Re: OT: SFP vs GBIC

From: Dale Shaw (dale.shaw@gmail.com)
Date: Wed Jul 02 2008 - 20:01:36 ART


Tim,

On Wed, Jul 2, 2008 at 1:01 PM, Tim <ccie2be@nyc.rr.com> wrote:
> Hi guys,
>
> This is an Off Topic question:

Not really.

> I think of a Gbic as basically a media converter that plugs into a 6500
> gigabit module/blade.
>
> Is a SFP just another type of Gbic?

Essentially, yes. SFPs are more common now, I presume largely due to
their smaller physical footprint ("Small Form Factor Pluggable GBIC").
They perform exactly the same function as GBICs, but I think you'll
find there is a larger range of SFPs available. On the fibre optic
front, you'll find the same options like 1000BASE-SX (MMOF),
1000BASE-LX/LH and 1000BASE-ZX (SMOF) etc.

GBIC and SFP slots are available for many platforms -- not just 6500/7600.

When you get into the world of 10 gigabit Ethernet, you'll discover
there are even more form factors: XENPAK, X2, XFP -- maybe even other
that I'm not aware of.

cheers,
Dale



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