How to use the optical module

How to use the optical module

Optical module selection

With the wide application of optical modules, more and more customers begin to pay attention to the stability and reliability of the modules themselves. There are three types of optical modules popular in the market: original optical modules, second-hand optical modules and compatible optical modules. As we all know, the price of the original optical module is very high, and many manufacturers can only stay away from it. As for second-hand optical modules, although the price is relatively low, the quality is not guaranteed, and packet loss often occurs after half a year of use.

Therefore, many manufacturers have set their sights on compatible optical modules. Indeed, the performance of the compatible optical module in use is almost the same as that of the original optical module, and the price is several times cheaper than the original optical module, which is why the compatible optical module is so popular. However, the products on the market are mixed with good and evil, and many merchants shoddy, confusing the public and bringing difficulties to the selection of optical modules. The following describes the selection of optical modules in detail.

First of all, the first question, how do we distinguish between brand-new optical modules and second-hand optical modules?

As mentioned above, second-hand optical modules often lose packets after half a year of use, which is caused by unstable optical power and reduced optical sensitivity. If we have an optical power meter, we can take it out and test it to see if its optical power is consistent with the parameters on the data sheet. If the difference is too large, it is a second-hand optical module.

Then observe the after-sales usage of the optical module. The service life of ordinary optical modules is 5 years. The quality of the optical module is basically difficult to see in the first year, but it can be seen in the second or third year of use.

Secondly, it depends on the compatibility of optical modules and equipment. Consumers need to communicate with suppliers and inform them of the brand of equipment they need to use before purchasing.

Finally, it depends on the temperature adaptability of the optical module. The temperature generated by the optical module itself is not high during operation, but its general working environment is in the computer room or switch. Too high or too low temperature will affect its optical power, light sensitivity and other parameters. Generally, the temperature range of the optical module used is 0~70°C. If it is in an extremely cold or extremely hot environment, you need to use an industrial-grade -40~85°C optical module.

Optical module usage skills

If you find that the function of the optical module fails during use, don't worry, check carefully and analyze the specific reasons. Generally, there are two main types of optical module functional failures, namely transmitter failure and receiver failure.

The most common reasons are as follows:

The optical port of the optical module is exposed to the environment, and dust enters and pollutes the optical port;

The end face of the optical fiber connector used has been polluted, and the optical port of the optical module has been polluted again;

The end face of the optical connector with pigtail is used improperly, and the end face is scratched;