The topic was originally posted by Clive_A in Common Questions About SFP Module and Media Converter

Background:

 

We would like to provide some insights before you start a new thread or make a purchase about our SPF modules or products.

 

This Article Applies to:

 

All TL-Link SFP modules.

 

Common Questions:

 

1. Can I use the RJ45 SFP module or media converter to bypass the ISP modem?

 

It depends on your ISP settings. Typically, the modem is responsible for modulating the signal from the fiber optics to the appropriate electrical signals.
SFP products usually either convert the media or provide a fiber optics interface. They do not perform any modulation or signal processing.
If you attempt to bypass the modem and connect fiber optics products directly to the ISP fiber, you may not be able to access the Internet. Please proceed with caution. If you encounter any issues, consult your ISP regarding this setup. We are unable to provide troubleshooting or configuration guidance for this situation.

 

2. Third-party SFP compatibility with TP-Link products.

 

We do not maintain a compatibility list for third-party SFP modules and cannot guarantee their compatibility. We recommend consulting the vendor of your SFP module before making a purchase. If you encounter any issues, we are not able to provide the troubleshooting or compatible guarantee. We suggest using OEM parts.
To the best of our knowledge, TP-Link SFP modules are compatible with our optical products.

The Q&A about the compatibility of the TP-Link SFP modules with third-party devices

 

3. What I should be concerned about 10G, SFP+ modules?

 

The primary issue for the 10Gbps SFP+ modules is their heat dissipation.

Regardless of the media, 10Gbps Ethernet and fiber modules are all heat dissipation demanding. Some PCIE network cards will require you to use a fan to let go of the heat. If you have multiple ports sitting next to each other, the heat problem should be concerned about.

 

For the installation, if you have an SFP switch, we recommend you connect the module in this way:

 

 

4. Are the SFP+ modules backward compatible with the 2.5G/5Gbps?

 

For the current model we have, it is. Since this guide may not be updated timely, you may always refer to the specs for accurate answers.

 

• SM5310-T does not support the data rate of 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps.
• When a gigabit RJ45 SFP module is inserted into a 10G SFP+ slot, extra configuration for port data rate may be required.
• When a 10G RJ45 SFP+ module is used at 1 Gbps, extra configuration for port data rate may be required. And when it is inserted into a 10 Gbps SFP+ slot and the maximum rate of the peer connection port is 5 Gbps or 2.5 Gbps, the flow control for the 10 Gbps SFP+ slot needs to be manually enabled.

 

5. What should I do if I experience a speed problem?

 

As mentioned above, you should first ensure compatibility. Make sure you have the appropriate hardware for the desired speed, including cables, modules, and port speed.
Next, consider the heat and ambient temperature. Avoid overheating, as it can lead to a performance drop.
Finally, check the port speed and modify it if necessary.

 

6. Can I use two media converters at the same time?

 

Yes, this should not be a problem. However, if you use two media converters in pairs, make sure to check the model numbers for any "A" or "B" designation. For the FC series media converters, you must use A and B models in pairs.
You cannot use two FC311A-20 (TL-FC311A-20) converters for connections. Instead, you need to use an FC311A-20 (TL-FC311A-20) and an FC311B-20 (TL-FC311B-20) together.
These models are WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) models and must be used in pairs.

 

For MC100 series WDM media converters, you may refer to this Installation Guide for further details.

 

7. Does the media converter come with the SFP modules?

 

No.

 

8. Why does the SFP+ show the port as 10Gbps while I have a 2.5Gbps NIC connected to the fiber-to-RJ45 module?

 

The Omada GUI will only display the ongoing SFP speed. When the SFP module is plugged in, if it is a 10Gbps module, the SFP+ interface will display as 10Gbps regardless of the RJ45 interface on the other end.

This is the expected behavior. No firmware or fix will be released to address this.

 

Note:

 

1. For the MC(Media Converter), you may refer to the troubleshooting of this article: Troubleshooting Instruction of SFP/Media Converter

Troubleshooting for SFP ports on the switches:  Troubleshooting Instruction of TP-Link switch’s SFP port

2. Extra note and application scenarios for the MC: Installation Guide

 

Update Log:

 

Dec 16th, 2024:

Update contents.

 

June 6th, 2024:

Release of this KB.

 

Recommended Threads:

 

Common Questions About 802.1Q VLAN

Common Questions About the Load Balancing & Link Backup(Failover)

Common Questions About the Hardware Version and Firmware Update

 

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