CAT5 cables, also called Ethernet cables, quickly became a popularized computer standard employed within LAN networks that drastically altered the way computer systems communicate. Initially designed by Xerox PARC between 1973 and 1974, Ethernet quickly took over as the unchallenged communication standard for computer systems. While the CAT5 cables would remain unchanged for years, newer Ethernet standards capable of churning out faster speeds were made and newer hardware was necessary.

Ethernet and Communication

Ethernet made it feasible for two faraway computers to share information between each other, so a computer in Korea could share data with a computer in France. However, in order for computers to share information, Ethernet needs to convey packets of data over the CAT5 wire. A pitfall seen by early computer networks was often the loss of data that took place when transferring big amounts of information across Ethernet wires. Imagine Ethernet as a road for data, and if that form of transportation is congested with data, transfer and download rates would inevitably become slow. When newer Ethernet standards were fashioned, computer networks could convey more packets of data without the risk of losing any information. When newer Ethernet standards were created, newer hardware also was utilized, and items known as SFP modules made it more efficient to send large packets of data.

The SFP Revolution

Some were referred to as SFP transceivers, others mini-GBIC, but all of these little products made it possible for Ethernet networks to send data across longer distances at a very efficient rate that past transceivers could not replicate. The limitations of Gigabit transceivers made it hard for them to remain as the dominant technology, especially in light of the multitude of features SFP modules managed to have. Since SFP modules were smaller and capable of having more configuration arrangements for networks, they became the prime selection for fiber optic and copper-based networks.

SFP modules were also able to convey information over longer distances than their older, larger alternatives, a feature computer networks could not ignore about the newer devices. Programmers had the freedom to pick the type of wiring the network used, from copper to fiber optics, as well as the type of SFP module the network required to transfer data. For instance, Cisco SFP modules made it feasible for systems to send data over various wavelengths and over short and long communication distances.

Evolution

As time progresses, these communication standards continue to transform, and faster, more capable modules will spring up as well. Before, Gigabit standards were the quickest way for networks to convey information; now, 100 Gigabit standards allow computers to transfer 100 gigabits of data per second across a basic CAT5 cable. As the standards continue to transform, so will the transceivers.

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