The temperature of the optical module is a very critical parameter that will affect the performance of the entire control system. A single failure of an optical module can stop critical services and increase downtime. As we all know, downtime is a nightmare. Today, we will provide readers with information on the effects of temperature reduction in optical modules.
Optical module temperature
What is the temperature of the optical module, who will record it?
First, it is important to understand that each optical module is equipped with a bunch of diagnostic sensors including temperature sensors. These sensors monitor all key operating parameters of the module and also monitor the temperature in real time. The operating temperature of the optical module is an important parameter and should be kept within the range defined by the supplier. Operating an optical module outside its documented operating temperature range may cause serious injury to the optical module.
Almost every optical module is equipped with a DDM system or a digital diagnostic monitoring system. The system monitors various parameters. Users can access these parameters through the module's software interface to keep temperature, current, bias and other parameters in check.
What is the normal operating temperature range of the optical module?
Each optical module comes with the appropriate documentation package. You can easily find the vendor-defined operating temperature range of the module by referring to the user manual. Here, it is important to understand that the allowable operating temperature of any module depends on various factors, including form factor and materials of construction. In general, optical modules can operate over a wider temperature range than copper modules.
Optical module classification
Optical Module Classification Based on Operating Temperature
According to the operating temperature or allowable temperature, we can divide optical modules into three categories:
Commercial range (0~70°C)
Extended temperature range (-20°C ~ 85°C)
Industrial temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C)
The three temperature ranges mentioned above are denoted as: COM, EXT and IND. As you can see, optical modules designed for industrial applications are more likely to withstand harsh operating temperatures. During the design phase of any network or data center, expected hardware devices, including optical modules, are checked against their operating temperature as well as various other parameters.
The Importance of Operating Optical Modules at Optimal Temperatures
OK, it's not a good practice to run above or below the temperature range defined by the vendor. At first, you may not notice, but when operating at higher or lower temperatures, the efficiency and integrity of the module will decrease. In some cases, operating an optical module at an inappropriate temperature can even cause it to be damaged. Now let's talk about the special effects of increasing and decreasing operating temperature.
Problems related to high temperature
There is a direct relationship between temperature and optical communication. In fact, higher temperatures lead to a decrease in light transmission performance. Furthermore, operating the modules at reduced temperatures can cause irreversible damage to the very sensitive circuits used in the construction of optical modules. Higher operating temperatures are also associated with disordered operation and incorrect signal reception. Therefore, if you are faced with differences in network operation, consider installing an HVAC system or other type of cooling system.
Problems related to low temperature
It is generally believed that operating a module below the temperature range defined by its supplier is not a problem - a statement that is not true in principle. Lower temperatures also affect the performance of the module. If you are operating in an area where the temperature is below the freezing point of water, you should use an extended range optical module or an industrial class optical module.
Uncertain abnormal operating temperature
Occasionally, network operators have undetermined temperature-related issues when they complain about lower temperatures. Here it is important to understand that if you are having this type of problem with one or two light modules and the other is fine, then the air conditioning system seems to be fine and the individual light modules should be checked. You can avoid such problems by purchasing network equipment from a reputable supplier. Please be careful not to buy cheap, inferior products in the optical module market.
Another important thing to mention here is the growth of the used optical module business. Many network operators will buy used equipment at a lower price. However, you should think twice before entering into any such transaction, as second-hand products are unstable to use and cannot be guaranteed after sale.
in conclusion
The temperature of the optical module is an important parameter and should be recorded daily. If you operate several or one optical module at reduced temperature or outside the permitted temperature range, you should seek professional help from us immediately. However, each size comes with a different type of internal hardware, and each size comes with a different operating temperature range.
