Extend 10GbE Networks Up to 80km with SFP+ 10G ZR Fiber Transceiver

Overview

The SFP-10G-ZR Compatible transceiver is a high-performance optical module designed for long-haul 10 Gigabit Ethernet applications. Compliant with the 10GBASE-ZR specification, this module is engineered to transmit data over distances of up to 80 kilometers (approx. 50 miles) using standard Single Mode Fiber (SMF).

It utilizes a cooled 1550nm EML (Electro-absorption Modulated Laser) transmitter and a high-sensitivity APD (Avalanche Photodiode) receiver to achieve the necessary optical budget for long distances. The module features a standard Duplex LC connector and includes Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM) for critical real-time supervision of the link.

Key Features

• Extreme Reach: Supports link lengths up to 80km on 9/125µm Single Mode Fiber.
• High Performance: 10 Gbps data rate (10.3125 Gbps).
• Wavelength: 1550nm (Cooled EML Laser).
• Receiver: APD (Avalanche Photodiode) for high sensitivity.
• Power Budget: High optical link budget (typically ~23dB).
• DDM/DOM Support: Monitor temperature, voltage, laser bias, and Tx/Rx power.
• Low Power Consumption: Typically < 1.5W.

Applications

The 10GBASE-ZR 80km SFP+ is ideal for scenarios where standard LR (10km) or ER (40km) modules cannot reach:

• Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN): Connecting city-wide distribution hubs.
• Data Center Interconnect (DCI): Linking geographically separated data centers.
• Telecommunications: Long-haul backhaul for mobile or fixed-line networks.
• Campus Backbones: Connecting remote facilities in large industrial parks.

Specifications

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Our 10G ZR (80km) transceivers are manufactured to Multi-Source Agreement (MSA) standards, ensuring seamless operation in equipment from major network vendors:

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. Do I need an optical attenuator with this module?

Yes, caution is advised. Because 10GBASE-ZR modules have a high transmit power (up to +4 dBm) and high receiver sensitivity, connecting two ZR modules over a short fiber run (e.g., less than 20km or a loopback test) without attenuation can permanently damage the receiver. We recommend using a 5dB to 10dB optical attenuator for links shorter than 20-30km.

2. What is the difference between 10GBASE-ER and 10GBASE-ZR?

The primary difference is distance and budget. ER (Extended Range) is rated for 40km. ZR (Zepto Range) is rated for 80km. ZR modules typically use more expensive EML lasers and APD receivers to achieve the extra distance.

3. Can this module support 1G speeds?

Most SFP+ modules are fixed at 10G speeds. While some switches allow dual-rate operation, ZR modules are generally optimized strictly for 10 Gigabit performance due to the specific laser technology used.

4. Why is 1550nm used for 80km instead of 1310nm?

Optical fiber has lower attenuation (signal loss) at 1550nm (approx. 0.2 dB/km) compared to 1310nm (approx. 0.35 dB/km). This lower loss is critical for maintaining signal integrity over long distances like 80km.