Servers are usually equipped with optical modules for network connectivity and data transmission. Different servers and application scenarios may require different types of optical modules.
The following are several common types of optical modules and their applicable scenarios.
1, SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable)
SFP optical module is a hot swappable optical module used for 1Gbps network connections. It has a small size and can be plugged into the optical interface of the server, providing connections for fiber and copper cables. SFP modules are mainly used for short distance fiber optic connections, such as server to server connections within computer rooms. They support single-mode and multi-mode fibers and can provide different options for optical transmission distance.
2, SFP+ (Enhanced Small Form-factor Pluggable)
SFP+ is a high-speed optical module used for 10Gbps network connections. It is an upgraded version of the SFP module, providing faster data transmission rates and longer transmission distances. SFP+ modules are commonly used for inter server connections in data center networks, as well as connections between servers and network switches. It supports single-mode and multi-mode optical fibers, and can also provide different options in terms of optical transmission distance.
3, QSFP (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable)
QSFP optical module is a high-density optical module used for 40Gbps and 100Gbps network connections. It can simultaneously transmit four independent optical signals, which can be used for high-speed data transmission and network connection. QSFP modules are commonly used in high-performance computing and large-scale storage systems to meet the demand for high bandwidth and high-speed transmission.
4, QSFP28 (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable 28)
QSFP28 is a higher speed optical module used for network connections of 100Gbps and above. Compared with QSFP, the QSFP28 module adopts higher data transmission rates and higher densities, making it suitable for high-performance computing, cloud computing, and data center networks.
It should be noted that the type and specifications of optical modules used by the server need to match the network equipment and fiber optics. When selecting an optical module, factors such as the server’s network requirements, data transmission speed, and transmission distance should be considered, and the compatibility between the selected optical module and the server’s optical interface should be ensured.
