Many optical module models have double-letter suffixes such as SX, LX, and ZX at the end, which look like distance codes. In the actual industry, it is just a "convention" and there is no mandatory standard. For the same LX, factory A may mark it as 10km, while factory B may mark it as 20km. This article teaches you how to read these codes and reminds you of pitfalls that you should not take for granted.

Common distance codes and typical values

The following table is the most common multi-mode/single-mode distance codes and typical transmission distances in the industry, which can be used as a preliminary screening reference:

The code is not standard, be sure to review the parameter list

• The same suffix may have different kilometers in different manufacturers, and the boundaries between EX, LH, and ZX are not uniform;
• Single-fiber bidirectional modules commonly use suffixes such as LR and BR, and their meanings are biased towards wavelength combinations, so the above table cannot be applied;
• The correct approach is to only recognize three hard parameters: fiber type, central wavelength, nominal distance, for exampleSFP+ 10G single-mode dual-fiber 10km optical moduleThe name directly states 10 kilometers, which is more reliable than the suffix;
• Multimode links also depend on the fiber grade. The distance that OM3 and OM4 can run at the same 850nm is about one hundred meters different.

Checking actions during purchasing

After getting the list, do three steps: the first step is to preliminarily screen the length according to the code, the second step is to open the specification page one by one to check the wavelength and kilometers, and the third step is to use the link length to check the margin - it can correspond to medium distances below 40km.SFP+ 10G single-mode dual-fiber 40km optical moduleThis type of model with clearly marked distances must be checked especially when replacing between brands. For bulk purchases, it is recommended to test one or two units on the machine first to verify that the DDM readings are normal before increasing the quantity. EB-LINK modules can be customized and coded according to the original equipment code, and old equipment with different naming habits can also be directly replaced. For technical consultation, please call 0755-83179002.