Fiber optics transceivers are devices that use fiber optical technology to send and receive data in an optical network. They facilitate a bi-directional data transmission between the electronic devices such as computers, input/output devices, peripheral devices or switches, to the optical data link in the fiber optic system. Generally, there are two types of transceiver models—single-mode fiber optic transceivers and multimode fiber optic transceivers. What’s the difference between the two? This article will tell the answer.

Definition of Single-mode and Multimode Fiber Optic Transceiver

A single-mode fiber transceiver is a type of optical transceiver module, which is a self-contained component that can receive and transmit data using single-mode optical fiber cables. It permits the transmission of signals at the very extreme high bandwidths thus facilitating the transmission of signals at very long distances. A multimode fiber optic transceiver works with multimode fiber. It permits the use of inexpensive LED light sources and alignment of the connectors with a coupling that is less critical than that of the single-mode fiber. The transmission distance of multimode fiber optic transceiver is less than that of the single-mode transceiver due to dispersion.

Differences Between Single-mode Optical Transceiver and Multimode Optical Transceiver

The major differences between single-mode and multimode fiber optic transceivers are listed below.

Speed and Distance—Both the single-mode and multimode fiber optic transceiver can handle the 10G speeds. However, distance requirements are quite critical. The multimode optical transceivers generally have a reach of approximately 550 meters, while the single-mode transceivers can get you through 10 km, 40 km, 80 km and even farther.

Cost—The optics used in the single-mode fiber are twice those used in the multimode fiber. But when installed as part of a project, the extra cost of single-mode fiber is negligible compared to multimode fiber. The fragility and increased cost to produce single-mode fiber makes it more expensive to use.

Compatibility Issue—when it comes to issues dealing with compatibility, the two types of transceivers are not compatible. You cannot mix the multimode and the single-mode fiber between any two endpoints.

Power Consumption—Multimode transceivers consume less power than single-mode transceivers, which is an important consideration especially when assessing the cost of powering and cooling a data center.

Tips for Using Single-mode and Multimode Optical Transceiver

When using the fiber optic transceivers, the tips below should be followed.

Ensure that in the single-mode transceivers, both ends of the fiber patch cord are of the same wavelength. The color for the used modules must be all consistent.In order to ensure and facilitate the data accuracy, short wave modules are used with the multimode transceivers while long wave modules are used with the single-mode transceivers.Do not wind or overbend the fiber optic cables when using them. This is because doing so will attenuate the light in transit.

Summary

 

The single-mode transceivers support high data throughput, while the multimode transceivers are well suited for the short fiber optic links. As a professional supplier in telecommunication industry, Linkoptics offers various fiber optic transceivers ranging from SFP transceivers to 100G transceivers. Moreover, all the fiber optic transceivers are tested on corresponding equipment to ensure their performance and stability. If you need, please visit www.linkoptics.com or contact us over sales@linkoptics.cn.