Cisco DS-SFP-FC16G-SW Compatible 16G Fibre Channel SFP+ 850nm 100m DOM LC MMF Transceiver Module

Overview

This module is a high-performance SFP+ optical transceiver designed as a fully compatible alternative to the Cisco DS-SFP-FC16G-SW. It is engineered specifically for high-speed Storage Area Network (SAN) applications, providing reliable 16 Gigabit Fibre Channel connectivity. This Short-Wave (SW) optic operates over multi-mode fiber (MMF) and is the industry-standard solution for linking Fibre Channel switches, directors, and Host Bus Adapters (HBAs) within the data center.

The transceiver supports auto-negotiation, making it backward compatible with 8G and 4G Fibre Channel speeds, ensuring seamless integration into existing SAN fabrics while providing a clear upgrade path. It is an ideal solution for enterprises requiring high-throughput, low-latency links for storage, backup, and data recovery operations.

Key Features

• 100% compatible with Cisco MDS 9000 Series switches and directors that support the DS-SFP-FC16G-SW module.
• Standard: Compliant with 16G/8G/4G Fibre Channel (16GFC) specifications.
• Tri-Rate Operation: Supports 14.025 Gbps (16GFC), 8.5 Gbps (8GFC), and 4.25 Gbps (4GFC) data rates.
• Wavelength: 850nm VCSEL transmitter.
• Connector: Standard Duplex LC/UPC.
• Reach:
  • Up to 100m on OM3 Multi-Mode Fiber.
  • Up to 125m on OM4 Multi-Mode Fiber.
• Built-in Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM/DDM) for real-time diagnostics.
• Hot-pluggable SFP+ form factor.

Applications

The DS-SFP-FC16G-SW compatible module is purpose-built for enterprise SAN environments:

• Connecting servers with Fibre Channel HBAs to the fabric switch.
• High-speed Inter-Switch Links (ISLs) between Fibre Channel switches and directors.
• Linking SAN switches to storage arrays and tape libraries.
• Data center core and edge SAN fabric build-outs.

Specifications

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Programmed for seamless integration with Cisco MDS equipment, this module’s adherence to Fibre Channel standards ensures it can also be deployed in SAN hardware from other major manufacturers that support 16G SW SFP+ optics.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What is 16G Fibre Channel (16GFC)?

16G Fibre Channel is a high-speed network technology capable of a raw data rate of 14.025 Gbps, primarily used for Storage Area Networks (SANs). It provides reliable, low-latency, and high-throughput block-level data transfer between servers and storage devices. It is the successor to 8GFC and is backward compatible.

2. What does “SW” or “Short-Wave” mean for this transceiver?

“SW” or “Short-Wave” refers to an optical transceiver that uses a short wavelength laser, typically 850nm. These optics are designed for use with lower-cost multi-mode fiber over shorter distances, making them the standard choice for connections within a single data center or building.

3. Is this module backward compatible with 8G and 4G Fibre Channel?

Yes. This 16GFC SFP+ module is tri-rate, meaning it can auto-negotiate its speed to match the port it is connected to. It will operate seamlessly at 16G, 8G, or 4G Fibre Channel speeds, providing excellent investment protection and flexibility when upgrading a SAN fabric.

4. Can I use this Fibre Channel SFP+ in a 10G Ethernet SFP+ port?

No. Although they share the same SFP+ physical form factor, Fibre Channel and Ethernet are entirely different protocols. A Fibre Channel transceiver will not function in an Ethernet port, and an Ethernet transceiver will not function in a Fibre Channel port. You must match the transceiver type to the port type.

5. What type of fiber cable is required for the DS-SFP-FC16G-SW?

This module requires a multi-mode fiber (MMF) patch cable terminated with Duplex LC/UPC connectors. To achieve the maximum specified distance of 100 meters, you must use at least OM3 grade fiber. Using higher-grade OM4 fiber can extend the reach to approximately 125 meters.