Cisco SFP-10G-LR Compatible 10GBASE-LR SFP+ 1310nm 10km DOM Duplex LC SMF Optical Transceiver Module

Overview

The SFP-10G-LR Compatible transceiver is the standard-bearer for long-distance 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity. Compliant with the 10GBASE-LR specification, this module operates at a nominal wavelength of 1310nm and is designed to function with Single Mode Fiber (SMF).

While “SR” modules are limited to 300 meters inside a server room, the SFP-10G-LR provides a robust link budget capable of spanning up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). This makes it the ideal choice for connecting buildings on a campus, linking distribution switches to the core, or establishing high-speed uplinks across a metropolitan area network (MAN).

Key Features

• Long Reach: Supports link lengths of up to 10km on standard G.652 Single Mode Fiber.
• Wavelength: 1310nm Distributed Feedback (DFB) laser transmitter.
• Connector: Industry-standard Duplex LC interface.
• Data Rate: Supports 10.3125 Gbps (10G Ethernet).
• Reliability: Low power consumption and excellent EMI performance.
• Diagnostics: Features Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM/DDM) for real-time tracking of laser output, temperature, and voltage.

Applications

The SFP-10G-LR is versatile and widely deployed in various networking environments:

• Campus Backbones: Connecting separate buildings (e.g., Admin to Science block) via underground fiber conduits.
• Enterprise Core: Aggregating traffic from edge switches to the core network layer.
• Internet Service Providers (ISP): Providing 10G handoffs to business clients or connecting points of presence (PoPs).
• Data Center Interconnects: Linking separate halls or zones within a large hyperscale facility.

Specifications

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Our 10GBASE-LR modules are programmed to meet the Multi-Source Agreement (MSA) standards, ensuring seamless operation with a vast array of networking equipment. They function identically to OEM transceivers from major brands, including:

Why Choose Single Mode (LR) over Multimode (SR)?

While Multimode (SR) modules are slightly cheaper, the fiber cable itself (OM3/OM4) is more expensive per meter than Single Mode fiber. Furthermore, Single Mode fiber offers “future-proofing.” If you install Single Mode fiber today for a 10km 10G link, that same fiber can likely support 100G or 400G in the future just by swapping the transceivers. Multimode fiber has severe distance limitations as speeds increase.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. Can I use this SFP-10G-LR module with Multimode Fiber (MMF)?

Technically, it is possible using a Mode Conditioning Patch cable for very short distances, but it is highly discouraged and not supported. The 1310nm laser is designed for the narrow core of Single Mode fiber (9 microns). Connecting it to Multimode fiber (50 microns) causes signal dispersion and reliable link loss. Always match LR modules with Yellow (Single Mode) cables.

2. What is the difference between SFP-10G-LR and SFP-10G-LRM?

LR (Long Reach) is for Single Mode Fiber and goes up to 10km. LRM (Long Reach Multimode) is a legacy standard designed to send 10G signals about 220m over old Multimode fiber. They are not interchangeable regarding cable types.

3. Do I need an attenuator for short distances?

Generally, no. The SFP-10G-LR typically has a maximum transmit power of +0.5dBm and a receiver overload of roughly +0.5dBm to +1.5dBm. Unless the link is extremely short (e.g., a 1-meter loopback), you usually do not need an attenuator. However, if connecting two modules just a few meters apart, it is good practice to check the DOM levels to ensure you aren’t saturating the receiver.

4. Is this compatible with the Cisco SFP-10G-LR?

Yes, this module is coded to be fully compatible with the Cisco SFP-10G-LR and will be recognized as a valid transceiver by the switch IOS/NX-OS.

5. What cable connector do I need?

You need a fiber optic patch cable with LC connectors on the end that plugs into the transceiver. The cable jacket is typically Yellow (indicating Single Mode).