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Fiber Optical 10G Transceivers
There are two classifications for optical fiber: single-mode fiber(SMF) and multi-mode fiber(MMF). In SMF light follows a single path through the fiber while in MMF it takes multiple paths resulting in differential mode delay (DMD). SMF is used for long distance communication and MMF is used for distances of less than 300 m. SMF has a narrower core which requires a more precise termination and connection method. MMF has a wider core (50 or 62.5 µm). The advantage of MMF is that it can be driven by lower cost VCSEL lasers for short distances, and multimode connectors are cheaper and easier to terminate reliably in the field. Its disadvantage is that due to DMD it can work only over short distances. To distinguish SMF from MMF cables, SMF cables are usually yellow, while MMF cables are orange (OM1 & OM2) or aqua (OM3 & OM4).
New structured cabling installations use OM3 50 µm MMF which has no center defect. OM3 cable can carry 10GbE 300 m using low cost 10GBASE-SR optics or use 10GBASE-LX4 without a mode conditioning patch cord. See ISO 11801 and multi mode fibre.
Older installations use FDDI grade 62.5 µm MMF which has a center defect and is harder for the 10GbE optical modules to drive[8]. For -LX4 a mode conditioning patch cord is needed that adds extra cost to an installation.
There are also active optical cables. These have the optical electronics already connected eliminating the connectors between the cable and the optical module. They plug into standard optical module sockets. They are lower cost than other optical solutions because the manufacturer can match the electronics to the required length and type of cable.
Fiber Optical 10G Transceivers
- 10GBASE-SR - short range
- 10GBASE-LR - long reach
- 10GBASE-LRM - long reach multimode
- 10GBASE-ER - extended reach
- 10GBASE-ZR - 80km ER
- 10GBASE-LX4 - four lasers
