N6KM9 Dell 40G QSFP+ LM4 Transceiver

Highlights of Dell 40G LM4 Transceiver

The Dell N6KM9 40G QSFP+ LM4 Optical Transceiver is designed to deliver high-speed connectivity with reliable performance for modern data centers and enterprise networks.

General Specifications

• Brand: Dell
• Model Number: N6KM9
• Category: Optical Transceiver

Technical Details

Performance

• Transmission Speed: 40 Gigabit Ethernet (40GbE)
• Form Factor: QSFP+ (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable Plus)
• Connector Interface: Duplex LC

Optical Features

• Wavelength Range: 1271nm – 1331nm (CWDM4)
• Compatibility: Supports multimode and single-mode fiber

Fiber Compatibility & Distance

Multimode Fiber

OM3 Fiber

• Transmission reach: 140m – 150m

OM4 Fiber

• Transmission reach: Up to 160m

Single-mode Fiber

Standard Reach

• Up to 1km

Extended Reach with Host FEC

• Up to 2km

Dell N6KM9 40G QSFP+ LM4 Optical Transceiver Overview

The Dell N6KM9 40G QSFP+ LM4 Universal Transceiver is engineered to deliver reliable, high-bandwidth connectivity across modern data center and enterprise network infrastructures. Designed to support 40 Gigabit Ethernet deployments, this QSFP+ optical module provides seamless integration with compatible Dell networking switches and infrastructure equipment. With support for up to 140 meters over OM3 multimode fiber, 160 meters over OM4 multimode fiber, and up to 1 kilometer over single-mode fiber, it ensures versatile deployment flexibility for aggregation layers, spine-and-leaf architectures, and high-performance computing environments.

40G QSFP+ LM4 Technology

The 40G QSFP+ LM4 standard represents a multi-lane optical solution that transmits data using four parallel optical channels. This architecture allows aggregated bandwidth of 40 Gbps, providing superior throughput compared to legacy 10G SFP+ modules. The Dell N6KM9 leverages advanced optical components and wavelength multiplexing techniques to optimize signal integrity and minimize latency. By supporting both multimode and single-mode fiber types, this transceiver adapts to diverse cabling infrastructures without requiring extensive redesign.

Multi-Lane Optical Architecture

The LM4 optical design utilizes four transmit and four receive channels operating at 10 Gbps each. These lanes are multiplexed to achieve a combined 40 Gbps data rate. This multi-lane transmission ensures stable signal delivery even in high-density switch environments where electromagnetic interference and thermal conditions can impact performance. The architecture supports efficient error correction and maintains compliance with IEEE standards for 40 Gigabit Ethernet transmission.

Universal Fiber Compatibility

One of the distinguishing advantages of the Dell N6KM9 40G QSFP+ LM4 transceiver is its universal compatibility across OM3, OM4, and single-mode fiber. The module supports 140 meters on OM3 multimode fiber, 160 meters on OM4 multimode fiber, and up to 1 kilometer on single-mode fiber. This capability enables network architects to deploy the same transceiver model in both short-range and medium-range environments, reducing SKU complexity and simplifying inventory management.

Deployment Scenarios for 40G QSFP+ LM4 Transceivers

The Dell N6KM9 optical transceiver is widely utilized in enterprise data centers, cloud computing infrastructures, and campus core networks. Its ability to deliver consistent 40 Gbps connectivity makes it suitable for aggregation links between access and core layers, inter-switch trunking, and high-speed uplinks for virtualization clusters.

Data Center Spine and Leaf Architectures

In spine-and-leaf topologies, high-speed interconnects are critical for minimizing latency and ensuring east-west traffic flows efficiently. The Dell N6KM9 QSFP+ module provides dependable 40G connections between spine switches and leaf switches. Its compatibility with multimode fiber supports typical rack-to-rack connections, while its 1 km single-mode capability allows for cross-row or cross-building connectivity within large-scale facilities.

High-Performance Computing Environments

High-performance computing clusters demand low-latency, high-bandwidth networking to handle large-scale parallel processing tasks. The Dell N6KM9 optical module ensures consistent throughput and minimal packet loss, which is essential for computational workloads in scientific research, financial modeling, and data analytics applications. Its thermal efficiency and stable optical output contribute to sustained performance under continuous load conditions.

Enterprise Core and Aggregation Layers

Enterprises deploying multi-tier network architectures benefit from the Dell N6KM9 transceiver in core-to-aggregation links. The module supports rapid data transmission across backbone infrastructure, enhancing application responsiveness and supporting bandwidth-intensive services such as unified communications, video conferencing, and centralized storage access.

Key Characteristics and Technical Capabilities

The Dell N6KM9 40G QSFP+ LM4 transceiver is designed to meet stringent enterprise networking standards. It delivers reliable data transmission through advanced optical signal processing, ensuring minimal signal degradation over supported distances.

Transmission Distance Specifications

The module operates up to 140 meters on OM3 fiber and 160 meters on OM4 fiber, which are commonly used in data centers for short-to-medium-range links. For extended connectivity, it supports up to 1 kilometer over single-mode fiber, making it suitable for inter-building connections or large campus networks. This range flexibility allows IT administrators to optimize fiber infrastructure without sacrificing performance.

Hot-Pluggable QSFP+ Form Factor

The QSFP+ form factor enables hot-pluggable installation, allowing network engineers to insert or remove the module without powering down the switch. This capability enhances operational efficiency and reduces downtime during maintenance or network upgrades. The compact design supports high port density in modern switches, enabling scalable network growth.

Low Power Consumption

Energy efficiency is a critical consideration in large-scale data centers. The Dell N6KM9 transceiver is engineered for optimized power usage while maintaining consistent optical output. Reduced power consumption contributes to lower cooling requirements and overall operational cost savings, supporting green IT initiatives and sustainable infrastructure strategies.

Compatibility with Dell Networking Platforms

The Dell N6KM9 40G QSFP+ LM4 transceiver is specifically designed for compatibility with Dell networking hardware, ensuring seamless integration and validated performance. It is tested for interoperability with supported Dell switches, guaranteeing compliance with firmware and hardware standards.

Integration with Dell Switch Series

This transceiver is compatible with various Dell networking switches that feature QSFP+ ports. Its integration ensures reliable link establishment, accurate digital optical monitoring, and optimized signal calibration. Using certified Dell optics minimizes compatibility risks and ensures consistent network uptime.

Digital Optical Monitoring Support

The module supports digital optical monitoring features that provide real-time visibility into operational parameters such as temperature, voltage, transmit power, and receive power levels. These monitoring capabilities enable proactive maintenance and early detection of potential issues, improving overall network reliability.

Advantages of Using 40G QSFP+ LM4 in Modern Networks

Adopting 40G QSFP+ LM4 technology offers substantial benefits in terms of scalability, bandwidth efficiency, and future-readiness. As enterprises continue to expand virtualization, cloud integration, and high-density workloads, 40G connectivity provides the performance foundation necessary to support these demands.

Bandwidth Consolidation

Replacing multiple 10G links with a single 40G connection simplifies cabling infrastructure and reduces switch port utilization. This consolidation lowers hardware costs and streamlines cable management within racks and data center rows. The Dell N6KM9 module enables organizations to achieve higher throughput with fewer physical connections.

Enhanced Network Resilience

The optical reliability of the LM4 design ensures stable connectivity under varying environmental conditions. Its precision-engineered optical components maintain signal quality, reducing the likelihood of packet loss or retransmissions. This resilience is essential for mission-critical applications that require uninterrupted network performance.

Future-Ready Infrastructure

Deploying 40G QSFP+ technology prepares networks for increasing data demands. As workloads evolve and traffic patterns intensify, having 40 Gbps backbone links ensures sufficient capacity headroom. The Dell N6KM9 transceiver provides a scalable path toward higher-speed networking standards while maintaining backward compatibility within existing infrastructures.

Optical Fiber Considerations for LM4 Deployment

Understanding fiber characteristics is crucial when deploying 40G QSFP+ LM4 transceivers. The choice between OM3, OM4, and single-mode fiber influences distance capabilities and performance consistency.

OM3 Multimode Fiber

OM3 fiber is widely deployed in enterprise data centers for high-speed short-range connectivity. The Dell N6KM9 supports distances up to 140 meters on OM3 fiber, making it suitable for intra-row and inter-rack connections. Its compatibility with OM3 ensures cost-effective implementation within existing cabling infrastructures.

OM4 Multimode Fiber

OM4 fiber offers enhanced bandwidth performance compared to OM3, extending supported distance to 160 meters. This makes OM4 ideal for slightly longer data center runs where signal integrity must be maintained across expanded floor layouts. The Dell N6KM9 leverages OM4 capabilities to maximize deployment flexibility.

Single-Mode Fiber

For connections up to 1 kilometer, single-mode fiber provides superior attenuation characteristics and minimal modal dispersion. The Dell N6KM9’s support for single-mode fiber allows campus-wide connectivity and cross-building interconnections without requiring separate transceiver models.

Thermal Design and Reliability Standards

The Dell N6KM9 transceiver is built to operate within specified temperature ranges typical of enterprise networking environments. Its internal components are engineered for stability under continuous operation, ensuring long-term durability and consistent optical performance.

Industrial-Grade Components

High-quality laser diodes, photodetectors, and precision optical assemblies contribute to the module’s reliability. These components are tested to meet industry standards for electromagnetic compatibility and environmental resilience.

Operational Stability

Continuous monitoring and calibrated signal output ensure that the transceiver maintains optimal performance even during peak network utilization. This operational stability reduces the risk of downtime and supports mission-critical infrastructure deployments.

Scalability and Network Optimization

The Dell N6KM9 40G QSFP+ LM4 Universal Transceiver supports scalable network expansion by providing high-density 40G connectivity in compact QSFP+ ports. Its hot-swappable design and universal fiber compatibility allow seamless integration into evolving network topologies.

High-Density Switch Environments

Modern data centers rely on switches with numerous QSFP+ ports to maximize throughput per rack unit. The compact form factor of the Dell N6KM9 enables dense port configurations without compromising cooling efficiency or signal performance.