Cisco DS-SFP-FC10G-SW Compatible SFP+ 10G Fibre Channel 850nm 300m DOM Duplex LC/UPC MMF Optical Transceiver Module

Overview

This is a high-performance SFP+ optical transceiver module, fully compatible with the Cisco DS-SFP-FC10G-SW. It is specifically designed for high-speed data transfer in Storage Area Network (SAN) environments. This module provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for connecting Fibre Channel switches, host bus adapters (HBAs), and storage arrays, making it an essential component for enterprise data centers and high-performance computing.

Engineered for the 10G Fibre Channel Shortwave (SW) standard, this transceiver uses a high-quality 850nm VCSEL laser to transmit data over multi-mode fiber (MMF) for distances up to 300 meters. It is also multi-rate capable, supporting auto-negotiation to seamlessly operate at 8G and 4G Fibre Channel speeds, ensuring backward compatibility with existing SAN infrastructure. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice for both new deployments and network upgrades.

Key Features

• 100% compatible with platforms requiring the Cisco DS-SFP-FC10G-SW.
• Supports multi-rate 10G/8G/4G Fibre Channel protocols.
• Shortwave (SW) operation using an 850nm VCSEL transmitter.
• Transmission distance up to 300 meters on OM3 Multi-Mode Fiber.
• Standard Duplex LC connector for common fiber optic cables.
• Hot-pluggable SFP+ MSA-compliant footprint for zero-downtime maintenance.
• Built-in Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM/DDM) for real-time diagnostics.
• Low power consumption for efficient data center operation.

Applications

The DS-SFP-FC10G-SW compatible module is purpose-built for mission-critical storage applications. Its primary use is within high-performance Fibre Channel SAN fabrics, connecting servers to storage arrays and facilitating switch-to-switch links. It is an ideal fit for Cisco MDS 9000 Series Fabric Switches, Nexus Series switches with FC ports, and other FC directors and switches that require reliable, low-latency, short-reach connectivity.

Specifications

Cross-Platform Compatibility

While coded as a direct replacement for the Cisco DS-SFP-FC10G-SW, this module’s adherence to MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) standards ensures broad compatibility with other major SAN equipment vendors. This allows for flexible deployment in mixed-vendor environments. Below is a list of potential equivalent part numbers this module can replace:

Advantages

The primary advantage of this transceiver is its ability to deliver OEM-level performance for Storage Area Networks at a significantly lower cost. For SANs, where reliability and low latency are paramount, this fully tested module ensures data integrity and high availability. Its multi-rate capability provides excellent investment protection, allowing it to function in current 4G or 8G SANs while being ready for a future upgrade to 10G without requiring a hardware change.

The integrated DOM functionality is crucial for SAN administrators, providing real-time monitoring of optical power and temperature. This enables proactive maintenance and helps prevent potential link failures that could disrupt access to critical storage resources.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What is a Fibre Channel SFP+ module?

A Fibre Channel (FC) SFP+ is a transceiver specifically designed for the Fibre Channel protocol used in high-speed Storage Area Networks (SANs). It is not interchangeable with an Ethernet SFP+, as it is optimized for the low-latency, lossless data transmission required for storage traffic.

2. What is the difference between SW and LW Fibre Channel?

SW stands for Shortwave and uses a lower-cost 850nm laser for short distances over multi-mode fiber (MMF). LW stands for Longwave and uses a 1310nm laser for much longer distances over single-mode fiber (SMF).

3. Is this module compatible with Cisco MDS switches?

Yes, absolutely. This module is programmed to be fully compatible with the Cisco MDS 9000 Series platform, as well as any other Cisco device that specifies the DS-SFP-FC10G-SW part number.

4. What fiber cable do I need for this DS-SFP-FC10G-SW module?

To achieve the maximum distance of 300 meters, you must use at least OM3 laser-optimized multi-mode fiber. It will also work over shorter distances with OM2 fiber, and for distances up to 400 meters, OM4 fiber can be used.

5. Can this module operate at different speeds like 8GFC?

Yes. This is a multi-rate module that supports auto-negotiation. It can operate at 10G, 8G, and 4G Fibre Channel speeds, making it backward compatible with older SAN equipment.

6. Is this SFP+ compatible with an Ethernet SFP+ port?

No. Although they share the same physical SFP+ form factor, this is a Fibre Channel module. It will not function in a port designed for Ethernet, and an Ethernet SFP+ will not work in a Fibre Channel port.

7. Why does the part number say 10G when it supports 8G and 4G?

The “10G” indicates its maximum supported data rate. Fibre Channel standards prioritize backward compatibility, so high-speed modules like this one are engineered to auto-negotiate down to the lower speeds (8GFC, 4GFC) supported by the connected device.

8. Why is DOM important for a SAN transceiver?

In a mission-critical SAN environment, Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM) is essential. It allows administrators to remotely check the transceiver’s health (light levels, temperature), predict potential failures, and troubleshoot link issues without physically accessing the hardware, ensuring maximum uptime.