GBIC (Gigabit Interface Converter) and its successor Mini-GBIC (also known as SFP) are two important pluggable optical modules used to convert signals between different physical layer media. GBIC was an important component in the early Gigabit network, but as network equipment continues to develop towards high density and high performance, Mini-GBIC (SFP) has become the mainstream of the industry with its advantages of small size and strong flexibility. When selecting an optical module, you should consider the device compatibility, transmission distance, data rate and wiring type comprehensively to select the most suitable module type.
What is GBIC?
GBIC (Gigabit Interface Converter) is a hot-swappable transceiver module designed to convert signals between Gigabit Ethernet ports and different types of fiber or copper cable media. GBIC modules support standardized interfaces, allowing the physical layer interfaces of network devices (such as switches and routers) to be flexibly configured.
Features
1. Support hot-swap, convenient for maintenance and upgrade;
2. Compatible with a variety of physical media (such as single-mode optical fiber, multimode optical fiber, copper cable);
3. The data rate is usually 1Gbps;
4. It is larger in size and takes up more panel space.
What is Mini-GBIC (SFP)?
Mini-GBIC, or SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable), is a miniaturized version of GBIC. With the development of the trend of equipment miniaturization, Mini-GBIC has gradually replaced traditional GBIC and become the mainstream optical module interface.
Features
1. Compared with GBIC, it is smaller in size (about half of GBIC);
2. Also supports hot-swapping and multiple media types;
3. Higher port density, allowing switches and routers to provide more ports;
4. Supports different rates from 100Mbps to 100Gbps (depending on the module type).
Classification of GBIC and Mini-GBIC
Type | Support media | wavelength | Distance Range | Interface Type |
GBIC-SX | Multimode Fiber | 850nm | Up to 550m | LC or SC |
GBIC-LX | Single mode fiber | 1310nm | Up to 10km | LC or SC |
GBIC-ZX | Single mode fiber | 1550nm | Up to 70~80km | LC |
GBIC-T | Twisted pair (RJ45 ) | — | Up to 100m | RJ45 |
Similarly, Mini-GBIC (SFP) also has corresponding SX, LX, ZX, T and other types, which have similar functions but smaller size.
Application Scenario
1. GBIC and Mini-GBIC are widely used in the following fields:
2. Enterprise network switch connected to core router
3. Data center server interconnection
4. Telecom operator transmission network
5. Fiber to the Building (FTTB) and Fiber to the Home (FTTH) Solutions
6. By replacing modules, network administrators can flexibly adjust network connection methods according to different distance and media requirements.
The key differences between GBIC and SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) modules are outlined below
Feature | GBIC | SFP (Mini-GBIC) |
Full Name | Gigabit Interface Converter | Small Form-factor Pluggable |
Size | Larger | Smaller (about half the size of GBIC) |
Port Density | Lower – takes up more space on switch/router panels | Higher – allows more ports per panel |
Data Rate Support | Typically supports 1Gbps | Supports 100Mbps to 100Gbps (SFP, SFP+, SFP28, etc.) |
Hot Swappable | Yes | Yes |
Media Type Support | Copper (RJ45), Multi-mode fiber, Single-mode fiber | Same as GBIC, but with more variety |
Common Use | Older network equipment | Modern enterprise and data center networks |
Market Status | Largely obsolete | Industry standard and still evolving |
SFP (Mini-GBIC) is a smaller, more advanced version of GBIC that supports higher port density, better scalability, and broader compatibility—making it the preferred choice in modern network equipment. GBIC modules are now rarely used.
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Tags : GBIC, SFP , Gigabit , Small Form-factor Pluggable
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