Knowledge related to SC interface optical modules

What is an SC interface optical module?

The SC interface optical module refers to the optical module with an interface type of SC, which must be paired with the SC interface jumper to function properly. The fastening method of the interface of the SC optical module is a plug-in latch type, which does not require rotation and is very convenient to use.

Classification of SC optical modules:

Compared to LC optical modules and MPO optical modules, SC optical modules are used less frequently. SC optical modules mainly include GBIC optical modules, XENPAK optical modules, and X2 optical modules, which are rarely seen in the market. Modules using SC interfaces mainly include the following models:

① GBIC optical module

GBIC optical module was the earliest hot swappable optical module that used SC interface. At that time, its characteristics were easy to maintain and update, fault location, and applied in gigabit Ethernet. Later, the emergence of SFP optical module led to the gradual withdrawal of GBIC optical module from the historical stage.

② XENPAK optical module

The XENPAK optical module supports all optical interfaces defined by the IEEE 802.3ae standard, and is the first generation module for 10G Ethernet. It adopts an SC interface, which is large in size and high in power consumption.

③ X2 optical module

The internal functional modules of the X2 optical module are basically the same as the XENPAK optical module in circuit board applications. The improved X2 optical module has only half the volume of the XENPAK optical module, which is suitable for high-density networks. However, its cost is relatively high and it is a transitional product.

In addition to the above three modules, some BIDI optical modules also use SC interfaces. Due to factors such as size, cost, and power consumption, these three optical modules have gradually been phased out in the market, which is also one of the reasons why SC optical modules are used less frequently.