Definition

A gigabit interface converter (GBIC) is a transceiver that converts electric currents (digital highs and lows) to optical signals, and optical signals to digital electric currents. The GBIC is typically employed in fiber optic and Ethernet systems as an interface for high-speed networking. The data transfer rate is one gigabit per second (1 Gbps) or more. GBIC modules allow technicians to easily configure and upgrade electro-optical communications networks. The devices are economical because they eliminate the necessity for replacing entire boards at the system level. Upgrading can be done with any number of units at a time, from an individual module to all the modules in a system.

The XFP (10 Gigabit Small Form Factor Pluggable) is a standard for transceivers for high-speed computer network and telecommunication links that use optical fiber. It was defined by an industry group in 2002, along with its interface to other electrical components. XFP modules are hot-swappable and protocol-independent. They can operate at a single wavelength or use dense wavelength-division multiplexing techniques. They include digital diagnostics that provide management that was added to the SFF-8472 standard XFP modules use an LC fiber connector type to achieve higher density.

Difference between GBIC and XFP

GBIC

• Gigabit Ethernet 1000base-SX/LX/XD/ZX at 1.25Gbs/s Optional 
  
• Wavelength: 850nm/1310nm/1550nm
  
• Single +3.3V or +5V power supply
  
• Ho-pluggable Duplex SC
  
• Eye safety, meet laser class 1, compliant with IEC60825-1
  
• Compliant with Tecordia (Bellcore) GR-468-CORE
  
• Compliant with specification for IEEE-802.3
  
• Compliant with ANSI spec. for Fiber channel applications at 1.06Gb/s
  

XFP 10G

• 850nm/1310nm/1550nm laser diode transmitter
  
• Support 9.95Gb/s to 11.3Gb/s data rate
  
• Below 2.5W power consumption
  
• XFP MSA package with duplex LC connector
  
• With digital diagnostic monitor interface 
  
• Operating temperature range 0 to 70 degrees Celsius.
  
• No referance clock requirment
  

Applications

GBIC and XFP modules allow technicians to easily configure and upgrade electro-optical communications networks. It is used in frequency hopping of a signal that is used in the spread signal transmission.

GBIC Cable

GBIC cables make it easy to upgrade to the latest interface technology, maximizing investment protection. These cables are utilized in the conjunction of various systems in the module.

Mini GBIC Module

The mini GBIC module in the combinations of macro modules which is interfaced with the mail GBIC module .It helps in the interconnection of different types of components in the system as well as in the proper flow of information.

Conclusion

The industry-standard Gigabit Interface Converter (GBIC) is a hot-swappable input/output device that plugs into a Gigabit Ethernet port or slot, linking the port with the network. GBICs and XFP’s can be interchanged on a wide variety of products and can be intermixed in combinations.