Cisco DS-SFP-FC8G-SW Compatible SFP+ 8G Fibre Channel 850nm 150m DOM Duplex LC/UPC MMF Optical Transceiver Module

Overview

This is a high-performance SFP+ optical transceiver designed as a fully compatible and cost-effective equivalent to the Cisco DS-SFP-FC8G-SW. It is specifically engineered to operate in high-speed Storage Area Networks (SANs), adhering to the 8G Fibre Channel (8GFC) standard. The module provides a reliable and low-latency data link for connecting Fibre Channel switches, Host Bus Adapters (HBAs), and storage arrays.

Operating over multi-mode fiber (MMF) using a high-performance 850nm Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL), this short-wave (SW) transceiver supports link lengths up to 150 meters on OM3 MMF. It is an ideal solution for short-reach, intra-data-center SAN connectivity, providing the necessary bandwidth for modern storage applications.

Key Features

• 100% compatible with Cisco SAN switches and directors that support the DS-SFP-FC8G-SW module.
• Conforms to the 8G Fibre Channel (8GFC) and 4G/2G FC standards for backward compatibility.
• Supports a data rate of 8.5 Gbps.
• Short Wave (SW) Optics: Uses an 850nm VCSEL transmitter.
• Transmits up to 150m over OM3 Multi-Mode Fiber.
• Connector: Duplex LC/UPC.
• Built-in Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM/DDM) for real-time diagnostics.
• Hot-pluggable SFP+ form factor for easy installation and maintenance.
• Low power consumption for energy-efficient SAN operations.

Applications

The DS-SFP-FC8G-SW compatible module is purpose-built for:

• High-speed connections between Fibre Channel SAN switches.
• Connecting servers with Fibre Channel HBAs to the SAN fabric.
• Linking high-performance storage arrays and disk systems.
• Data center storage networking and other fiber optic links requiring high-speed, low-latency transport.

Specifications

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Programmed for seamless integration with Cisco MDS and Nexus series switches, this module’s adherence to MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) standards ensures it can also function reliably in hardware from other major SAN equipment manufacturers.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What is the difference between Fibre Channel and Ethernet?

Fibre Channel (FC) is a high-speed data transfer protocol primarily used for storage networking (SANs). It provides lossless, in-order delivery of raw block data, which is critical for storage applications. Ethernet is a more general-purpose networking protocol used for a wide range of applications, including LAN, WAN, and internet access.

2. What does “Short Wave” (SW) mean in this context?

“Short Wave” refers to transceivers that use a short wavelength of light, typically 850nm. These optics are designed for use with lower-cost multi-mode fiber over shorter distances, which is common within a single data center or server room.

3. Can I use this 8GFC module in a 10G Ethernet SFP+ port?

No, this is generally not possible. Although they share the same SFP+ physical form factor, 8G Fibre Channel and 10G Ethernet are different protocols. The host equipment’s port must be configured to support the 8GFC protocol to recognize and use this module correctly.

4. What type of fiber optic cable is required for the DS-SFP-FC8G-SW?

This module requires multi-mode fiber (MMF). For the maximum reach of 150 meters, it is recommended to use laser-optimized OM3 or OM4 MMF patch cables. Using older MMF grades like OM1 or OM2 will result in a significantly shorter maximum link distance.

5. Will using this compatible DS-SFP-FC8G-SW void my Cisco SAN switch 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.