Cisco DS-SFP-FC8G-LW Compatible SFP+ 8G Fibre Channel 1310nm 10km DOM Duplex LC/UPC SMF Optical Transceiver Module

Overview

This transceiver is engineered to be 100% compatible with the Cisco DS-SFP-FC8G-LW, offering a reliable and cost-effective solution for building and expanding high-performance Storage Area Networks (SANs). Designed for Cisco MDS 9000 Series Fabric Switches and other compatible platforms, this SFP+ module delivers robust 8 Gigabit Fibre Channel (8GFC) connectivity over long distances.

Adhering to the 8GFC Long Wave (LW) standard, it utilizes a high-performance 1310nm DFB laser to transmit data across single-mode fiber (SMF) for up to 10 kilometers. The module supports auto-negotiation, making it backward compatible with 4G and 2G Fibre Channel speeds, ensuring seamless integration into existing SAN infrastructure while providing a clear upgrade path.

Key Features

• Fully compatible with networking devices that require the Cisco DS-SFP-FC8G-LW part.
• Multi-Rate Support: Operates at 8.5 Gbps, 4.25 Gbps, and 2.125 Gbps Fibre Channel data rates.
• Long Wave (LW) Optics: Achieves a maximum link distance of 10km over Single-Mode Fiber (SMF).
• Operates at a nominal wavelength of 1310nm.
• Equipped with a standard Duplex LC connector for SMF patching.
• Built-in Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM/DDM) for real-time diagnostics and performance monitoring.
• Hot-pluggable SFP+ MSA-compliant form factor allows for installation without interrupting network traffic.
• Low power consumption for energy-efficient data center operations.
• RoHS compliant and lead-free.

Applications

The DS-SFP-FC8G-LW compatible module is the ideal choice for creating stable, high-throughput connections within a SAN fabric. Its primary applications include:

• Connecting Fibre Channel switches to each other (Inter-Switch Links).
• Linking host bus adapters (HBAs) in servers to the SAN fabric.
• Connecting storage arrays and disk systems to the network.
• Disaster recovery and business continuity solutions requiring long-distance data replication.

Specifications

Cross-Platform Compatibility

While specifically coded for Cisco SAN switches like the MDS series, this module is built on the SFP+ Multi-Source Agreement (MSA). This ensures it can function in a wide range of Fibre Channel equipment from other leading manufacturers, providing excellent flexibility in multi-vendor SAN environments.

Advantages

Choosing this compatible DS-SFP-FC8G-LW module provides the same high level of performance and reliability as OEM transceivers at a fraction of the cost. It enables significant budget savings on network hardware, allowing for more extensive SAN deployments or technology refreshes. Each module is rigorously tested to ensure it meets strict quality standards for data integrity and network uptime.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What does 8GFC-LW mean?

8GFC-LW stands for 8 Gigabit Fibre Channel – Long Wave. It is a standard that specifies 8.5 Gbps data transmission over single-mode fiber using a 1310nm laser, designed for links up to 10 kilometers.

2. Is this transceiver backward compatible with slower Fibre Channel speeds?

Yes. This module supports multi-rate functionality and can auto-negotiate to operate at 4GFC (4.25 Gbps) and 2GFC (2.125 Gbps) speeds, making it fully backward compatible with older SAN equipment.

3. Can I use this SFP+ module in an Ethernet switch port?

No. This is a Fibre Channel-specific transceiver. It is designed to work only in SFP+ ports on Fibre Channel switches (like the Cisco MDS series), Host Bus Adapters (HBAs), or storage devices. It will not function in an Ethernet port.

4. What type of fiber optic cable is required for this module?

This module requires a standard single-mode fiber (SMF) patch cable, typically OS2 yellow-jacketed, terminated with Duplex LC/UPC connectors.

5. What is the purpose of Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM)?

DOM, also known as Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM), is a feature that allows you to monitor key parameters of the transceiver in real-time. This includes optical output power, optical input power, temperature, and voltage, which is extremely useful for troubleshooting and ensuring link health.

6. Will using this compatible module void my Cisco switch warranty?

No. Legally, network equipment manufacturers cannot void their warranty or service support simply because you use third-party transceivers. Our modules are built to the exact same MSA standards as OEM parts to ensure identical performance and compatibility.

7. What is the difference between this and a DS-SFP-FC8G-SW (Short Wave) module?

The key difference is the fiber type and distance. The DS-SFP-FC8G-LW (Long Wave) uses single-mode fiber for distances up to 10km. The DS-SFP-FC8G-SW (Short Wave) uses multi-mode fiber for much shorter distances (e.g., up to 150 meters).