No, single-mode and multimode fibers are not interchangeable. They have different core sizes and are designed to work with different types of network equipment. Single-mode fibers have a smaller core size and are designed for longer distances, while multimode fibers have a larger core size and are typically used for shorter distances. Using the wrong type of fiber with network equipment can result in signal loss and reduced performance.

What is SFP Module?

SFP module is a hot-pluggable transceiver with a small form factor for high-density data communications. It has an electrical interface on the one end that connects to the system equipment such as a network switch, and an optical interface on the other end that connects to the outer fiber optic cables. In the process, the optical module completes receiving and transmitting optical signals by signal conversion — optical-electrical-optical.

What is Single-mode vs Multimode SFP Module Type?

Single-mode vs multimode fiber describes the number of modes that can propagate through the fiber. SIngle-mode (SM) fiber can only propagate a single light mode at a time while multimode (MM) fiber can propagate multiple light modes. SIngle-mode SFP works with single-mode fiber, and multimode SFP works with multimode fiber.

What are the Differences Between Single-mode and Multimode SFP?

The major differences between single-mode SFP and multimode SFP are listed in the table below, more details are manifested in the following parts.