Cisco DS-SFP-FC10G-LW Compatible SFP+ 10G Fibre Channel 1310nm 10km DOM Duplex LC/UPC SMF Optical Transceiver Module

Overview

This is a high-performance 10G Fibre Channel SFP+ transceiver, specifically designed as a direct replacement for the Cisco DS-SFP-FC10G-LW module. It provides reliable, high-speed connectivity for Storage Area Networks (SANs), enabling robust communication between servers, storage arrays, and Fibre Channel switches. Operating at a 1310nm wavelength, this “Longwave” (LW) module is capable of transmitting data up to 10 kilometers over standard single-mode fiber (SMF), making it an ideal solution for interconnecting storage resources across a data center campus.

Unlike standard Ethernet SFP+ modules, this transceiver is built to support the Fibre Channel protocol, ensuring the low latency and lossless data transmission critical for storage applications. It is the perfect choice for upgrading or expanding your SAN infrastructure with cost-effective, high-quality optical components.

Key Features

• Fibre Channel Protocol Support: Supports 10G Fibre Channel (10GFC) data rates for high-throughput storage networking.
• 10km Longwave Reach: Utilizes a 1310nm DFB laser to achieve a transmission distance of up to 10km over SMF.
• Guaranteed Compatibility: Functions as a seamless, plug-and-play alternative to the Cisco DS-SFP-FC10G-LW.
• SAN-Optimized Performance: Engineered for the low-latency, high-reliability requirements of mission-critical storage environments.
• Hot-Pluggable SFP+ Footprint: Allows for insertion or removal from compatible switches and host adapters without powering down the system.
• Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM): Provides real-time access to key operational parameters like TX/RX power, temperature, and voltage for network monitoring.

Applications

The specialized nature of this 10G FC SFP+ module makes it essential for any high-performance storage infrastructure. Its primary use cases are centered around connecting components within a Fibre Channel fabric.

• Storage Area Network (SAN) Interconnects
• Connections between Fibre Channel Directors and Switches (e.g., Cisco MDS Series)
• Server to SAN Fabric Links (using Fibre Channel HBAs)
• Storage Array to SAN Fabric Connectivity
• Data Center Core and Edge Storage Networks

Specifications

Advantages

By choosing this DS-SFP-FC10G-LW compatible transceiver, you gain enterprise-grade performance and reliability at a fraction of the cost of OEM modules. Each unit is individually tested in a target Fibre Channel environment to guarantee flawless compatibility and performance from the moment it’s installed. This rigorous quality control ensures that your critical SAN links are stable and secure, protecting against data loss and network downtime. Deploy with confidence in Cisco MDS, Nexus, and other compatible Fibre Channel platforms.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What is the difference between a 10G Fibre Channel SFP+ and a 10G Ethernet SFP+?

While they share the same SFP+ physical form factor, they are not interchangeable. A 10G Fibre Channel SFP+ is designed specifically for the Fibre Channel protocol used in SANs, which prioritizes lossless, low-latency data transfer. A 10G Ethernet SFP+ is for standard TCP/IP networking. Using the wrong module in a port will result in a link failure.

2. What does “LW” mean in DS-SFP-FC10G-LW?

“LW” stands for Longwave. In optical networking, this term typically refers to transceivers that operate in the 1310nm wavelength window, which is suitable for medium-to-long-distance links (in this case, 10km) over single-mode fiber.

3. Can I use this 10GFC module in a Cisco MDS switch?

Absolutely. This module is specifically designed and tested to be fully compatible with Cisco’s SAN switching platforms, such as the MDS 9000 Series, as well as Nexus switches that support Fibre Channel ports.

4. Will this module auto-negotiate to lower Fibre Channel speeds like 8GFC or 4GFC?

This module is specified for a 10GFC data rate. While some host devices (switches or HBAs) can control the rate, the transceiver itself is optimized for 10G. For multi-rate compatibility, you would typically need a module specifically designated as multi-rate (e.g., 8/4/2GFC or 16/8/4GFC).

5. What is a Storage Area Network (SAN)?

A SAN is a dedicated, high-speed network that provides block-level network access to consolidated storage. It appears to the servers as locally attached storage, and Fibre Channel is the primary protocol used to build these highly reliable and performant networks.

6. What kind of fiber optic cable is required for this module?

This transceiver requires a duplex single-mode fiber (SMF) patch cable, typically with a yellow jacket, terminated with LC/UPC connectors on both ends.

7. Why is Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM) important for a SAN?

In a mission-critical SAN environment, network stability is paramount. DOM allows administrators to monitor the health of the physical link in real-time by checking parameters like optical power levels and temperature. This enables proactive maintenance and helps prevent link failures before they can cause an outage.