1. Overview
        With the advancement of technology, optical modules are evolving rapidly. From the early GBIC, XENPAK and X2 modules to the popular SFP28 and QSFP28 modules in recent years, various types of optical modules are applied in distinct scenarios. However, based on the analysis of domestic and international markets, the 10G SFP+ optical modules still account for the largest demand at present, especially the SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR modules.
2. Introduction to SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR
        SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR differ in center wavelength, transmission distance, applicable fiber type and laser type, as shown in the table below:
Table 1: Comparison of Basic Specifications of SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR
Module
SFP-10G-SR
SFP-10G-LR
Center Wavelength
850nm
1310nm
Transmission Distance
300m
10km
Fiber Type
MNF
SMF
Laser Type
VCSEL
DFB
DOM Function
Supported
Supported

        The SFP-10G-SR optical module, where SR stands for Short Range, operates at a center wavelength of 850nm. It can be used with 62.5/125μm multimode fiber (MMF) and 50/125μm multimode fiber (MMF). Its transmission distance varies with fiber types, as detailed below (in reference to IEEE Standard 802.3):
Table 2: Transmission Distance vs. Fiber Type
Date Rate
Fiber Type
Model bandwidth
@850nm
(MHz-km)
Distance Range(m)
9.83-11.3 Gb/s
62.5/125um MMF
160
26
9.83-11.3 Gb/s
62.5/125um MMF
200
33
9.83-11.3 Gb/s
50/125um MMF
400
66
9.83-11.3 Gb/s
50/125um MMF
500
82
9.83-11.3 Gb/s
50/125um MMF
2000
300

        The SFP-10G-LR optical module, where LR stands for Long Range, operates at a center wavelength of 1310nm and is designed for use with 9/125μm single-mode fiber (SMF). Its effective transmission distance ranges from 2km to 10km, and laboratory tests conducted by Moduletek have demonstrated that the transmission distance can reach up to 20km.
3. Application of SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR
Figure 1: Moduletek SFP-10G-SR Optical Module
        Based on the comparison of their characteristics, the advantages and applications of the two modules are summarized as follows:
        The SFP-10G-SR optical module features compact size and low power consumption. It adopts a VCSEL laser in its TOSA, which contributes to a lower cost. Its short transmission distance makes it suitable for short-haul applications, such as enterprises, small hospitals and data center computer rooms.
        The SFP-10G-LR optical module is characterized by compact size, low power consumption and long transmission distance. It is ideal for medium-to-long-haul applications, including universities, industrial parks, carrier customers and large data centers.
        When using these two types of optical modules with optical fibers, special attention should be paid to the following mismatching prohibitions:
        Single-mode fiber (SMF) cannot be used with multimode optical modules. The optical signal emitted by a multimode module has a large divergence angle, while the core diameter of SMF is small. This results in insufficient light entering the fiber, making long-distance transmission impossible.
Multimode fiber (MMF) is not recommended for use with single-mode optical modules. Although the light emitted by a single-mode module can fully enter the MMF, it propagates in multimode, leading to high chromatic dispersion that only allows short-distance transmission. In addition, this mismatch will cause excessive optical power at the receiving end, resulting in receiver overload.
        Moduletek supplies the products mentioned in this application guide. Welcome to place your orders!
        If you have any questions about the above content, please contact us via email: sales@moduletek.com