Dictionary · Networking Hardware
Transceiver
Components · Intermediate
A module that converts between a device's electrical interface and a specific copper or optical medium. Small form-factor pluggable modules are the common removable kind.
The switch port is often just a slot. This module decides whether that slot speaks a particular fiber type or a copper cable, and at what speed.
Example: A 10 Gbps optical module is inserted into a switch slot and connected to a fiber patch cord.
Common misconception
- Any small module does not fit any link. Wavelength, fiber type, and speed have to match on both ends.