Overview
This is a high-performance SFP28 transceiver module, engineered to be 100% compatible with the Cisco SFP28-25G-ESR. It is designed to provide a reliable and cost-effective solution for extending the reach of 25 Gigabit Ethernet over existing multi-mode fiber (MMF) infrastructure, pushing beyond the limits of the standard 25GBASE-SR.
Operating on the 25GBASE-ESR (Extended Short Reach) specification, this module uses a high-reliability 850nm Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL) and a PIN photodiode. This advanced technology enables it to achieve a link distance of up to 300 meters over OM4 MMF and even up to 400 meters over OM5 MMF. This makes it an excellent choice for data center interconnects (DCIs), enterprise campus networks, and server-to-switch links where longer distances over MMF are required without the need to upgrade to more expensive single-mode fiber.
Key Features
- Fully compatible with Cisco switches and routers that specify the SFP28-25G-ESR part number.
- Conforms to the 25GBASE-ESR multi-source agreement (MSA) standard.
- Supports a high-speed data rate of 25.78 Gbps.
- Extended Reach over MMF:
- Up to 200m on OM3 MMF
- Up to 300m on OM4 MMF
- Up to 400m on OM5 MMF
- Utilizes a power-efficient 850nm VCSEL transmitter.
- Features a standard Duplex LC connector.
- Hot-pluggable SFP28 MSA-compliant form factor for easy installation.
- Built-in Digital Optical Monitoring (DOM/DDM) for real-time diagnostic data.
- Operates in a standard commercial temperature range of 0°C to 70°C (32°F to 158°F).
Applications
The SFP28-25G-ESR compatible module is ideal for a variety of high-bandwidth, extended-reach scenarios:
- Upgrading existing 10G MMF links to 25G without replacing fiber cabling.
- Data center top-of-rack (ToR) to end-of-row (EoR) or middle-of-row (MoR) connections.
- Enterprise backbone links between wiring closets or buildings on a campus network.
- High-performance computing (HPC) cluster interconnects.
- 25G server and storage area network (SAN) connectivity.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Compatible Part Number | SFP28-25G-ESR |
| Form Factor | SFP28 |
| Standard | 25GBASE-ESR |
| Data Rate | 25.78 Gbps |
| Wavelength | 850nm |
| Max Distance | 300m (OM4), 400m (OM5) |
| Fiber Type | Multi-Mode Fiber (MMF) |
| Connector Type | Duplex LC/UPC |
| Transmitter | VCSEL |
| Receiver | PIN Photodiode |
| DOM/DDM Support | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 70°C (32°F to 158°F) |
Cross-Platform Compatibility
While programmed to ensure seamless operation with Cisco equipment, this module’s strict adherence to the SFP28 MSA standards allows it to be used in networking hardware from a wide range of other manufacturers that support the 25GBASE-ESR specification.
| MANUFACTURER | EQUIVALENT PART NUMBER |
|---|---|
| Arista | SFP-25G-ESR |
| MSA Generic | SFP-25G-ESR |
| Juniper | JNP-SFP-25G-ESR |
| FS.COM | SFP28-25G-ESR |
Advantages
By leveraging the 25GBASE-ESR standard, this transceiver maximizes the utility of your existing MMF cable plant. It allows for a straightforward and economical upgrade path from 10G to 25G over longer distances, delaying or eliminating the significant expense and disruption of deploying new single-mode fiber.
FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)
1. What is the difference between 25GBASE-SR and 25GBASE-ESR?
25GBASE-SR (Short Reach) is the official IEEE standard, specified for up to 70m on OM3 and 100m on OM4 MMF. 25GBASE-ESR (Extended Short Reach) is a non-IEEE, industry-standard (MSA) specification that uses higher-performance optics to push the distance over MMF to 300m on OM4 and 400m on OM5, bridging the gap between SR and more expensive long-reach optics.
2. Can I connect an ESR module to an SR module?
No, this is not recommended. While they use the same wavelength, the optical power budgets and receiver sensitivity are different. For a stable and reliable link, you must use an ESR module on both ends of the fiber connection.
3. What is the best fiber cable to use for the maximum 300m reach?
To guarantee a link distance of 300 meters, you must use laser-optimized OM4 multi-mode fiber patch cables. For distances up to 400 meters, OM5 fiber is required.
4. Is this module backward compatible with 10G SFP+ ports?
The physical SFP28 form factor is backward compatible with SFP+ ports. However, for this module to operate, the host device’s SFP28 port must support 25G speed. It is designed specifically for 25G operation and may not link at 10G unless the host port explicitly supports this functionality with a 25G optic.
5. Will using this compatible SFP28-25G-ESR void my Cisco warranty?
No. Regulations such as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act in the U.S. prevent equipment manufacturers from voiding a warranty simply because you use a third-party part. Our transceivers are built to strict MSA standards to ensure they will not damage your equipment.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.