Tool
Optics link compatibility checker
An optics compatibility check confirms both ends of a fibre link use the same standard at the same speed, on the right fibre type, within rated reach and with matching connectors. Each check is shown with an explanation so a fail tells you what to fix.
Select your standards below. Everything is checked in your browser from what you choose.
Your link
Link ends
Cabling
Compatibility
✓ PASS10GBASE-SR to 10GBASE-SR
On OM3 at 100 m.
Same standard
Both ends use 10GBASE-SR.
Speed matches
Both ends run at 10G.
Fibre type matches
10GBASE-SR works on OM3.
Length within reach
100 m against 300 m maximum on OM3.
Connector type
Both ends use LC.
Switch and NIC vendors may restrict third-party optics. Check the vendor compatibility matrix and coding.
How this is worked out
Every check is shown with its reasoning. A checker that says fail without saying why is not a tool.
The standards table holds speed, fibre, connector and reach per fibre type for common optics. Reach values are manufacturer maxima. Real links should run well inside them to leave margin for ageing and repairs.
Breakout use, where one optic fans out to several slower links, is out of scope. It needs a matching breakout-capable standard on both ends.
Questions about optics compatibility
What makes two optics compatible?
Both ends must use the same standard at the same speed, on the right fibre type, within rated reach and with matching connectors. Any mismatch means the link will not work.
Can I mix vendors?
Yes, if both ends use the same standard. However, switch and NIC vendors may restrict third-party optics. Check the vendor compatibility matrix and coding before buying.
What is the difference between SR and LR?
SR is short reach on multimode fibre (850 nm), typically under 400 m. LR is long reach on single-mode fibre (1310 nm), typically 10 km. They are not interchangeable.
What about breakout cables?
Breakout splits one fast optic into several slower links, for example 100G into 4x25G. Both ends need breakout-capable standards. This checker does not cover breakout configurations.
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