Overview
This is a versatile, high-performance QSFP+ optical transceiver, engineered as a fully compatible and cost-effective equivalent to the Cisco QSFP-40G-CSR4. It is designed for short-to-medium-range 40 Gigabit Ethernet applications over multi-mode fiber. Conforming to the 40GBASE-CSR4 standard, this module extends the reach of the common SR4 standard, supporting distances up to 300 meters on OM3 fiber and 400 meters on OM4 fiber.
The module’s key advantage is its flexibility. It operates using four parallel 10Gbps data lanes over an 8-fiber MPO connection. This allows it to function as a native 40G point-to-point link or, alternatively, in a “breakout” configuration. In breakout mode, it can connect a single 40G QSFP+ port to four separate 10G SFP+ ports loaded with 10GBASE-SR modules, making it an ideal solution for high-density 10G aggregation and server connectivity in modern data centers.
Key Features
- 100% compatible with Cisco platforms that support the QSFP-40G-CSR4 module.
- Conforms to the 40GBASE-CSR4 Ethernet standard and QSFP+ MSA.
- Supports an aggregate data rate of 41.25 Gbps with four independent 10Gbps lanes.
- Extended Reach: Transmits up to 300m on OM3 MMF and 400m on OM4 MMF.
- Breakout Functionality: Interoperable with four 10GBASE-SR modules for high-density 10G connectivity.
- High-performance 850nm VCSEL transmitter array and PIN photodetector array.
- Connector: MPO-12/UPC.
- Built-in Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM/DDM) for real-time diagnostics.
- Hot-pluggable QSFP+ form factor for easy installation.
Applications
The dual-functionality of the QSFP-40G-CSR4 compatible module makes it essential for:
- High-density 10G Ethernet aggregation from servers to a 40G switch port.
- 40G switch-to-switch or switch-to-router interconnects in data centers.
- Backbone links within a single data hall or between closely located buildings.
– High-performance computing (HPC) and storage area networks (SAN).
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Compatible Part Number | QSFP-40G-CSR4 |
| Form Factor | QSFP+ |
| Standard | 40GBASE-CSR4 |
| Data Rate | 41.25 Gbps (4 x 10.3125G) |
| Wavelength | 850nm (VCSEL array) |
| Max Distance | 300m (OM3) / 400m (OM4) |
| Fiber Type | Multi-Mode Fiber (MMF) |
| Connector Type | MPO-12/UPC |
| Breakout Support | Yes, to 4x 10GBASE-SR |
| DOM/DDM Support | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 70°C (32°F to 158°F) |
Cross-Platform Compatibility
While programmed for guaranteed compatibility with Cisco platforms, this module’s adherence to MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) standards allows it to function in a wide array of networking hardware from other vendors that do not enforce proprietary coding on their QSFP+ ports.
| MANUFACTURER | EQUIVALENT PART NUMBER |
|---|---|
| Juniper | JNP-QSFP-40G-CSR4 |
| Arista | QSFP-40G-CSR4 |
| MSA Generic | QSFP-40G-CSR4 |
| FS.COM | QSFP-40G-CSR4 |
FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)
1. What is the main difference between QSFP-40G-CSR4 and QSFP-40G-SR4?
The primary difference is the transmission distance. A standard 40GBASE-SR4 module can typically reach 100 meters on OM3 fiber and 150 meters on OM4 fiber. The 40GBASE-CSR4 (“Coherent Short Reach”) module uses enhanced optics to extend this reach significantly to 300 meters on OM3 and 400 meters on OM4, while maintaining full interoperability with SR4 optics at shorter distances.
2. How do I use this module for a 4x10G breakout connection?
To use the breakout feature, you need a specific type of cable: an MPO to 4x Duplex LC breakout cable. The MPO end plugs into this QSFP-40G-CSR4 module, and the four Duplex LC ends plug into four separate SFP+ modules (typically 10GBASE-SR) in your 10G switch or server ports.
3. Can a QSFP-40G-CSR4 module connect to a standard QSFP-40G-SR4 module?
Yes. Since both use the same 850nm VCSEL technology and parallel optics, they are fully interoperable. However, the maximum link distance will be limited by the shorter-range module, which is the SR4. For example, on OM4 fiber, the link would be limited to 150 meters, not the 400 meters the CSR4 is capable of.
4. Why does the reach differ between OM3 and OM4 fiber?
OM4 is a newer, higher-grade multi-mode fiber with a greater bandwidth capacity than OM3. This higher bandwidth means it experiences less modal dispersion (the spreading of the light signal over distance), which allows the signal to travel further while maintaining its integrity. This is why the QSFP-40G-CSR4 can achieve 400m on OM4 but only 300m on OM3.
5. Will using this compatible QSFP-40G-CSR4 void my Cisco equipment warranty?
No. Using third-party, MSA-compliant transceivers will not void your network equipment’s warranty. Antitrust laws, such as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in the US, protect consumers’ rights to use third-party hardware. Our modules are built to the exact same specifications as OEM parts and will not damage your equipment.
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