9N51Y Dell 100GBPS QSFP28 LR4 LC SMF Gen 3 Transceiver Module

Overview of Dell100GbE Optical Transceiver Module

The DELL 9N51Y QSFP28 100GbE LR4 optical transceiver is engineered to deliver reliable, high-speed fiber connectivity across extended distances in modern enterprise and data center networks. Designed for bandwidth-intensive environments, this module supports stable 100 Gigabit Ethernet transmission while maintaining signal integrity over long-reach single-mode fiber deployments.

Main Specification

• Manufacturer: Dell
• Part Number: 9N51Y
• Product Type: SMF Transceiver

Key Physical and Interface Advantages

• Compact QSFP28 small-form design for space-efficient deployments
• Hot-swappable architecture to support uninterrupted network operations
• Duplex LC optical connector for consistent signal alignment
• Designed for single-mode fiber (SMF) environments

Optimized Optical Wavelength Performance

• Stable 100GbE data transfer across extended fiber links
• Reduced signal loss over long-distance connections
• Enhanced reliability for mission-critical network paths
• Supports scalable network expansion strategies

Real-Time Operational Insights

• Transceiver operating temperature
• Laser bias current levels
• Transmitted optical output power
• Received optical signal strength
• Supply voltage status

Supported Dell PowerSwitch Series

• PowerSwitch E3200-ON Series
• PowerSwitch N3200-ON
• PowerSwitch S3248T-ON
• PowerSwitch S4112-ON and S4128
• PowerSwitch S4148 and S4148U-ON
• PowerSwitch S4300-ON
• PowerSwitch S5212F-ON, S5224F-ON, S5232F-ON
• PowerSwitch S5248F-ON and S5296F-ON
• PowerSwitch S5448F-ON
• PowerSwitch S6100-ON
• PowerSwitch Z9100-ON
• PowerSwitch Z9264F-ON, Z9332F-ON
• PowerSwitch Z9432F-ON and Z9664F-ON

Common Deployment Scenarios

• Data center backbone and aggregation layers
• Campus network interconnections
• High-capacity enterprise core networks
• Service provider and cloud infrastructure links

Outline of Dell 100GbE QSFP28 Optical Transceivers  

The Dell 9N51Y 100GbE QSFP28 10km LR4 LC SMF Gen 3 Transceiver belongs to a specialized category of high-performance optical transceivers engineered for modern data center, enterprise core, and service provider networks that require reliable long-reach connectivity at 100 Gigabit Ethernet speeds. This category focuses on QSFP28 LR4 optical modules that support transmission over single-mode fiber, enabling stable, high-bandwidth communication across distances of up to 10 kilometers. Such transceivers are essential for organizations building scalable network infrastructures that must balance speed, reach, power efficiency, and interoperability.

Within this category, emphasis is placed on advanced optical modulation, precise wavelength management, and compliance with IEEE 802.3 standards for 100GbE LR4. These transceivers are designed to operate in demanding environments where data integrity, minimal latency, and consistent optical performance are non-negotiable. The Dell 9N51Y module exemplifies the expectations of this category by integrating multiple optical lanes, each operating at 25Gbps, into a single compact QSFP28 form factor.

QSFP28 Form Factor and High-Density Network Design

The QSFP28 form factor defines a key characteristic of this category. QSFP28 transceivers are engineered to deliver four parallel lanes of high-speed data while maintaining a compact physical footprint. This enables network architects to deploy high port density switches and routers without sacrificing performance or increasing rack space requirements. In environments where every unit of space and watt of power matters, QSFP28 LR4 transceivers provide an optimal balance between density and capability.

The Dell 9N51Y transceiver aligns with this design philosophy by supporting hot-pluggable installation, allowing network operators to add, replace, or upgrade optical modules without shutting down equipment. This feature is critical in enterprise and carrier-grade environments where uptime and operational continuity are paramount. The compact size also supports improved airflow within network devices, contributing to overall thermal efficiency.

Integration with Modern Switching and Routing Platforms

This category of transceivers is tailored for seamless integration with high-performance switching and routing platforms that support 100GbE interfaces. The Dell 9N51Y module is designed to function within Dell networking ecosystems while also adhering to industry-standard specifications that enable interoperability with compliant hardware. This flexibility allows organizations to deploy standardized optical solutions across diverse network topologies.

As network backbones evolve to support cloud computing, virtualization, and large-scale data analytics, the ability to interconnect switches and routers over long distances becomes increasingly important. QSFP28 LR4 transceivers provide the optical reach necessary to link data halls, buildings, or metro-scale facilities without resorting to signal regeneration or complex amplification solutions.

100GbE LR4 Technology and Optical Architecture

The LR4 designation within this category refers to long-reach transmission using four distinct wavelengths over single-mode fiber. Each wavelength carries a 25Gbps data stream, collectively achieving a total throughput of 100Gbps. The Dell 9N51Y transceiver utilizes wavelength division multiplexing technology to combine these optical signals into a single fiber pair, maximizing efficiency while minimizing cabling complexity.

This optical architecture is particularly valuable in environments where fiber resources are limited or expensive. By transmitting multiple lanes over a single strand of fiber, LR4 transceivers reduce infrastructure costs and simplify network design. The use of standardized wavelengths also ensures compatibility with existing single-mode fiber installations commonly found in enterprise and telecom networks.

Single-Mode Fiber Optimization for 10km Reach

Single-mode fiber is a defining element of this category. QSFP28 LR4 transceivers are optimized for SMF to achieve transmission distances of up to 10 kilometers without compromising signal integrity. The Dell 9N51Y module is engineered to maintain consistent optical power levels and low dispersion across extended distances, making it suitable for campus networks, metropolitan area links, and inter-facility connections.

The ability to reliably transmit data over 10km enables organizations to centralize resources, consolidate data centers, and implement disaster recovery strategies that rely on geographically separated facilities. This long-reach capability is a key differentiator within the 100GbE transceiver market, positioning LR4 modules as essential components for scalable network architectures.

LC Connector Interface and Fiber Compatibility

The use of an LC duplex connector is a standard feature in this category, offering a compact and secure interface for single-mode fiber connections. The Dell 9N51Y transceiver incorporates an LC connector to ensure compatibility with widely deployed fiber patch panels and cabling systems. This connector type supports precise optical alignment, reducing insertion loss and enhancing overall link performance.

LC connectors are favored in high-density environments due to their small size and reliable locking mechanism. Within the context of QSFP28 LR4 transceivers, the LC interface simplifies installation and maintenance while supporting the optical performance required for 100GbE long-reach links.

Performance, Reliability, and Signal Integrity

Performance expectations within this category extend beyond raw data rates. QSFP28 LR4 transceivers are designed to deliver consistent throughput, low bit error rates, and stable optical output across a wide range of operating conditions. The Dell 9N51Y module reflects these priorities by adhering to strict quality and performance standards that ensure dependable operation in mission-critical networks.

Advanced digital diagnostics monitoring capabilities are commonly associated with this category, enabling network administrators to track parameters such as temperature, voltage, and optical power levels. These features support proactive maintenance and troubleshooting, helping to prevent link degradation and unplanned downtime.

Gen 3 Design Enhancements

The Gen 3 designation highlights iterative improvements in design, efficiency, and compatibility within this transceiver category. Enhancements may include optimized power consumption, improved thermal management, and refined optical components that contribute to longer operational lifespans. The Dell 9N51Y transceiver benefits from these generational advancements, offering a more efficient and robust solution for modern 100GbE deployments.

Lower power draw is particularly important in high-density switch environments where cumulative energy consumption can be significant. By optimizing internal circuitry and optical components, Gen 3 QSFP28 LR4 transceivers help reduce overall network power requirements while maintaining high performance.

Thermal Stability and Environmental Considerations

Thermal stability is a critical factor in the reliability of optical transceivers. This category emphasizes designs that can operate effectively within the temperature ranges commonly found in data centers and network closets. The Dell 9N51Y module is engineered to dissipate heat efficiently, reducing the risk of thermal-related performance issues.

Environmental resilience also extends to resistance against electromagnetic interference and mechanical stress. QSFP28 LR4 transceivers are built to withstand the rigors of continuous operation, making them suitable for both enterprise and service provider environments.

Use Cases Across Enterprise, Data Center, and Service Provider Networks

The Dell 9N51Y 100GbE QSFP28 LR4 transceiver category serves a broad range of use cases. In enterprise networks, these modules enable high-speed aggregation and core connectivity, supporting bandwidth-intensive applications such as virtualization, cloud services, and real-time analytics. The ability to span long distances over single-mode fiber allows enterprises to interconnect buildings or campuses with minimal latency.

In data center environments, QSFP28 LR4 transceivers are commonly used for spine-leaf architectures where high throughput and predictable performance are essential. The long-reach capability supports data center interconnect scenarios, enabling efficient replication, backup, and workload mobility between geographically separated facilities.

Service Provider and Metro Network Applications

Service providers rely on this category of transceivers to deliver high-capacity links across metropolitan areas. The 10km reach aligns well with metro network requirements, allowing carriers to connect aggregation points, central offices, and customer premises equipment with reliable 100GbE links. The Dell 9N51Y module supports these applications by providing consistent optical performance and compliance with industry standards.

The scalability of QSFP28 LR4 transceivers also supports network growth, enabling service providers to upgrade capacity without extensive infrastructure changes. This flexibility is essential in environments where demand for bandwidth continues to increase.

Standards Compliance and Interoperability

Standards compliance is a defining attribute of this category. QSFP28 LR4 transceivers are designed to meet IEEE 802.3 specifications for 100GbE, ensuring compatibility with compliant networking equipment. The Dell 9N51Y transceiver adheres to these standards, facilitating interoperability across a wide range of switches, routers, and network platforms.

Interoperability reduces vendor lock-in and allows organizations to design networks based on performance and cost considerations rather than proprietary limitations. This category emphasizes open standards to support flexible and future-proof network architectures.

Compatibility with Existing Fiber Infrastructure

Another important aspect of this category is backward compatibility with existing single-mode fiber infrastructure. Many organizations have extensive SMF deployments, and QSFP28 LR4 transceivers are designed to leverage these assets without requiring costly upgrades. The Dell 9N51Y module supports standard SMF specifications, making it an efficient choice for network expansion and modernization.

This compatibility extends to passive optical components such as patch panels and connectors, simplifying integration into established network environments.

Operational Efficiency

Operational efficiency is a key consideration in the selection of 100GbE optical transceivers. This category emphasizes modules that are easy to deploy, monitor, and maintain throughout their lifecycle. The hot-swappable nature of QSFP28 transceivers enables rapid replacement and upgrades, minimizing service disruption.

Role of QSFP28 LR4 Transceivers  

The ongoing growth of cloud computing, edge computing, and data-intensive applications underscores the importance of robust 100GbE connectivity. QSFP28 LR4 transceivers occupy a critical position in this evolution by enabling high-capacity links over meaningful distances. The Dell 9N51Y transceiver reflects the maturity and reliability of this category, making it suitable for both current deployments and future expansion.

As network architectures continue to shift toward higher speeds and more distributed designs, the principles embodied by this category will remain relevant. Long-reach, high-density optical transceivers will continue to play a central role in connecting the digital infrastructure that supports modern business and communication.

Strategic Importance in High-Bandwidth Network Planning

From a strategic perspective, selecting the right category of optical transceivers is essential for long-term network success. QSFP28 LR4 modules provide a proven solution for organizations seeking to balance performance, reach, and efficiency. The Dell 9N51Y transceiver fits squarely within this category, offering a reliable option for high-bandwidth, long-distance connectivity.