Receiver Sensitivity
Optical receiver sensitivity is the minimum received optical power needed under the specified operating conditions.
It is commonly expressed in dBm, referenced to one milliwatt. A more negative dBm value represents less optical power, not more.
Receiver Sensitivity — SFP Ethernet Cable
For an SFP Ethernet receiver, sensitivity helps determine whether enough light will remain after losses through the fibre and connections. The figure applies to the specified data rate and other test conditions.
Compare sensitivity under equivalent conditions and consider the transmitter’s output and total link loss. Receiver sensitivity is a lower threshold; the receiver can also have an upper input limit. More optical power is therefore not automatically preferable. Keep the minimum required input separate from a live diagnostic reading of the power currently being received.