SFP Module Vs Media Converter Know The Key Differences

1. SFP Modules vs. Media Converters: Know the Key Differences In a fiber-optic network, several devices are used to perform similar operations. Often multiple devices are utilized to serve a specific purpose under different circumstances. The SFP modules and media converters are two such devices with similar features and end-purposes. Owing to certain similarities, these devices are often confused, however, they differ a lot. The construction as well as working principle of both fiber SFP modules and fiber media converters differ in certain ways. However, the end results of both devices can be interchanged under compatible operating conditions. This post introduces the fiber media converters and the fiber SFP modules followed by the difference between their individual working principles. It also offers things to consider while choosing SFP modules or Ethernet media converters for specific applications. +302-894-0699 183 Albe Drive - Suite C - Newark, DE US www.versitron.com

2. SFP Modules vs. Media Converters: Know the Key Differences SFP Modules vs. Media Converters: A Few Key Differences Analyzed Construction: The key difference between a media converter and an SFP module lies in its construction. SFP Modules: These are optoelectronic devices which means these can be used for transmission of electronic as well as optical signals. The main function of fiber SFP modules is to convert electronic signals into optical signals and vice versa. Therefore, these devices feature two ports, one is a copper SFP and another is an optical SFP. Depending on which port the data source is connected to, the contrary output is given by the SFP module. The SFP modules are used for telecommunication and information communication operations. Media Converters: The media converters are Ethernet-compatible devices. Therefore, they are known as Ethernet media converters. Similar to GBIC modules, the media converters can be used for fiber-to-copper and copper-to-fiber data conversion. These devices are designed to translate and transmit the data between two dissimilar transmission media, such as copper cables and optical fibers. +302-894-0699 183 Albe Drive - Suite C - Newark, DE US www.versitron.com

3. SFP Modules vs. Media Converters: Know the Key Differences Working Principle: Other than the form factor of SFP modules and media converters, the major difference between these two devices is their working principles. Let us discuss the difference between both the devices in terms of their working principles. Fiber SFP Modules: The working of SFP modules relies on photovoltaic conversion. To conversion, the SFP module features a pair of transmitter and receiver, optical interfaces, photovoltaic conversion from electronic signals to optical signals is performed by a transmitter and is received by a receiver to deliver converted signals. To perform reverse transmission of optical to electronic signals the optoelectronic conversion is reversed using digitizers. perform the optoelectronic and functional circuits. The Fiber Media Converters: The fiber media converters operate on the physical layer of a copper-fiber network. The working principle of these devices is simple. The electronic signals are received by the converter and are then converted into optical pulses and vice versa. The electronic to optical conversion is done by using optical transmitters with LED or laser pulsating abilities. However, the reverse transmission of optical to electronic conversion is done by using readout equipment, digitizer, or oscilloscopic equipment. +302-894-0699 183 Albe Drive - Suite C - Newark, DE US www.versitron.com

4. SFP Modules vs. Media Converters: Know the Key Differences Now that SFP modules vs media converters are being analyzed in terms of their individual properties and working principles, it is essential to focus on the following key points before selecting one of these devices for your applications. Fiber SFP modules are compatible with SONET, Fiber Channel, Gigabit Ethernet, etc communication standards. Due to the smaller form-factor, the SFP modules are used for compact integrated applications. The common applications of SFP modules are found in CCTV cameras, telecommunication devices, etc. The Ethernet media converters are commonly used in the copper- fiber networks where the distance of transmission is to be extended by using fiber optic cables, however, the receiving devices or end- users’ devices require electronic output. Multiple wavelengths of optical transmission can be achieved by using fiber media converters as they support multi-mode to single-mode conversion, and dual-fiber-link transmission for bi-directional conversion. No matter which device you find suitable for your application, it is necessary to check the quality and performance efficiency of these devices. Therefore, you should source SFP modules and media converters from trusted suppliers like VERSITRON. The company offers high-quality industrial media converters and other fiber optic communication devices. +302-894-0699 183 Albe Drive - Suite C - Newark, DE US www.versitron.com