How to Choose the Right Optical Transceiver for Your Networking Needs

As the world continues to integrate newer technologies into their day to day operations, high speed and reliable networking continues to be one of the most important investments. There is a need for fast transmission of data with increases in the size and reach of the businesses and companies. The three main elements that increase this efficiency in current networks are the optical transceiver. With such a vast selection of products at one’s disposal, how does one decide on the most effective solution to bring to a particular optical transceiver opportunity? This article aims at giving you a clear understanding of what to consider when choosing an optical transceiver, so that your network reflects the best of both worlds; efficiency and resilience. We will also show how Network Distributors can assist you in getting the best solutions for your business.

Understanding Optical Transceivers

An optical transceiver is an important part of most of the network equipment that is in use today. It also transmission and receiving instrument that encoding electrical signals into optical signals (and vice versa) to support data transfers through fiberoptic cables. These devices are used particularly to interconnect data centers, telecommunication networks, and enterprise networks to support data transmission at high speed with minimal signal attenuation.

It is worthy of note that the following features should be taken into considerations when selecting an optical transceiver;
Optical transceiver selection is not limited to selecting a device that is within you financial capability to purchase. There are several important aspects that you have to take into consideration in order to achieve satisfaction with the functionality of the networking equipment of the transceiver.

1. Compatibility with Network Equipment

Compatibility is one of those prime criterion that needs to be taken into consideration. Optical transceivers have to support your current network devices such as switches, routers, and other networking interfaces. Manufacturers often have their own unique designs and therefore it may not be possible to have every transceiver compatible with all the equipment available in the market.

Network Distributors also have a variety of optical transceivers which is suitable for most network equipment manufacturers to enable easy integration into existing networks. Being able to find the transceivers to fit your equipment is made possible when you visit Cisco, Juniper or even other brands you might be using.

2. Data Transmission Speed

Other essential components include the rate at which data is communicated. Optical transceivers exist in diverse types in terms of speed where some of the most common units are expressed in gigabits per second (Gbps). Typically, available transceivers are categorized in 1G, 10G, 25G, 40G, and 100G. The speed which will be required will depend with the data demand of the particular network in use.

For instance, in numerous connected server rooms, you might require 100G transceivers due to the huge traffic that flows in the data center. Whereas in small networks it may suffice to use 1G or 10G transceivers of the equipment and gadgets within the LAN. Network Distributors offers all the choices for transceivers at all the speed levels, thus enabling you to make the right decision.

3. Distance Requirements

Another important consideration id the distance that needs to be covered in transmitting this data. Optical transceivers are categorized in diverse types depending on the reach distances where they are applicable namely short reach (SR), long reach (LR), and extended reach (ER).

• Short-Range (SR) Transceivers: These are most often applied in communication of data within a certain building or limited space up to an approximately 300 meters.
  
• Long-Range (LR) Transceivers: These are intended for use in communicating over greater distances usually up to 10kilometers.
  
• Extended Range (ER) Transceivers: These can carry out even larger distances most often round the 40 kilometers mark and beyond.

The choice of the transceiver depends on the layout of the networks as well as the distance between the connecting nodes. This makes Network Distributors transceivers appropriate for various distances that will enable you have a good connectivity and no gaps in your network space no matter the distances between the stations.

4. Wavelength and Fiber Type

Optical transceivers work at certain wavelengths normally expressed in terms of nanometres (nm). These are the most frequently used wavelengths; 850 nm, 1310 nm and 1550 nm. Another factor which is quite self-explanatory is the decision on which wavelength to use is dependent on the type of fiber optic cable; single-mode fiber optic (SMF) or multi-mode fiber optic (MMF).

• 850nm: Normally employed where MMF and short distances are required.
• 1310nm: Supported both under SMF and MMF, mostly for middle reach applications.
• 1550nm: Mostly used for SMF and long distance usage.

It is therefore important to use the right wavelength and fiber kind as it enhances the fibers performance and greatly reduces attenuation. At Network Distributors you can obtain optical transceivers that are compatible with the wavelength and fiber type used by your network.

5. Power Consumption

Another criterion which is not considered in many cases, but may greatly influence the efficiency of a network, is the power consumption. Exposing the system to higher power levels tends to cause generation of heat that may pose a challenge in the need for cooling mechanisms and therefore lead to higher costs of running the system.

Some of the factors, that you should consider when choosing the transceiver include energy efficient type of transceiver if you have placed many units of the devices. Providing low power solution Network Distributors offers a series of low power optical transceivers which intends to minimize power usage while preserving the performance level.

6. Cost and Budget Considerations

Yes when selecting optical transceivers one has to ensure that they select quality products but at the same time there is always a challenge of cost. Where performance and cost are considered it becomes important to make sure that the consumer gets value for his or her money.

Network Distributors provides fairly affordable cost in all of its optical transceivers products hence you would find affordable solutions with high performance standards within your reach. Also, they give recommendations on a budget without compromising the network’s quality that can guide clients accordingly.

7. Vendor Support and Warranty

Last but not the least, that is the support level and the warranty given by the vendor is something more to think about. Optical transceivers connect are part of your network and getting a reliable customer support in case of a challenge will go a long way.

Network Distributors provide its customers with quality customer service and provide warranties for the optical transceivers. This will provide someone to which you can turn for assistance in the event that something happens to your investment.

Conclusion

As one can see choosing the right optical transceiver is critical to have a high performance and reliable network. The factors that one has to put into consideration include compatibility, transmission speeds, the distance of the network, the wavelength, power requirements, price and vendor support.

Network Distributors offers a large range of optical transceivers from which you can find the solution which perfectly fits your needs. If you are expanding, changing or starting over again their professional crew will help you decide on the components that will best fit your network. Spending quality money benefits everyone and always make sure you have the right network in place for your business at the current time and in the future.