40G QSFP+ AOC Fiber Optic Cable VS 40G SR4 QSFP+ Fiber Optic Module

40G SR4 QSFP + Optical Module is an ideal solution for short distance interconnection of 40G networks with many advantages, but 40G QSFP + AOC also has similar functions of Optical Module and is no worse than 40G SR4 QSFP + Optical Module, and it can even be used to transmit signals instead of it. Since both can interconnect over short distances at 40G, what is the difference between them? Why are 40G QSFP+ AOCs so popular?

Today we will list the comparison between 40G QSFP + AOC fiber optic cables and 40G SR4 QSFP+ optical modules, which will hopefully help you find the most suitable solution for your application.

40G QSFP + AOC usually has QSFP+ connectors at both ends, which are connected by a piece of fiber optic cable.40G QSFP + AOC also comes in the form of a branch cable, which has a QSFP+ connector at one end and multiple SFP+ connectors or LC duplex connectors at the other end.

40G QSFP + AOC Cable VS 40G SR4 QSFP+ Optical Module

Transmission Distance: In general, 40G QSFP + SR4 can support longer transmission distance than 40G QSFP + AOC. If the transmission distance is less than 100m, 40G QSFP + AOC and 40G SR4 QSFP + Optical Module have the same performance, but when the transmission distance is more than 100m, 40GBASE-SR4 QSFP+ Optical Module will be a better choice.

Reliability: Compared with 40G QSFP+ SR4 optical modules, 40G QSFP+ AOC is less affected by repeated plugging and unplugging during use. In addition, 40G QSFP+ AOC has no insertion loss and no return loss, which further ensures its reliability.

Installation and Maintenance: 40G QSFP+ AOC is even better, users only need to plug two connectors into the switch to start working, which avoids the process of connecting two optical modules. In case of failure, you can directly replace the 40G QSFP + AOC. For the 40G QSFP + SR4 optical module, you need the MPO Fiber Patch Connection Module to test in order to find the problem. Therefore, 40G QSFP + AOC is easier and faster to install and maintain than 40G QSFP + SR4 optical module.

Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM): The 40G QSFP + SR4 optical module has a DDM function, which helps users to monitor the parameter information of the optical module in real time, including the module's operating temperature, voltage, current, and so on. The 40G QSFP+ AOCs currently on the market do not have this feature.

Cost: The current market price of 40G QSFP + AOC is generally lower than that of 40G QSFP + SR4 optical module. Moreover, 40G QSFP + AOC does not need additional fiber patch cords, which can avoid the cleaning problem of optical module, which can help users save more time and cost. Using 40G QSFP+ AOC can save time and cost. With limited cost, 40G QSFP+ AOC is definitely your best choice.

Why is 40G QSFP+ AOC so popular?

40G interconnects are contributing to the growing demand for throughput and bandwidth, and 40G QSFP+ AOC is an excellent solution. In addition to the above advantages, there are many others, such as lighter weight, smaller bending radius, and better heat dissipation, etc., which make 40G QSFP+ AOC highly favored by our customers.

In comparison, 40G QSFP+ AOC is more stable and reliable than 40G SR4 QSFP+ optical modules, easier to install and maintain, and lower interconnect costs. Therefore, Walsun recommends using 40G QSFP + AOC for 40G interconnect in data centers. Additionally, we offer 100% compatible 40G QSFP+ AOC cables with major brands such as Cisco, Huawei, Huasan, HP, and Arista, in a variety of lengths, or customized lengths to meet your application needs.