Know the Significance of SFP Transceivers for 5G Wireless Networks

The need for high-speed, efficient, and safe data transmission through technologies such as Millimeter Wave, MIMO and high-intensity antennas is one of the factors that has spearheaded the development of 5G networks. Evolved out of 4G/LTE, 5th Generation wireless system (5G) is a much-advanced version of the former. 5G is still in a very nascent market stage and being deployed gradually in specific applications. In terms of advanced features, 5G has a low latency rate and a much higher speed and capacity than 4G. Once 5G stabilizes in the market, it is likely to be used by millions of smartphone users and for IoT applications as well as Machine to Machine (M2M) communications. SFP transceivers and fiber optics have a role to play in 5G.

SFP or small form-factor pluggable transceivers are used as flexible interfacing devices that are connected to copper or fiber optic cables in such networks. SFP modules are widely used in telecom and networking because they can connect an individual port with their compatible transceiver on a need basis. This makes them more flexible compared to fixed modules. They can function efficiently across bandwidths and power devices. Installing 5G wireless networks at times is complex, and using an SFP transceiver not only simplifies the task but also reduces the cost. The SFP transceiver for 5G can help extend old networks along with meeting 5G speed requirements. This post discusses the use and scope of SFP transceivers for 5G networks and more.

Why 5G Wireless Networks Are Gaining Popularity?

High speed and low latency are some of the major reasons why 5G is gaining momentum. Players in several industries seem to be waiting for 5G to be deployed because it would overcome most hurdles they are facing now. Here are some of the other reasons why 5G is gaining traction:

• 5G can accommodate thousands of network connections in a given area or an industry.
• It has a high signal efficiency, which means the data transfer is not only speedy but also seamless.
• The data transfer can happen at a rate of 1GB per second to several users or devices at a time.
• 5G networks would be mostly wireless, which means less wiring and related complexities.

Working of SFP Modules

Although 5G networks are likely to be wireless, fiber optics would still be used as part of the network infrastructure. This is why SFP transceivers are significant. Also known as mini-GBIC or Gigabit Interface Converter, SFP modules are widely used in customized networks. They enable transmission up to 500 km at a rate of up to 40 GBPS. These modules facilitate easy data transfer between a cable, whether fiber or copper and the networking device. They have a laser which operates between both the transmitting side (TX) and the receiving side (RX). As per the MSA agreement, MSA-compliant SFP modules are compatible with a variety of communication standards such as Gigabit Ethernet, Fiber Channel, and so on.

Prospects of SFP Transceiver Modules in 5G Wireless Networks

The demand for 5G wireless networks is gaining momentum and hence most players or manufacturers of network devices are trying to come up with efficient and cost-effective SFP transceivers for 5G. There are mobile phone manufacturers who have introduced phones with 5G networks. In such scenarios, 25G fiber optic SFP transceivers are preferred. So, there is a technological disruption in both segments-5G networks as well as SFP transceivers and other related network devices. With the kind of development happening, 5G may soon become part of our daily lives. It is because of certain technological advancements, 5G can facilitate middle-haul transmission apart from the front-haul and back-haul transmissions offered by 4G. 5G and 10G transceivers will cater separately and specific to the three parts of 5G transmission, facilitating high bandwidth, improved signal transmission, and low latency.

This demand and momentum gathered for 5G would certainly boost the same for fiber optic transceivers and related infrastructure to enable shifting to 5G seamlessly. This rising demand could be attributed to the scope for 5G in wireless industrial networks, data centers, and other market segments that require high-speed connectivity across distances and networks.

The rising applications of 5G wireless networks would also boost the demand for the SFP transceivers market. With many fiber optic module technologies available for 5G, there is plenty of opportunities to develop 5G transceivers. However, it may require significant investment since the market is new. Once the 5G market matures and achieves economies of scale, the costs for developing optical module technologies would drop as well. We may have to wait for a while, but this wait is worth, looking at the advantages that 5G can offer.

R.W. Tull is the President of VERSITRON. He interfaces daily with current and potential end-users. R.W. works closely with clients to review layout diagrams and drawings in order to ensure that the best fiber optic solution is achieved.