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NEW PRODUCT NEWS—edited by Rick Prescott

SFP Loopback Tester

The Stratos SFP Loopbacks are loopback testers for network hubs and other systems using MSA-compliant Small Form-factor Pluggable (SFP) optical transceivers. These loopbacks test port operation in equipment where SFP transceivers are to be installed in applications such as Ethernet, SONET, or Fiber Channel.

Stratos SFP Loopbacks have no optical inputs or outputs, as the electrical signals are simply received and then looped back to the port driver circuitry. In this way, the host can determine if there is a problem with the port being tested.

To act as a power-on indicator, the front of the loopback has a panel that illuminates when power is applied. This panel takes the place of the optics that would normally be mounted on the front of an MSA-compliant transceiver.

The loopbacks also include an EEPROM that can be read by the host. Information in the EEPROM identifies the vendor, vendor part number, and information about the loopback. If the host can read this information correctly, it is further evidence that the port, as well as the host, is operating correctly.

To ensure consistent high quality, signal-carrying PC board traces are carefully matched in length, and have tightly controlled impedance. Stratos tests 100% of their SFP Loopbacks for correct EEPROM programming and functioning, operation of the power-on light, and that data is being looped through the unit without corruption.

Typical pricing is under $20 in volume.

Stratos Lightwave, Inc.
(708) 867-9600
Fax: (708) 867-0996
www.stratoslightwave.com

01-02

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