Cisco SFP-25GBX-D-40 Compatible SFP28 25GBASE-D BiDi 1310nm-TX/1270nm-RX 40km DOM Simplex LC/UPC SMF Optical Transceiver Module

Overview

This is a high-performance, cost-effective SFP28 25G BiDi 40km transceiver designed as a direct equivalent to the Cisco SFP-25GBX-D-40 module. It facilitates high-speed 25Gbps data rates over a single strand of single-mode fiber, making it an essential component for upgrading network capacity without the expense of installing new fiber. This is the “downstream” module of the pair, transmitting on the 1310nm wavelength and receiving on the 1270nm wavelength.

By leveraging Bi-Directional (BiDi) Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) technology, this SFP28 module is perfectly suited for modern high-bandwidth applications, especially 5G fronthaul networks (eCPRI/CPRI) and data center interconnects where fiber conservation is a top priority. Consequently, it offers a future-proof solution for scaling network infrastructure efficiently.

Key Features

• High-Speed 25G Throughput: Supports data rates up to 25.78Gbps for demanding network environments.
• Extended 40km Reach: Enables reliable, long-distance connections between network points.
• Single Fiber Operation: Utilizes WDM with a 1310nm-TX/1270nm-RX wavelength pair, effectively doubling your fiber capacity.
• Guaranteed Compatibility: Functions seamlessly as a plug-and-play replacement for the SFP-25GBX-D-40.
• Optimized for 5G: Specifically designed to meet the low latency and high bandwidth requirements of 5G fronthaul.
• Hot-Pluggable SFP28 Design: Allows for installation and replacement without powering down network equipment.
• Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM): Provides real-time access to critical operating parameters for simplified network management.

Applications

The performance and single-fiber efficiency of this 25GBASE-BX-D SFP28 make it the ideal choice for next-generation network deployments. It excels in scenarios where bandwidth needs are increasing but fiber availability is limited. Key applications include:

• 5G Fronthaul and Midhaul Networks (eCPRI/CPRI)
• Fiber-to-the-Antenna (FTTA) Deployments
• High-Density Data Center Interconnects
• Enterprise Backbone and Campus Networks
• High-Speed Storage Area Networks (SAN)

Specifications

Advantages

Selecting this single fiber 25G transceiver offers a clear path to network enhancement while controlling costs. Each module is subjected to rigorous testing in its intended network environment to guarantee full compatibility and performance. This commitment to quality ensures it integrates perfectly with original OEM equipment and other MSA-compliant hardware, providing maximum flexibility and avoiding expensive vendor lock-in.

The robust design of this 40km SFP28 BiDi module ensures long-term reliability, minimizing network downtime and operational expenses. Its plug-and-play nature simplifies deployment, allowing network engineers to rapidly expand capacity with confidence. In essence, it’s the intelligent solution for maximizing the value of your existing fiber plant.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What is a ‘downstream’ BiDi transceiver?

A downstream BiDi transceiver, identified by the ‘D’ in a part number like SFP-25GBX-D-40, is one half of a matched pair. It is engineered to transmit on a specific wavelength (1310nm in this case) and receive on a different wavelength (1270nm) sent by its ‘upstream’ partner module at the other end of the fiber.

2. Do I need to buy this SFP-25GBX-D-40 module with a specific partner?

Yes, this is critical. For a BiDi link to function, this downstream module must be paired with its corresponding upstream counterpart (SFP-25GBX-U-40), which transmits at 1270nm and receives at 1310nm.

3. What is the primary application for 25G BiDi transceivers?

While versatile, the most common and critical application for 25G BiDi SFP28 modules is in 5G fronthaul (eCPRI) networks. They provide the necessary bandwidth for communication between the baseband unit (BBU) and remote radio head (RRH) while conserving fiber, which is often a major challenge in cell tower deployments.

4. Can I use this 25G SFP28 module in a 10G SFP+ port?

Yes, SFP28 ports are backward compatible with SFP+ optics, and SFP28 optics like this one can often be used in an SFP+ port. However, when an SFP28 module is placed in an SFP+ port, it will only operate at a 10Gbps data rate, not 25Gbps.

5. What does 1310nm-TX/1270nm-RX mean?

This specifies the precise optical wavelengths this module uses. The 1310nm-TX indicates it transmits (TX) light at a 1310 nanometer wavelength, and the 1270nm-RX indicates it is designed to receive (RX) a 1270 nanometer signal from its partner module.

6. Is this SFP-25GBX-D-40 compatible module reliable for carrier networks?

Absolutely. Each module is manufactured to meet or exceed MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) standards and is rigorously tested for performance, reliability, and interoperability to ensure it meets the stringent demands of carrier-grade and 5G networks.

7. What type of fiber optic cable is required?

You need a single-mode fiber (SMF) patch cable. Since this is a single fiber 25G transceiver that uses a single port for both sending and receiving, the cable must have Simplex LC connectors.

8. Why is SFP28 important for 5G upgrades over SFP+?

The SFP28 form factor provides 2.5 times more bandwidth (25Gbps vs. 10Gbps) than SFP+ while using the same physical port size. This allows for a simple and direct upgrade path to support the higher capacity demands of 5G antennas without needing to replace larger, more power-hungry hardware.