Ethernet cables, or simply CAT5 cables, managed to include all the necessary cables for communication into one wire, becoming a standardized technology in the 1970s. When Xerox PARC introduced the standard in 1974, it quickly became a standardized item for computer system communication. While the CAT5 cables would remain the same for years, newer Ethernet standards capable of turning out faster speeds were made and newer hardware was necessary.
Ethernet and Communication
When Ethernet was created, the idea was to utilize the technology to allow computers to share information between one another, meaning a computer in France could broadcast data to a computer in the United States. Data was shared through the Ethernet cables that would convey packets of data and transmit that information through the Internet or a web of shared computers. A usual occurrence in early Ethernet networks was the loss of data that would occur when large amounts of data were being transferred. Imagine Ethernet as a road for data, and if that way of transportation is congested with data, transfer and download rates would inevitably become slow. One improvement that newer Ethernet standards had was the ability to convey data faster and more proficiently without the risk of losing any information. One of the technologies implemented in computer systems to convey data more efficiently was SFP modules.
The SFP Revolution
SFP transceivers, or modules, offered a hot-swappable electronic that evolved from a once bulky item known as Gigabit transceivers that had limited functionality and was restricted to certain kinds of networks that could employ its features. Gigabit transceivers conquered the industry in the late 90s, but when the newer Ethernet standards began to pop up, older transceivers were no longer useful. Networks that used fiber optics and copper wiring experienced the obvious benefit in using SFP modules, which were smaller and presented multiple configuration choices.
Another benefit SFP modules had was the ability to transfer data over long distances that prior XENPAK and Gigabit transceivers could not replicate, making SFP modules indispensible. Programmers had the option to pick the type of wiring the network used, from copper to fiber optics, as well as the class of SFP module the network needed to transfer data. For example, a network administrator who used Cisco SFP modules for a system could utilize one such product to configure the network to use various wavelengths and communicate data over short and long distances.
Evolution
As time progresses, these communication standards continue to evolve, and faster, more capable transceivers will pop up as well. Newer standards continue to appear (and most will remember a time when Gigabit networks were the fastest standards around), and as soon as new variants appear, they are swiftly replaced with even newer models. As the standards continue to evolve, so will the modules.
FluxLight was founded in 2003. Our focus has been on providing quality fiber optic interfaces, SFP modules, Cisco SFP modules, GBICs, and related products for local and wide area networking products. We stock optical transceivers from top vendors. FluxLight is convinced the path to success is through excellence and customer service. Our customers are our number one priority. We know you have many choices of where to buy so we do our best to provide the best SFP and GBIC products, at the best prices with the best possible support.
Read More From Tony O Farinholt
|
