Cisco SFP-10G-ER Compatible 10GBASE-ER SFP+ 1550nm 40km DOM Duplex LC SMF Optical Transceiver Module

Overview

Extend your network reach beyond the city limits with our Cisco SFP-10G-ER Compatible optical transceiver. Designed for Extended Reach (ER) applications, this 10G SFP+ module utilizes the 1550nm wavelength to minimize fiber attenuation, allowing for stable data transmission up to 40 kilometers over standard Single-Mode Fiber (SMF).

Fully compliant with the IEEE 802.3ae 10GBASE-ER standard and the SFP+ MSA (Multi-Source Agreement), this module is the ideal solution for connecting enterprise campuses, metropolitan area networks (MANs), and linking data centers. Unlike shorter-range 1310nm optics, the 1550nm cooled EML laser ensures high signal integrity over long distances, providing carrier-grade performance at a fraction of the OEM cost.

Key Features

• Extended Range: Supports 10 Gigabit Ethernet links up to 40km on OS2 single-mode fiber.
• Advanced EML Laser: Uses a cooled 1550nm Electro-Absorption Modulated Laser (EML) for superior extinction ratio and low dispersion.
• High Reliability: Engineered for low power consumption (<1.5W) and high electromagnetic interference (EMI) immunity.
• Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM): Real-time monitoring of optical power, voltage, laser bias current, and temperature.
• Standard Interface: Duplex LC connector for easy integration into existing fiber plants.
• Wide Compatibility: Supports 10G Ethernet, OTN OTU2e, and 10G Fibre Channel protocols.

Applications

The SFP-10G-ER is the go-to module for “metro” style networks. It connects geographically separated locations, such as university campuses, hospital branches, or government buildings across a city. Telecommunication providers rely on this module for mobile backhaul and aggregation links where the 10km limit of “LR” optics is insufficient.

It is also widely used in Storage Area Networks (SAN) for disaster recovery replication between data centers, enabling high-speed backup traffic over dark fiber links up to 40km long.

Specifications

Cross-Platform Compatibility

Our 10GBASE-ER modules are built on open standards, ensuring compatibility across a vast ecosystem of network hardware. We can program these transceivers to be functionally identical to the OEM parts listed below, allowing you to mix and match hardware without locking into a single vendor.

Advantages

Choosing our compatible SFP-10G-ER significantly reduces your network infrastructure costs. OEM branded long-reach optics are notoriously expensive; our modules deliver the exact same optical performance and link budget for up to 80% less.

We back every unit with a Lifetime Warranty and rigorous testing in target switching environments (including Cisco Nexus and Catalyst series) to ensure plug-and-play reliability. This allows IT administrators to expand their network reach without blowing the budget.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What is the difference between SFP-10G-ER and SFP-10G-ZR?

The primary difference is distance. ER (Extended Reach) is rated for up to 40km, while ZR (Zephyr Reach) is rated for up to 80km. Both use the 1550nm wavelength, but ZR modules have higher transmitter power and receiver sensitivity to push the signal further.

2. Do I need an attenuator when using this module?

Yes, in certain situations. If you are testing the link on a bench or connecting two locations that are very close (e.g., less than 5-10km), the signal might be too strong for the receiver. In these cases, a 5dB optical attenuator is recommended to prevent receiver saturation or damage.

3. Can I use SFP-10G-ER with Multimode Fiber?

No. The SFP-10G-ER uses a 1550nm laser designed strictly for Single-Mode Fiber (9/125µm). Attempting to use it on multimode fiber will result in severe modal dispersion and the link will likely fail immediately.

4. Why uses 1550nm instead of 1310nm?

Fiber optic glass has lower natural attenuation (signal loss) at 1550nm (approx 0.22 dB/km) compared to 1310nm (approx 0.35 dB/km). This physical property is what allows the ER module to reach 40km without amplification, whereas 1310nm LR modules top out at 10km.

5. Is this compatible with my Cisco Nexus switch?

Yes. Our modules are coded with the specific Cisco EEPROM data required by the OS (NX-OS or IOS-XE). The switch will recognize it as a valid “10GBASE-ER” transceiver, enabling full functionality including DOM/DDM monitoring.

6. What connector type does this use?

It uses a standard Duplex LC connector. The fiber polish type should be UPC (Ultra Physical Contact), which is the standard Blue connector. Avoid using Green APC connectors unless you have a specific patch panel requirement, as they can damage the transceiver port.