A GBIC transceiver converts between gigabit Ethernet and fiber optic networks, allowing connections via single- or multi-mode fiber or copper. It plugs into a network switch port on one end and a fiber optic network on the other. An IR transceiver can both transmit and receive data using infrared light pulses according to standardized protocols. SX transceivers are small, hot-swappable modules that connect fiber optic or copper cables to network devices, permitting digital signal transfer at speeds up to hundreds of megabits per second over short distances on multimode fiber.

1. What is a transceiver?
GBIC transceiver
A gigabit interface converter (GBIC) transceiver is one of the many types of
transceivers that can send and receive data. The purpose of a GBIC
transceiver is to digitally convert media between a gigabit Ethernet network
and a separate fiber optic based network. From this single device, connections
can be made using single- or multi-mode fiber optic ports as well as copper
wiring. It is possible to benefit from it in many point-to-point communications
applications that involve interconnecting components and exchanging data
between Ethernet and fiber optic networks.
The GBIC transceiver functions as an input/output transceiver. It plugs into
the gigabit Ethernet port on one end, such as a port found on network
switching equipment. On the other end, the transceiver is connected to the
fiber optic network, usually via fiber optic patch cords. The device is
characterized by features, such as the wavelengths it can handle, how fast
and efficiently it transmits data, the power it needs to operate, and what
distance it can transmit data over. These are the main factors to consider
when buying a GBIC transceiver to be sure it meets network performance
requirements.
Changing from one type to another is simple because a GBIC transceiver can
be removed and installed without turning off the power. Generalized
enclosures may be compatible with various transceiver types. It is not

2. complicated to operate, and the digital data transmitter and receiverfunctions
at high speeds. Some models can provide a bi-directional data connection of
up to 1.25 gigabits/second, so there is great compatibility with high-speed
networks. Compatibility with common power supplies, such as +3.3 and +5.5
volt ratings, extends this compatibility even more.
Other important features of a GBIC transceiver which add to energy efficiency
initiatives are that the unit offers low power dissipation and emits little
electromagnetic interference. Each device can install and function without
disrupting anything, but this plug and play capability can be offset by the need
to disconnect patch cords before it is installed or taken out. Power surges and
data discrepancies can occur, and it’s always wise to take precautions to avoid
this as much as possible, especially in high-density networks.
Many supplies sell GBIC transceivers. All of the different modules by various
manufactures are developed based on a common standard. This means that
they can all be compatible with the same network and with each other to meet
data communications requirements.
IR transceiver
An electronic device called an infrared (IR) transceiver is able to communicate
data using infrared light. IR transceiver units can both transmit and receive
information. One of the most widely used is Infrared Data Association (IrDA),
which is commonly found on devices such as laptop computers and mobile
phones. IrDA infrared transceivers have become more effective since first

3. being introduced in 1993. Improvements on the original IrDA protocol now
allow for rapid transfer of files such as pictures and music.
IR transceivers operate by sending rapid pulses of light on the infrared
spectrum. This means that the pulses are not visible to the human eye, but
can be detected by other transceivers. All devices that share a protocol are
programmed with the same universal code. When IR pulses are received, this
code is used to interpret the message, similar to a flashlight being used to
send Morse code.
Two main components are found inside an IR transceiver unit. An infrared
light emitting diode (LED) is used to produce infrared pulses, while an infrared
detector is able to sense incoming infrared signals. Some advanced IR
transceivers use infrared laser diodes in place of LEDs. This increases the
range of the IR signal, but reduces the width of the detectable beam.
The standardization of IR transceiver protocols allows many different devices
to share data quickly. For instance, many personal data assistants (PDAs) and
cell phones feature IrDAtransceiver modules. Two people in the same room
can simply point their devices at each other in order to transfer messages or
files. Infrared-enabled devices such as printers can also receive files through
the air, eliminating the need for connection cables.
This approach to wireless communication does have several drawbacks. Light
sources such as the sun can cause interference with communication.
Additionally, IR transceivers are typically limited to direct line of sight

4. communication, and cannot transfer data through walls or obstructions.
Typically less expensive than radio frequency devices, IR transceivers are
also usually considered more secure. The pulses used for infrared data
transfer are usually contained in a single room and do not escape to other
areas. This reduces the chances of the signal being intercepted by
eavesdroppers, and makes IR transceiver usage popular for low-range secure
areas such as investment brokerage offices and military installations.
SX transceiver
SX transceiver modules are digital-electronic components that fit in the hand,
often bearing a couple of telephone-style input ports. Often referred to as
small form-factor pluggables (SFP), orgigabit interface connections (GBIC),
these transceivers interface fiber-optic or copper cables to network device
motherboards. Host devices can include routers, switches, or media
converters, among others, and permit the transfer of digital signals used in
telecommunications and other data transmissions.
Essentially high-speed connectors, SX transceiver modules are generally
hot-swappable devices; this means they can easily be placed into a working
system without disruption and be detected automatically. They link
to Ethernet ports or other standards to create a flow of information between
hardware and networks. Developed by Cisco, their specifications have been
applied with several other grades of transceivers to become an industry
standard. These transceivers differ according to the types of fiber they service,

5. their recommended distances, and their data capacities.
Other transceiver types are designated according to performance
specifications.
SFP transceivers include several standards that differ according to their
directionality, fiber type, and other agreements among competing
manufacturers. Some types of components attach to circuit boards. Others are
self-contained units designed for plug-in operation. Their ports often
accommodate phone-style jacks or other industry-standard network
connectors. Directionality refers to whether a signal transmission travels in one
direction only, as in simplex fiber, or is bidirectional, as in duplex fiber.
The SX varieties specifically serve 850 nanometer (nm) multimode fiber. This
refers to the wavelength range of laser light the fiber-optic cable is rated to
handle. Multimode fiber transmits complex multiple signals simultaneously over
shorter distances. SX transceiver units use cable in short local area networks
(LAN) with distances of 600 yards (about 550 m) or less.
These and other transceivers act as interpreters. They are designed to
connect with printed circuit boards to convert light communications data into
electronic signals. Components can range from cheap to costly, depending on
the level of performance required from them. Some serve as vital links in small
hand-built systems; others connect into a complex and vast network of digital
communication channels designed to accommodate millions of users.
SX transceiverproducts provide a small but critical function at the heart

6. of digital signal processing.
Most often, the capacities of SX transceiver devices are measured in megabits
per second (Mbps). Some are designed for proprietary technologies; they
operate for company-specific or specially designed equipment. Others provide
more universal compatibility. These adhere to industry-standard protocols for
data transmission and compatibilities with other equipment, such as
multiplexers and converters.
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