Linear pluggable optics (LPO) removes the digital signal processor (DSP) from the optical module and instead relies on the DSP of the host ASIC to process signals. This shrinks the module and makes it cheaper, faster, and lower in power consumption. In the world of fiber optic communications, optical transceiver modules play a pivotal role as interfaces that convert electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa. Picking the wrong one means you're either overpaying or underperforming, so it's worth understanding what each type actually does well. Optical transceivers have enabled the development of high-speed networks, such as 10 Gigabit Ethernet, 40 Gigabit Ethernet, 100 Gigabit Ethernet, and beyond.
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