10-3388-01 Cisco LC Multi-Mode 25 GBPS Transceiver

Cisco 10-3388-01 LC Multi-Mode SFP28 25 GBPS Transceiver Overview

The Cisco 10-3388-01 LC Multi-Mode SFP28 25 Gbps Transceiver is a high-performance, compact optical module designed to enable fast and reliable data transmission across enterprise, data center, and carrier-grade networks. Built for short-reach communication, this SFP28 module operates over multimode fiber (MMF) and supports a data rate of up to 25.78 Gbps, making it ideal for 25 Gigabit Ethernet applications. The transceiver is fully compliant with the SFP28 MSA (Multi-Source Agreement) and adheres to IEEE 802.3by standards.

Compatibility and Integration with Cisco Networking Equipment

The 10-3388-01 transceiver module is engineered specifically for Cisco switches, routers, and network interface cards (NICs). Its seamless integration ensures maximum performance, low latency, and reduced error rates in high-density environments. Commonly used with Cisco Nexus, Catalyst, and UCS series hardware, it supports hot-swappable functionality and simplifies maintenance without disrupting network operations.

Key Compatible Cisco Platforms

• Cisco Nexus 9000 and 3000 series switches
• Cisco Catalyst 9000 series
• Cisco UCS servers with SFP28 slots
• Various Cisco line cards with SFP28 ports

Technical Specifications and Performance Metrics

The Cisco 10-3388-01 LC SFP28 module delivers exceptional bandwidth efficiency and electrical-optical performance. With a reach of up to 100 meters over OM4 multimode fiber, it is well-suited for short-distance interconnects within data centers and enterprise campus networks. This module utilizes LC duplex connectors, providing secure and standardized connectivity.

Core Technical Features

• Data Rate: 25.78 Gbps
• Form Factor: SFP28
• Connector Type: LC Duplex
• Fiber Type: Multi-Mode (OM3/OM4)
• Wavelength: 850 nm
• Distance: Up to 70m (OM3), up to 100m (OM4)
• Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM): Supported
• Power Consumption: <1W

Signal Integrity and Error Correction

Built with advanced signal integrity features, the 10-3388-01 offers forward error correction (FEC) compatibility which is essential in 25G environments. It ensures robust data integrity even under high traffic conditions and helps reduce bit error rates (BER) significantly.

FEC Compatibility

Although FEC is not mandatory, enabling it enhances link performance in lossy or noisy environments, especially when using OM3 fiber over longer distances.

Use Cases and Deployment Scenarios

The Cisco 10-3388-01 LC Multi-Mode SFP28 transceiver finds application across various sectors due to its high bandwidth and low latency characteristics. It is particularly beneficial for environments that require dense server interconnections, virtual machine migrations, and high-volume data transfers.

Primary Use Cases

• High-performance computing (HPC) clusters
• Enterprise core and aggregation layer connectivity
• Top-of-Rack (ToR) and End-of-Row (EoR) network configurations
• Virtualization and containerized infrastructure support
• 25G uplinks from servers and storage to aggregation switches

Scalable Data Center Deployments

As data center networks scale toward 100G and beyond, 25G technology has become an essential stepping stone. The Cisco 10-3388-01 allows seamless transitions from legacy 10G to newer 25G standards while leveraging existing multimode fiber infrastructure.

Link Aggregation and Redundancy

The module supports advanced link aggregation features, ensuring higher throughput and network resiliency. When deployed in redundant configurations, it minimizes downtime and ensures uninterrupted business continuity.

Benefits of Cisco SFP28 Multi-Mode Transceivers

Organizations investing in Cisco’s SFP28 transceivers gain multiple operational and financial advantages. The 10-3388-01 exemplifies Cisco’s commitment to performance, quality, and interoperability in mission-critical environments.

Operational Benefits

• Plug-and-play deployment with Cisco devices
• Enhanced thermal efficiency for dense environments
• Low power draw reduces operational costs
• Real-time diagnostics via DDM
• Improved uptime through reliable components

Environmental and Compliance Standards

The transceiver is compliant with RoHS and CE directives, ensuring eco-friendly manufacturing practices. Cisco’s commitment to sustainability extends to its optical products, providing businesses with environmentally responsible solutions.

Comparison with Other Cisco Optical Modules

Cisco offers a wide range of optical transceivers, including 10G, 40G, 100G, and 400G solutions. The 10-3388-01 SFP28 stands out for its affordability, compact form, and mid-range bandwidth, bridging the performance gap between 10G SFP+ and 100G QSFP modules.

Reliability and Lifecycle Management

The Cisco 10-3388-01 module is tested rigorously for interoperability, thermal stability, and longevity. It is backed by Cisco's lifetime warranty and advanced replacement options, ensuring uninterrupted operations for mission-critical deployments.

MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures)

With an MTBF exceeding 1 million hours, the 10-3388-01 transceiver is built for high availability networks. Its robust design and error mitigation features minimize failure points and lower total cost of ownership.

Firmware and Software Support

Regular firmware updates ensure the transceiver remains compatible with newer Cisco IOS software versions. Cisco Smart Licensing provides insights into module health and usage across large-scale environments.

Security and Monitoring Capabilities

Optical modules like the 10-3388-01 also contribute to network security by supporting optical signal monitoring. With built-in DDM, administrators can proactively identify potential faults and performance drops.

Digital Diagnostics Monitoring (DDM)

• Real-time monitoring of optical power levels
• Temperature and voltage status
• Transmit bias current analysis
• Alarm and warning thresholds

Proactive Maintenance

Through DDM, IT teams can set alerts for transceiver degradation, allowing timely replacements before service disruption occurs. This helps reduce Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) and maintains SLA compliance.

Future-Proofing Network Infrastructure

As network demands increase, investing in 25G SFP28 modules like the Cisco 10-3388-01 provides an agile upgrade path. It offers a cost-effective bridge to 50G and 100G while delivering immediate performance benefits over legacy 10G setups.

Migration from 10G to 25G

Enterprises leveraging 10G SFP+ infrastructure can adopt the 10-3388-01 without overhauling existing cabling, provided they use OM3 or OM4 fiber. This simplifies the transition while doubling throughput per port.

25G in Enterprise Edge Computing

Edge networks benefit significantly from 25G speeds, supporting local data processing, AI inference engines, and IoT aggregators. The 10-3388-01 provides the bandwidth and reliability necessary for these distributed workloads.

Energy Efficiency in Edge Deployments

With its low power draw and compact footprint, the transceiver is a preferred choice in constrained edge environments where power and cooling resources are limited.