A step-by-step guide to data rate, form factor, reach, media type and the specs worth verifying before you buy — written for network builders, integrators and distributors.
The transceiver must match the port speed and the application. STBC's transceiver range covers from 1G up to 1.6T, so the first question is simply: what speed does your link need?
| Data rate | Typical applications | Common form factors |
|---|---|---|
| 1G / 10G | Access networks, campus links, legacy switches | SFP, SFP+ |
| 25G | Data-center leaf links, 5G fronthaul | SFP28 |
| 40G / 100G | Aggregation, core links, high-density switches | QSFP+, QSFP28, CFP2 |
| 400G | Modern data centers, DCI, high-performance clusters | QSFP-DD, OSFP |
| 800G / 1.6T | Next-generation AI & cloud backbones | OSFP, QSFP-DD (800G) |
Compatibility starts at the port: the module's mechanical form factor must fit the switch, router or NIC it plugs into, and its electrical interface must match the port's lane structure.
Smallest standard form factor, widely used at 1G and 10G. Ideal for access, edge and long-reach uplinks.
Quad form factors used from 40G to 400G. QSFP-DD doubles the electrical lanes, keeping density high.
The octal form factor of choice for 400G/800G/1.6T cloud and AI data centers, with enhanced cooling for high power.
Not sure which form factor your equipment uses? Send us your switch model — STBC checks compatibility before you commit, so the module you receive is the module that fits.
Reach codes (SR, LR, ER, ZR) define the distance a module is designed for, and they dictate the fiber you should run.
| Reach code | Typical reach | Fiber type |
|---|---|---|
| SR (short reach) | Up to ~100 m | Multi-mode OM3/OM4/OM5 |
| LR (long reach) | Up to ~10 km | Single-mode |
| ER (extended reach) | Up to ~40 km | Single-mode |
| ZR (very long reach) | 80 km and beyond | Single-mode |
Mixing multi-mode and single-mode components is a common source of link failure. If the fiber plant is already in place, match the module to the installed fiber — not the other way around.
Short rack-to-rack links can often use copper or fiber cables instead of active modules. The trade-off is cost versus reach and signal integrity.
Lowest cost, lowest power. Best for very short in-rack links (a few meters). Copper cables with fixed wiring.
Optical cable with fixed connectors on both ends. Lighter and longer than copper, still cable-shaped, up to ~100 m class.
Removable module with a fiber connector. Maximum flexibility, supports longer reaches and easy field replacement.
Beyond speed and form factor, a few optical parameters decide whether a link will run cleanly:
This is where testing pays for itself. STBC verifies every transceiver and test-equipment unit before shipment — 100% tested, with high-speed BERT capability up to 800G PAM4 to back the claim.
Send us your switch model and link requirements — we'll confirm compatibility and quote within one working day, with MOQ 1.