SFP-GE-S vs GLC-SX-MMD:What's the difference?
2023-12-06

SFP-GE-S vs GLC-SX-MMD:What's the difference?

SFP-GE-S vs GLC-SX-MMD

Now let us make a comparison of the specifications and compatibility, this article will help you choose right models depends on your application.

Models / Specs Data Rate Wavelength Fiber mode Distance Connector DOM Operating Temperature
GLC-SX-MMD 1G 850nm Multi-mode 550 m Duplex LC Yes Commercial 0~70°C
SFP-GE-S 1G 850nm Multi-mode 550 m Duplex LC Yes Extended -5~85°C



The SFP-GE-S and GLC-SX-MMD are both types of Small Form-factor Pluggable (SFP) transceiver modules, widely used for networking and telecommunications. Both are used for short reach applications, with certain differences in specifications and features.

1. SFP-GE-S: 

The SFP-GE-S transceiver, developed by Cisco, operates on a wavelength of 850nm and is designed to transmit data over short distances of up to 550 meters (over multimode fiber). The 'GE' in the name refers to Gigabit Ethernet, meaning this transceiver operates at data speeds up to 1Gbps. It employs LC duplex connectors for connection.

2. GLC-SX-MMD: 

The Cisco GLC-SX-MMD, on the other hand, also operates on a wavelength of 850nm and supports transmission distances up to 550 meters (over multimode fiber). It is similar to the SFP-GE-S in terms of speed, supporting transmission rates up to 1Gbps and uses LC duplex connectors.  The primary difference between the two is the "MMD" in the GLC-SX-MMD, which stands for "Multimode with Digital optical monitoring and Extended operating temperature range." This indicates that the transceiver supports DOM/DDM (Digital Optical Monitoring/Digital Diagnostics monitoring), which allows the user to monitor the real-time parameters of the SFP. This could include information like temperature, supply voltage, transmitter bias current, transmit power, and receive power, offering superior manageability. The 'Extended operating temperature range' translates to its broader temperature tolerance, making it suitable for more varied environments.

In summary, while both modules are quite similar and used in similar short-reach, gigabit-speed applications, the GLC-SX-MMD includes digital optical monitoring and has an extended operating temperature range, which the SFP-GE-S lacks. The choice between the two would rest on the specific network requirements and environmental circumstances.

 

What do SFP ge s and SFP glc sx mmd represent respectively?

What is sfp ge s?

The SFP-GE-S is a type of Small Form-factor Pluggable (SFP) transceiver module developed by Cisco. It is specifically designed to cater to Gigabit Ethernet applications and is generally used for telecommunication and data communication needs where high-speed and short-reach connectivity are required. Here are the primary features of the SFP-GE-S:

1. Wavelength: The SFP-GE-S operates at a nominal wavelength of 850nm. 

2. Reach: It supports short-reach data transmission, typically up to 550 meters (approximately 0.34 miles) on multi-mode fiber (MMF).

3. Interface: The transceiver uses an LC fiber optic connector (duplex), which is common and standard for the SFP transceivers.

4. Speed: It can support Gigabit Ethernet speeds, reaching 1 Gigabit per second (1 Gbps) data rate.

5. Hot-Swappable: The SFP-GE-S is hot-swappable. This means it is possible to plug or unplug this transceiver from the SFP port of a switch without switching off the switch itself.

6. Applications: It is widely used for Gigabit Ethernet and Fiber Channel applications over short distances. It can be used for applications such as switched backbones, high-speed I/O for file servers, and inter-switch links.

7. Standard Compliance: It complies with the Multi-Source Agreement (MSA), which standardizes the optical transceiver's form factor and ensures that SFPs from any vendor are mechanically interchangeable.

In summary, the SFP-GE-S holds a strategic place in short-range, high-speed network applications and is a popular choice for many network and data communication needs. Despite its benefits, it's important to note that the exact needs of your network should always drive your choice of transceivers.
 

What is the advantage of sfp ge s?

The SFP-GE-S, a short-reach Gigabit Ethernet transceiver module brings several benefits to network communications, including:

1. Fast Data Transmission: The SFP-GE-S supports Gigabit Ethernet, allowing for high-speed data transfer rates of up to 1 Gbps.

2. Short-Reach Capability: With its distinct specification, the SFP-GE-S supports short-range data transmission of up to 550 meters over multimode fiber, fitting for applications within shorter distances, like campus networks or data centers.

3. Hot-Swappable: The SFP-GE-S module can be inserted or removed from the network device without powering down the device. This hot-swappable feature allows for simple network upgrades and modifications.

4. Wide Application: SFP-GE-S modules are commonly used for high-speed applications such as Gigabit Ethernet and Fiber Channel over short distances.

5. Standard Compliance: It conforms to IEEE 802.3z, which is the standard for Gigabit Ethernet over fiber. This ensures interoperability with other devices abiding by the same standards.

6. Cost-Effective: When compared to long-haul transmissions, short-range fiber connections, like those supported by the SFP-GE-S, are typically more cost-effective.

7.Flexibility: As part of the SFP family of transceivers, the SFP-GE-S can be used interchangeably with other SFP modules on the same platform, offering greater flexibility to meet changing network demands.

Among these advantages, the exact needs of your particular network system - including the required data transmission speed, the distance over which data must be transmitted, and the configuration of the rest of your system - should guide your decision on whether the SFP-GE-S is the best solution for you.
 

SFP-GE-S Datasheet

The Cisco SFP-GE-S transceiver provides a high performance and cost-effective small form factor pluggable module for 1000BASE-SX Gigabit Ethernet and 1G Fiber Channel application. It’s designed for short wavelength applications. The max distance for this transceiver module is 550 meters. Besides, it also supports DOM.

Transceiver Module

SFP-GE-S

Interface

LC duplex

Wavelength

850nm

Tx Power

-9.5 ~ – 3dBm

Receiver Sensitivity

< -17dBm

DOM Support

Yes

Temperature Range

0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)

Cable Type

MMF

Price(US dollars)

6.00

 

What is glc sx mmd?

The GLC-SX-MMD is a Small Form-factor Pluggable (SFP) transceiver module developed by Cisco. It is specifically designed for Gigabit Ethernet applications, ensuring faster data communication over short distances through fiber optics.

Here are the key features and functions of the GLC-SX-MMD transceiver module:

1. Wavelength and Reach: It operates at a nominal wavelength of 850nm and supports data transmission over a relatively short range - up to 550 meters over multimode fiber, making it suitable for in-building or campus network connections.

2. Interface: GLC-SX-MMD uses duplex LC connectors, a reliable and widely-used standard for fiber optic connections.

3. Digital Optical Monitoring: The "MMD" in the title stands for "Multimode with Digital optical monitoring (DOM)," which signifies that it has built-in support for DOM or Digital Diagnostics Monitoring. This capability allows network managers to monitor the module's real-time performance, including parameters like transmission power, temperature, and voltage, enhancing network reliability and efficiency.

4. Hot-pluggable: Like most SFP modules, the GLC-SX-MMD is hot-pluggable, which facilitates easy insertion or removal without the need to power down the system or disrupt network operations.

5. Gigabit Speeds: It supports Gigabit Ethernet speeds, capable of transmitting data at rates of up to 1 Gbps, which is essential for high-bandwidth applications.

6. Environmental Resistance: In comparison to other similar modules, the GLC-SX-MMD has been designed to perform optimally in a wider range of temperatures, making it more resilient and versatile. 

In summary, the GLC-SX-MMD offers high-speed, short-reach data transmission and contains advanced features for monitoring and managing module performance. While this makes it a valuable asset to many networks, it's worth recognizing that specific network requirements should guide transceiver selection.
 

What is the advantage of glc sx mmd?

The GLC-SX-MMD is an SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) transceiver module that brings a number of benefits to network communications, which include:

1. High-Speed Data Transmission: Similar to the SFP-GE-S, the GLC-SX-MMD supports Gigabit Ethernet, allowing for fast, efficient data transfer at rates of up to 1 Gbps.

2. Short-Reach Support: The GLC-SX-MMD can transmit data up to 550 meters over multimode fiber, making it suitable for short-range transmissions such as within a data center or across a campus.

3. Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM): The standout advantage of the GLC-SX-MMD is its support for Digital Optical Monitoring or Digital Diagnostics Monitoring. DOM allows for real-time monitoring of several physical conditions in the transceiver, including temperature, optical power level, voltage, and more. This can be key for maintaining optimal network performance and troubleshooting issues.

4. Hot-Swappable: Like all SFP modules, the GLC-SX-MMD is hot-swappable, which allows for the transceiver to be plugged in or removed without shutting down the system.

5. Broader Temperature Range: The GLC-SX-MMD is designed to function in a wider range of temperatures in comparison to many other similar modules, offering greater environmental versatility.

6. Compatibility: Designed by Cisco, the GLC-SX-MMD integrates well with Cisco's proprietary networking equipment, although it is also compatible with other equipment that is in compliance with the Multi-Source Agreement (MSA).

7. Flexibility: Being an SFP module, the GLC-SX-MMD can be used interchangeably with other SFP modules, offering network designers and administrators greater flexibility to adapt to changing network requirements.

In the end, while the GLC-SX-MMD offers several key advantages, it is important to evaluate its suitability within the context of your particular network requirements and constraints. Ensuring the right fit can optimize network performance and reduce the risks of connectivity issues.
 

GLC-SX-MMD Datasheet

The GLC-SX-MMD 1000BASE transceiver module is made for multimode fiber only. It’s the replacement of GLC-SX-MM which features an enhanced DOM interface. And this SFP fiber transceiver module operates on legacy 50 µm multimode fiber links up to 550 meters.

Transceiver Module

GLC-SX-MMD

Interface

LC duplex

Wavelength

850nm

Tx Power

-9.5 ~ – 3dBm

Receiver Sensitivity

< -17dBm

DOM Support

Yes

Temperature Range

0 to 70°C (32 to 158°F)

Cable Type

MMF

Price(US dollars)

6.00


GLC-SX-MM vs GLC-SX-MMD? What’s the difference?

Some of our customers seem puzzled and are asking what’s the difference GLC-SX-MM vs GLC-SX-MMD? Witch one is right for my equipment!

Our short answer is – none! However, we will try to explain this in more detail. It’s related to changes in Cisco’s product nomenclature of their OEM transceivers and it happened long time ago – on 2012 Cisco announced End-of-Sale and End-of-Life Announcement for the Select Cisco Gigabit Ethernet SFP Modules. (This was discussed in another article – Is GLC-SX-MM EOL?).

Before that moment Cisco’s Part number for 1000Base-SX transceiver was GLC-SX-MM, but after that change they replaced this product with GLC-SX-MMD. Our guess is that at this moment Cisco introduced DDM (Digital Diagnostics Monitoring) or DOM (Digital Optical Monitoring) as standard feature in their GE SFP portfolio from that moment forward.

 

Precautions for purchasing sfp ge s and glc sx mmd:

When purchasing SFP GE S or GLC SX MMD, or any SFP module for that matter, several precautions should be taken to ensure the best fit for your network requirements and to maximize your investment.

1. Compatibility: Ensure that the SFP module you choose is compatible with your existing network equipment. Not all SFPs work with all devices, so check with the vendor or manufacturer to verify.

2. Transmission Distance and Speed: Verify the transmission speed and distance of the SFP module align with your network's needs. Both SFP GE S and GLC SX MMD support short-reach up to 550 meters and Gigabit Ethernet speed, but your specific requirements may differ.

3. Digital Optical Monitoring: Examine if you need an SFP module with Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM) or Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM). GLC SX MMD has this feature, while SFP GE S does not. DOM/ DDM is useful for real-time performance monitoring.

4. Cable type: SFP GE S and GLC SX MMD are designed for use with multimode fiber. Ensure the SFP module you're intending to buy matches your fiber cable type (single-mode or multimode).

5. Hot-swappable: Although most SFP modules are hot-swappable, it's always safe to confirm. This means that they can be plugged or unplugged without shutting down the network device.

6. Vendor Reputation: Consider purchasing from a reputable vendor that offers quality products, warranties, and good after-sales service. The reputation and reliability of the vendor can often be indicative of the product's quality.

7. Price: While cost should not be the only determining factor, it's essential to ensure you're getting value for money. Determine your budget and the maximum cost you're willing to spend before making a purchase.

8. Future-Proofing: Consider your future network needs. Sometimes, investing in higher performance SFP modules may be beneficial in the long run as it can cater to future network expansions or upgrades.

9. Compliance with Industry Standards: Always ensure that the SFP module complies with industry standards like IEEE 802.3z and the Multi-Source Agreement (MSA).

10. Confirm the Operating Temperature Range: Especially if the network environment is inside an industrial setting or outdoors, check the environmental tolerance defined for the module.

Following these precautions can help you in purchasing an SFP module that suits not only your immediate network requirements but also future demands.

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