Cisco Qsfp28 100Gbase Sr Bidi Optical Transceiver High Density 100G Data Center And Cloud Network Module Ethernet

Engineered for high-density data centers, cloud networks, and hyperscale deployments, the Cisco QSFP28 100GBASE-SR BiDi optical transceiver delivers ultrafast, reliable connectivity with exceptional cable efficiency. This purpose-built module is designed to maximize rack space, simplify switching fabric upgrades, and provide predictable performance across modern spine-leaf architectures. Built to integrate seamlessly with Cisco platforms, it offers plug-and-play deployment, robust thermal management, and optimized power efficiency to help data centers scale without compromising uptime or total cost of ownership. With BiDi technology and a compact QSFP28 form factor, you can unlock stable 100G uplinks across multi-mode fiber while maintaining clean cabling and straightforward administration. From enterprise campuses to hyperscale clouds, this transceiver is the dependable backbone that keeps your network moving at the speed of business, delivering the bandwidth you need for workloads such as virtualization, AI/ML, real-time analytics, and high-volume storage replication.

• High-density 100G connectivity: Delivers 100 Gigabit Ethernet over multi-mode fiber using a QSFP28 form factor, enabling scalable uplinks and spine-leaf architectures while preserving valuable rack space and reducing port sprawl in dense data-center racks.
• BiDi fiber efficiency: Bi-Directional signaling uses two wavelengths on a single fiber pair, doubling fiber utilization and simplifying cabling. This technology preserves fiber counts while delivering full 100G performance, making growth and upgrades faster and easier for growing networks.
• LC duplex optical interface: Features a single LC duplex connector for clean, reliable optical connections. The LC interface is widely adopted in data centers and pairs with OM3/OM4 multimode fiber to support long-term expansion without changing existing cabling paths.
• Cisco-optimized reliability and compatibility: Specifically engineered to integrate with Cisco switching and routing platforms, providing guaranteed compatibility, predictable performance, and straightforward maintenance for consistent network uptime and easier administration.
• Plug-and-play deployment with efficient heat and power management: Hot-swappable and designed for straightforward installation, testing, and troubleshooting. The module helps reduce downtime and accelerate return on investment while delivering optimized power efficiency and effective heat dissipation for dense deployments.

Technical Details of Cisco QSFP Module

• Interface/Form Factor: QSFP28 form factor designed for 100GBASE-SR BiDi applications
• Data Rate: 100 Gigabit Ethernet (100G)
• Module Type: SR BiDi transceiver for multimode fiber
• Fiber Type: Multimode fiber (OM3/OM4 suitable); optimized for high-density data center deployments
• Connector: 1 x LC duplex optical connector

Note: Specifications are cited from the ec.synnex.com listing, referenced by SKU/UPC for accuracy and consistency with the product listing.

How to install Cisco QSFP Module

• Prepare the device: Power down the host device or place it into maintenance mode per your data center protocol to minimize any risk during the hot-swapping process.
• Locate the QSFP28 port: Identify an available QSFP28 port on the switch or router intended for 100GBASE-SR BiDi operation.
• Remove the existing module: If a module or blanking insert occupies the port, carefully extract it, taking care to avoid electrostatic discharge (ESD). Use appropriate anti-static precautions and grounding.
• Insert the Cisco QSFP module: Align the module with the connector and insert it firmly until it seats and engages with the port latch. Ensure the module is oriented correctly and that no force is applied to the optical connectors.
• Attach fiber cabling: Connect the two fibers for the LC duplex interface to the corresponding OM3/OM4 cables, ensuring secure, clean connections and proper routing to prevent cable strain.
• Power up and verify: Restore power or exit maintenance mode, and verify the link status via the device’s management interface. Confirm 100G link integrity, perform basic loopback or traffic tests, and validate expected throughput.
• Monitor and optimize: Check temperature and power consumption on the device, ensuring adequate airflow. Update any necessary firmware or device configurations to optimize performance and reliability for your specific workloads.

Frequently asked questions

• What is 100GBASE-SR BiDi, and when should I use it? This transceiver supports 100 Gigabit Ethernet signaling over multimode fiber using Bi-Directional (BiDi) technology. It is ideal for high-density data centers where fiber counts and cable management matter, and where you want to maximize uplink bandwidth with fewer fibers in the backbone.
• Which fiber and connector types are supported? The module is optimized for multimode fiber, specifically OM3 and OM4, with a single LC duplex optical connector. This makes it compatible with common data-center fiber paths and standard cabling practices.
• Is the Cisco QSFP28 100GBASE-SR BiDi compatible with Cisco devices? Yes. The module is designed to integrate with Cisco switching and routing platforms, providing plug-and-play deployment, predictable performance, and streamlined maintenance for Cisco-based networks.
• What are the benefits of BiDi technology in a data center? BiDi reduces fiber count and simplifies cabling by transmitting and receiving data on two wavelengths over a single fiber pair. This can lower cabling complexity, save space in racks, and simplify upgrades in dense environments.
• How do I verify a successful installation? After insertion, check the port status on the network device to confirm a 100G link. Run basic connectivity tests, monitor link performance, and review heat and power metrics to ensure stable operation under load.