MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 SFP, 1000BASE-SX 850 nm Multimode, Duplex LC, 550 m

Introduction to the MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 SFP and its key features

MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 SFP — 1000BASE‑SX multimode transceiver.Designed for short-range 1 Gb/s multimode fibre links, this compact SFP module offers reliable gigabit connectivity using an 850 nm VCSEL transmitter and a duplex LC connector. Its hot-pluggable SFP MSA form factor, support for Digital Diagnostic Monitoring (DDM/DOM), low power consumption (≤ 1.5 W) and reach up to 550 m on appropriate multimode fibre make it a practical choice for switch uplinks, server connections and campus or data centre short-reach runs.

• Data rate: 1.25 Gbps (1000BASE-SX) over multimode fibre
• Wavelength: 850 nm VCSEL
• Connector: Duplex LC — compatible with standard MMF patch panels
• Reach: Up to 550 m, dependent on multimode fibre type/OM class
• Diagnostics: DDM/DOM for real-time optical and electrical monitoring
• Form factor: SFP (hot-pluggable), low power (≤ 1.5 W)
• Receiver: PIN photodiode with BER 1.0E-12 and UPC polished end-face

Detailed description of specifications and benefits

The MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 SFP combines a proven physical layer for 1 Gb/s networking with the convenience of the SFP form factor. Below is a deeper look at the technical specifications and the practical benefits each item delivers.

• Data rate: 1.25 Gbps (1000BASE-SX) — standardized Ethernet speed for widespread compatibility with switches, servers and network interface cards.
• Wavelength: 850 nm VCSEL — common choice for multimode systems providing cost-effective, energy-efficient transmission.
• Max reach: Up to 550 m on multimode fibre — actual distance depends on the multimode fibre type (OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4) and cabling quality; this reach covers most short-range campus and data centre links.
• Connector: Duplex LC — small form factor connector used in dense patch environments, easing rack and panel management.

• Transmitter: VCSEL with Tx power min −9.5 dBm and max 0 dBm — provides sufficient launch power across the supported range while remaining within safe emission limits (Class 1 laser).
• Receiver: PIN photodiode with sensitivity < −17 dBm (OMA) and BER 1.0E-12 — ensures reliable data recovery performance under normal operating conditions.
• Optical polish: UPC end-face — minimizes back-reflection for stable links in multimode deployments.

• Power consumption: ≤ 1.5 W — keeps module heat and energy use low, helpful in high-density line card or switch deployments.
• DDM/DOM support: Real-time monitoring of parameters such as optical output power, input power, temperature, supply voltage and laser bias current — useful for fault diagnostics and proactive maintenance.
• Hot-pluggable SFP MSA: Enables live insertion and removal without powering down systems (subject to vendor compatibility), simplifying upgrades and replacements.

• Operating temp: 0°C to +70°C and storage temp: −40°C to +85°C — suitable for typical indoor networking closets and data centre environments.
• Operating humidity: 10–90% RH — standard for telecom equipment.
• RoHS compliant; CE/UKCA: INSUFFICIENT DATA — customers should confirm regional certifications with the manufacturer or supplier prior to deployment in regulated markets.

Use cases and scenarios where this product excels

The MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 SFP is tailored for short‑range multimode fibre applications where 1Gb/s performance, low cost and reliable operation are priorities. Typical scenarios include:

• Switch uplinks in campus networks — connecting building access switches to aggregation or core switches where multimode fibre runs between wiring closets are common.
• Server-to-switch connections in small to medium data centres — where 1 Gb/s NICs and top-of-rack switches are used and cable lengths fall well within the module's reach.
• Interconnected equipment in telecom rooms and wiring closets — small form factor LC connectors and hot‑plug capability make swaps and upgrades convenient.
• Educational and enterprise networks — where budget-conscious upgrades to fibre are required, and diagnostic features like DDM help campus network teams maintain uptime.

In short, this module shines in environments that need cost-effective, short-range multimode links with easy monitoring and low energy footprint.

Comparisons with similar products in the market

Within the 1 Gb/s multimode SFP segment, the MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 competes on performance, price and features such as DDM and low power use. Here are key points to consider when comparing it to alternatives:

• Reach: Many 1000BASE-SX SFPs offer similar reach figures, but actual performance will depend on the MMF class. Modules marketed alongside OM3/OM4 often specify longer practical distances at higher modal bandwidths. If you need consistent maximum reach on older OM1/OM2 cabling, check vendor distance guarantees.
• Diagnostics: DDM/DOM is increasingly common but not universal on budget modules. The presence of DDM in this SFP is an advantage for environments where proactive monitoring reduces troubleshooting time.
• Power consumption: At ≤ 1.5 W this module is energy efficient. Some older or lower-cost modules consume more power; high-density deployments benefit from lower per-port power draw.
• Compatibility and vendor locking: Major branded modules often include vendor-specific IDs for automatic compatibility. Third-party SFPs like this one can be more economical but require compatibility checks with the target switch or router (many vendors allow non-branded SFPs, some require configuration changes or third-party unlocks).
• Price: With a suggested price around $13.65 (cost price $11.47), this module sits in the value segment — significantly cheaper than OEM-branded alternatives while still offering standard features like DDM and hot-pluggability.

Customer testimonials and reviews

At the time of writing, there are no verified customer testimonials attached to this specific product listing. That said, feedback for comparable 1 Gb/s multimode SFPs typically highlights a few recurring themes:

• Positive: Ease of swap-in replacement, reliable link establishment with standard multimode fibre, and good value for money compared to OEM-branded modules.
• Neutral: Some administrators request explicit vendor compatibility information to avoid chassis rejection or error messages on certain branded switches.
• Negative: Rare reports of returned modules due to incorrect optics selection for the installed MMF (e.g., expecting OM4 reach from OM1 cabling) or lack of explicit regional certifications (CE/UKCA) in documentation.

If you require real-world reviews for procurement decisions, request sample units for on-site interoperability testing or ask the supplier for customer references who have used the module in a similar environment.

Conclusion: Why the MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 SFP is a great choice

The MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 SFP is a pragmatic, budget-friendly optical transceiver for 1 Gb/s multimode fibre links. It balances the essentials — 850 nm VCSEL optics, duplex LC connectivity, hot-pluggable SFP form factor and DDM — with low power consumption and a compact footprint. For network administrators and procurement teams looking to standardize short-range fibre links across campuses, wiring closets and small data centres, this module offers dependable performance at an attractive cost point. Before purchase, verify fiber types (OM class) to confirm required reach, confirm compatibility with your switching hardware and check certification needs for regulated markets. With those checks in place, the MINI-GBIC-SX-MM850 is an efficient option for many 1 Gb/s multimode deployments.

Product note:Suggested price: $13.65 (cost price $11.47). Warranty information is not specified; confirm warranty and return policies with your supplier prior to purchase. Also verify CE/UKCA certification status with the manufacturer if required for your region.