Introduction
In modern fiber-optical networks, a 1550nm optical transceiver plays a vital role by converting electrical data into invisible light, sending it across single-mode fibers over long distances, and then restoring it back into electrical form. This blog explores what a 1550nm transceiver is, its working principle, why this wavelength is favored, and highlights LINK-PP models crafted for reliable performance.
1. What Is a 1550nm Optical Transceiver?
A 1550nm optical module is a compact module—often in SFP or SFP+ form—that bridges network electronics and fiber optics. Operating at a wavelength near 1550 nanometers, it enables high-speed data transmission across single-mode fiber (SMF), especially suited for long-reach applications such as metro or WAN environments.
Transceivers labeled ZX or ZR using 1550nm can transmit up to around 80km, with advanced types exceeding 100km.
2. How Does It Work?
These devices are built on two main functions: electro-optic conversion at the transmitter end and opto-electronic conversion at the receiver:
Transmission (electrical → light):
The module’s transmitter uses a laser—such as DFB, EML, or FP types—to convert electrical data into light pulses. In LINK-PP products, for example, the LS-SM551G-60I uses an FP laser, while the 10 Gbps LS-SM5510-A0C employs a cooled EML laser.Reception (light → electrical):
Light signals from the fiber are captured by a photodiode—like PIN or APD—then amplified by a TIA circuit and processed into electrical signals.
Internally, these modules also include control circuitry such as an MCU for diagnostics (DOM compliance under SFF-8472), laser power control, and safety features. LINK-PP transceivers meet Class I laser safety standards.
3. Why 1550nm? Key Advantages
Low Signal Loss
Single-mode optical fiber exhibits minimal attenuation—often around 0.2 dB/km at 1550nm—allowing signals to travel over 100 km without regeneration.
Compatibility with Amplifiers and WDM
The 1550 nm band lies in the so-called C-band, where erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) operate best, enabling long-haul and DWDM networks.
CWDM/DWDM technologies often include 1550 nm channels to multiplex multiple signals over one fiber, increasing capacity.
4. LINK-PP 1550nm Transceiver Offerings
LINK-PP provides a range of well-engineered 1550nm transceivers adapted to various bandwidth and distance needs:
LS-SM551G-60I SFP (1.25Gbps, 60km):
Compact, cost-effective, DFB laser with PIN photodiode and TIA; supports DOM and SFP MSA standards.LS-SM5510-A0C SFP+ (10Gbps, 100km):
High-performance module using cooled EML laser and APD+TIA, with DOM and SFP+ MSA, capable of 100km transmission.LS-SM5510-40C SFP+ (10Gbps, 40km):
Mid-speed choice using a EML laser, with DOM and standard SFP+ features.LS-SM551G-A6I SFP (1.25Gbps, 160km): LS-SM551G-A6I
This industrial-grade 1550nm optical transceiver supports SMF transmission up to 160 km, features LC connectors and DOM for real-time monitoring.
5. Applications Made Easy
Metro and Long-Haul Networks:
With low loss and optional EDFA compatibility, 1550nm transceivers are perfect for city-wide, inter-city, or backbone links.Enterprise Campus Links:
The 60km or 40km modules serve well for fiber links between buildings, with a good balance of speed and reach.Cost-Sensitive, Sparse Deployments:
BiDi models using a single fiber strand reduce cabling costs where duplex fibers are impractical.High-Bandwidth Links:
The 10 Gbps SFP+ variant meets growing data needs, suitable for fast uplinks or backbone upgrades.
Conclusion
A 1550nm optical transceiver is the workhorse of long-distance fiber networks, effectively converting electrical signals to light and back with minimal loss. LINK-PP offers a proven lineup—from 1.25 Gbps modules for moderate links, to robust 10 Gbps SFP+ units for ultra-long spans, and practical BiDi versions for environments with constrained fiber. Explore the LINK-PP store to find the perfect match for your network: l-p.com.
