SFP-10G-LR-S is a type of pluggable optical transceiver module used in high speed 10GbE networks for long range data transmission up to 10 kilometers over single mode fiber (SMF). SFP stands for small form-factor pluggable and 10G refers to the module’s 10 gigabit per second capabilities.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the SFP-10G-LR-S definition, key specifications, applications, benefits compared to other 10G fiber modules, compatibility considerations and things to keep in mind when selecting and installing these popular 10Gb optical transceivers.
What is SFP-10G-LR-S?
SFP-10G-LR-S is part of the SFP+ family of 10 gigabit small form factor pluggable transceiver modules designed to support 10G Ethernet applications. Specifically, the “LR” portion stands for “long range,” indicating extended reach capabilities.
The “S” refers to it being a low power economy variant. In a nutshell, delivers affordable long distance 10GbE connectivity using 1310nm light wavelength over conventional single mode 9/125um fiber cabling with LC connectors, making it interoperable with thousands of switch and router models supporting the popular SFP+ slot architecture.
Key Features and Specifications
Here’s an overview of the defining features and specifications of the Cisco compatible SFP-10G-LR-S module:
- Data Transfer Rate – 10Gbps
- Maximum Distance -10 kilometers
- Wavelength – 1310nm
- Fiber Type – 9/125um single mode
- Connectors – LC
- Duplex – Dual LC
- Optical Output Power – Up to -7.3 dBm
- Receive Sensitivity – Up to -21 dBm
- Transmission Distance Monitoring
Benefits of SFP-10G-LR-S Application
SFP-10G-LR-S delivers reliable 10 gigabit bandwidth with excellent value spanning longer distances, making it well suited for:
- Data Center Interconnections – High speed server-to-server links between data center buildings located far apart within a campus
- Metro High Speed Leased Line Services – Low latency point-to-point 10G carrier services connecting distant offices/branches
- Longer 10G MAN Rings – Budget-friendly LR connectivity fills gaps in CWDM/DWDM rings where amplifiers are not positioned
- Network Equipment Interlinks – Low cost switch-router trunking without running multiple strands/fiber types
Advantages Over Other 10G Optical Transceivers
The affordable pricing, extended 10 kilometer reach, low power consumption and proven SFP+ form factor deliver key advantages over related quad small form factor pluggable (QSFP) modules in terms of both cost and compatibility.
The 1310 nanometer wavelength ensures lower loss for the distance while maintaining eye safety compared with more exotic dense wavelength division multiplexing SFP+ wavelengths. And it does not suffer from the modal bandwidth challenges of the legacy 850nm multimode fibers.
For 10Gb links beyond 10km, pluggable DWDM SFP+ with 1550nm lasers offers more future-proof hyperscale solutions, but they require paired multiplexing transceivers and amplifiers, making them unnecessary for simpler connections.
Things to Consider Before Selection
Before settling on for your 10 gigabit Ethernet links, consider a few key variables:
- Required linkage distance – Ensure projected span falls within module’s 10km specification
- Single mode vs. multimode fiber type – Verify fiber plant leverages recommended 9/125um cabling
- SFP vs. SFP+ slot availability – Confirm network gear contains compatible SFP+ ports
- DAC cabling potential – For runs below 5 meters, 10G direct attach cables offer simpler plug-n-play
Additionally, using approved compatible transceivers matching switch and NIC qualifications by established brands like Cisco, Juniper, etc. rather than non-vetted clones prevents myriad technical issues down the road as networks scale so check vendor compatibility matrices before procuring.
SFP-10G-LR-S Installation and Monitoring Best Practices
To ensure optimal performance after procuring suitable fiber optic adhere to the following recognized practices around installation and monitoring:
- Handle with antistatic materials, avoiding ESD damage
- Keep optical ports covered when not cabled
- Clean connectors only when inserting using specialty swabs
- Secure latching bail clips with light pressure, avoiding overt torque
- Maintain optimal bend radius guiding cables, preventing microbends
- Establish connectivity baseline statistics during acceptance testing
- Monitor port link status, fault alarms and CWDM wavelengths
By observing module handling precautions and proactively tracking port metrics, 10 year life spans can be achieved for qualifying transceivers.
SFP-10G-LR-S vs. SFP-10G-LR – How Do They Differ?
Given the similarity in model numbers, it’s easy to confuse SFP-10G-LR-S and SFP-10G-LR modules. However, some key differences deserve highlighting:
SFP-10G-LR offers higher 0 dBm transmitter power and -12.6 dBm receive sensitivity ratings, delivering a longer distance reach of up to 10 kilometers for applications like hyperscale switch aggregation cascading, not requiring the extended spans or budgets of DWDM Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing but more than direct attach copper interconnects can practically achieve between chassis.
SFP-10G-LR-S serves as a more economical, energy efficient variant, allowing 10 kilometers over common single mode fiber as well when paired with comparable modules on both ends but features only -7.3 dBm transmit power and -21 dBm receive sensitivity in exchange for a notably lower cost suitable for long, diverse data hall links.
So in short – SFP-10G-LR suits longer high density switch clusters without amplification, while addresses simpler rack to rack runs very cost effectively.