SFP-8G85-SW 8G SFP+ SW 850nm 300m LC MMF DDM Transceiver Module

Overview

The SFP-8G85-SW is a high-performance, cost-effective optical transceiver module designed for short-wavelength (SW) applications. Specifically, this 8G SFP+ SW transceiver supports high-speed data links up to 8.5 Gbps. It is engineered for exceptional performance in 8G Fibre Channel (FC) environments. Consequently, this module provides a reliable solution for connecting servers, storage arrays, and switches within a Storage Area Network (SAN) over distances up to 300 meters using multi-mode fiber.

Each module is built to meet or exceed industry standards, ensuring broad compatibility and seamless integration into existing network infrastructure. Furthermore, its hot-pluggable SFP+ footprint allows for easy installation and upgrades without disrupting network operations. This transceiver is an indispensable component for data centers and enterprise networks that require dependable, short-reach, high-speed connectivity.

Key Features

• Supports data rates up to 8.5 Gbps for 8G Fibre Channel.
• Utilizes a high-performance 850nm VCSEL laser transmitter.
• Achieves a transmission distance of up to 300m over OM3 Multi-Mode Fiber (MMF).
• Equipped with a standard duplex LC connector.
• Features integrated Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM) for real-time monitoring.
• Fully hot-pluggable SFP+ form factor for maintenance without downtime.
• Low power dissipation for energy-efficient operation.

Applications

The primary application for the SFP-8G85-SW is within high-speed Storage Area Networks. For instance, it is ideal for linking Fibre Channel switches, connecting host bus adapters (HBAs) in servers to SAN switches, and for switch-to-storage array connections. In addition, this 8G FC SFP+ module is used in data center interconnects and high-performance computing clusters that rely on the Fibre Channel protocol for low-latency, high-throughput data transfer.

Specifications

Advantages

Choosing the SFP-8G85-SW transceiver offers significant advantages, most notably its optimized performance for 8G Fibre Channel at a competitive price point. This allows for the construction of robust and high-performing SANs while managing costs effectively. Moreover, the module’s backward compatibility with 4G and 2G Fibre Channel provides valuable investment protection and deployment flexibility within mixed-speed environments.

Another key benefit is the inclusion of Digital Diagnostics Monitoring. This feature provides network administrators with critical insight into the module’s operational status, allowing for proactive maintenance and troubleshooting. Thus, potential network issues can be identified and resolved before they impact critical storage operations, greatly enhancing overall network reliability and uptime.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What does SW stand for in an 8G SFP+ SW module?

SW stands for Short Wavelength. This indicates that the SFP+ SW module uses a short wavelength laser, typically 850nm, and is designed for use with multi-mode fiber (MMF) over shorter distances, such as within a data center.

2. What type of fiber cable is required for the SFP-8G85-SW?

This transceiver requires a duplex multi-mode fiber (MMF) patch cable terminated with LC connectors. To achieve the maximum distance of 300 meters, it is recommended to use at least OM3 grade fiber optic cable.

3. Is this transceiver compatible with 4G and 2G Fibre Channel?

Yes, the 8G FC SFP+ is designed to be backward compatible. It can auto-negotiate to operate at lower speeds, such as 4.25 Gbps (4G FC) and 2.125 Gbps (2G FC), making it versatile for use in legacy or mixed-speed SAN environments.

4. Can I use an 8G Fibre Channel SFP+ in a 10G Ethernet SFP+ port?

Generally, no. While they share the same physical SFP+ form factor, the 8G Fibre Channel SFP+ is specifically encoded for FC protocols. It is not designed to work in an SFP+ port on a switch that is configured for 10G Ethernet protocols.

5. What is the benefit of the DDM feature?

The Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM) feature allows you to monitor key operational parameters of the transceiver in real-time. This includes optical transmit power, receive power, module temperature, and voltage, which is crucial for proactive network maintenance.

6. Is the SFP-8G85-SW module hot-swappable?

Yes, this 8G SFP+ transceiver is fully hot-swappable. This important feature allows you to install, replace, or remove the module from a networking device without needing to shut down or reboot the system, ensuring continuous network availability.

7. What is the difference between SFP+ SW and SFP+ LW?

The main difference is the application and reach. SFP+ SW (Short Wavelength) uses 850nm lasers for short distances (up to 300m) over multi-mode fiber. In contrast, SFP+ LW (Long Wavelength) uses 1310nm lasers for long distances (up to 10km) over single-mode fiber.

8. Does this module work in any brand of Fibre Channel switch?

This module is built to MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) standards. This ensures it is compatible with a wide range of MSA-compliant networking equipment from various manufacturers, as long as the equipment is not locked to specific vendor-coded transceivers.