single-mode fiber (SMF), the QSFP-40G-UNIV transceiver can support a 40G connection with a transmission distance of up to 2 kilometers. On the other hand, when employing multimode fiber (MMF), it can achieve distances of up to 150 meters over OM3 multimode fiber.

Q: What is the 40G QSFP+ transceiver max supported distance?

A: The maximum supported distance of a 40G QSFP+ transceiver can vary depending on factors such as the type of fiber optic cable used and the specific model of the transceiver. Generally, for short-range connections over multimode fiber (MMF), the maximum distance is around 150 meters. However, for long-range connections over single-mode fiber (SMF), the distance can extend up to 80 kilometers in FS.com. It's essential to verify the specifications of the particular transceiver model and consult the manufacturer's datasheet for accurate distance information.

Q: How to choose between QSFP-40G-UNIV and QSFP-40G-SWDM4 transceivers?

A: Choosing between QSFP-40G-UNIV and QSFP-40G-SWDM4 transceivers depends on several factors:

• 1. Transmission Distance: QSFP-40G-UNIV supports both short and long-distance transmission, making it versatile for various network setups. On the other hand, QSFP-40G-SWDM4 is primarily suitable for short-range applications, typically up to 300 meters over multimode fiber.

• 2. Fiber Compatibility: Consider the type of fiber infrastructure in your network. QSFP-40G-UNIV is compatible with both single-mode and multimode fibers, offering greater flexibility. Meanwhile, QSFP-40G-SWDM4 is specifically designed for use with multimode fibers.

• 3. Network Expansion: Evaluate your future scalability needs. QSFP-40G-UNIV's compatibility with different fiber types and longer transmission distances may be advantageous for future network expansions and upgrades.

• 4. Cost Consideration: Assess the cost-effectiveness based on your budget and requirements. QSFP-40G-SWDM4 may be more economical for short-distance applications, while QSFP-40G-UNIV's broader compatibility may justify its higher cost for certain scenarios.

Q: Both are QSFP-40G-LR4 transceivers, what is the difference between QSFP+ CWDM and PSM?

A: The main difference between QSFP+ Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing (CWDM) and Parallel Single Mode (PSM) lies in their transmission technology and fiber compatibility:

• 1. Transmission Technology: QSFP+ CWDM utilizes multiple channels on a single fiber for transmitting and receiving signals, enabling the transfer of different data streams over distinct wavelengths of light. In contrast, PSM fiber technology employs parallel single-mode fibers, allowing simultaneous transmission over multiple individual fibers.

• 2. Fiber Compatibility: QSFP+ CWDM modules operate on a single fiber with multiple channels, while PSM modules use parallel fibers for each channel. This difference in fiber configuration affects their compatibility with existing network infrastructures and the ease of integration into network setups.

In summary, while both QSFP+ CWDM and PSM are QSFP-40G-LR4 transceivers designed for long-distance transmissions, their underlying transmission technologies and fiber compatibility distinguish them in terms of deployment scenarios and network configurations.

Q: What are the differences between 40G QSFP+ MTP and 40G QSFP+ LC transceivers?

A:

Working Principles

• QSFP+ MTP: Utilizes the MTP (Multiple Fiber Push-On) connector, designed for high-density fiber applications. The MTP connector supports parallel transmission, suitable for short-distance high-speed data transmission.

• QSFP+ LC: Employs the LC (Lucent Connector) duplex connector, typically used in network applications. The LC connector supports wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) transmission, suitable for long-distance transmission over single-mode fiber.

Single-mode vs. Multimode QSFP+

• Single-mode Fiber (SMF): 40G QSFP+ LC transceivers are typically used with single-mode fiber, offering tighter tolerances and suitable for longer-distance transmission.

• Multimode Fiber (MMF): 40G QSFP+ MTP transceivers are typically deployed on multimode fiber, enabling shorter-distance, high-bandwidth transmission.

Q: Does FS offer a 40G BIDI transceiver?

A: Yes, FS offers a 40G BIDI transceiver. The product linked is a Cisco compatible 40G BiDi QSFP+ transceiver, operating at 850nm wavelength with a reach of up to 500 meters over OM3 multimode fiber. It features a digital optical monitoring (DOM) function and uses LC connectors for fiber optic connections.

Q: What are the features and benefits that FS 40G QSFP+ transceivers can offer?

A: FS 40G QSFP+ transceivers offer several features and benefits:

• 1. High Performance: FS QSFP+ transceivers are designed to deliver high performance and reliability for 40G network applications.

• 2. Wide Compatibility: They are compatible with various networking equipment and brands, ensuring seamless integration into existing networks.

• 3. Multiple Form Factors: FS offers a range of QSFP+ transceiver models, including SR4, CSR4, PSM4, and LR4, to meet different network requirements and distances.

• 4. Cost-Effective: These transceivers provide cost-effective solutions for upgrading network bandwidth to 40G, offering a balance between performance and affordability.

• 5. Hot-Swappable: FS QSFP+ transceivers are hot-swappable, allowing for easy installation and replacement without disrupting network operations.

• 6. DOM Supporting: Many FS QSFP+ transceivers feature Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM) support, enabling real-time monitoring of optical parameters for enhanced network management and troubleshooting.

Q: Can the 40G-LR4 transceiver also be split into 4x10G connections?

A: No, the 40G-LR4 transceiver cannot be split into 4x10G connections. This transceiver utilizes 4 lambdas on a pair of single-mode fibers, making it unsuitable for splitting without considerable complexity to separate the wavelengths. Unlike other QSFP+ transceivers that support breakout connectivity, the 40G-LR4 transceiver does not offer this capability. It operates using 4 lambdas to achieve a single 40G connection and does not have the necessary design to be split into multiple 10G connections.

In contrast, the 40GBASE-SR4 utilizes parallel (ribbon) fiber, creating 4 fiber pairs for multiple connections. As an alternative, single-mode parallel 40G optics like the 40G-PLRL4 and 40G-PLR4 are available, supporting splitting into 4x10G connections. These optics are fully compatible with 10GBASE-LR and 10G-LRL up to their maximum distances, utilizing single-mode MTP-12 ribbon for connectivity.

Q: What cable type is needed for the PLRL4 and PLR4 transceivers?

A: The FS PLR4 and PLRL4 transceivers require an Angle Polished Connector (APC) single-mode MTP-12 cable for optimal performance. This cable type is specifically designed to accommodate single-mode fiber connections and ensures reliable transmission over long distances. The MTP-12 connector is used to facilitate direct connections, and the APC type minimizes signal loss and reflections, crucial for single-mode fiber applications.

The cable's configuration is equivalent to the 40G-SR4 MTP to MTP, with the primary distinction being the utilization of single-mode fiber. Unlike UPC connectors, which are unsuitable for single-mode fiber, APC connectors are the preferred choice for ensuring optimal performance in single-mode MTP-12 fiber connections.

Q: How does the QSFP+ to SFP+ fiber convertor allow 4x 10G?

A: To enable 4x 10G connectivity, a QSFP+ to SFP+ fiber converter utilizes a breakout cable. This cable splits the 40G channel provided by the QSFP+ transceiver into four individual 10G channels, each connected to an SFP+ transceiver. Essentially, the converter breaks down the high-speed 40G signal into four separate 10G signals, allowing each SFP+ port to transmit data at 10G speeds. This configuration is beneficial for scenarios where equipment with SFP+ interfaces needs to communicate with a device equipped with a QSFP+ port, providing flexibility and compatibility in networking setups.