Migrating to 400G? consult our blog on choosing the right option
400G Optical transceiver summary
Here are the most common 400G optics modules used inside the data center. They are also referred to as client optics or grey optics
400G transceiver connector types
With the introduction of 400G, new form factors have been released with new connectors types, including multimode 16-F MPO angled and single-mode CS® and SN® connectors.
- The 400G-SR8 optics module uses a single row, angled (APC) MPO16 connector for use with multi-mode fiber. All 16 fibers are used (8 Tx and 8 Rx).
- The 400G-DR4 and 400G-XDR4/DR4+ optics modules use a single row, angled (APC) MPO12 connector for use with single mode fiber. Although a MPO12 cable can have up to 12 SMF fibers, only 8 out of the 12 fibers are used (4 for Tx and 4 for Rx). so MTP8F cable can be used and it is cheaper option.
- The 400G-2FR4 optics module uses 2 x CS connectors, for use with single mode fiber
- 400G QSFP-DD can be available with 4xSN connectors. The SN connector was designed to provide an alternative to MPO connectivity and allows users to have four individual connectors with eight fibers in total, within a single QSFP-DD and OSFP transceiver interface. requires SN to LC patch cables/jumpers.
The following table is a partial list of 400G transceivers by connector type:
