StarTech.com MSA Uncoded SFP Module - 1000BASE-EX - 1GbE SMF Transceiver (40km, DDM)

Experience dependable, long-range Gigabit Ethernet over single-mode fiber with the StarTech MSA Uncoded SFP Module for 1000BASE-EX networks. This MSA-compliant SFP transceiver is engineered to seamlessly slot into compatible switches and routers, delivering reliable 1 Gbps performance across vast distances—up to 40 kilometers—without sacrificing compatibility or ease of deployment. The uncoded design offers broad interoperability with a wide range of 1000BASE-EX devices, making it an ideal upgrade or replacement for data centers, enterprise networks, and telecom backbones that demand flexible, vendor-agnostic fiber connectivity. With Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM) built in, administrators gain proactive visibility into link health, optical power, temperature, and other critical parameters, enabling proactive maintenance and uptime. The compact, rugged metal housing ensures durable operation in rack environments, while hot-swappable installation minimizes downtime during maintenance windows.

• Long-distance 1 Gigabit Ethernet over SMF — Delivers reliable 1 Gbps fiber connectivity for 1000BASE-EX networks across distances up to 40 km (24.8 miles) when paired with compatible switches or routers.
• MSA-compliant uncoded SFP module — Ensures broad compatibility across a wide range of SFP-enabled devices, reducing vendor lock and simplifying network migrations or upgrades.
• 1310 nm wavelength with LC duplex connector — Optimized for single-mode fiber, providing low attenuation and robust performance over long-haul links; supports standard LC fiber cabling for easy, widespread deployment.
• Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM) enabled — Real-time monitoring of critical operating parameters such as optical power, temperature, and supply voltage for proactive fault detection and maintenance.
• Plug-and-play, hot-swappable in standard SFP ports — Installs quickly without tools, enabling minimal downtime and seamless integration into existing network infrastructure.

Technical Details of StarTech.com MSA Uncoded SFP Module - 1000BASE-EX - 1GE Gigabit Ethernet SFP 1GbE Single Mode Fiber (SMF) Optic Transceiver - 40km DDM

• Standard: 1000BASE-EX SFP transceiver, MSA-compliant, uncoded for broad cross-vendor compatibility
• Data rate: 1 Gbps (Gigabit Ethernet)
• Fiber type: Single-mode fiber (SMF)
• Wavelength: 1310 nm
• Connector: LC duplex
• Distance (max): Up to 40 km (24.8 miles)
• Diagnostics: Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM) for real-time health and status information
• Form factor: SFP transceiver module designed for hot-swappable installation in standard SFP ports
• Operating conditions: Designed for data-center and enterprise networking environments with reliable performance over long-haul links

How to install StarTech.com MSA Uncoded SFP Module - 1000BASE-EX

To install the StarTech MSA uncoded SFP module, begin by power down is not required in most modern networking devices that support hot-swappable SFP modules, but check your equipment’s maintenance guidelines. Remove the existing SFP transceiver if present, then follow these steps to ensure a proper, reliable installation:

1) Confirm compatibility: Verify that your switch or router supports 1000BASE-EX SFP modules and that the device has an available SFP port. Ensure the device’s firmware is up to date to maximize interoperability with uncoded SFPs.

2) Prepare the fiber link: Use single-mode fiber with LC duplex connectors. Confirm that the fiber path is clean, free of damage, and properly terminated with LC connectors. If deploying long-haul links, ensure appropriate optical budget and dispersion considerations are accounted for.

3) Insert the SFP: Align the SFP module with the port and gently insert it until it seats with a firm click. If your device supports hot-swapping, this step can be performed with the system powered on; otherwise, follow your equipment’s power-down procedure.

4) Connect the fiber: Attach the LC duplex fiber to the SFP transceiver. Ensure correct polarity and secure connections to prevent signal loss or reflections. Avoid bending fibers beyond the recommended bend radius to preserve signal integrity.

5) Verify link status: Power up the device (if required) and navigate to the network switch or router management interface. Check the SFP status indicators and link lights. With DDM enabled, review real-time diagnostics for optical power levels and temperature to confirm healthy operation.

6) Test and monitor: Run basic connectivity tests (ping, throughput tests) to ensure end-to-end connectivity. Monitor the link for stability over time, especially in environments with temperature fluctuations or varying optical budgets.

7) Documentation and labeling: Document the exact SFP model, port location, and length of the fiber run for future maintenance. Label both ends of the fiber link to simplify troubleshooting and future replacements.

For best results, pair this uncoded SFP module with compatible 1000BASE-EX switches and routers that support long-haul SMF links. The StarTech MSA module is designed to be a drop-in replacement, minimizing network disruption during upgrades or maintenance. Its robust metal housing provides efficient heat dissipation and durability in dense data-center racks, cabinet environments, or field deployments where reliability is paramount.

Frequently asked questions

• What is 1000BASE-EX? 1000BASE-EX is a Gigabit Ethernet standard designed for long-distance communication over single-mode fiber. It operates at 1310 nm and supports distances up to 40 km when used with appropriate SFP transceivers and fiber cabling.
• What does the “uncoded” designation mean? The uncoded SFP module is designed for broad compatibility across many vendor devices. It does not rely on vendor-specific coding that can limit interoperability, making it a versatile choice for mixed-brand networks.
• What is Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM)? DDM is an interface that provides real-time monitoring of key transceiver parameters such as optical power, temperature, laser bias current, and supply voltage. DDM helps with proactive maintenance and quick fault diagnosis.
• What fiber and connector do I need? Use single-mode fiber (SMF) with LC duplex connectors. Ensure the fiber path is clean, properly terminated, and within recommended bend limits to maintain signal integrity.
• Is the StarTech SFP module hot-swappable? Yes. The module is designed for hot-swappable insertion into standard SFP ports on compatible switches and routers, minimizing downtime during installation or replacement.
• What devices are compatible? The module is MSA-compliant and works with a wide range of 1000BASE-EX switches, routers, and other SFP-enabled devices that support SFP optics and long-haul SMF links.