Cisco QSFP-40/100-SRBD Optical Module: Advantages and Application Value

Cisco QSFP-40/100-SRBD is a QSFP package optical module that supports 40G and 100G dual-rate, designed for short-distance high-density interconnection in data centers. Its core feature is to use two multimode optical fibers (MMF) to achieve duplex transmission through single-fiber bidirectional (BiDi) technology, significantly reducing the complexity of optical fiber wiring. The module is compatible with OM3/OM4 optical fibers, with a maximum transmission distance of up to 150 meters (OM4), suitable for cabinet-to-cabinet or cross-floor connections in the computer room.

What’s the Advantages of QSFP-40/100-SRBD?

40G/100G Dual-rate flexible adaptation

The 100G BiDi QSFP28 module supports 40G (40GBASE-SR-BiDi) and 100G (100GBASE-SR4) mode switching, meeting the needs of smooth upgrade from traditional 40G to 100G networks. By reusing the existing 10G optical fiber infrastructure, users can achieve bandwidth leaps without replacing wiring, saving more than 30% of upgrade costs.

Single-fiber bidirectional innovative design

Unlike the traditional QSFP-40G-SR4 (8-core fiber required), QSFP-40/100-SRBD only requires 2-core LC interfaces and achieves bidirectional transmission through wavelength diversity technology (850nm and 900nm). This design increases fiber density by 4 times, which is especially suitable for high-density switch deployment scenarios.

Low power consumption and high compatibility

The module uses VCSEL lasers with power consumption of less than 3.5W, which meets the standards of green data centers. At the same time, its hardware design is compatible with mainstream brand switches (such as Cisco Nexus series, Arista 7050, etc.), and has passed MSA standard certification to ensure plug-and-play.

Support short-distance high-speed transmission

The QSFP-40/100-SRBD module is based on multimode fiber technology and is suitable for high-speed transmission over short distances. With a maximum transmission distance of 100 meters (via OM4 fiber), it is ideal for high-speed connections within a data center or between adjacent computer rooms.

High-density deployment

Due to the QSFP28 interface, the Cisco QSFP-40/100-SRBD module supports high-density fiber module deployment, which can provide more ports in a limited space. This is a very important advantage for environments that need to increase bandwidth but are limited by rack space.

Enhanced reliability and performance

As a Cisco product, the QSFP-40/100-SRBD module has enterprise-class reliability and performance, and has been rigorously tested and verified to ensure stable operation in high-load, high-traffic environments. This is especially important for networks that require high availability.

Support intelligent diagnostic function

The module’s built-in diagnostic functions (such as temperature, power, signal quality, etc.) can help users monitor the module’s operating status in real time. With this data, network administrators can identify potential problems in advance, perform preventive maintenance, and ensure the continued stable operation of the network.

Simplify network upgrades and expansions

As network demand continues to grow, the upgrade and expansion of network equipment has become critical. The QSFP-40/100-SRBD module supports a smooth transition from 40G to 100G, allowing users to easily upgrade network capacity without large-scale equipment replacement.

What’s the Application Scenarios and Market Value of Dual-rate 40/100 SRBD Module?

Data center network upgrade

In the context of transition from 10G to 40G/100G, this module can be quickly deployed in the Spine-Leaf architecture to support 40G server access or 100G backbone interconnection. For example, the core switch and storage cluster within a distance of 150 meters can be connected through OM4 optical fiber to achieve non-blocking data transmission.

Cost-effectiveness analysis

Original module: The unit price is about US$2,359, which is suitable for enterprises with high requirements for stability and quality assurance.

Compatible solutions: Third-party manufacturers (such as QSFPTEK) provide modules with the same performance, with prices as low as US$439.9, and significant cost-effectiveness.

Selection and Deployment Recommendations

Fiber matching: OM4 optical fiber is preferred to maximize the transmission distance (150 meters). If the budget is limited, OM3 (100 meters) can be used.

Heat dissipation management: When deploying at high density, it is necessary to ensure that the cabinet airflow design is reasonable. It is recommended that the module spacing is ≥1U.

Compatibility verification: Third-party modules must pass bit error rate (BER < 1E-12) and switch CLI command tests to avoid compatibility issues

Future Evolution Direction

With the popularization of 800G technology, the module can adapt to higher-speed networks through branch jumpers (such as MPO-24 to 4×SFP56) to extend its life cycle. In addition, the introduction of silicon photonics technology is expected to further reduce power consumption and costs.