When confronted with an outdated wiring architecture, you may come across a stack of non-reconfigurable MMF optic cables. However, unconventional modules and fiber pairings become essential to fulfill new demands if you aim to utilize 10G SMF modules within these existing infrastructures. Nonetheless, this approach can introduce a range of challenges; without careful selection of the right strategy, it could compromise the integrity of data transmission.

Mismatched combinations of modules and cables pose a significant risk due to their inherent incompatibility. When combining 10GBASE-LR modules and OM3 multi-mode cables, it is possible to apply short distances in this way, but some errors will occur; for example, a dissonance in optical properties arises, resulting in insufficient dispersion compensation. This divergence leads to delays and misalignment of data pulses, culminating in CRC(Cyclic Redundancy Check) or Frame Check Sequence(FCS) errors.

Figure 1: Cyclic Redundancy Check

Furthermore, the implications of such mismatches are exacerbated by the limitations of each cable type over specific transmission distances. While single-mode cables excel in long-distance transmissions, their performance diminishes when used for short distances due to their narrower core, leading to poor light coupling and excessive signal loss. Multi-mode cables, optimized for shorter distances, suffer from modal dispersion issues that hinder data clarity over extended ranges.

In navigating these challenges, it becomes evident that the path to a reliable data transmission experience hinges on the right modules and cables according to their design specifications and intended application scenarios.  

What is SFP Connector?

SFP connector or SFP plug is another name of SFP as SFP (small form-factor pluggable) is a compact and hot-pluggable interface connector. The SFP connector module functions as the intercommunication media between the network devices and cables to achieve photoelectric and electro-to-optical conversion. SFP interface is commonly used in SFP port network equipment such as Ethernet switches, firewalls, routers, network interface cards (NICs) for both data communication and telecommunication applications.

Figure: the optical interface of the 1000BASE-SX SFP connector module is located at the side of the dust cap. Once unplug the cap, will you see the optical interface.

According to transmission media, there are SFP copper connectors and SFP fiber connectors. Copper SFP uses an RJ45 SFP connector interface, whereas fiber SFP uses SFP lc connector, SFP sc connector, and SFP MTP/MPO connector interface as typical ones. According to the SFP forms, different SFP form factors often utilize corresponding SFP connectors.

The table below shows the SFP connector interface types for different SFP types.

What Type of Connector is Used with an SFP Port?

SFP ports are frequently found in Ethernet network switches. These switches with 1G SFP ports as the major functional switch ports are called gigabit SFP switches.

SFP port on SFP switch supports both SFP copper connector and SFP fiber connector while RJ45 port can only take copper SFP module RJ45 connector. SFP connector types that 1G SFP port can take are RJ45 SFP connector, SFP lc connector, SFP sc connector.

FAQs about SFP Transceiver

Can We Use SFP Hardware in SFP+ Slots?

In many cases, the SFP+ port accepts SFP optics, but the speed will be down to 1G instead of 10G. However, SFP+ optics can not be plugged into the SFP port, because SFP+ does not support speed under 1G. In addition, almost all SFP+ ports on Cisco switches can support SFPs, but many SFP+ ports of Brocade switch only support SFP+ optics.

Can I use a 1000base-LX sfp for 1000base-SX fiber?

Generally, they are not interchangeable. 1000Base SX and LX are two optics standards with different operation wavelengths.1000Base LX SFP transceiver usually operates at 1310nm and uses single-mode fiber to connect, while 1000Base-SX usually is 850nm SFP and works with multimode fiber.

Can you aggregate multiple SFP ports?

Of course, you can. Link aggregation provides benefits like increased bandwidth, redundancy, and load-balancing. That will ensure that one link can immediately switch to a second available link when it fails. Therefore, aggregation on SFP ports is critical for enterprise networks where performance and security are more important. But note that, before connecting the SFP ports, please make sure that the switches have been configured for link aggregation. Otherwise, it will cause network loops.