There is the long-term debate between single-mode and multimode optics. From the data rate, link distance, and costs, people usually will calculate every single difference between them. However, this article will not talk about the technical distinctions because you can find the related information everywhere. Cost, as one of the important factors, is sometimes the deciding point by many data center operators.
The cost difference between single-mode and multimode optics (optical transceiver modules and fiber optic cables) are quite obvious. Single-mode optics with longer transmission distance and more bandwidth, usually charges higher than multimode optics. The following part will take Cisco compatible single-mode and multimode optics as an example, and make a vivid comparison between these optics from 1Gbps to 100Gbps.
SMF Vs. MMF Modules
In order to cope with the ever-lasting requirement for higher data rate and reliable fiber performance, telecommunication industry launches a whole series of devices. Fiber optic transceivers, as a representative, developed from the old 1Gbps SFP module, 10G SFP+ (SFP plus), 40G QSFP+, to the 100G QSFP modules. The price gap of the single-mode and multimode optics in these form factors are huge but fluctuating.
- Cisco Multimode SFP Vs. Single-mode SFP
Seen from the above table, the price difference between multimode and single-mode SFP is minor.
- Cisco Multimode SFP+ Vs. Single-mode SFP+
SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-LR are the Cisco 10G SFP+ transceiver modules that can be operate over multimode and single-mode fibers, respectively. Cisco SFP-10G-SR price is only US$ 16.00 from. And SFP-10G-LR price is US$ 34.00. The price gap between them is US$ 18.00. Different vendors may offer this products at different prices, but believe in me.
- Cisco 40Gbps & 100gbps single-mode Vs. Multimode Modules
Keep in mind, the number listed above is only the price of specified optical module. For the budget of a whole network, you should also count the other essential components and the maintenance cost.
Single-mode Vs. Multimode Fibers
It is known to all that whether to use single-mode or multimode fibers depends on the fiber optic transceiver types. In this case, the cost difference between single-mode and multimode fibers also depends on what optics you use. For example, SFP-10G-LRM Cisco can only work with LC single-mode fibers, while Cisco QSFP-40G-SR4 needs to be connected with MTP OM3/OM4 multimode fibers. Obviously MTP multimode fibers charges higher than LC single-mode fibers.
Conclusion
This article has listed the price gap between single-mode and multimode optics. Single-mode optics averagely charges higher than multimode optics. Whether you go for the single-mode or multimode cabling are all feasible. Keep in mind that single-mode cabling is for long-hual and multimode is for short-reach applications. And a reliable fiber optic transceiver module manufacturer will save you a large sum of money.
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