SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-LRM vs SFP-10G-LR, Which to Choose?

Introduction

The 10 Gigabit optical module is an important component in the field of 10 Gigabit network construction and is a necessary component for transmitting at 10 Gigabit speeds. With the increasing demand for network speeds and capacity, the current application volume of 10 Gigabit optical modules is very large. Among 10 Gigabit optical modules, the shipment volume of short-distance optical modules ranks first. This article will detail the characteristics and differences of three short-distance 10 Gigabit optical modules: SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-LRM, and SFP-10G-LR, to help readers select the most suitable optical module when choosing products.

Technical Specifications of the Three Products

SFP stands for Small Form Pluggable, meaning hot-swappable small modules, which can be understood as an upgraded version of GBIC (Gigabit Interface Converter). 10G represents its maximum transmission rate of 10.3 Gbps, suitable for 10 Gigabit Ethernet. SR, LRM, and LR represent the transmission distance of 10G optical modules, with the transmission distance represented from short to long. Next, we will detail the characteristics and differences of these three products.

SFP-10G-SR：

SFP-10G-SR is a 10GBASE-SR SFP+ 10 Gigabit optical module. The wavelength of this optical module is 850nm. Typically, this module is used with OM3 multimode fiber (MMF), with a transmission distance of up to 300 meters. When used with OM4 multimode fiber (MMF), the transmission distance can reach 400 meters. This module utilizes VCSEL devices, enabling low-cost and low-power consumption optical modules.

SFP-10G-LR:

SFP-10G-LR is a 10GBASE-LR SFP+ 10 Gigabit optical module that utilizes a distributed feedback laser (DFB). Its operating wavelength is 1310nm, and it achieves a maximum transmission distance of 20 kilometers through single-mode fiber (SMF). It is used for building wiring in large campus areas and even for establishing Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN).

SFP-10G-LRM:

SFP-10G-LRM is a 10GBASE-LRM 10 Gigabit optical module with a wavelength of 1310nm. In multimode fiber, the longest transmission distance for this optical module is 220 meters. LRM stands for Long Reach Multi-mode, mainly used for short-distance LAN links up to 220m. The SFP-10G-LRM2 10 Gigabit optical module is an upgraded version of the SFP-10G-LRM, suitable for LAN links with slightly longer distances, up to 2km. The SFP-10G-LRM optical module features low cost, low power consumption, and compact size, making it widely used in practical applications.

SFP-10G-LRM supports a link length of 220m on standard Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) grade multimode fiber. To ensure compliance with FDDI grade, OM1, and OM2 fiber specifications, the transmitter should be coupled through mode conditioning patch cords. Applications on OM3 or OM4 do not require mode conditioning patch cords.

The following table provides a clearer and more intuitive understanding of the differences between the three 10 Gigabit optical modules.

Factors to Consider When choosing

Through the above comparison and analysis of the three optical modules, readers can clearly understand the characteristics and differences of these modules. Therefore, in practical applications, it becomes clear how to choose among these three optical modules.

Given that preferences vary for each network setup, many users utilize OM1 and OM2 fibers. SFP-10G-SR has a transmission distance of only 33m on OM1 and OM2 fibers, whereas SFP-10G-LRM can reach up to 220m on these fibers. Therefore, the choice between these two 10 Gigabit optical modules can be made based on the actual transmission distance requirements in the application. For transmissions ranging from 2 to 20 kilometers, SFP-10G-LR is the only choice available.