The Rapid Development of Optical Transceiver Market

Several years ago, there was a report which said that the 10G/40G/100G optical transceivers would hit 1.44 billion dollars by 2014, driven by 10G SFP+ and tunable XFP modules. It is now 2014, and the forecasts have came true.

Infontetics Research released the report tracking 10-Gigabit (10G), 40-Gigabit (40G), and 100-Gigabit (100G) optical transceivers and transponders sold into the optical transport, carrier routing and switching, and enterprise markets.

In fact, the highlights of optical transceiver market have appeared years ago. Let's make a review.

• 10G, 40G, and 100G transceiver and transponder revenue was forecast by Infonetics Research to grow to 1.44 billion dollars worldwide by 2014, driven by SFP+ and tunable XFP technology, and by spikes in future 40G and 100G adoption.

• Tunable XFPs would be the major 10G growth opportunity for a long time, as they eliminated inventory management issues with fixed-wavelength modules, fulfilled the need for tunability as ROADM-based networking rises in popularity, and replaced the more-costly 300-PIN format.

• Meanwhile, SFP+ would replace XFP in the future, driven by strong growth in 850nm modules for 10-Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) and 8/16G Fibre Channel (FC) applications.

• Shipments of next-generation 40G long-range (LR) and short-range (SR) optical transceivers would begin in 2010, primarily for enterprise and IP router applications.

• Revenue for 40G long-reach interfaces jumped 52 percent in 2009 over 2008, to 114.6 million dollars, while revenue for 40G 300-PIN short- and intermediate-reach interfaces dropped 35 percent, driven by price erosion and demand weakness.

• During the 2011-2012 timeframe, shipments of DQPSK transceivers were expected to outstrip those of DPSK, as the cost differential between the two drops. Worldwide revenue was forecast to grow nearly 10-fold from 2009 to 2014 for the tunable DQPSK 40G fiber transceiver.

Infonetics' report provided in-depth analysis, market size, and forecasts through 2014 frp manufacturer revenue and units shipped for 10G, 40G, and 100G transceivers and transponders. Specifically, the report tracked the following long- and short/intermediate-reach optical transceivers/transponders.

• 10G modules by tunable, WDM (fixed C-band), 1550nm,1310nm, and 850nm wavelengths, split by form-factor such as 300-PIN, SFP+, XFP, X2, XENPAK etc..

• 40G modules by tunable, 1310nm and 850nm wavelengths, split by form-factor such as DPSK, DQPSK, opto duo-binary (ODB) and other, 300-PIN SFI-5, 40GBASE-LR4, and 40GBSE-SR4.

• 100G modules by tunable, 1310nm and 850nm wavelengths, split by form-factor such as 100G DWDM, 100GBASE-LR4 (aka 4*25G non-return-to-zero, or NRZ), and 100GBASE-SR10 (aka 10*10G).

Nowadays, vendors providing products in the optical transceiver market include Cisco, Finisar, Avago, JDSU, and so on. Besides these famous companies, there are also many other manufacturers and suppliers who provide compatible transceivers with much more cheaper prices. For example, the compatible Finisar 10G SFP+ modules in FiberStore are all under 100 dollars!

Using An OTDR To Be An Expert In Fiber Link Testing

When talking about optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR), you might see it as complicated and dear. In actual fact¡ê?you could think like this for example it is similar to the copper tester and it is a chance to grow my business.

Fiber link testing may be new to some contractors, but the right equipment could make the task easier. You can work like an expert while on an OTDR, even though the fiber link testing jobs are very technical. If you're a copper cabling installer, an OTDR will give you three big qualities as following.
1. Expert diagnostics which make the OTDR work much like your familiar copper certification tool.
2. A method of bidding on more jobs increase your business and increasing profits.
3. The ability to move your understanding of copper software in a brand new area and be a fiber expert.

Using an OTDR don't have to be complicated or confusing. Understanding a few fundamental concepts can make OTDR use as straightforward as using a copper certification tool.

First, let's learn about how an OTDR works. A basic knowledge of how an OTDR works will help in analyzing a trace, particularly when something unexpected happens. An OTDR uses the backscattered light that occurs in most fibers as light travels down the core. The OTDR measures time the backscattered light takes to go back and forth through the bare optical fiber, and taking advantage of the rate of light in the fiber, the OTDR calculates the distance values used in constructing the trace.

Fiber link testing includes using an OLTS. Recently updated standards that concentrate on test methods for installed fiber links recommend the complementary utilization of an OTDR. These new standards add some utilization of an OTDR to ensure not just that the hyperlink has transpired, but to ensure the quality of each installed component on the link.

Identifying bottlenecks is the strength of an OTDR, which sends a pulse of light into fiber and measures the light reflected back at each component as the light lost at this component. The same is true for backscattered light along the length of the fiber itself.

An OTDR fiber tester can establish accurate, highly detailed measurements, when the correct setup and necessary accessories are utilized. The basic setup consists of a source laser, a coupler, a detector, a processor, a connector panel on the OTDR, a launch cable (access jumper), and the system under test. The source laser, coupler, detector, and processor are contained inside the OTDR. When a trace is shot, the origin laser shoots pulses with the coupler then with the system through the launch cable. As light is scattered to the OTDR, the light goes back through the coupler which redirects the light towards the detector. The processor then analyzes the information received from the detector and constructs the trace.

Fortunately, the particular use of the OTDR isn't as challenging because it appears. Ensuring test leads, launch fibers, andreceive fibers are in a crisp condition, and therefore are neat and correctly connected, will always be under your control. But the remainder of the setup steps could be looked after through the instrument. Newer OTDRs can create an image from the proper setup configuration. You merely need to make connections and have the instrument "learn" the launch and receive fibers.

Application of PSM4 Technology in Transceivers

PSM4 is short for the 4 x 25Gbps parallel single mode technology which is proposed as a PHY solution for the 500m single mode objective. It is generally used in the transceiver application. With this technology, optical transceivers come to have the following features.
1. Surface mount with passive alignment enables enables low cost module.
2. Use of lens-integrated optical devices reduces components and assembly costs in transceiver design.

The mainly transceiver that uses PSM4 is the 40G QSFP+. QSFP+, short for quad small form-factor pluggable plus, is designed for high-density applications. Except the 40G QSFP+ transceiver modules, FiberStore also supplies QSFP+ cables including the active optical cable (AOC), passive copper cable assembly, active copper cable assembly, and QSFP+ loopback.

The SFF-8685 document specifies a transceiver mechanical form factor with latching mechanism, host-board electrical-edge connector and cage. The hot-pluggable transceiver integrates 4 transmit and 4 receive channels. Our QSFP+ transceiver can replace up to 4 standard SFP+ transceivers. The result is greater port density and overall system cost savings over traditional Plus SFP module. Our QSFP+ cable assemblies are designed to accommodate stacked and ganged connector configurations in extremely high-density requirements. This system supports 10G Ethernet, Fibre Channel, InfiniBand, SAS and SONET/SDH standards with different data rate options.

AOCs, short for active optical cables, have extremely low power consumption of only 0.78W per cable end. This feature improves overall data center power consumption and thermal efficiency.
40G QSFP+ PSM4 AOCs use single mode silicon photonics (SiPh) to enable transmitting up to 4km on single mode ribbon fiber.

AOCs reduced cable bulk compared to larger diameter copper cabling enable deployment of additional ports for increased number of AOCs per system, resulting in more connectivity options and total system cost savings. QSFP+ loopback features a compact housing compatible with module spacing and loop optical transmit ports to receive ports for testing, burn-in and field troubleshooting.

SFP Media Converters Those Support Fast Ethernet Standards

SFP Media Converter is a Fiber to Ethernet Media Converter with Fast Ethernet ports, dual-rate Fast/Gigabit Ethernet ports, or Gigabit Ethernet ports. The ports allow for flexible network configurations using SFP transceivers. And the Fast Ethernet SFP Media Converter uses Fast Ethernet SFPs.

According to the types of Fast Ethernet SFPs, there are corresponding kinds of Fast Ethernet SFP Media Converters. We should know the Fast Ethernet standards to understand this device.

Fast Ethernet is a collective term for a number of Ethernet standards that carry traffic at the nominal rate of 100Mbps, against the original Ethernet speed of 10Mbps. There are several Fast Ethernet standards including 100Base-T, 100Base-TX, 100Base-FX, 100Base-SX, 100Base-BX, etc.. Obviously, the "100" means 100Mbps rate.

100Base-T is an initial Fast Ethernet standard for twisted pair cables. The segment length for a 100Base-T cable is limited to 100m. 100Base-TX is the predominant form of Fast Ethernet, and runs over two wire-pairs inside a CAT5 or above cable. Since a typical CAT5 cable contains 4 pairs, it can support two 100Base-TX links with a wiring adaptor. Of the Fast Ethernet standards, 100Base-TX is by far the most widespread and is supported by the vast majority of Ethernet hardware currently produced.

100Base-FX is a version of Fast Ethernet over optical fiber. It uses a 1300nm NIR light wavelength transmitted via two strands of optical fiber, one for receive(RX) and the other for transmit(TX). 100Base-FX should use SC, ST, LC, MTRJ or MIC connectors with SC being the preferred option. However, it is not compatible with 10Base-FL, the 10Mbps version over optical fiber. A 100Base-FX SFP operates on ordinary MMF (multimode fiber) link spans up to 2km.

100Base-SX is another version of Fast Ethernet over optical fiber. It uses two strands of multimode optical fiber for RX and TX. It is a lower cost alternative to using 100Base-FX, because it uses short wavelength optics which are significantly less expensive than the long wavelength optics used in 100Base-FX. 100Base-SX can operate at distances up to 550m. It uses the same wavelength as 10Base-FL. Unlike 100Base-FX, this allows 100Base-SX to be backwards compatible with 10Base-FL. Because of the shorter wavelength used (850nm) and the shorter distance it can support, 100Base-SX uses less expensive optical components (LEDs instead of lasers) which make it an attractive option for those upgrading from 10Base-FL and those who do not require long distances.

100Base-BX is a version of Fast Ethernet over a single strand of optical fiber, while 100Base-FX uses a pair of fibers. Single-mode fiber is used along with a special multiplexer which splits the signal into TX and RX wavelengths. The two wavelengths used for TX and RX are 1310/1550nm. The terminals on each side of the fiber are not equal, as the one transmitting downstream uses the 1550nm wavelength, and the one transmitting upstream uses the 1310nm wavelength. Its transfer distances can be 10, 20 or 40 km. A 100Base-BX SFP operates on ordinary SMF (single mode fiber) single-strand link spans up to 10km.

Contraposing to these different standards, Fast Ethernet SFP Media Converters are designed with different SFP ports to support the 100Base-T SFP, 100Base-FX SFP, 100Base-SX SFP, 100Base-BX SFP and even 100Base-FX to 100Base-TX SFP transceiver which is used in the converter with two SFP ports (100Base-FX and 100Base-TX).

FiberStore supplies not only 100Base SFP Media Converters for Fast Ethernet, but also 1000Base SFP Media Converters for Gigabit Ethernet. These SFP Media Converters extend copper to fiber, multimode to multimode and multimode to single mode fiber by working with the SFP module. An extensive range of SFP Media Converters are in stock to meet every fiber conversion need.

Here are some features of FiberStore's Fast Ethernet SFP Media Converters

1. Extend Fast Ethernet network distances up to 120km

2. Support multimode and single mode fiber

3. Support SC, LC and ST fiber connectors

4. Special functions like Link Pass-Through, Far-End Fault, Auto-MDIX and Loopback

Tips: Link Pass Through is a troubleshooting feature that allows the media converter to monitor both the fiber and copper RX ports for loss of signal. Auto-MDIX is a function automatically detects and configures the twisted pair port on the converter to the correct MDI-X configuration.

Fiber to Fiber Media Converters

Fiber to fiber media converter may be the converter accustomed to conduct the transparent conversion between your media of single mode fiber and multimode fiber. Unlike the Fiber to Ethernet Media Converter, it is utilized in the applications where media conversion is needed between multimode segments separated by long distances. For example, it enables the extension of multimode to single mode or multimode to multimode fiber connections to distances as much as 160km.

You will find mainly three benefits using fiber to fiber converters.

First, they can convert Fast Ethernet or Gigabit multimode fiber to multimode or single mode fiber.

Second, they can protect an investment in existing multimode fiber based hardware.

Third, they can connect different fiber types, distances and wavelengths across a variety of topologies and network architectures.

Generally, the multimode transmission supports 550m and 2km distances. And also the single mode version has much longer transfer distances including 20km, 40km, 60km, 80km, 100km and 120km.

The fiber to fiber media converters those suited for enterprise and Service Provider applications best, can offer an on-board processor to continuously monitor that both fiber connections are up. This functionality (generally referred to as LPT, short for Link Pass-Through) monitors the state of the hyperlink to the end devices and helps to ensure that each end-point knows if the entire link is up or otherwise. Some media converter products don't have this intelligence and simply nail in the link even though the fiber link peer is down. Using the LPT, an element available in all of our fiber to fiber converters, the network's SNMP management system can be alerted when a fault occurs so that corrective action can happen.

The most typical type of fiber to fiber converter is definitely an unmanaged standalone device with its own power adapter. Where large densities of media converters are needed, chassis-based systems can also be found. These rack mountable units can house as much as 19 managed or unmanaged media converter modules providing redundant power for AC and 48v DC environments.

FiberStore supplies an extensive selection of full-featured fiber to fiber media converter solutions including Single Mode to Multimode Media Converters, multimode to single mode media converters, and multimode to multimode media converters. Whether the Single Mode to Multimode Converter or the others, all fulfill the conversion between single mode and multimode not only at 850nm/1310nm wavelength, but also at 850nm/1310nm/1550nm wavelengths. These fiber to fiber media converters also support transmission in single mode dual fiber, single mode single fiber, and multimode dual fiber. Choose us for the right product to meet your multimode to single mode or multimode to multimode extension requirement and you will obtain the best custom service!

How Much Do You Know About SFP Transceivers?

What is really a SFP transceiver?
SFP transceiver is a hot-pluggable fiber transceiver, of which the SFP stands for Small Form-factor Pluggable. The mechanical, electronic, and optical design and gratifaction derive from a Multi-source Agreement (MSA) within the fiber telecom industry. It is a pluggable form of SFF. SFP may be the interface between a network device mother board and a fiber optic or copper network cable.

Where is a SFP transceiver used?
SFP transceiver is able to support most of the fiber networking standards for example Gigabit Ethernet, Fiber Channel, SONET, along with a quantity of other communications standards. As a compact and hot-pluggable optical transceiver, it is utilized in optical communications for telecommunication and data communication applications. It connects a switch, router, or any other network devices to a fiber cabling plant. SFP transceivers can be found in Metro Access Network, Metro Core Network, Wide Area Networks (WANs), etc.

What types will the SFP transceiver have?
SFP transceiver has an immense variation available, each with different transmitters or receivers. This enables the user to configure and customize the transceiver to get the proper optical reach with either a multimode fiber (multi mode SFP) or single-mode fiber type.

The SFP module commonly is available in four categories which are SX (850nm), LX (1310nm), ZX (1550nm) and DWDM (DWDM wavelengths). All of them have an interface of a copper cable which permits a mother board to speak via UTP (unshielded twisted-pair) network cable. Click here for a good example of 1550 SFP 80km. There also exist a CWDM and single-mode bi-directional fiber optic cables which are 1310/1490nm upstream and downstream.

Tips: FYI, the industry has developed enhancements to the SFP MSA, known as SFP Plus (SFP+), that is designed for higher data rates, lower cost and better thermal performance. By using SFP+ transceivers, data rate at 10 Gbps could be achievable, including the 8 Gigabit Fiber Channel. When compared with XENPAK or XFP type of modules that have all of their circuitry inside, an SFP+ module leaves some of its circuitry to be implemented on the host board.

What benefits will the SFP transceiver have?
Firstly, SFP transceiver is pluggable that makes it easy to alter the optical interface in the last step of card manufacturing. It's also easy to accommodate different connector interfaces or a mix of SX and LX SFP.

Practically available, the SFP transceiver has the capability transfer rates as high as 4.25 Gbps. XFP, a form factor that is virtually identical to the SFP type, increases this amount by nearly three times, at 10 Gbps. The SFP transceiver is specified making compatible through the MSA between manufacturers, to ensure that different users who may use equipment from various manufacturers and providers can function effectively and smoothly without having to worry about errors and inconveniences.

Digital optical monitoring (DOM) or digital diagnostics monitoring (DDM) functions are based on the modern optical SFP transceiver according to the industry specifications of the SFF-8472 MSA. The consumer has the ability to constantly monitor real-time parameters of the SFP, for example optical input/outp power, supply voltage and laser bias current due to this feature.

A SFP cage is surface mounted to the PCB board to simply accept the transceiver. This not just provides easy replacement and reconfiguration, but additionally eliminates extra manufacturing steps and reduces cost. Because the optical component is taken away from soldering process, SFP transceivers have high optical reliability and permits the use of higher soldering temperatures.

SFP transceiver is a very popular format that's recommended by a large number of fiber optic component providers. These businesses carry SFP transceivers for those Cisco devices along with transceiver modules for many other manufacturers. So, if you want technology solutions for the networking applications, at this point you know what to consider. Here is a nice web store you can purchase Cisco SFP modules.

Using CWDM Technology To Construct Cost-Effective Fiber Networks

The utilization of fiber optic cables for communication has opened up gates for communication multiplexing technologies that increase the capabilities at minimum costs. Coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) modulates different wavelength laser beams with multiple signals. Essentially, what this means is maximized utilization of a single fiber optic to deliver and get a large number of signals, minimizing costs for telecom companies. Companies simply employ the right optical amplifiers, multiplexers and demultiplexers to boost capacity from the fiber optic using CWDM technology.

In CWDM technology, it comes with an increase in channel space. This means requirement of less sophisticated and less costly transceiver devices. Operating in the same window of 1550 nm and making use of OH-free silica fibers, maximum efficiencies are achieved in channels 31, 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 59 and 61. The channels are spaced 20 nm apart. DWDM spaces them 0.4 nm apart. Less precision optics minimizing cost, uncooled lasers with lower maintenance requirements can therefore be used in CWDM devices, operating in the region of 1470, 1490, 1510, 1530, 1550, 1570, 1590 and 1660nm. 18 different channels can be used with wavelengths as much as 1270 nm. For instance, a 8 channel CWDM includes 8 different CWDM channels. In addition to being economical, power consumption for laser devices used in CWDM technology is also far less.

CWDM signals cannot be transmitted long term but are ideal for applications inside a range of 60 km for example in a city as well as for cable tv networks allowing upstream and downstream signals. CWDM product is usually considered a low-cost alternative which is now widely used to replace the DWDM system. Due to the benefit of CWDM technology uses low cost lasers that don't need cooling and low-cost passive filter. Moreover, if using CWDM technology, we can use low-cost and smaller transceivers such as CWDM 10Gig SFP+. However, because of relatively large CWDM channel spacing, so the system will reduce the number of available wavelengths, this also limits the system's transmission capacity.

Related technologies are dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) and conventional WDM. Conventional WDM use the 3rd transmission window with a wavelength of 1550nm, accommodating as much as 8 channels. DWDM is identical however with a higher density channel. Systems could use 40 channels, each at 100 GHz spacing or 80 channels spaced 50 GHz apart. A technology, the ultra dense WDM is capable of doing working in a spacing of just 12.5 GHz, allowing more channels. However, DWDM and WDM are much more expensive in contrast to CWDM.

A quantity of manufacturers offer all related CWDM multiplexer, demultiplexer and optical amplifier. Networking solution providers would be the right individuals to seek guidance for use of CWDM, DWDM or WDM technology. They perform entire installation and commissioning from the right, integrated devices for error-free high speed, high data transmissions over fiber optic cables. Cost and gratifaction optimized CWDM solutions with built-in expansion capabilities can be found from reliable and trusted online network solution companies. Choose the best one with years of experience and technological expertise to provide the best CWDM solution and use the CWDM technology to construct your cost-effective fiber optic networks.

Optical Switch Tutorial from FiberStore

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Optical Add-Drop Multiplexer Tutorial

What is Optical Add-Drop Multiplexer (OADM)?

OADM is a device with optical signal to realize optical domain channel multiplexing. The main implementation technologies are WDM(Wavelength Division Multiplexing), O-CDMA(Optical Code Division Multiple Access) and OTDM(Optical Time Division Multiplexing). OADM is the key of AON(All-Optical Network).

Optical Add-Drop Multiplexer is used in WDM systems for multiplexing and routing different channels of light into or out of a single mode fiber (SMF). This is a type of optical node, which is generally used for the construction of optical telecommunications networks. "Add" and "Drop" here refer to the capability of the device to Add one or more new wavelength channels to an existing multi-wavelength WDM signal, or to Drop (remove) one or more channels, passing those signals to another network path. An OADM may be considered to be a specific type of optical cross-connect.

The Structure and Principle of Optical Add-Drop Multiplexer

 

OADM consists of MUX(multiplexer), DEMUX(demultiplexer), and between them a method of reconfiguring the paths between the MUX/DEMUX and a set of ports for adding and dropping signals. The MUX multiplexes the wavelength channels that are to continue on from DEMUX ports with those from the add ports, onto a single output fiber, while the DEMUX separates wavelengths in an input fiber onto ports. The reconfiguration can be achieved by a fiber patch panel or by optical switches which direct the wavelengths to the MUX or to drop ports.

All the light paths that directly pass an OADM are termed cut-through lightpaths, while those that are added or dropped at the OADM node are termed added/dropped lightpaths.

General OADM node can use four port model to represent, includes three basic functions: Drop required wavelength signal, Add rumored signal to other wavelengths pass through unaffected. OADM specific network process is as follows: WDM signal coming from the line contains mangy wavelength signals into OADM's "MainInput" side, according to business required, from many wavelength signals to selectively retrieved from the end (Drop) output desired wavelength signal, relative to the end from the Add the wavelength of the input signal to be transmitted. While the other has nothing to do with the local wavelength channels directly through the OADM, and rumored signals multiplexed together, the line output from the OADM (Main Output) Output.

Physically, there are several ways to realize an OADM. There are a variety of demultiplexer and multiplexer technologies including TFF(thin film filter), FBG(fiber bragg grating) with optical circulators, free space grating devices and integrated planar arrayed waveguide gratings. The switching or reconfiguration functions range from the manual fiber patch panel to a variety of switching technologies including microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), liquid crystal and thermo-optic switches in planar waveguide circuits.

Array waveguide FBG can create different types of OADM structures. Also it can use all fiber optic technology to construct all-optical OADM. What should be pay attention is that no matter what kind of OADM, the basic requirement is the same, such as small loss,higher isolation degree between channel, polarization insensitive to changing temperature, tolerant signal source drift and jitter within a certain range. Also in the process to be able to guarantee basic consistent between the various channels of the transmission of power. Last, strive to keep simple and convenient that can achieve high performance ratio.

Tips: Although both have add/drop functionality, OADMs are distinct from add-drop multiplexers. The former function in the photonic domain under wavelength-division multiplexing, while the latter are implicitly considered to function in the traditional SONET/SDH networks.

The Main Functions and Applications of the OADM

Functions

OADM can be separated from the multiple wavelength channels or insert one or more wavelengths. There are fixed type and configuration type. Fixed type only have one or more fixed wavelength, the node's routing is determined. However, fixed type is not flexibility, but in reliable performance and time saving. It can be reconfigurated the node channel wavelength of OADM, allocates the wavelength of network resources properly.


Applications


1. MAN(Metropolitan Area Network)
OADM has a business in the middle of choice. Of course, the main battlefield is metropolitan area of application is MAN. That can be working flexibility, easy to upgrade and amplify the network. An Ideal multi-services transport platform in MAN application.

2. OXC(Optical Cross Connection)
OADM allows different optical network of different wavelength multiplexing signal at different locations. Propsed equipment allow different network connect dynamic. On-demand wavelength resources, a wider range of network interconnection. OADM and OXC only need to download the information in the nodes to send a person to handle the equipment, including ATM switchboard, SDH switchboard, IP router etc., which greatly improve the efficiency of the node to process information.

The Types and Solutions of Optical Add-Drop Multiplexers

According to the multiplexing wavelengths, OADMs can be divided into two types which are CWDM OADM and DWDM OADM.


CWDM OADM

CWDM OADM is designed for the CWDM passive optical systems. It can multiplex/demultiplex or add/drop wavelengths from multiple fibers onto one optical fiber. Here takes the Cisco CWDM OADMs for an example.

The OADM connectors are interfaced to the color-matching CWDM GBIC modules on the equipment side. All the transceiver modules have the same size. The Cisco CWDM 2-slot chassis allows you to rack mount up to two CWDM OADMs in a single rack unit. There are four different types of CWDM OADMs.

1. Dual Single-Channel OADM
Dual single-channel OADM allows you to add/drop two channels of the same wavelength into the two directions of an optical ring. The other wavelengths are passed through the OADM. Dual fiber is used for both the network and the CWDM GBIC connections. Eight versions of this OADM are available, one for each wavelength of light. The dual single-channel OADMs are color coded and match the color coding of the CWDM.

2. 4-Channel OADM
4-Channel OADM (CWDM-MUX-4=) allows you to add/drop four channels (with different wavelengths) into one direction of an optical ring. The other wavelengths are passed through the OADM. Dual fiber is used for both the network and the GBIC connections. The four wavelengths are set to 1470 nm, 1510 nm, 1550 nm, and 1590 nm.

3. 8-Channel MUX/DEMUX
8-Channel CWDM MUX/DEMUX (CWDM-MUX-8=) allows you to multiplex/demultiplex eight separate channels into one pair of fiber. Dual fiber is used for both the network and the GBIC connections. The eight available wavelengths are 1470 nm, 1490 nm, 1510 nm, 15300 nm, 1550 nm, 1570 nm, 1590 nm, and 1610 nm.

4. Single Fiber 4-Channel MUX/DEMUX
Single fiber 4-channel CWDM MUX/DEMUX (CWDM-MUX-4-SFx=) allows you to multiplex/demultiplex four separate channels into one strand of fiber. Dual fiber is used for the connections to the GBICs and single fiber is used for the network connections. The two models (CWDM-MUX-4-SF1= and CWDM-MUX-4-SF2=) must be used together to create a four-channel single-fiber point-to-point link. This module uses the same CWDM GBICs as all of the other CWDM.

Tips: CWDM GBIC is a hot-swappable input/output device that links your switching module to the CWDM passive optical system using a pair of single-mode fiber optic cables. You can connect your multiplexed/demultiplexed wavelengths and added/dropped channels to CWDM GBICs that are installed in your system.


DWDM OADM

DWDM OADM is designed to optical add/drop one multiple DWDM channels into one or two fibers. DWDM Optical Add & Drop is the ideal solution for the increasing bandwidth demand on enterprise and metro access networks. ESCON, ATM, Fiber Channel, Gigabit Ethernet are supported simultaneously, without disturbing each other.

FiberStore DWDM OADM modules are available in standalone 19" Rack Mount, LGX module and Field module packing. No matter your network has one or two fibers, redundant network, ring or linear network design etc, we can supply best OADM configurations to tailor fit your network architect. More information, please contact our sales.

Features of CWDM/DWDM OADM

1. Optical drop/pass and drop/insert of single CWDM/DWDM channel for pointto- point, ring- or bus configuration

2. Entirely passive device,no power supply needed

3. Low-cost transceivers applicable, existing equipment can still be used

4. Fully transparent to all data rates and protocols

5. Up to10 Gbit/s per channel

6. Compliant to ITU-T CWDM/DWDM standards

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Tips For Buying SFP Modules

When you need modules for fiber optic networks, you will need some professional help. For those who have an IT department, employees will know buying and install these items. A small company doesn't normally have these extra employees. This means replacing your network plugs can be a bit difficult. You can go about buying these items diversely. Requesting professional guidance before you decide to attempt to purchase and install fiber optic transceivers can help help you save money and time.

If your workplace includes a complicated system, it is most likely you've hired some other IT service for help. This particular service should be able to replace anything you need, or offer you advice on things to buy. Heading out and becoming them yourself will be more affordable. Ask your IT service how much they charge before you hire them to do that job.

You may also try to locate a professional merchant online. Online stores sell all types of office products and really should be able to provide you with the help that you need. You should be capable of finding items such as GLC-LH-SM, a Cisco brand SFP transceiver, and other helpful products. A skilled merchant will give you smart advice by listening to what your system needs are. You will get this kind of guidance at no cost. They will also permit you to return and exchange accessories that might not work right.

Your best choice when going directly to a merchant is to look for someone locally. This gives you the chance to make contact with a professional in person. A nearby vendor can provide you with assistance and demonstrate what you need. This lets you take a look at products personally. With a local retailer, additionally, you will come with an easier method to return any transceiver cables or other parts that are just not on your side.

Get the assistance of experienced professionals when you need to exchange accessories for the computer system. This should help you obtain the best items for your company. With IT firms, additionally, you will get assist with installation. If you are using a vendor, make certain they're knowledgeable in the items they're selling. Retailers ought to be selling certified items which happen to be manufactured under the industry guidelines. It doesn't have to be hard buying transceivers or other system products. Get the aid of a real professional.

When spent considerable time on your hard drive, working or otherwise, there are lots of stuff that may happen to impede in your productivity, but for the most of individuals, it might be hard to differentiate whether it's a hardware or software problem, or any other unknown source. It's more probable that you may have older hardware or older drivers installed that may deter your device from operating at its most optimal capacity, in case your desktop is unprotected, chances are good that the problems may be caused by a virus, or spyware, but if your laptop is processing data slowly, or you're experiencing challenge with a particular program.

If the issue involves the drivers you have installed, then the solution is to simply go to the website for that driver in question, and look for the download tab, and you'll discover the driver you need and update it to the newest version that ought to fix your issues. If you're dealing with a potential hardware problem on the other hand, there may be many different reasons for the problems you have, and some of these might be more pricey than others, which makes it even more vital that you diagnose the issue and deal with it accordingly.

Mostly due to the fact that whenever we all experience issues with the web, our initial assumption would be to blame the company, one basic problem individuals face that seems to be difficult to properly identify comes from reacting to some slow internet connection. The actual cause of the problem, in reality, is much more likely to be related to the hardware you've installed to receive your online signal.

You may amplify the signal strength in order to receive an improved connection with minimal interference and as a result become more proactive with the right optical transceivers. If you do select to change your hardware, then ensure you research your options and buy the appropriate transceiver for your particular device, because there are multiple different transceivers on the market.

Totally compatible with most devices available on the market, Cisco SFP modules can be combined with switches or routers to obtain the most out of your Ethernet connection and help you achieve probably the most consistent, regular flow of knowledge at your disposal. In the most of instances, the modules are often swappable and when you decide on your new module, it may be set up in minutes, then all you need to do is connect your Ethernet cable and you are prepared to return to work, more lucrative than ever before.

Several Common Networking Lineman Tools

A lineman can also be known as power line technician. Their usual task would be to setup and keep electrical power and telephone lines. However, the required a lineman can extend to the installation and upkeep of transmission and cable TV lines. As being a lineman implies that you're responsible of outdoor installation and maintenance tasks. If you are a lineman, you must use your lineman tools.

Pliers are the usual tool that linemen use regularly. Based on the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, pliers would be the most commonly used tool in power and transmission lines installation and maintenance. These power tools are used to grip, pull, and bend materials like electrical cables and wires. There are some kinds of pliers. Each type is used for particular purposes. For example, the long-nosed ones are utilized when focusing on cables in tight places. These long and narrow pliers are also accustomed to work with small wires. There's also heavy-duty lineman pliers, which have a strong grip. These can cut thick wires. As the pliers are used doing with the electrical wires and cables, crimping tools are utilized as the fiber optic cable lineman tools doing with the fiber optic cables and connectors.

Cable strippers are another commonly used tool by linemen. Cables and wires are engrossed in an padding, which protects the wires from the weather. In electrical wires, the insulation prevents the conduction of electricity, thus protecting anyone handling the wires. However, during wire installation and maintenance, the wires or cables might need to be skinned. A lineman utilizes a wire stripper, whose sole function would be to remove the insulation covering the wires. A cable stripping device can remove the sheath covering from the cables. There are various types of cable or wire strippers, but they basically perform the same type of task. Except the most popular strippers used doing with electrical wires, there are special ones used doing using the fiber cables and they are the fiber cable strippers.

Screwdrivers are available in really handy, because they are used not only by linemen but additionally by any handyman. Screwdrivers utilized by electricians and linemen should have insulated handles too. Generally, different types of screwdrivers are utilized, because one type alone is insufficient, as screws come in different sizes and kinds too.

Aside from the three tools already mentioned, other important ones are wrenches, sockets, hammer, knife, and measuring devices. Linemen have to carry these tools around themselves for convenience at the office. They may be very bulky when brought together at the same time. On the other hand, these tools are generally simple to use and therefore are essential to the task of linemen, electricians, and technicians.

The tools mentioned above are most utilized in the copper networking, however, when working in the fiber cabling, a lineman must have a fiber optic tool kit which could drive them more convenience. Fiber optic resource is very important in fiber optic installation and maintenance works. It puts a particular kind of fiber optic tools into one kit to make work easier. The tools used in the kit are thoughtfully assembled and kept in high-quality cases which keep them safe, and also in proper working order.

FiberStore provides various fiber optic tool kits including mechanical splice kits, fusion splicing kits, fiber optic test tool kits, fiber optic termination kits, optical fiber construction tool kits and fiber optic polishing tool kits. Mechanical splice kit and fusion splicing kit are fiber optic splicing kits that are utilized in fiber optic splicing. Fiber optic test tool kit can be used to examine fiber optic equipments during the production or for problem solving. Fiber optic termination kit can be used for fiber termination and possesses tools those used to strip, prep, terminate, crimp, polish and inspect fiber optic cable connectors. Get the fiber optic resource price in FiberStore.

Source: LinemanTools and FiberStore

Optical Transceiver Modules

Optical transceiver module consists of optoelectronic devices, circuits and optical interface and other components. It can be divided into various kinds, respectively according to rates, applications, working modes and packages.

Rates: 100Base, 1000Base, 10GE in the application of Ethernet; 155M, 622M, 2.5G, and 10G in the application of SDH.

Applications: SDH/SONET, Ethernet, Fiber Channel, CWDM, DWDM etc..

Working Modes: Continuous and Burst (OLT/ONU).

Packages: 1 x 9, 2 x 9, SFF, SFP, GBIC, 300-PIN, XENPAK, X2，XFP, and SFP+, all kinds of packages are showing as below.

1 × 9 and 2 × 9 packages are welded type optical module, the general speed is less than 1000m, using SC interface.

SFF (Small Form Factor) is welded small package optical module, with the general speed of less than 1000Mbps and using LC interface. SFF small package optical module adopts advanced precision optics and integrated circuit process, size only ordinary duplex SC (1×9) half type optical fiber transceiver module. Optical port number in the same space can be increased one times, which can increase the line port density, reducing the system cost per port. And because the SFF small package module uses MT-RJ interface similar to the copper wire network, and the size of the common computer network wire interface is the same, it is conducive to the existing network devices in a copper based transition to optical fiber network high speed to meet the rapid growth of network bandwidth demand.

SFF transceiver modules are designed for a range of data rates up to 4 Gbps and offer physical compactness and pin-thru hole soldering onto a host board. They are available in several configurations including industry standard 2×5 / 2×10, and de-facto 2×7 pinout.

GBIC (giga bitrate interface converter) is hot pluggable Gigabit interface optical module, using SC interface. GBIC is the device that converts Gigabit electrical signal into optical signal interface. GBIC design can be used for hot plug. GBIC is an international standard interchangeable product. Switches with GBIC interface design are flexible and get a large market share in the market.

GBIC transceiver module is a hot-swappable input/output device that plugs into a Gigabit Ethernet port or slot, linking the port with the network by fiber optic cable or copper networking cable. It is an interface device used to convert Gigabit electrical signal to optical signal. By offering a standard, hot swappable electrical interface, one Gigabit port can support a wide range of physical media, from copper to long-wave single-mode optical fiber, at lengths of hundreds of kilometers.

SFP (small form factor pluggable) is a hot plug small package module, using the LC interface. SFP can be simply understood as an upgraded version of GBIC. Some switch manufacturers called SFP module for Mini GBIC. SFP module volume is reduced by half than the GBIC module, and can be set with double the number of ports in the same panel than GBIC. Other functions of SFP module are the same as GBIC.

SFP transceiver modules are hot-swappable in industry-standard cages and connectors, and offer high-speed performance in a compact package. SFP is used for data rates up to 4 Gbps and DWDM, including tunable versions. The electrical interface to the host board is a serial interface. Cisco GLC-T is one of the most popular SFP modules. Click to get Cisco GLC-T price.

300-PIN is a standardized MSA fiber pigtailed form factor for 10 and 40 Gbps fiber optic transponders used primarily in Telecom and DWDM applications. For 10 Gbps applications, SONET OC-192, SDH STM-64 and DWDM (including tunable) versions are available. For 40 Gbps applications, multiple standards are supported for 2km short reach optical links: SONET OC-768/SDH STM-256, 40GBASE-FR and OTU/OTU3e. For long-haul DWDM applications, OTU3 and OTU3e data rates are supported based on tunable advanced phase modulation formats.

XENPAK (10G Ethernet transceiver package) is a transponder used in Gigabit Ethernet, using the SC interface. It is a standardized form factor for 10 Gbps fiber optics transponders. XENPAK transponders are used in datacom optical links, primarily 10G Ethernet. The electrical interface to the host board is also standardized and is called XAUI (4 x 3.125 Gbps).

X2 (X-wavelength two ports) is a transponder used in Gigabit Ethernet, using the SC interface. It is a standardized form factor for 10 Gbps fiber optics transponders. X2 transponders are used in datacom optical links, primarily 10G Ethernet. The electrical interface to the host board is also standardized and is called XAUI (4 x 3.125 Gbps). X2-10G-LR modules are used very often in the fiber optic networks. X2 DWDM Cisco buy, plz come to FiberStore.

XFP (10 gigabit small form factor pluggable) is available in the 10G optical modules, Gigabit Ethernet, SONET and other system, using the LC interface. It is used for serial modules in 10GbE field, and is the optical module for next generation. XFP is a standardized form factor for serial 10 Gbps fiber optic transceivers. It is protocol-independent and fully compliant to the following standards: 10G Ethernet, 10G Fiber Channel, SONET OC-192, SDH STM-64 and OTN G.709, supporting bit rate from 9.95G through 11.3G. XFP transceiver modules are used in datacom and telecom optical links and offer a smaller footprint and lower power consumption than other 10 Gbps transponders. The electrical interface to the host board is a standardized serial 10 Gbps interface called XFI. Force10 XFP is one of the most popular XFP modules.

SFP+ (SFP plus) is the transceiver module that gigabit network used most commonly. It is used for 10Gbps Ethernet and 8.5Gbps system (Fiber Channel) with the new pluggable optical module size. SFP+ transceiver module has a shape more compact than the X2 and XFP packages, and its power consumption is less than 1W. In addition, it provides a installation density which is higher than the other 10G transceivers. SFP+ has the same volume as SFP industry standard due to a new design. SFP+ is a standardized form factor for fiber optic transceivers and is used in datacom and telecom optical links, offering a smaller footprint and lower power consumption than XFP transceivers. Initial standard applications focused on 8G Fiber Channel, 10G Ethernet and 10G Fiber Channel, where the electrical interface to the host board is a standardized serial interface called SFI. The applications have expanded to include SONET OC-192, SDH STM-64, OTN G.709, CPRI wireless, 16G Fiber Channel, and the emerging 32G Fiber Channel application. Click to buy CWDM 10Gig SFP+.

From 300-PIN to XENPAK, X2, and XFP, the 10G modules finally realizes the transmission of 10G signal with the same size as SFP, which is the SFP+ transceiver module. With the miniaturization, low cost and other advantages, SFP+ module meets the demand for high density optical modules. Since SFP+ standard was released in 2002, it has now replaced XFP and become the mainstream of 10G market.