An optical cage system uses four rigid steel rods to mount optical components along a common optical axis. Cage systems are available with center-to-center rod spacings of 16 mm, 30 mm, or 60 mm so as to accommodate Ø1/2", Ø1", or Ø2" optics, respectively. Thorlabs provides an extensive selection. As network bandwidth demands continue to soar — from enterprise switches to hyperscale data centers — the challenge of integrating high-speed optical performance within compact, thermally efficient enclosures has grown exponentially. The SFF-8432 standard, developed by the Small Form Factor (SFF). OptoSigma's CAGE Systems come in three (3) standard sizes, P16 (diameter: 4mm rods, 16mm pitch between the rods), P30 (diameter: 6mm rods, 30mm pitch between the rods) and P60 (diameter: 6mm rods, 60mm pitch between the rods). Our systems are compatible with industry standards, though, our intent. The mechanical dimensioning allows backwards compatibility between IPF modules plugged into most SFP cages which have been implemented to SFF-8074i. It is anticipated that when the application requires it, manufacturers will be able to supply cages that accept SFP style modules. The mechanical design plays an equally critical role in ensuring signal integrity, reliable operation, and long-term compatibility.
