Introduction
When designing fiber-optic networks, knowing how far a 1550nm transceiver can transmit is essential. This wavelength offers low attenuation, making it ideal for metro and long-haul links. This article explores typical transmission distances, key factors that affect them, and showcases LINK-PP modules built for extended reach.
1. Typical Transmission Distances for 1550nm Modules
In single-mode fiber (SMF), 1550nm transceivers commonly support transmission distances between 40km, 80km and 120km, and in optimal conditions, up to 160km.
For example, mainstream Gigabit Ethernet modules labeled "ZX" often claim 80km to 120km reach. Long-haul versions pushing beyond 120km are less common but achievable with high-quality fiber and careful system design.
2. Factors Influencing Transmission Distance
Several important factors impact how far a 1550nm signal can travel:
Fiber Attenuation: SMF exhibits very low loss at 1550nm (~0.2 dB/km), allowing long spans with minimal signal degradation.
Transmit Power & Receiver Sensitivity: Modules with higher output power and sensitive receivers can extend reach.
Fiber Quality & Splicing: Every connector, splice, or bend introduces loss, reducing practical distance.
Use of EDFAs or DWDM: Amplifying or multiplexing signals can further extend reach, especially over very long links.
3. Standard Ethernet Benchmarks
10GBASE-ER transceivers operate at 1550nm and are rated for around 40km over engineered SMF, or ~30 km on standard fiber.
10GBASE-ZR models—while not IEEE-standard—are commonly built to reach 80km on high-grade fiber.
These industry benchmarks help frame the expectations for modern 1550nm optics.
4. LINK-PP Long-Reach Examples
Here are LINK-PP products designed for extended distances:
LS-SM551G-80I (1.25Gbps, 80 km): Industrial SFP with DOM support, LC duplex connectors, optimized for SMF at 1550nm.
LS-SM551G-A0C (1.25Gbps, 100km): Compatible with Arista and other systems, offering long-haul performance with DOM and LC connectivity.
LS-SM5501-A2I (155Mbps, 120km): Industrial-grade SFP supporting up to 120 km, featuring DOM and DFB laser design.
LS-SM551G-A6I ( SFP, 160km): high performance, cost effective modules supporting data rate of 1.25Gbps and 160km transmission distance with SMF.
5. Quick Comparison Table
Distance Range | Typical Use Case | LINK-PP Recommended Module |
|---|---|---|
Up to 80km | Metro or campus backbone links | LS-SM551G-80I (1.25Gbps, 80km) |
Up to 100km | Regional or long-haul applications | LS-SM551G-A0C (1.25Gbps, 100km) |
Up to 120km | Extended reach, industrial environments | LS-SM5501-A2I (155Mbps, 120km) |
Up to 120km (BiDi) | Long links with fiber economy | LS-BL55491G-A2I BiDi (1Gbps, 120km) |
Up to 160km | Ultra-long haul under ideal conditions | Select LINK-PP modules rated for 160km |
Conclusion
For 1550 nm transceivers over single-mode fiber, typical reach spans from 80km to 120km, with specialized modules capable of 160km under optimal conditions. Factors like fiber quality, power budget, and system design directly affect performance. LINK-PP offers a comprehensive lineup of long-reach transceivers—from 80km to 160km-rated modules—with industrial-grade reliability.
